Festival of the Arts | Oklahoma City

The Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts is an annual event that showcases the city’s vibrant visual and performing arts community, combining fine art, music, dance, and family-friendly activities into a multi-day celebration in the heart of downtown. It is one of Oklahoma City’s premier cultural festivals, drawing artists, performers, and audiences from across the state and beyond.

Origins and History

The festival began in 1997, initiated by local arts organizations and civic leaders seeking to celebrate and promote the creative talent within Oklahoma City.

Over time, it has grown into a signature cultural event that highlights both established and emerging artists while fostering public engagement with the arts.

It is typically held in late spring or early summer, coinciding with favorable weather for outdoor exhibitions and performances.

Location and Layout

The festival is located in downtown Oklahoma City, often centered around Myriad Botanical Gardens and nearby streets and plazas. The layout is designed to blend visual art displays with live performance stages and interactive spaces:

Art Market: Booths and tents showcase paintings, sculpture, photography, mixed media, jewelry, and ceramics from local, regional, and national artists.

Live Performance Stages: Music, dance, theater, and spoken word performances occur throughout the festival, reflecting the city’s diverse cultural scene.

Children’s Activities: Hands-on art stations, craft-making, and interactive performances allow young attendees to engage creatively.

Culinary Area: Local food trucks and vendors offer a mix of festival foods, snacks, and beverages.

Interactive Demonstrations: Live artist demonstrations in painting, glasswork, and sculpture provide insight into artistic processes.

Highlights and Features

Award-Winning Artists: Many participants are nationally recognized, and the festival often features juried competitions with awards for excellence in various media.

Performing Arts Showcase: Local dance companies, musicians, and theater troupes perform, offering exposure to Oklahoma’s performing arts community.

Community Engagement: Workshops, lectures, and panel discussions on art, technique, and creative entrepreneurship enrich the festival experience.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Activities for all ages make the festival accessible and inclusive.

Community and Cultural Role

Promotion of Local Artists: Provides a high-profile platform for Oklahoma-based artists to sell their work and gain recognition.

Cultural Enrichment: Encourages residents and visitors to experience a wide range of artistic disciplines in one location.

Tourism and Economic Impact: Draws visitors from outside the city, boosting local businesses, restaurants, and hotels.

Arts Education: Interactive and educational components inspire the next generation of artists and art appreciators.

Visitor Experience

Immersive Visual Arts: Walking through the festival allows visitors to experience a broad spectrum of artistic styles and mediums.

Live Entertainment: Music and performance stages add dynamic energy and celebrate Oklahoma City’s performing arts scene.

Interactive Opportunities: Attendees can watch artists at work, participate in workshops, and create their own art.

Accessible Location: Situated in downtown Oklahoma City, the festival is convenient to other cultural attractions, dining, and shopping.

Legacy and Significance

The Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts has become a central celebration of the city’s creative spirit, bridging professional artistry with community engagement. By combining visual arts, performing arts, and family-friendly programming, it reinforces the city’s identity as a regional cultural hub.

Today, the festival remains a highly anticipated annual event, fostering appreciation for the arts, supporting local talent, and bringing together residents and visitors in a vibrant celebration of creativity.