Spring into action: Must-see events in OKC this season

Spring in Oklahoma City is packed with events that showcase the city's vibrant culture, community spirit and rich heritage. From the 25th annual OKC Memorial Marathon to the return of beloved festivals like the "Festival of the Arts" and "Paseo Arts Festival," there’s something for everyone this season. 

Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon 

The 25th annual OKC Memorial Marathon, held April 25-27, honors the lives lost in the 1995 bombing, as well as survivors and their families. Since its start in 2001, the marathon has grown from 5,000 to over 25,000 participants from across the U.S. and abroad. Organizers are expecting around 75,000 people to take part in the weekend, with roughly 40% of attendees coming in from out of town. The event includes a 5K, Kids Marathon, Senior Marathon, Health and Fitness Expo and Finish Line Festival. The Expo, at the OKC Convention Center, offers packet pickups and merchandise. Participants receive a T-shirt and hand-cast bronze finisher’s medal. The event’s official app provides essential race information. Register at events.okcmarathon.com.

Festival of the Arts 

OKC’s annual "Festival of the Arts," held April 24-27 at Bicentennial Park, celebrates visual, performing and culinary arts. At the same time, Arts Council OKC’s Festival of the Arts returns for its 59th year. Since 1967, the festival has attracted 750,000 visitors to experience the work of 144 artists, 300+ performances and a variety of culinary creations. This long-term favorite is projected to draw more than 550,000 attendees over four days, with about 8% of that audience visiting from outside the metro area. The event features artists from across the nation showcasing paintings, jewelry, photography, mixed-media and more, making it a signature event for the Arts Council and a beloved community tradition.

Paseo Arts Festival 

The annual "Paseo Arts Festival," held May 24-26, draws over 60,000 visitors to OKC’s Paseo Arts District for Memorial Day Weekend. Celebrating 47 years in 2024, the festival supports the Paseo Arts Association’s programs and events. Featuring over 100 visual artists, 50 musicians and 20 food vendors, the event creates a vibrant, collaborative atmosphere. Free parking is available at First Christian Church, with a shuttle running to the festival throughout the weekend. 

Chuck Wagon Festival 

Experience Western heritage at the annual "Chuck Wagon Festival," May 24-25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Enjoy traditional Western cooking from local chuck wagon cooks, plus Native American food samples and culinary history. The event features activities like butter-making, artisan demos, rope making, live music, face painting and more. Guests can explore Liichokoshkomo’, Prosperity Junction and other interactive exhibits, along with live Western entertainment and re-enactments. 

Women’s College World Series 

The 2025 "Women’s College World Series" (WCWS) will take place from May 29 to June 5 or 6 at Devon Park in OKC. This premier NCAA Division I softball tournament features eight teams competing in a double-elimination format, culminating in a best-of-three championship series. The event has been hosted at Devon Park since 1990, with the exception of 1996. Tickets are available for purchase, and the venue is cashless, with a clear bag policy in effect. Devon Park is located in OKC’s Adventure District, about 18 miles from Will Rogers World Airport and 6 miles from downtown. 

deadCenter Film Festival 

The deadCenter Film Festival, Oklahoma's largest and only Oscar-qualifying festival, celebrates its 25th anniversary from June 11-15. The event features short films, documentaries, comedies and more from filmmakers across Oklahoma and beyond. Catering to all levels of filmmakers, including icons like Sterlin Harjo and Alfre Woodard, deadCenter has earned recognition as one of the "20 Coolest Film Festivals in the World." It also partners with local arts organizations to offer year-round education and screenings, promoting creativity through film. 

Prix de West 

"Prix de West" at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum features nearly 300 Western paintings and sculptures from top contemporary artists. Open June 6 to August 3, with the art sale weekend on June 20-21, the exhibit showcases a range of styles, from historical to contemporary works. Key pieces highlight landscapes, wildlife and illustrations. The event also includes art seminars, receptions and awards banquets, celebrating the finest in Western art.

Juneteenth on the East 

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the 1865 announcement of freedom for enslaved African Americans, symbolizing both the end of slavery and the ongoing fight for equality. OKC celebrates with "Juneteenth on the East," taking place June 19-21 in the East End District on NE 23rd Street. Produced by With Love OKC and local community leaders, including Jane and the Oklahoma Mural Syndicate, the event honors this historic day with cultural festivities and community engagement.