OKC to Host Four Days of Art, Music, Food and Family Fun, April 24-27
OKLAHOMA CITY, April 15, 2025 — The highly anticipated Festival of the Arts will return to Bicentennial Park from April 24 – 27, 2025. Presented by MidFirst Bank, Gardner Tanenbaum, and Inasmuch Foundation, this four-day celebration will offer an exceptional showcase of art, culture, and entertainment. Arts Council Oklahoma City is excited to invite the public to experience the Festival’s unique blend of visual arts, performing arts, international cuisine, and family-friendly activities.
"Festival of the Arts 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting we’ve ever had," said Angela Cozby, Executive Director of Arts Council Oklahoma City. "We’ve worked hard to create a truly unique experience, with new attractions like the Creators Collective and the Emerging Artist Tent, alongside all the incredible performances, food, and family-friendly activities that have become a hallmark of the event.”
What to Expect at Festival of the Arts 2025
- Over 140 Fine Artists from across the country, featuring work in a variety of mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and more, with 72 new artists making their Oklahoma City debut. The Festival of the Arts continues to attract top-tier talent and is ranked among the Top 25 Fine Arts Festivals in America.
- Creators Collective, an exciting new area featuring 20 local artists and creators showcasing their handmade goods and locally produced food.
- Emerging Artist Tent, dedicated to highlighting Oklahoma’s up-and-coming artists, where you can discover the next big talent in the art world.
- Festival Pro-Am: See local celebrities paired with professional artists to create collaborative works of art. Enjoy the process in an interactive space featuring a champagne bar.
- International Food Row: A food lover’s dream with 22 food booths offering a wide range of flavors, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
- Live Entertainment: Two stages will host over 100 local performers, showcasing music, dance, and theater performances from a range of genres including rock, jazz, country, and more..
- Children’s Activities: A dedicated space for young festival-goers to enjoy hands-on art activities and more. Don’t miss the Youth Art Sale on Saturday, April 26, featuring art created by talented young artists (ages 8 – 18).
“We are thrilled to bring such a diverse and talented group of artists to Oklahoma City this year,” said Meg Salyer, Co-Chair of the Festival of the Arts. “This year’s collection promises to captivate our audience with unforgettable visual experiences. Whether you're craving a savory meal or a sweet treat, there's something to satisfy every palate. Plus, our diverse entertainment lineup and dynamic pop-up performances throughout the grounds will ensure there's something for every member of the family to enjoy, with plenty of surprises along the way.”
Cashless Event
Festival of the Arts will once again be a fully cashless event, streamlining transactions for both patrons and vendors. All artists and food vendors will only accept cards. To accommodate this change, onsite kiosks will allow visitors to transfer cash into a card with no fees. Cards can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
"As we take Festival of the Arts into the future, enhancing and simplifying the Festival experience for our guests has been a top priority," said Seth Lewis, Festival of the Arts Director. "Gone are the days of waiting in an Art Sales line to purchase art. Instead, every artist and food vendor will have their own payment machine, saving visitors time and energy once they decide to make a purchase."
Angels & Friends Celebration
Angels & Friends returns to Festival of the Arts, preceding the Festival on Wed., April 23, from 4 – 8 p.m. Angels & Friends tickets grant access to a VIP shopping experience that provides guests with access to the Festival before the public. Featuring live music, delicious food, an open bar, and raffle prizes including a $2,500 gift card to use at the Festival. Every dollar raised at the event supports local programs and initiatives that further the Art Council Oklahoma City’s mission of bringing the arts and the community together.
"Angels & Friends is a wonderful opportunity to support the arts while enjoying a truly memorable evening," said Gus Pekara, Co-Chair of the Festival of the Arts. "We’re so excited to welcome our guests to this special event and kick off the Festival in style."
Tickets are $100 and can be purchased online and at the event.
Volunteer & Get Involved
The success of the Festival of the Arts depends on the contributions of over 2,500 volunteers. From assisting artists to helping with event logistics, volunteers play a crucial role in bringing the Festival to life. The Arts Council Oklahoma City invites individuals to volunteer for a variety of roles, with opportunities for all ages and interests.
If you are interested in supporting this community event, please visit https://www.ArtsCouncilOKC.com/FOA_Volunteer/ to sign up.
"Volunteers are the backbone of this event, and we are always excited to see new and familiar faces joining us each year," said Pekara, Co-Chair of the Festival of the Arts. "There is truly something for everyone, and we are grateful for the support of our volunteers who help make the Festival possible."
Festival Hours
- Thursday, April 25: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Friday, April 26: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Saturday, April 27: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Sunday, April 28: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Road Closures Reminder
Several streets around Bicentennial Park will be closed from April 11 – May 5 to prepare for the event. Be sure to plan ahead for parking and consider using the OKC Streetcar or rideshare services to make your way to the Festival.
For more information on road closures, parking, volunteering, and other Festival details, visit: https://www.ArtsCouncilOKC.com/Festival-of-the-Arts/.