The 2025 Okmulgee Pecan Festival brought smiles, sunshine and the spirit of community back to downtown Okmulgee and the Muscogee Nation Omniplex last weekend. With beautiful fall weather, lively entertainment, and plenty of delicious food, the “Throwback Year” celebration captured the essence of what makes Okmulgee special – hometown pride, neighborly kindness, and a determination to keep beloved traditions alive.
Forty-one years ago, the Okmulgee Pecan Festival was named one of the top festivals in the country. This year, thanks to the hard work of Sarah Rhodes, the Okmulgee Chamber of Commerce, and the Pecan Festival Committee, the festival once again reflected that spirit of excellence. The two-day event was filled with music, family fun, local vendors and a renewed energy to restore the festival’s former glory for years to come.
Opening night brought laughter and teamwork when the annual Bed Races nearly faced cancellation. When contestants were unable to make it, community members and local businesses jumped into action. McCoy’s Building Supply provided the carts, Hoppers donated mattresses and Chamber board members used ratchet straps to pull it all together – proving once again that Okmulgee can make the best of any challenge.
Local vendors lined the festival area with unique products and treats that kept crowds browsing and sampling all day Saturday. Competitions brought out the best baked goods for the Pecan Baking Contest, along with classic and unique automobiles at the car show.
The day kicked off with some female Scouts cooking up a delicious breakfast that was enjoyed immensely.
The festival encouraged vendors and visitors alike to share their photos and experiences on social media, capturing the event from every angle. The result was a colorful, joyful collection of images that celebrated community pride and small-town togetherness.
Saturday featured an unforgettable lineup of entertainment, highlighted by the Inspyral Circus, whose performers amazed the crowd with fire shows, acrobatics, stilt walkers, hula hoop routines, and even cotton candy–themed costumes. The group, known for performing at major venues like the OKANA Resort, brought a high-energy spectacle that thrilled audiences of all ages – and best of all, admission was free for everyone.
Adding even more flavor to the weekend, the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Culinary Association (OCCA) judged the Steak Cook-Off, where competitors showcased their best grilling skills. The event drew food lovers from across the area and reminded everyone that great food and friendly competition go hand in hand at the Pecan Festival.
The Okmulgee Chamber and Festival Committee extended heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who made the 2025 festival possible. From planning and setup to clean-up and entertainment, countless hands worked together to create a memorable event.
Special appreciation goes to Sarah Rhodes of the Okmulgee Chamber of Commerce for her outstanding leadership and vision, the Pecan Festival Committee for their dedication and all co-sponsors and partners whose support brought the festival to life.
While organizers acknowledged that the Pecan Festival is still growing back into its former scale, the success of this year’s event proved that Okmulgee’s festival spirit is alive and thriving. With the community’s continued enthusiasm, 2026 promises to bring even more excitement, flavor, and family fun.
