Spring Festival Round Up
Spring in Chickasaw Country brings a season full of festivals, hometown traditions and one-of-a-kind experiences you cannot find anywhere else. From historic reenactments to First American art markets and even a rattlesnake festival. Find out what makes the communities of Chickasaw Country special.
Tish Music Fest
March 21 | Tishomingo
Tishomingo may be small, but this music festival is sure to pack a big punch. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live musical performances on various stages scattered across downtown. In between shows, explore a variety of activities including a car show, axe throwing, an escape room, a mechanical bull and more. If you are feeling up to a little friendly competition, partake in the cornhole tournament or hotdog eating contest.
Insider tip: Take time to join the historical tour of downtown Tishomingo while you are there. It is a great way to learn about the town between music sets.
Fort Washita Rendezvous
April 1-5 | Fort Washita Historic Site
Journey back through time at the annual Fort Washita Rendezvous, where history comes alive through live demonstrations and cultural experiences. Visitors can watch trappers and traders, meet mountain men reenactors and enjoy demonstrations including Chickasaw stickball and Stomp dancing.
Insider tip: Built in 1842, Fort Washita once served as a U.S. military post and has earned a slightly spooky reputation for possible paranormal activity. If you enjoy a little mystery with your history, return in October when the site hosts its popular ghost tours.
Waurika Rattlesnake Festival
April 9-12 | Waurika
For one of the most unusual festivals in Oklahoma, head to Waurika for the annual Rattlesnake Festival. This long-running event features carnival rides, food vendors, live music and a bustling flea market, but the main attraction is all things rattlesnake. Visitors can attend the snake hunt, watch trained snake handlers and even compete for the title of Rattlesnake King and Queen.
Insider tip: The festival is organized by the local fire department and serves as a community fundraiser.
Bonus: If you are feeling adventurous, try the fried rattlesnake from one of the food vendors. It is a festival tradition and is often compared to chicken.
Artesian Arts Festival
May 2 | Sulphur
One of the most celebrated cultural events in the region, the Artesian Arts Festival showcases artwork created by federally recognized First American artists. Held at the Artesian Plaza in downtown Sulphur, the festival features an art market filled with paintings, jewelry, beadwork, pottery, textiles and other handmade works. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy dance demonstrations, live music performances and a diverse lineup of food trucks.
Insider tip: Come early for the best selection as the unique pieces sell quickly once the festival opens. It is also a great opportunity to meet the artists and purchase one-of-a-kind works directly from them.
Blanchard May Daze Festival
May 15-16 | Blanchard
The annual festival transforms Blanchard Main Street into a lively celebration with over 200 vendors, live music, carnival games and activities for kids. With food trucks, shopping booths and plenty of entertainment throughout the day, it is a festival where guests can easily spend hours exploring local vendors.
Insider tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes. The vendor rows stretch throughout downtown.
Love County Frontier Days
May 28-30 | Marietta
Frontier Days is a beloved community tradition in Marietta that celebrates small-town pride with a weekend full of activities. The festival begins with a classic parade featuring floats, horses and marching bands. The celebration continues with live music, kids’ activities, vendor booths and food trucks. Highlights include a BBQ competition, rodeo events, a 5K and a fun run. Cap off the event with a spectacular fireworks display.
Insider tip: Arrive early on parade day to grab a good viewing spot along the route.
Mark your calendar, gather your friends and family and make a plan to enjoy the season of festivals. Show us how you spend your spring by sharing your photos on social media using the hashtag #VisitChickasaw.
