Global Gatherings Culminates with Grand World Festival Finale
Families are invited to enjoy an unforgettable evening of live music, international flavors, and hands-on cultural experiences all for free
Gathering Place will conclude its summer-long celebration of culture, community, and connection with the Global Gatherings World Festival on Saturday, August 9, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. The QuikTrip Great Lawn and ONEOK Boathouse will transform into an immersive global festival highlighting the rich diversity of cultures represented in Tulsa and beyond.
This free, family-friendly event will showcase the sights, sounds, and flavors of the world through a vibrant mix of live performances, international cuisine, hands-on activities, artisan vendors, and cultural demonstrations. The World Festival serves as the grand finale to the six-week Global Gatherings summer series, which celebrated cultures from every region of the globe.
The series, including the festival, is made possible through the Explore & Imagine program at Gathering Place, generously sponsored by the AEP Foundation on behalf of Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO).
Festivalgoers can look forward to a dynamic lineup of local and international performers, including Latin Grammy Award-winner Joaquina, genre-blending artist Mei Semones, the powerful Te Tini a Māui Kapa Haka Māori dance group, and a variety of traditional and contemporary performances from around the world.
Global cuisine will take center stage with food and beverage options representing Benin, Mexico, Hungary, Native America, the Philippines, Colombia, Lebanon, Puerto Rico, and Indonesia, provided by some of the area’s favorite food vendors.
The festival marketplace will feature handcrafted goods and globally inspired artwork from local artisans and cultural organizations. Attendees can also take part in interactive activities, including origami-making, henna art, traditional demonstrations, and more offering immersive opportunities for cultural learning and connection.
Admission is free, but RSVP is encouraged. Guests can claim their free ticket on Eventbrite to help Gathering Place plan for a smooth and welcoming experience.
Due to limited onsite parking, attendees are encouraged to walk, bike, shuttle, or use rideshare services. Free shuttles will run from both Tulsa Community College Downtown Campus and the 33rd Place overflow lot to Williams Lodge. Rideshare drop-off is available along northbound Riverside Drive.
To help guests stay cool during the festival, air-conditioned spaces will be available inside ONEOK Boathouse, along with shade tents, and a water zone play area. A free water refill station will also be provided in the park.
The Global Gatherings summer series, including the World Festival, is free to attend thanks to the Explore & Imagine program at Gathering Place, which is sponsored by the AEP Foundation on behalf of Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO). To learn more about the Explore & Imagine program, visit gatheringplace.org/explore-imagine.
