As the holiday season descends upon Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Dewey Avenue transforms into a festive wonderland known as the Route 66 Christmas Chute. This unique celebration eschews traditional slides for a different kind of enchantment—an array of canopies and business awnings adorned with diverse holiday themes. In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual stroll through this magical display and provide essential information for those eager to experience the Sapulpa Christmas Chute firsthand.
Table of Contents
What is the Route 66 Christmas Chute
Unlike typical holiday displays, the Route 66 Christmas Chute is a collection of creatively decorated canopies and business awnings along Dewey Avenue in downtown Sapulpa. This walkable Christmas experience invites visitors to meander through a series of installations, each featuring a distinct holiday theme.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the Sapulpa Christmas Chute is the collaborative effort that goes into its creation. Local businesses, artisans, and volunteers come together to transform the chute into a festive masterpiece. From handcrafted ornaments to festive light displays, every detail is carefully curated to immerse visitors in the magic of the season.
When is the Sapulpa Christmas Chute Open?
This year, the Route 66 Christmas Chute kicks off on November 16th and remains open throughout the holiday season. You can stroll under the whimsical canopy of decorations until December 31st. Whether you prefer a daytime stroll or an evening adventure under the twinkling lights, there are opportunities for both.
What to Expect
Visitors to the Route 66 Christmas Chute can expect a visually stunning journey through ten holiday-themed displays. From traditional winter scenes to whimsical depictions of favorite holiday stories, each canopy is unique and magical. Beyond just decorations, the Sapulpa Christmas Chute is a whole experience. Wander in and out of local shops, grab a hot chocolate or evening snack from a food truck, or rent an igloo for you and several of your friends and escape the evening chill while soaking in the atmosphere.
Best Times to Go to the Sapulpa Christmas Chute
The best time to experience the Sapulpa Christmas Chute depends on your preference for daylight or nighttime ambience. During the day, you can appreciate the intricate details and vibrant colors of the displays. As the sun sets, the holiday lights come to life, casting a warm glow over Main Street and enhancing the overall enchantment. Weekdays may offer a quieter experience, while weekends may provide a livelier atmosphere with more community engagement. One of the best (but busiest) nights to go is on the day of the parade!
Where to Park
Dewey Avenue is closed to traffic to ensure a safe and enjoyable walking Christmas experience. However, there is plenty of parking available in nearby public parking lots as well as along side streets. Arriving early ensures you have ample time to explore the displays and enjoy the festive atmosphere without the worry of finding a parking space.
Fun Things to do at the Route 66 Christmas Chute
Plan a magical evening of Christmas adventures! If you’re planning on going to Sapulpa to experience the Route 66 Christmas Chute, you’ll have plenty of fun with no plans at all. However, some people love a good itinerary. There are so many fun activities going on throughout the season at the Christmas Chute so be sure to check the calendar before you decide when to go. In addition to games, workshops and photo ops, here are a few other ways to spend your evening.
Rent an igloo. This is a perfect way to spend a girl’s night out. Each igloo has a specific theme, and you can spend the evening warm and toasty sipping hot cocoa and playing games.
Go on a scavenger hunt. A scavenger hunt is an especially way for kids to immerse themselves in the excitement of the Christmas chute. Download your printable copy and be sure to snap a selfie when you find the movie props.
Attend the Sapulpa Chamber Parade of Lights. Sapulpa puts on an awesome parade you don’t want to miss. This year, the parade is on December 16. To get an idea of what it’s like, check out my video of the parade from last year.
Go on a Thursday and join a Streetwalker Tour. For the history lovers out there, this free walking tour will give you the chance to learn more about the town’s past.
FAQ about Sapulpa’s Route 66 Christmas Chute
Is there free parking?
Yes! There is plenty of free parking available. Consider arriving before dark to get a closer parking spot.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are welcome on a leash so long as they don’t mind being around lots of people. Also, be sure to clean up after your pup. There are two stations located on the chute with bags and waste bins to help keep this amazing space clean.
How many displays are at the Sapulpa Christmas Chute?
There are ten fully decorated awnings, each with a unique theme and over 35,000 Christmas lights. The Route 66 Christmas Chute begins on the corner of Main and Dewey (Rt 66) and ends at the corner of Oak and Dewey.
What are the dates of the Route 66 Christmas Chute?
The Christmas Chute opens on November 16, 2023. Visitors can enjoy the mesmerizing displays through December 31.
How far is Sapulpa from Tulsa?
Sapulpa is only about 15 minutes from Tulsa. If you want to plan a day trip and visit both, here are some fun things to do in Tulsa.