
14 Dec 10 Best Places to Take Your Kids to Meet Santa in Tulsa
Here Comes Santa Claus
Tulsa, Oklahoma, comes alive with festive cheer during the holiday season, and what better way to immerse your family in the magic of Christmas than by meeting Santa Claus himself?
Christmas For The Kids
The tradition of kids seeing Santa at various places during the holiday season is a cherished and time-honored practice that adds a touch of magic to the festivities. It goes beyond the simple act of sitting on Santa’s lap and whispering wishes; it’s about creating immersive and enchanting experiences for children and their families. The diverse settings where Santa makes appearances serve to cater to different tastes, preferences, and interests, ensuring that the joy of Christmas is accessible to all.
Plenty To Do In Tulsa
One of the most common locations for kids to meet Santa is at shopping malls. The hustle and bustle of holiday shopping provide a festive backdrop, and the elaborate Santa’s workshop setups add to the enchantment. Malls become veritable winter wonderlands, often featuring elaborate decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday music, creating a joyful atmosphere for families to enjoy while waiting to meet the man in the red suit. This tradition provides a convenient location for families to check off their holiday shopping and offers a communal and shared experience for the community.
Beyond the mall, various places in the community offer unique Santa experiences. Museums, such as the Philbrook Museum of Art, integrate Santa into their holiday-themed events, combining cultural experiences with the magic of Christmas. Parks and botanical gardens, like the Gathering Place and Tulsa Botanic Garden, leverage their natural beauty to create immersive winter wonderlands for families to explore while meeting Santa. These settings offer a refreshing alternative to the indoor mall experience, allowing families to connect with nature and celebrate the season in a more open and expansive environment.
Tulsa’s Christmas Parade, hosted in the heart of the city, takes the tradition of seeing Santa to the streets. The parade showcases Santa and features a dazzling display of lights, floats, and performances, turning the event into a grand spectacle that captivates both young and old. Such community-wide celebrations foster a sense of togetherness and shared joy, emphasizing the communal spirit of the holiday season.
So Many Places To Go
In essence, the diversity of places where kids can see Santa reflects the inclusivity of the Christmas tradition. Whether it’s in a mall, a museum, a park, or a parade, these varied settings cater to the diverse interests and preferences of families, ensuring that everyone can find a Santa experience that resonates with them. The tradition not only brings smiles to children’s faces but also reinforces the sense of wonder, magic, and togetherness that defines the spirit of Christmas.
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
In 2023, Tulsa offers a variety of enchanting locations where your kids can share their wishes with the man in red. To make your holiday planning easier, we’ve compiled a list of the ten best places to take your kids to meet Santa in Tulsa this year, along with the delightful, family-friendly activities each location has to offer.
Philbrook Museum of Art: Winter Wonderland Extravaganza
The Philbrook Museum of Art transforms into a Winter Wonderland during the holiday season. Santa Claus takes center stage in a festively decorated setting, ready to listen to children’s wishes and pose for memorable photos. The museum offers additional family-friendly activities, including holiday art workshops, storytelling sessions, and a magical garden stroll adorned with twinkling lights.
Utica Square: Santa’s Village and Holiday Lights
Utica Square becomes a magical hub for families during the Christmas season. Santa’s Village welcomes kids to share their Christmas wishes, and the surrounding area is adorned with sparkling holiday lights. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the festive atmosphere while sipping on hot cocoa. Utica Square also hosts live performances, carolers, and various food vendors to make it a complete holiday experience.
Tulsa Christmas Parade: A Parade of Lights
The Tulsa Christmas Parade is a spectacular event featuring Santa Claus and a dazzling display of lights and holiday-themed floats. Families can gather along the parade route to catch a glimpse of Santa as he waves to the crowd. The parade is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season, with the added bonus of creating lasting memories for the whole family.
Rhema Christmas Lights: Sparkling Illumination Extravaganza
Rhema Bible Church’s Christmas Lights Extravaganza is a must-visit for families seeking a magical experience. Beyond meeting Santa, visitors can wander through a breathtaking display of millions of twinkling lights synchronized to festive music. Additionally, families can enjoy carriage rides, carolers, and festive snacks. It’s an enchanting evening that captures the spirit of the season.
Gathering Place: Winter Wonderland Festival
The Gathering Place, Tulsa’s world-class riverfront park, hosts a Winter Wonderland Festival that promises fun for the entire family. Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, participate in holiday-themed activities, and even enjoy ice skating on the park’s seasonal rink. The Winter Wonderland Festival at Gathering Place transforms the park into a festive playground with live entertainment and dazzling decorations.
Tulsa Zoo: Breakfast with Santa and Holiday Zoo Lights
The Tulsa Zoo offers a unique opportunity for kids to enjoy breakfast with Santa himself. Families can indulge in a delicious breakfast buffet, followed by a chance to meet and greet Santa in a festive setting. Afterward, visitors can explore the Holiday Zoo Lights, where the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with illuminated displays and themed decorations. It’s a delightful combination of holiday cheer and wildlife excitement.
Woodland Hills Mall: Santa’s Workshop and Festive Fun
Woodland Hills Mall brings the magic of Santa’s Workshop to life. They provide a whimsical setting for children to share their wishes with Santa Claus. In addition to meeting Santa, families can engage in holiday crafts, storytelling sessions, and festive games. The mall’s festive atmosphere, complete with seasonal decorations and cheerful music, makes it an ideal spot for families to shop, dine, and enjoy the holiday spirit.
Turkey Mountain: Santa on the Trails
For families who love the outdoors, Turkey Mountain offers a unique twist on meeting Santa. Santa on the Trails allows families to hike the scenic trails and encounter Santa Claus at various stops along the way. This interactive experience combines the joy of nature with the magic of Christmas. Families can also enjoy hot cocoa, holiday treats, and a festive atmosphere at the trailhead.
Tulsa Botanic Garden: Garden of Lights and Santa’s Village
The Tulsa Botanic Garden transforms into a Garden of Lights during the holiday season, offering a mesmerizing display of illuminated landscapes. Santa’s Village within the garden provides an opportunity for kids to meet Santa, participate in holiday crafts, and enjoy seasonal snacks. The Garden of Lights at Tulsa Botanic Garden is a magical escape for families seeking a tranquil yet festive setting.
River Spirit Expo at Expo Square: Winterfest Tulsa
Winterfest Tulsa at the River Spirit Expo is a grand celebration that includes a visit from Santa Claus. There is also an outdoor ice rink and a festive holiday market. Families can enjoy ice skating under the twinkling lights, shop for unique gifts at the market, and warm up with hot beverages. Winterfest Tulsa offers a complete holiday experience with a perfect blend of winter activities and festive charm.
Making The Holidays Special
Tulsa, Oklahoma, embraces the holiday season with open arms. Families are provided with an array of enchanting opportunities to meet Santa Claus and create lasting memories. From traditional encounters at shopping malls to unique experiences in botanical gardens and on scenic trails, the city offers something for everyone. Beyond meeting Santa, these 10 locations provide additional family-friendly activities, ensuring a joyous and festive atmosphere for all. Make this holiday season one to remember for your entire family. Grab your mittens and embark on a jolly adventure with your loved ones in Tulsa this holiday season!