Festival season in Oklahoma begins in springtime with warmer temperatures kicking off outdoor events like arts festivals, live music and living history demonstrations. The festival fun continues through the summer and into the fall all over the Sooner state.
While there are plenty of festivals to be found in Oklahoma City, these festivals are worth the drive.
April 1-30 in Muskogee
Why We Love It: Inspire your family with a trip to Muskogee to see thousands of blooming tulips and sprawling azaleas, dogwoods and wisteria. Honor Heights Park welcomes thousands of visitors each April to soak up 40 picturesque acres. The highlights of the month-long celebration of spring include the Azalea Festival Parade at 11 a.m. April 6 in downtown Muskogee, the Azalea 5k and Fun Run starting at 8 a.m. on April 13, and the Flower Power Bicycle Ride on April 27.
April 16 – 20 in Guthrie
Why We Love It: This annual event celebrates the historic birth of Oklahoma and hosts the largest and oldest parade in Oklahoma. Features a variety of exciting activities for the whole family including a carnival, craft vendors, live music, food trucks, an ’89er queen competition and more. Free to attend. The parade begins Saturday, April 20 at noon. See website for full schedule.
April 19-20 in Stillwater
Why We Love It: Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors and textures as you wander through the displays of over 50 talented regional artists, each showcasing their unique vision and style. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, a music lover, or a family looking for a fun weekend outing, the Stillwater Arts Festival promises an unforgettable experience for all. is free. Event will take place from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.
April 26-27 in Tahlequah
Why We Love It: The Red Fern Festival is a fun, old-fashioned fun event featuring hound dog field trials, 1930s era children’s games, a car show and more. Held annually the last weekend of April, the Red Fern Festival was inspired by the renowned novel, “Where the Red Fern Grows” by native author Wilson Rawls. This festival features unique and rustic vendors, delicious local food, live music and plenty of children’s activities. Free to attend. Hours are Friday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
May 10-12 in Tulsa
Why We Love It: Mayfest attracts more than 350,000 people annually with an array of arts, including dance, music and visual arts. Always a major highlights of spring, Mayfest also includes multiple performance stages and great festival food along with fine arts and crafts. In addition to the outdoor space, Mayfest also has four indoor galleries and features a KidZone with hands-on art activity area for children. Free admission. Hours are from 11 a.m to 11 p.m. Friday & Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Stirling Classic Scottish Festival
May 31 – June 2 in Yukon
Why We Love It: The annual Stirling Classic Scottish Festival at the Mollie Spencer Farm is a unique celebration of Celtic culture, complete with music, dance, food, and good ‘ole fashioned Scottish fun! Attendees will enjoy a taste of Scotland and other Celtic nations through many available activities and entertainers, including heavy athletics, sheepherding demonstrations, Celtic dance, roving pipe bands, Celtic bands, traditional Scottish food, Celtic-themed vendors, kid crafts and games, genealogy research, clan tents, and a crofters’ village. Free to attend. Hours are Friday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
August 9-10 in Shawnee
Why We Love It: Features hot air balloons, live entertainment, fireworks, food trucks, balloon glows, a vendor market and more. Free to attend. See website for a complete schedule of events.
Rush Springs Watermelon Festival
August 10 in Rush Springs
Why We Love It: The Rush Springs Watermelon Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rush of local seasonal watermelons with watermelon-themed activities, carnival rides and family-friendly entertainment. Features a seed-spitting contest, an arts and craft fair featuring over 100 vendors, carnival rides, live entertainment, stage shows, on-site food vendors and a classic automotive show. Free to attend. Check website for hours.
