The University of Tulsa (TU) has stepped back from sponsoring the Tulsa Mayfest, a cherished arts festival in downtown Tulsa. This move raises concerns about the festival’s future, which has been a staple in the community for years.
Recently, TU took over the management of Mayfest in 2023 after the previous non-profit organization responsible for it unexpectedly shut down. Brad Carson, the then-President of TU, highlighted the effort to keep the festival alive, saying, “What seemed like an insurmountable challenge in February has become a fantastic reality here in May.”
Despite managing to support the festival through its 50th anniversary, TU spokesperson Mona Chamberlain confirmed on Monday that the university will no longer sponsor it. She stated that TU had previously agreed to support Mayfest until they could find new sponsors.
Chamberlain also mentioned that while the university will no longer hold rights to the festival, they will still maintain a strong presence in the Tulsa Arts District, particularly at the 101 East Archer building, which houses the Oklahoma Center for the Humanities.
In response to TU’s exit, the City of Tulsa is stepping up as a “convener” to seek a new primary sponsor, aiming to ensure that Mayfest continues into 2026. This is especially significant as that year is expected to draw more visitors due to the Route 66 Centennial celebrations.
Historically, Mayfest has roots that trace back to similar arts festivals from the 1970s. At its peak, it attracted around 300,000 attendees, although it faced challenges like poor weather and COVID-19-related cancellations in the past.
The community’s reaction has been mixed. Many locals expressed disappointment on social media, fearing that this could signal the end of a beloved tradition. Some have taken to platforms like Twitter and Facebook to share their memories and the importance of arts festivals to Tulsa.
As the search for new sponsorship continues, the future of Mayfest hangs in the balance. The festival not only celebrates local art but also fosters community spirit, attracting both residents and tourists alike.
For more information about the festival’s history and updates, you can visit the official Mayfest website or get the latest events from News On 6.
