Part art installation and roadside attraction, the Route 66 Christmas Tree Farm in southwest Tulsa opened to the public last weekend.
It is the brainchild of Josh and Amanda Stout, who own an art gallery across the street. Last winter, they put out a call for artificial Christmas trees — not expecting they would receive about 500.
They placed several dozen trees and a vintage car in a long-gutted storefront in the Red Fork Historical District and added lights and murals.
The grand opening Saturday included live music, a hot cocoa bar, swag bags for the first 100 visitors and a visit by the Snow King and Queen.
Rhys Martin, president of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, posted photos from the event:
More images from the farm’s Facebook account:
Liz Cousins’ Facebook Live video provided interesting first-person context. The snow machine definitely gave a snow-globe atmosphere the creators wanted:
TulsaPeople magazine published a story about the Route 66 Christmas Tree Farm before it opened:
“This long-abandoned space brings our goals to the forefront as we continue to redefine this historic Red Fork District,” says Josh. “Data shows Route 66 enthusiasts want fun and quirky attractions to stop at along their journey. We hope to provide another opportunity for travelers and locals to stop, walk and shop here in our historic district.”
The open-air structure contains over 100 artificial trees — with more installations planned to use the 400 other trees — and features murals by Josh and a vintage car inspired by the Mother Road.
Though it is holiday-themed, the attraction at 4077 Southwest Blvd. (aka Route 66) will be open daily from 10 a.m. to sunset year-round.
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