Festival of Arts a Celebration of Culture, Creativity, Art and Food.

There are three things Oklahomans can count on in April, tornado warnings, buckets of rain and the Festival of the Arts in Downtown Oklahoma City. The Festival of the Arts is a central part of cultural expression in Oklahoma City, OK. Since its start 59 years ago in 1966, the festival has aimed to promote creativity and artistic diversity, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists to highlight their talents.
 
The festival’s commitment to community through art continues this year, with a range of visual arts, performances, and culinary experiences. This festival is a venue for artists’ work and a chance for leaders to engage with the arts and the community, building connections through creativity. The festival’s diverse artistic expressions—ranging from complex mixed media to impressive sculptures—highlight the rich culture of Oklahoma City.
 
This year’s Festival of the Arts prioritizes inclusivity and diversity, emphasizing the value of different artistic backgrounds and perspectives. In keeping with this theme, the festival’s interactive installations and live performances will allow visitors to fully engage with the creative process.
 
The 59th Festival of the Arts in Downtown Oklahoma City serves emerging and established artists. This year’s notable participants include singer Sarafina Byrd and painter Tim Kenney, whose creative and culturally significant works are particularly noteworthy. The impressive musical journey of Sarafina Byrd is defined by her soulful voice and poignant lyrics. With a diverse musical background, she blends pop, R&B, along with folk to create a unique and broadly appealing sound.
 
In contrast, Tim Kenney brings a vibrant visual experience to the festival with his distinctive painting style. Known for the bold colors he uses to depict trees and flowers in his paintings, Kenney’s artwork captures the essence of human experience and nature.
 
Co-chairs Gus Pekara and Meg Salyer’s visionary leadership is a major reason for the success of the 59th Downtown Oklahoma City Arts Festival. Their roles extend far beyond mere ceremonial duties, as they play an instrumental part in shaping the festival’s direction and ensuring its operational success.
 
The collaborative effort behind the festival extends to the Arts Council of Oklahoma City. The collaborative leadership of the Arts Council, Pekara, and Salyer has created an inclusive environment where artists, sponsors, and volunteers all contribute, resulting in a festival appealing to everyone.
This year’s festival focuses on immersive, interactive art experiences, inviting attendees to explore various artistic mediums.
This year’s festival will be held from April 24th (Thursday) to April 27th (Sunday), 2025. Schedule changes and cancellations will be posted on the Arts Council website if unforeseen events occur.
 There are three things Oklahomans can count on in April, tornado warnings, buckets of rain and the Festival of the Arts.