Kick Off The Holiday Season In Tulsa: Christmas & Holiday Events

Tulsa’s holiday season is packed with festive events that start in November and run through early January.

Here’s a look at some of the top experiences happening around the city:

Arvest Winterfest (Nov. 29 - Jan. 6)

Tulsa’s Winterfest at the BOK Center is back for its 17th year, featuring classic ice skating, holiday lights, and a 60-foot ice slide. New additions include themed weekends, such as food drives and discounts on specific days. Winterfest also offers free photos with Santa on weekends and train rides for children every Saturday afternoon. For ticket information click here

Tulsa Christmas Parade (Dec. 14, 11:00 a.m.)

A long-standing Tulsa tradition, the Christmas Parade will wind through downtown with festive floats, marching bands, and an appearance by Santa himself, offering a fun outing for families and visitors of all ages. Find the route and ways to participate here

Holiday Lights and Markets

Downtown Tulsa’s “Days of Wonder” lights up with displays in areas like the Deco District. The Green Country Tourism department has a guide to all the best lighting displays around the Tulsa area.

Jolly Lane Lights (Nov. 22 - Jan. 1)

The Admiral Twin Drive-In transforms into a mile-long holiday lights display, Jolly Lane Lights, where visitors can view synchronized lights from their car while listening to holiday music. A portion of the proceeds benefits local charities, making it a family-friendly experience that supports the community. Find more info, and ticket details here

Gathering Place Winter Wonderland (Select dates in December)

Gathering Place invites families to enjoy its Winter Wonderland events, which include craft activities, story time with Mrs. Claus, and photos with Santa. Dates run throughout December, with activities ideal for kids. Find more info on the Gathering Place events calendar.

Tulsa Zoo’s Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 7 & Dec. 14)

For a unique experience, the Tulsa Zoo offers Breakfast with Santa, featuring a breakfast buffet, crafts, and a chance to meet Santa’s reindeer. Reservations are required, as tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Click Here for info on how to buy.

Tulsa Christkindlmarkt (Dec. 5-8)

Hosted by the German-American Society of Tulsa, the Christkindlmarkt offers a Bavarian-style indoor holiday market featuring handmade crafts, traditional German foods like bratwurst and glühwein, and family-friendly activities like storytelling and puppet shows. This market offers a cultural holiday experience unique to Tulsa​. It will be held at the GAST Center located at 1429 Terrace Dr in Tulsa.

Glow on the Green (Dec. 6)

Guthrie Green's "Glow on the Green" lighting ceremony turns the park into a sparkling winter wonderland with festive lights and live entertainment. It’s a free event perfect for families wanting to enjoy a cozy evening out​. You can find more information here

Route 66 Christmas Chute in Sapulpa (Nov. 14 - Dec. 31)

Just outside Tulsa, the Route 66 Christmas Chute in Sapulpa offers an 800-foot lighted canopy with themed displays, food trucks, and a scavenger hunt for kids. This event along historic Route 66 is free and offers something for all ages. There is a list of events that take place from Nov. 14 through the end of the year.