A perfect weekend of celebration and community spirit awaits as two of Okmulgee’s favorite annual events – the Pecan Festival and Harvest Spoon Chili Festival – take place this Saturday, Oct. 12. With ideal fall weather on the horizon, both festivals promise a full day of family- friendly activities, contests, entertainment, and, of course, delicious local flavors. The community is encouraged to attend and support these events, ensuring their continued success for years to come.

— Pecan Festival moves to Omniplex for a day of fun and tradition The long-standing Okmulgee Pecan Festival, organized by the Okmulgee Chamber of Commerce, has found a new home this year at The Claude Cox Omniplex (2950 Warrior Road). Running from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., the festival, though a little different than years past, features a wide array of activities that celebrate local traditions and bring together the community.

This year’s festival offers something for everyone, including a bustling marketplace filled with local vendors, a variety of food stalls, and live entertainment. The new location at the Omniplex promises a fresh and exciting atmosphere, but the heart of the festival remains the same – a celebration of Okmulgee’s love for pecans and community spirit.

Here are some of the highlights from this year’s Pecan Festival:

• Pecan Baking Contest: Bakers, young and old, will showcase their best pecan-themed dishes, competing in categories ranging from pies and cakes to cookies and muffins. The contest, a festival staple, will bring out the creativity and culinary skills of local bakers.

• Classic Car & Bike Show: A new addition this year, the car and bike show will draw in vehicle enthusiasts with categories for vintage cars, modern trucks, and custom bikes. Awards will be given for best paint, interior, and engine.

• Talent Show & Showcase: Okmulgee’s local talent will be on display as performers of all ages take the stage to share their singing, dancing, and musical abilities.

• Beard & Mustache Contest: Whether natural or crafted from yarn and paper, participants can enter a fun-filled contest celebrating the best (and most creative) facial hair. This year introduces a kids’ freestyle category, adding to the excitement.

The Pecan Festival is a family affair, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep everyone entertained. Visitors can also enjoy live music, shop for unique items from local vendors, and indulge in delicious food throughout the day.

For more information about the Pecan Festival, contact the Okmulgee Chamber of Commerce at 918-7566172. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate a cherished local tradition!

— Harvest Spoon Chili Festival brings the heat and fun

At the same time, the Harvest Spoon Chili Festival will be in full swing in downtown Okmulgee, drawing chili lovers and competitors from across the region. From the early morning setup to the afternoon announcement of the chili contest winners, the festival promises a lively day packed with activities for all ages.

Festival Schedule

• 8 a.m. – Marketplace Vendor and Chili Participant Setup: Early risers can watch as vendors prepare their stalls and chili chefs set up for the main event.

• 9 a.m. – YMCA 5K & Fun Run and Cornhole Tournament: Whether you’re running for fun or aiming for a cornhole championship, these morning activities are the perfect way to kick off the day.

• 10 a.m. – Live Music by Will Huckabee and Chili Judging Begins: The sounds of live music will set the stage as chili entries are judged by local experts.

• 11 a.m. – Will Rogers Trick Roping and Marketplace Vendors Open: A family-friendly demonstration of trick roping by Will Rogers will thrill the crowd, while vendors open their booths for business.

• 11:30 a.m. – Hot Pepper Eating Contest: For those brave enough to handle the heat, the hot pepper contest will challenge contestants to eat their way through the spiciest peppers around.

• 12:30 p.m. – Dessert Auction and Performance by Preston Jump Ropers: Guests can bid on tasty treats in the dessert auction, while the Preston Jump Ropers showcase their impressive skills.

• 2:30 p.m. – More Music by Will Huckabee: Local favorite Will Huckabee returns to entertain festival-goers in the afternoon.

• 3 p.m. – Chili Contest Winners Announced: The festival will wrap up with the much-anticipated announcement of the chili contest winners, bringing the day to a flavorful close.

– The Harvest Spoon Chili Festival is not just about great food – it’s about celebrating community spirit. In addition to the chili contests, live performances, and marketplace, there will be a dedicated Kids Zone, pumpkin chunkin’ and fun activities for children.

Sponsors like Neal’s Homestore, Miss Mary’s Market, and BTC Broadband have played a significant role in making the festival possible. Their support ensures that the Harvest Spoon Chili Festival continues to thrive as a key event in Okmulgee’s fall calendar.

— A Weekend to Remember Support Both Festivals

This Saturday presents the perfect opportunity for the community to come together and support two fantastic events. Whether you’re baking for the Pecan Festival, competing in the chili contest, or simply attending to enjoy the atmosphere, your participation helps ensure the success of these festivals. With sunny weather in the forecast, there’s no better time to step out, join the festivities, and show your support for Okmulgee’s rich traditions.

Mark your calendars and plan to spend the day enjoying the best of what Okmulgee has to offer at the Pecan Festival and Harvest Spoon Chili Festival. Let’s make this weekend one to remember!