Travel Back To A Bygone Era With Old-Fashioned Family Fun At The Annual Red Fern Festival In Oklahoma
By Ashley|Published March 06, 2024
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Ashley
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Ashley has lived in Oklahoma for 30 years and is the Oklahoma staff writer for onlyinyourstate.com. When she isn't writing about Oklahoma, she enjoys visiting the beach and exploring new areas.
The quaint town of Tahlequah comes alive with nostalgia during the annual Red Fern Festival. Set against the backdrop of the scenic Ozark hills, this charming event takes attendees on a journey back to simpler times, reminiscent of the beloved novel “Where the Red Fern Grows” by native author Wilson Rawls. From April 26 to April 27, 2024, families can immerse themselves in a weekend filled with hound dog field trials, 1930s-era children’s games, classic car shows, and more.
Drawing inspiration from the pages of Rawls' timeless tale, the Red Fern Festival captures the essence of childhood wonder and adventure.
Held in downtown Tahlequah, the festival spans seven blocks and features over 150 arts and crafts vendors, offering unique and rustic treasures to explore. As visitors stroll through the quaint streets, the aroma of delicious local cuisine fills the air, tempting taste buds with traditional flavors.
One of the highlights of the festival is the array of activities suitable for all ages. Children delight in inflatable attractions, petting zoos, and classic games from yesteryear, transporting them to a simpler time of outdoor play and exploration.
For those with a competitive spirit, the Hound Dog Field Trials provide an exciting spectacle as coon hunters showcase the skills of their beloved canine companions. Spectators cheer on their favorite teams, witnessing the bond between man and dog in action.
As the festival has grown over the years, so too has its heart. What began as a modest gathering has blossomed into a beloved tradition, drawing over 30,000 attendees from across the United States.
In addition to the exciting lineup of activities, the Red Fern Festival also revs up the excitement with a classic car show that revives the nostalgia of decades past.
Mark your calendars for April 26 to April 27, 2024, and gather your loved ones for a weekend of old-fashioned fun at the Red Fern Festival. Join other Oklahomans in celebrating the timeless spirit of community, adventure, and camaraderie that defines this cherished Oklahoma tradition. Admission is free, but the memories made will last a lifetime.
