WHAT’s HAPPENING TO MAYFEST???

It all started when…

Since 1973, Mayfest has been a beloved tradition — uniting the Tulsa community through the very best in arts and entertainment, right in the heart of downtown.  For decades, Mayfest has been Northeast Oklahoma's largest free event, held each May on the third weekend. The festival has seen its share of change — two moves to the Arts District, varying in length from 3 to 10 days and moments of adversity, including a virtual-only 'Mayfest on Pause' in 2020 and an uncertain 2026 following the University of Tulsa's departure as organizer.

What you may not realize is that a festival like Mayfest requires dozens of dedicated volunteers. Planning for the next event begins the moment the current one ends. Unfortunately, due to timing and a host of administrative and logistical hurdles, it was quickly clear that Mayfest 2026 would not be possible.  But doing nothing wasn't an option either — and so, Mayfest Road Trip was born!

MAYFEST ON THE ROAD…

Partnering with City of Tulsa, Visit Tulsa, Tulsa PAC and the Route 66 Centennial, Mayfest Road Trip allows us to take some of the most important aspects of Mayfest and host them in conjunction with the Route 66 Centennial celebrations. With several stops along Route 66, from the TU area back towards downtown, we will feature local artists, student artists, local performers and a local food trucks. While this isn’t a traditional Mayfest, over these 8 days in May we hope everyone can find something to enjoy.

BACK IN 2027 …

Working with City of Tulsa, Visit Tulsa, Tulsa PAC and Downtown Tulsa Partnership; Mayfest will return to Main Street and the downtown Tulsa Deco District better than ever. Planning kicked off in early 2026 to make sure Tulsa again has a great event and one that is sustainable long term.