Mayfest Returns to Downtown Tulsa in 2027
The 54th edition of the annual arts festival is set for downtown Tulsa after a smaller, multi-site 2026 event.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Cultural
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Mayfest organizers announced the 2027 festival will return to downtown Tulsa, with the 54th edition scheduled for May 14-16, 2027. The 2026 edition was smaller and staged at multiple locations after the University of Tulsa withdrew as an organizer in January 2026.
Why it matters
The announcement restores the festival's central downtown footprint for Tulsa residents after a reduced 2026 event. Mayfest is one of northeastern Oklahoma's largest free events, showcasing local and regional artists and musicians.
The festival's 54th edition is set for May 14-16, 2027, a three-day schedule following the smaller 2026 edition. The source does not provide attendance figures or the specific downtown venues for the 2027 event.
The players
University of Tulsa
A private university in Tulsa that co-organized Mayfest before withdrawing as an organizer in January 2026.
The details
Mayfest, launched in 1973 as Jubilee and rebranded as Mayfest in 1978, showcases local and regional artists and musicians. Artists and performers can apply online at tulsamayfest.org.
Timeline
January 2026: The University of Tulsa withdrew as an organizer.
2026: A smaller edition was staged at multiple locations.
May 14-16, 2027: The 54th Mayfest is scheduled in downtown Tulsa.
Legacy Context
Launched in 1973 as Jubilee and renamed Mayfest in 1978, the festival's 2027 return to downtown Tulsa continues a half-century run that predates its multi-site 2026 edition. The 2026 event was part of the Route 66 centennial celebration, and the 2027 return marks the 54th edition of the festival.
Residents can attend the three-day festival at no cost, as Mayfest is one of northeastern Oklahoma's largest free events. Local and regional artists and musicians will perform and exhibit during the May 14-16, 2027 weekend.
The takeaway
Mayfest's return to downtown Tulsa gives residents a free, multi-day way to see local and regional artists this May. Local creators interested in participating can review application categories at tulsamayfest.org.
What happens next
Mayfest's 54th edition is scheduled for May 14-16, 2027, in downtown Tulsa.
Further reading
Explore more Tulsa cultural events happening across the city.
More information
Artists and performers can apply through the Mayfest artist and performer applications page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Public Radio Tulsa.
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