TULSA, Okla.— NBC’s 3rd Hour of TODAY will broadcast live from Tulsa on October 10, marking the first time the nationally televised morning show has aired from Green Country.
The announcement was made during Tulsa Regional Tourism’s annual meeting, which highlighted a series of wins for the city’s tourism sector during the 2024–25 fiscal year.
“Tulsa and TODAY are a perfect match,” says Renee McKenney, senior vice president of tourism for the Tulsa Regional Chamber and president of Tulsa Regional Tourism. “Tulsa’s people, culture, and world-class attractions make it the authentic American story. Showcasing it on TODAY is an incredible opportunity, and making the announcement at our annual meeting made it even more special.”
The TODAY broadcast will spotlight Tulsa’s cultural institutions, attractions, and growing reputation as a destination city.
During the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, Tulsa Regional Tourism reported significant growth across key performance metrics, including 218,138 definite room nights booked, surpassing its goal of 175,000, and a total economic impact of more than $316 million, exceeding the original target by more than $100 million. The organization also assisted 50 film and television productions in the region.
Tulsa Regional Tourism earned five honors at the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association’s Redbud Awards, including Outstanding Event for the “Big Dam Party,” and was named Tourism Organization of the Year in the large budget category. The organization was also recognized as a finalist for the U.S. Travel Association’s ESTO Award for Immersive Experience. Rachel Nogalski, director of experience and events, was named to Destinations International’s “30 Under 30” list.
“I often think about Tulsa in three ways: what we were, what we are, and what we can be,” said Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols, speaking at the event. “Tulsa is still a bit of a hidden gem across the country, but we are rapidly changing that. The more people learn about who we are and what we have to offer, the more interested they become. That is why tourism and the partnership and collaboration between Tulsa Regional Tourism, the City of Tulsa, and stakeholders citywide are so important to the city and our future.”
The event, themed “It’s So Late, It’s Early,” also featured appearances by local leaders from Gathering Place, River Parks Authority, the Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation, and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Tulsa Regional Tourism’s Partners of the Year awards were also presented.
