10 things to know about Tulsa Mayfest 2025

Tulsa’s signature spring festival is back and better than ever. Mayfest 2025 returns May 9–11 with a fresh theme, high-energy performances, new events and plenty of activities for the whole family.

This year’s theme, “Stay Gold,” is a tribute to S.E. Hinton’s iconic novel The Outsiders, which was adapted into a 1983 film and most recently a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical.

It’s a nod to Tulsa’s literary and cultural roots, and it sets the stage for a weekend packed with music, art, food and fun.

Here are 10 things to know before you go:

1. The festival is free and family-friendly

Mayfest is free to the public, making it accessible to enjoy downtown Tulsa’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

2. Festival hours span the weekend

1. Friday, May 9—11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
2. Saturday, May 10—10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
3. Sunday, May 11—11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

3. The 'Stay Gold' theme honors The Outsiders

This year’s theme pays homage to The Outsiders by University of Tulsa alumna S.E. Hinton. Organizers have embraced the theme with special art collections, events and even a new charity race.

4. Mayfit 5K and fun run debut

New this year is Mayfit, a 5K race and 1K fun run starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 10. Hosted with Fleet Feet Tulsa, the race runs through downtown and supports The Outsiders House Museum.

5. Major music acts headline at Guthrie Green

Catch performances on the Guthrie Green main stage:

1. Kaitlin Butts – 5:30 p.m. Saturday
2. Mýa – 8:30 p.m. Saturday
3. Madison Ryann Ward – 4:30 p.m. Sunday

Local favorites like Mezclave, John Ferrell, Parris Chariz, Micaela Young and Ari Yvon will also perform throughout the weekend.

6. Kids World expands at 101 Archer

The third floor of 101 Archer features an expanded Kids World with arts, crafts, face painting, balloon animals and a Youth Art Gallery. Kids can enjoy a live show by Hot Toast at 6 p.m. on Friday.

A dedicated room for nursing mothers is also available.

7. Art lovers can shop and browse original works

The Stay Gold Collection includes two commemorative poster designs plus a dozen original pieces on display at 101 Archer. Vendors throughout the district will also showcase handmade goods and fine art.

8. Parking and shuttles make access easy

1. Free parking is available at OSU-Tulsa
2. Free shuttles run from 700 N. Greenwood Ave., starting one hour before and ending one hour after festival hours
3. ADA accessible parking is located at Boston and Archer, in the Bank of Oklahoma lot

9. Road closures start early

Streets in the festival area will close at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, and reopen at 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 12. Plan accordingly if you commute through downtown.

10. Grab merch and food while you’re there

1. The Mayfest merchandise tent, run by Mythic Press, will be on North Boston near the Woody Guthrie Center
2. Food vendors will offer a wide range of options for all tastes and budgets
3. Most beverage stations are card only – no cash accepted

Want to get involved?

Volunteers are still needed to help power the weekend. Visit tulsamayfest.org to sign up or get more event details.