By Micah Choquette
The Route 66 Christmas Chute added another award to the shelf this week as Sapulpa Main Street Director Cindy Lawrence accepted the Merit Award for “Outstanding New Event” by the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association (OTIA) in Oklahoma City last Tuesday evening.
Lawrence, who was joined by Sapulpa Chamber President Janet Birnie, said she’s thrilled that her hometown is getting another recognition. “It’s always exciting when an award is won on a project that you’ve been involved in and has brought a positive impact to your community,” she said.
The Route 66 Christmas Chute, which ran from November through the end of 2022, brought an estimated 300-500,000 people to downtown Sapulpa from all around the world, thanks to its unique walkable Christmas Wonderland situated in the heart of Route 66.
The award was one of 33 that the OTIA handed out among 17 categories at its annual RedBud Awards at the Oklahoma History Center. Open to all Oklahoma tourism entities, the RedBud Awards represent the highest honor given in the Oklahoma tourism industry.
Hosted by Taylor Nelson, the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department Chief of Staff, and Jenifer Reynolds with Discover Oklahoma, the awards recognize Oklahoma’s top tourism attractions, events, programs, and organizations for outstanding efforts to serve and promote Oklahoma’s tourism industry.
Debra Bailey, President of OTIA, expressed her enthusiasm about the 2023 RedBud Awards, describing it as an awe-inspiring occasion. “Oklahoma’s tourism industry is a pillar of our state’s economy, ranking as the third-largest sector,” stated Bailey. “Our state boasts remarkable attractions, captivating events, and remarkable cultural experiences, making it an enticing destination for travelers.”
In 2021 alone, the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department reported a staggering $10.1 billion in revenue generated by the industry.
The Route 66 Christmas Chute has announced it will be back this holiday season and plans are underway for an even more eventful Chute in November of 2023.
