press release

PHILBROOK UNVEILS EXPANDED HOLIDAY FESTIVAL WITH NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED DESIGN PARTNER AND EXTENDED FILM LINEUP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

(TULSA, OK. November 9, 2026) Philbrook Festival presented by Williams returns on select nights November 27-December 27 with immersive holiday experiences both indoors and out. Festival transforms the historic Villa and Gardens with thousands of lights, festive décor, live music, films, visits with Santa (available through Dec. 23), campfires, cocoa, and art-making activities.

New for 2026, Philbrook has partnered with Color Story Studio, a nationally recognized design firm, to significantly expand holiday décor throughout the Villa's interiors ahead of its 2027 centennial year. Known for creating immersive environments, Color Story Studio has collaborated with major national brands and cultural institutions, from seasonal displays for Anthropologie to holiday installations throughout the historic Lilly House at Newfields' annual Winterlights celebration. Color Story Studio will draw inspiration from 1920s holiday parties to create a dazzling Festival experience leading into the Villa's 100th anniversary.

"Tulsa offers so many festive activities during the holiday season, but it only has one Roaring Twenties Villa,” said Megan Nesbit, President & CEO. “We’re excited to bring more magic to the celebration inside the home this year, in addition to more lights, music, films, and fun across campus.”

In addition to new design features, Philbrook is introducing an expanded series of Festival Films on select Saturdays and Sundays throughout the season. The series pairs beloved seasonal films with admission to Festival. All screenings begin at 4:30 p.m. in the Patti Johnson Wilson Auditorium and include admission to the Festival Night immediately following the film.

Festival Films:

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) – November 28

The Grinch (2018) – November 29

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) – December 5

Die Hard (1988) – December 6  

Frost Film Fest: Triple Feature of The Snowman (1982), Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964), and Frosty’s Winter Wonderland (1976, 50th anniversary) – December 13

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946, 80th anniversary) – December 19

The Holiday (2006, 20th anniversary) – December 20

Edward Scissorhands (1990) – December 26

Batman Returns (1992) – December 27

Festival is presented by Williams and made possible by additional generous gifts from Integrity, Commerce Bank, The Zink Family Foundation, Adrienne Barnett and Scot Mccaulley, Arvest, Asphalt Fuel and Supply, Cindy and Bob Peterson, and Tinker Federal Credit Union.

About Philbrook Museum of Art

Philbrook Art & Gardens is committed to being Tulsa’s most welcoming and engaging cultural institution, providing a unique trifecta of experiences: a historic home, world class art museum, 25 acres of gardens. 

Philbrook Museum of Art opened on October 25, 1939. The addition of a 70,000 square foot wing in 1990 turned the historic home into a modern museum complex. A major garden renovation in 2004 cemented the Museum’s reputation as “the most beautiful place in Oklahoma.” 

Through bold action and strategic investment, we create a space for new ideas, diverse stories and perspectives, and social connections. The Philbrook Collection features more than 16,000 objects with a focus on American, Native American, and European art. Serving over 160,000 visitors annually, Philbrook shines a light on Tulsa’s storied and complex past while building a diverse and creative vision of the city’s future.

media contact

amy Brewer

Director of Communications 

Philbrook Museum of Art 

918.748.5313

marketing@philbrook.org
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