OKLAHOMA CITY, February 20, 2025 — Arts Council Oklahoma City’s highly anticipated Festival of the Arts, presented by MidFirst Bank, Gardner Tanenbaum, and Inasmuch Foundation, will return to Bicentennial Park in downtown Oklahoma City from April 24 – 27, 2025. This annual springtime celebration of the arts brings together local artists, performers, food vendors, and volunteers to create a unique cultural experience that draws thousands of visitors each year.
“The Festival of the Arts is a tradition that has become an essential part of Oklahoma City’s cultural fabric,” said Angela Cozby, Executive Director of Arts Council Oklahoma City. “This year, we’re thrilled to introduce exciting new features like the Creators Collective and the Emerging Artist Tent, designed to showcase even more of Oklahoma’s incredible creative talent.”
New Features at the 2025 Festival of the Arts
This year’s Festival will introduce two new features:
- Creators Collective: The Creators Collective, located at the NE corner of OKC’s City Hall, will feature a curated selection of local makers and creators. This new space will showcase handmade goods, locally produced foods, and creative artistry from around the state of Oklahoma.
- Emerging Artist Tent: The Emerging Artist Tent will provide a platform for up-and-coming artists to showcase their talents to the Festival audience. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the next generation of artists in Oklahoma City.
“The Creators Collective and Emerging Artist Tent are designed to highlight the diverse and creative talents within our community. These additions will offer a truly unique experience for Festival visitors,” said 2025 Festival Co-Chair Meg Salyer.
Volunteer Opportunities Available
With over 2,000 volunteers needed to bring the Festival to life, Arts Council Oklahoma City is inviting community members to join the team. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting the artists, vendors, and guests, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and remains a memorable experience for all.
“Volunteers are the backbone of Festival of the Arts, and without their dedication, this event wouldn’t be possible,” said 2025 Festival Co-Chair Gus Pekara. “Whether you’re helping with event setup, assisting artists, or guiding visitors, there’s a volunteer role for everyone.”
Individuals interested in volunteering for the Festival of the Arts can sign up through the link on artscouncilokc.com. The Festival offers volunteer opportunities for all age groups, with roles suited to diverse skill sets and interests.
Festival Highlights: Art, Entertainment, and Food
In addition to the new features, the Festival will also showcase:
- 144 fine artists from across the country, including 72 new artists making their debut in Oklahoma City. Festival of the Arts has been ranked as one of the Top 25 Fine Arts Festivals in the United States.
- International Food Row, featuring 30 food booths, food trucks, and a variety of cuisine options to suit all tastes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
- Over 100 local performers on two stages, offering an array of musical performances, dance, and theater throughout the event.
Angels & Friends Celebration
The official kickoff to the 2025 Festival of the Arts will return to Oklahoma City on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This highly anticipated VIP event offers an exclusive opportunity to preview the Festival before the public opening, all while supporting Arts Council Oklahoma City’s mission to bring the arts and the community together. Join us for live music, delicious food, drinks, and exciting raffle prizes, including a $2500 gift card to the Festival.
The Festival of the Arts will run from April 24 – 27, 2025, with the following hours:
- Thursday, April 24: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Friday, April 25: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Saturday, April 26: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Sunday, April 27: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
“The Festival of the Arts is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings together creativity, community, and culture,” said Festival of the Arts Director Seth Lewis. “We invite everyone to welcome spring in OKC by exploring incredible artwork, savoring delicious cuisine, and enjoying top-tier talent at one of America’s Top 25 fine arts festivals.”
About Arts Council Oklahoma City
Arts Council Oklahoma City is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to bringing the arts and the community together through free or low-cost cultural events and various arts outreach activities that impact underserved populations. Each year, Arts Council OKC events, programs, and services reach nearly one million Oklahoma City residents and visitors.
About Festival of the Arts
Festival of the Arts, a production of Arts Council Oklahoma City, would not be possible without the support of our Presenting Sponsors: MidFirst Bank, Gardner Tanenbaum, and Inasmuch Foundation, Official Sponsor: Devon Energy, and Associate Sponsors: Hall Estill, Heartland, ICG, m3t, OG&E, Oklahoma City Thunder, The Oklahoman, Oklahoma City Farmers Public Market, OKC Parks and Recreation Department, S&S Promotions, Republic National Distributing Company, Toucan Productions, and Tyler Media.
