Tulsa Drillers rebrand as Tulsa Chicken Dancers for 918 Weekend

It may only be May, but the Tulsa Drillers are channeling the spirit of fall over the weekend. The team is rebranding as the Tulsa Chicken Dancers through Sunday to pay tribute to one of the city’s most beloved seasonal events: Oktoberfest.

Homage to a Tulsa Tradition

This weekend’s theme is part of the Drillers’ annual 918 Weekend, a promotional tradition that highlights Tulsa culture and community pride. Past years have included nods to noodling, the Tulsa Sound music genre, and the Tulsa Raft Race.

The idea to spotlight Oktoberfest and the chicken dance has been in the works for several years. The team chose the theme in recognition of Oktoberfest’s national reputation and a unique Tulsa twist on the famous dance.

According to the Drillers, the chicken dance made its American debut at Tulsa’s Oktoberfest in 1981. Originally known as the duck dance in Germany, the organizers in Tulsa couldn’t find a duck costume—so they used a chicken costume instead, creating the tradition now recognized across the U.S.

Theme Nights, Giveaways and Game Schedule

The Drillers will face off against the Northwest Arkansas Naturals, the Double-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, during the four-game series at ONEOK Field. Each night includes themed promotions and giveaways:

1. Thursday, May 15 at 7 p.m. – Chicken Dancers T-shirt giveaway
2. Friday, May 16 at 7 p.m. – News On 6 K-Hits Friday Night Fireworks with live German music
3. Saturday, May 17 at 7 p.m. – Chicken Dancers jersey giveaway
4. Sunday, May 18 at 1 p.m. – Chicken dance socks giveaway

Live entertainment will continue throughout the weekend with German music, traditional Oktoberfest activities, and themed contests. Fans can enjoy wiener dog races, stein-holding competitions, and appearances by the beer meister.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early and dress for the celebration — and be ready to do plenty of chicken dancing.