Tulsa Irish Fest Back After Four-Year Pandemic Break

Tulsa Irish Fest makes its return for the first time since taking a pandemic hiatus.

The celebration, from March 8-10, is at a new location and has more activities for the whole family.

The founder of Tulsa Irish Fest calls it a rebirth of his original vision as crews are setting up for what is expected to be three times the size of the original event.

The event started in 2018 and was at Guthrie Green for three years, then took a four-year break.

This year, Tulsa Irish Fest is at River West Festival Park and promises to have plenty of entertainment.

"This is the grand rebirth, and we want people from all ages, 8 to 80, to come here and say, 'My gosh, how fun is that?'" said Don Burdick, the president and a co-founder of Tulsa Irish Fest, which is a non-profit.

Burdick said the celebration includes food, family fun, culture, animals and even church services on Sunday.

He said he is most excited for the music, with performers from Ireland, Scotland, a Celtic band from France and more.

As for the food, J Farley's Americanized Irish Pub in Claremore said it is ready.

"They're going to get Bangers Smash, chicken and cabbage, the MickDouble, which is this hamburger here, Farley fries, cheese curds,” explained J Farley’s co-owner, Chris Hayes.

Hayes said the business was involved with Tulsa Irish Fest in 2020 and is excited to be back.

"Don has a vision to make it the largest one in the country, and with his resources and his energy, I think he's going to get it done,” said Hayes.

Organizers said they already have plans for years to come.

"Ultimately, the goal will be that Tulsa Irish Fest is as much a part of the fabric of life in Tulsa as any of our other festivals and that people look forward to it each year,” said Burdick.

The festival kicks off March 8 at 3 p.m. You can buy tickets at the gate or at their website to save $5.