By: Kali Perez/Media Intern
OKMULGEE, Okla. The annual summer Muscogee (Creek) Nation Festival once again captivated the community, and promised to be even bigger than previous years. A notable highlight of the festival is the expansive art fair, where the booths extend beyond the pavilion to accommodate a greater number of vendors. The diverse range of offerings at the art fair ensures that there is something for everyone, from traditional clothing to hand-printed tees, jewelry, and metalwork.
The vendor application process for the festival began in March. It was evident that interested individuals or businesses had to act quickly to secure a spot before all available spaces were taken. Even though the vendor area had been expanded, the number of spots remained limited. This scarcity highlighted the festival’s popularity and the strong desire among vendors to participate.
Both new and returning participants of the art fair were astounded by the large number of attendees. The festival’s reputation has attracted a significant audience, and the event continues to draw in more people each year. The high attendance not only provides an excellent opportunity for vendors to showcase their products or services, but also contributes to the vibrant atmosphere and overall success of the festival.
One of the vendors, Jackie Jackson, shared valuable advice for individuals seeking to explore their talents further. According to Jackson, it is crucial to identify something one excels at and has a natural aptitude for. This advice highlights the importance of self-awareness and understanding one’s strengths when pursuing a creative endeavor.
She also emphasized the amount of work that goes into preparing for the fair, describing the days beforehand as a mad dash. “I made 100 shirts just yesterday. A lot of work goes into making sure we have our inventory in time,” Jackson explained. Her family, having been in the industry for over 33 years, has shown the amount of hard work and time that goes into ensuring the quality of hand-printed shirts.
The Creek Festival plays a vital role as a platform for local artists and artisans to showcase their creations, which in turn fosters a sense of community and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Native American tribe. The expansion of the event, as evidenced by the extended vendor area, reflects its growth and ongoing success in attracting both curious visitors and customers. Visitors browsing the booths are often amazed by the accomplishments of their community members, finding it inspiring to witness the creativity and skills on display.
Okmulgee’s annual summer Creek Festival stands out as a vibrant and diverse cultural event. Its expanded art fair and limited vendor spaces contribute to its appeal, drawing the attention of artists, artisans, and attendees alike. The festival offers a unique and enriching experience for all involved, ensuring that it remains a highlight of the region’s cultural calendar.
