élan by Dr. Meghan Hodges

It's the season for holiday cheer once again! Tulsa's much-awaited winter festival is back, and it's time to cozy up and enjoy the festivities. The Annual Arvest Winterfest starts in November, promising another memorable holiday season. People Magazine has even recognized it as the best holiday destination in Oklahoma. One of the highlights is the ice skating rink outside BOK Center, which will be open for everyone to enjoy. In the last 15 years, the number of people attending this event has significantly increased from 35,000 visitors in 2008 to over 150,000. This year, the celebration will last 45 days, allowing as many residents of Tulsa as possible to enjoy ice skating outdoors near BOK Center, surrounded by beautiful and sparkling holiday lights.

Have you ever heard of the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Reserve? It's an incredible piece of nature that boasts the last remaining 10 percent of natural prairie grass. The two-hour drive through the preserve is a nature lover's dream. You'll see grazing bison amid the 500 different plant species and great views of the city's outdoor landscape. It's truly a sight to behold. Visitors to the reserve can experience the wide-open prairie and the patches of crosstimbers forest by circling the 15-mile bison driving loop, hiking along designated trails, and stopping to take in the views at various scenic turnouts. With over 700 plants, 300 birds, and 80 mammals, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve offers excellent wildlife-watching opportunities and exceptional views of diverse natural habitats.

If you want a fun and educational family outing, visit the Tulsa Zoo. With a focus on wildlife education and conservation, the Tulsa Zoo is the premier destination for anyone who values creativity and diversity. Stroll among the fantastic animals, from tigers to grizzly bears, or let your kids run wild at the Helmerich Playground, where they can behave like their favorite animal. The Tulsa Zoo is more than just a fun day out. They're actively working with the community to drive change for a future where wildlife and wild places thrive. Their top-notch education programs encourage curiosity about the natural world and help participants become environmentally conscientious and scientifically literate citizens. And if you want to make your visit memorable, consider a Walking Tour with a knowledgeable, professional guide. You'll learn even more about the animals and their habitats and come away with a deeper appreciation for the fantastic work done by the Tulsa Zoo.