Christmas is all about soaking up the magic with your favorite people (and maybe a hot cocoa or two). To help you and your crew get into the holiday spirit, I’ve pulled together a list of Tulsa Christmas Events: where to see Christmas lights around Tulsa and a few fun events for families. Whether you’ve got toddlers in tow or just want to feel like a kid again, there’s something festive waiting for you.
Table of Contents
Tulsa Christmas Events
Your go-to guide for twinkle lights, memory-making, and a visit from the Big Guy in Red.
Let’s be real, Christmas with kids is equal parts chaos and charm. You’re juggling holiday parties, Elf on the Shelf, and last-minute Amazon orders. So I put together a one-stop list of Tulsa’s best Christmas lights, family events, and where to see Santa (without waiting in a soul-crushing line at the mall).
Whether you’re chasing toddlers, wrangling big kids, or just a big kid at heart, this is for you.
Heads up: Some events require tickets or advanced reservations. Don’t get Grinched – double check before you go!
1. Where to See Christmas Lights in Tulsa
Rhema Lights – Broken Arrow
From November 26 — January 1, 2026
This one’s practically a rite of passage if you’re celebrating Christmas in Tulsa. Rhema has over 2 million lights, walk-through displays, carriage rides, and plenty of hot cocoa, it’s pure magic.
When our kids were babies, we’d bundle them up in the stroller with extra blankets—or keep them warm in the car, listen to Christmas music, and enjoy the drive-through portion. Now that they’re a little older (and full of energy), we love getting out to walk through the displays, cocoa in hand. There’s nothing quite like seeing the wonder in their eyes as everything lights up around them.
Philbrook Festival – Midtown Tulsa
Elegant, twinkly, and the perfect excuse to get dressed up and take cute pics. Think Christmas in the Gardens with a Tulsa twist.
Utica Square – Lights On
Thanksgiving Day November 27TH | 6:30 PM
Save the date. When nostalgia meets sparkly trees. The whole square lights up, and if you time it right, you might just spot Santa himself.
Route 66 Christmas Chute – Sapulpa
Closed 2025 – Reopens 2026
A small-town wonder with light tunnels, themed booths, and a full-blown Hallmark movie vibe. It’s a our family favorite, and is scheduled to be closed this year. But it is planning to return in 2026!
Garden of Lights – Muskogee
A little drive, a lot of sparkle. 1.2 million lights and serious wow factor.
November 21, 2025- January 1st, 2026
If you’re looking for a cozy, family-friendly holiday outing, Jolly Lane Lights is a true hidden gem right here in Tulsa. Hosted at the Admiral Twin Drive‑In Theater just off historic Route 66, this spectacular animated light show delivers over a mile of synchronized, pixel‑controlled lights dancing to festive music—all from the comfort of your car.
Do you have a favorite neighborhood to drive through? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll add it to the post!
2. Family-Friendly Tulsa Christmas Events
Winterfest – Downtown Tulsa
Horse-drawn carriage rides, ice skating under the skyline, and a giant tree worthy of its own Hallmark movie moment.
Tulsa Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 11 a.m
Mark your calendar: the Tulsa Christmas Parade rolls through downtown on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 11 a.m.
This free, family-friendly event is full of festive floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and of course – Santa! It’s the perfect way to kick off your Christmas weekend.
Bundle up, bring some cocoa, and grab a spot early for the best view. This year’s theme is “Sounds of the Season”—and the energy is always nostalgic!
The Grinch Stole Christmas & A Christmas Carol @ The Tulsa PAC
A local tradition that brings the magic of storytelling to life. Great for a grown-up night out or big kids who love the theater.
Learn more here.
Breakfast with Santa – Tulsa Zoo
Pancakes, peppermint vibes, and some face time with the Big Guy. Learn more here.
3. Santa Pictures in Tulsa
Let’s skip the two-hour mall line and the awkward 0.8 seconds of forced smiles.
This year, Santa is making a private stop at my studio for a cozy, low-stress, high-magic visit. We keep it simple, sweet, and schedule-friendly.
🎄 Spots are limited and booking fast!
Reserve your session here:
https://book.usesession.com/s/WJdcq-rupw
Come make a memory your kids will talk about for years – and you’ll actually want to hang on your walls.
Missed it this year? I’d love to see you next season. In the meantime, turn up the Mariah, pour yourself something warm, and go make those memories, mama. ✨
That’s a wrap on Tulsa Christmas Events!
Whether you’re bundling up for Rhema, visiting Santa in our studio, or skating under the skyline at Winterfest, I hope this guide helps you make the most of the season.
Christmas is all about soaking up the magic with your favorite people (and maybe a hot cocoa or two). From twinkle lights to Santa sightings, there’s no shortage of festive fun right here in Tulsa.
Did I miss one of your family’s favorite Tulsa Christmas Events? Drop it in the comments or shoot me a message – I’d love to add it!
Wishing you a season full of memory-making, peppermint treats, and photos that actually make it into frames. 😉
Love this post? You might also like: 5 WAYS TO BEST PREP YOUR CHILD FOR FAMILY PHOTOS IN TULSA
Each month I join a blog circle with fellow photographers to share helpful tips! This month, don’t miss Jennifer Zdon’s post full of Top New Orleans Locations for Senior Photos.
Hi! I’m Caroline Eidson. If we haven’t met yet, I’m a mom of four with a deep heart for legacy and capturing the beauty of the season your child is in and preserving it for the generations to come. At Caroline Eidson Portraits, I specialize in newborn, simplicity studio, and heirloom portrait sessions designed to honor your family’s story with timeless, artful images. Ready to reserve your session? Say hello, and let’s create something beautiful that your family will treasure for generations.
+ COMMENTS
add a comment