OKC’s Rite of Spring

From discovering new artists to experiencing global flavors, Arts Council of Oklahoma City’s Festival of the Arts has been Oklahoma City’s rite of spring for 50 years. And the 50th annual Festival of the Arts, April 19-24, promises to continue this rich tradition in its new location at Bicentennial Park located in front of Civic Center Music Hall.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Every year Festival of the Arts attracts up to 750,000 people over six days. Free admission, amazing art, fantastic food, exciting entertainment and fun activities are all in store for visitors to enjoy at this year’s Festival.

Visual Arts
The Festival features 200 artists from 41 states, including several artists representing the rich culture and talent of Oklahoma.

Culinary Arts
Take a break from the visual and performing arts to enjoy all the fine food that Festival of the Arts has to offer. International Food Row features old favorites like Indian Tacos, Strawberries Newport, Craig & Carter’s Famous Fish Tacos and C’est Si Bon. New additions to this year’s International Food Row include Meat Market Refectory, The Saucee Sicilian, Crepe Brewers and I Don’t Know & I Don’t Care. Each food vendor is partnered with a local arts-related nonprofit agency, so each bite goes to support the arts in central Oklahoma.

Performing Arts
Festival of the Arts has three stages of non-stop performing arts entertainment ranging in scope from the youngest elementary school performers to professional musicians.

Art for Children
Festival of the Arts will include many great activities for children and families. Shop from Festival’s youngest artists at the Youth Art Sale where youth ages 8 to 18 present their own artwork for sale. Young at Art Mart is a special no-adults-allowed section where children can purchase art created by their favorite Festival artists for $5 or less. Children can create their own unique work of art in the Children's Art Field. Face painting for $1 will be available.

All proceeds from the Festival support Arts Council Oklahoma City’s year-round, free and low-cost programming. Another unique way to support this effort is by attending the Angels and Friends Party. It boasts entertainment, fare from OKC’s best restaurants, an open bar and a chance to celebrate the arts and the coming of spring with OKC’s most devout arts supporters.