The tradition continues this fall as the Okmulgee Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Pecan Festival on Saturday. This long-standing community event, set to take place at The Claude Cox Omniplex (2950 Warrior Road), promises a day full of family-friendly activities, entertainment and local traditions. The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. providing a full day of excitement for attendees of all ages.

The Pecan Festival will have a different look and feel, as it will be in a new location, moving to the Omniplex. Festival-goers can enjoy an array of activities, from a bustling marketplace of delicious food options.

-of local vendors to a variety Pecan Baking Contest

Bakers can get your aprons ready for the Baking Contest, where locals will put their best pecan- themed dishes to the test. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Okmulgee’s love for pecans while enjoying some friendly competition.

2024 Pecan Festival Baking Contest Categories Kids (Ages 5-17) & Adults (18+)

• Pie – Whole Pie

• Quick Bread – Whole Mini or Regular Size Loaf

• Muffin – 2 Muffins

• Cookie – 3 Cookies

• Cake – Whole Cake One $2 entry fee and form per entry. — Classic Car & Bike Show

For car enthusiasts, the Car & Bike Show is a new highlight of the festival. Vehicles from different eras will be showcased, with categories ranging from vintage cars to modern-day trucks and specialty bikes. The competition will include awards for the best vehicles in categories such as Best Paint, Best Interior, and Best Engine. Whether you love classic cruisers or custom builds, this event is a must-see.

— Talent Show & Showcase

The Talent Show will spotlight the incredible talents of Okmulgee’s local community. From singers and dancers to musicians and performers, the festival offers a platform for participants of all ages to take the stage. Those wishing to participate must register with the Chamber to secure a spot in the event lineup. It’s a great opportunity for budding stars to show off their skills in front of a supportive crowd.

— Beard & Mustache Contest

For those with a flair for the unique, the Beard & Mustache Contest will give participants a chance to show off their best facial hair.

This fun-filled event invites participants of all ages to show off their facial hair or, for the kids, get creative by crafting their own beards and mustaches out of materials like paper and yarn. It’s the first time the festival will feature a kids’ freestyle category, giving families a chance to let their imaginations run wild.

The competition will take place on Saturday, Oct. 12, at 10 a.m., alongside the first annual Pecan Festival Car Show at the Okmulgee Claude Cox Omniplex.

For more information, contact organizers TJ and Amber Mordecai through their Facebook page, “Oklahoma Beard Lovers.”

— A Day for the Whole Family

This year’s Pecan Festival promises something for everyone. In addition to the main attractions, visitors can explore food stalls, shop from local vendors, and enjoy a lively, fun-filled atmosphere. Whether you come for the cars, the talent, or simply the community spirit, there’s no shortage of entertainment.

For more information or to pre-register for events, contact the Okmulgee Chamber of Commerce by calling 918-756-6172 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Join the Chamber this Saturday for another memorable year of the Okmulgee Pecan Festival and celebrate the tradition that brings the community together.