Category: Stories

There’s something magical about Oklahoma in the fall. The air gets a little cooler, the leaves start to change, and suddenly, all you want to do is grab a big bowl of chili and a cozy blanket. For me, it’s the season when our state bursts to life with food festivals galore. Each one is a celebration of our local heritage and the folks who make it special.

As a born-and-raised Oklahoman, these aren’t just events. These festivals are when we come together and celebrate our shared passion for good food and the people who make it. It’s in the smell of fried onions at a festival in El Reno, every sweet bite of a kolache in Prague, or the discovery of a new local wine you never knew existed. Each bite tells a story. You’re not just finding a new favorite food; you’re connecting with the people who work hard to create it. You’re supporting your friends and neighbors and helping to keep cherished traditions alive.

I’ve always thought these festivals are the perfect adventure. They’re a way to explore your own backyard, uncover hidden gems, and feel a sense of pride in everything made right here in Oklahoma. It’s the simple joy of finding something new and delicious that has a real effect on our towns and local businesses.

Ready to hit the road? Make your plans below. And don’t forget to pack your appetite. You’ll definitely need it.

Your Fall Festival Go-To Guide

I could spend all day talking about where in Oklahoma I’ve found my favorite fall things to eat, but let’s be real—you’re here for the highlights.

County and State Fair Season

You can’t talk about fall food in Oklahoma without starting with the big ones: the state and county fairs. Both the Oklahoma State Fair in Oklahoma City and the Tulsa State Fair are legendary for a reason. While they’re packed with rides and music, everybody knows the real star of the show is the food. The fairs are a foodie’s dream, from classic deep-fried treats to gourmet creations—yes, usually on a stick. You’ll find everything here from deep-fried pecan pie to Dubai chocolate funnel cake.

I might be biased, but the Made in Oklahoma sections at the fairs are my favorite thing to check out. These are a must-visit for finding local snacks and experiencing the best of what our state has to offer. It’s like a treasure hunt, and the payoff is always worth it.

Just a few of the MIO members we usually see at the fairs:

• Roark Acres Honey: You’ll find every flavor of honey you can imagine, from sweet and floral to bold and dark. A jar of their Okie Honey is the perfect souvenir.
• Sixth Day Snacks: Known for gourmet salsas, from classic green chile to unique fruit-infused flavors like Mango Jalapeño. And don’t even get me started on their granola bites—so good!
• Trucker Treats: Forget everything you think you know about pretzels. Trucker Treats takes them to a whole new level. The legendary lineup includes Hawt Cajun, Dill Pickle, and Bacon Cheeseburger. They’re basically the best road trip snack ever.
• Southern Roots Sisters: Known for a wide range of specialty jams and butters, with delicious and unique flavors like Peach Pepper Jam and Maple Pumpkin Butter. Don’t sleep on the Southern Caviar, either.
• Bedré Fine Chocolate: This isn’t just chocolate, it’s an Oklahoma legend. Bedré offers a wide range of chocolates, from milk to dark and even chocolate-covered snacks. The chocolate-covered potato chips are my personal fave.
• Not Your Average Joe: Get a caffeine fix that’s anything but ordinary. Not Your Average Joe serves up delicious coffee that’s roasted right here in Oklahoma.

Finding these vendors is a great way to experience a “did you know this was made here?!” moment and show your support for local Oklahoman makers. Bonus points if you bring out-of-towners and introduce them to their new favorite thing.

Oklahoma’s Most Delicious Fall Adventures

Ready to hit the road? These festivals are worth the trip for the sheer joy and the incredible food.

National Indian Taco Championship

An Indian Taco is a base of fluffy-yet-crispy fry bread topped with beans, lettuce, tomato, cheese—just about anything you’d put on a taco. An Indian Taco usually takes up an entire plate, so it’s fun to share. You can try to eat it with your hands or grab a fork. Whatever you do, just leave room for the dessert tacos at this fierce competition in Pawhuska. The National Indian Taco Championship is rich with heritage and tradition, offering a delicious exploration of culture and flavor.

Tulsa Oktoberfest

Get ready for the ultimate Oktoberfest experience, right here in Oklahoma. The Tulsa Oktoberfest ranks among the top in the U.S. and for good reason. It’s an adventure in itself, with a massive tented beer garden, polka music, and a festive atmosphere for days. The festival features traditional dancing, games, and plenty to drink. Load up on schnitzel, strudel, brats, and giant pretzels—and, of course, beer. Tulsa Oktoberfest offers over 300 taps of both German and domestic beers. It’s an annual tradition that’s worth the trip for a taste of Bavaria in the heart of Oklahoma.

Watonga Cheese & Wine Festival

If you love cheese as much as I do, this festival in Watonga is a must. The Watonga Cheese & Wine Festival celebrates all things cheese, with days of tastings and cooking demonstrations. Beyond the cheesy goodness, the event features a lively parade and is family-friendly with activities for all ages. It’s a fantastic example of a small town celebrating its agricultural roots, and it’s a great way to discover some of the best dairy products our state has to offer. It’s a fun and delicious day trip.

Route 66 Pecan & Fun Fest

Nothing says fall in Oklahoma quite like fresh pecans. This festival in Claremore is an ode to one of the state’s most beloved and top crops. The festival centers on the local pecan harvest and is filled with pecan-themed treats and things to do. It’s a perfect opportunity to support growers like MIO member Miller Pecan Company, a third-generation business that has become a game-changer for the local community.

More Oklahoma Foodie Adventures

The Oklahoma festival scene truly showcases the history of our state, and it’s so fun (and delicious) to find the hidden gems. Here are a few more foodie fests to consider for your fall adventures:

Mix Food with Fun

OKC Farmers Market District Annual Fall Festival: Presented by all of us here at the Made In Oklahoma Coalition, this bustling festival is a can’t-miss event in OKC in October. It features over 100 vendors, food trucks, and live music, all celebrating the fun and flavors of fall.

Harvest Beer Festival: Beer lovers, this is a must-go! This festival is a unique opportunity to sample new, one-off, and hard-to-find beers from over 60 different breweries. It’s held at ONEOK Field, which makes for a great atmosphere with the Tulsa skyline as a backdrop. You have to be 21+ to enter.

The Plaza District Festival: Located in one of Oklahoma City’s most vibrant neighborhoods, this festival is a celebration of art, music, and food. It’s a great way to explore the local food scene while enjoying live musicians and artists.

Bluegrass & Chili Festival: This Tahlequah festival brings together two of the best things in the world: bluegrass music and chili. The main event is the Mid-America Regional Chili Cook-Off, where you can sample recipes from professional teams.

Small-Town Traditions & Unique Bites

• World’s Largest Calf Fry Festival and Cook-Off: If you’re looking for a truly unique and daring food adventure, it’s this. This Vinita festival celebrates the “tasty treat” of calf fries, a delicacy in ranching culture.
• Chisholm Trail Festival: A celebration of the western history of the famous Chisholm Trail with living history reenactors and a variety of food trucks. It’s a chance to explore Oklahoma’s agricultural heritage and see what “trail chow” was really all about.
• Sorghum Festival: This Wewoka festival is all about sweet sorghum, a sweetener that was once a pioneer staple. You can witness the age-old art of sorghum-making at a historic mill.
• Minco Honey Festival: Celebrate pure Oklahoma honey, learn about honey production, and sample a variety of honey products at this annual favorite. Dairy producers will be on hand with free samples of local cheese and milk.
• Black Buggy Day: This annual Chouteau event celebrates Oklahoma’s Amish heritage. Dig into hot chicken and noodles, fresh breads, pies, and smoked ribs while you’re there and enjoy live bluegrass music.
• Cherokee Strip BBQ Cook-Off: This barbecue competition in Ponca City is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, making the bites here serious contenders for the tastiest Oklahoma-style barbecue around. I recommend purchasing a tasting kit to sample entries from the professional competition.

We also love:

• • Red Earth FallFest Parade & Powwow
  • Fiestas de las Américas
  • Oklahoma Czech Festival
  • Tulsa Greek Festival
  • Asian Night Market Festival
  • Hafli
  • India Food and Arts Festival
  • Okeene Germanfest
  • Viking Festival

Beyond the Food

Some of my favorite fall adventures aren’t just about food—they’re about the whole experience.

Haunted Castle Halloween Festival: For the thrill-seekers and the cozy-vibes crowd, this Muskogee festival is a must-visit in October. Yep, there’s a castle in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and the entire thing transforms into a Halloween village with 11 unique themed haunted attractions every year. Whether you’re daring enough for the intense Trail of Blood or just want to enjoy the family-friendly Haunted Hayride, this event has a level of fright for everyone, plus plenty of food to try.

Boare’s Heade Feaste: Step back in time at this feast in November, where you’ll dine as a member of Queen Elizabeth I’s court in a grand hall at The Castle of Muskogee. The evening is brought to life with a hearty, multi-course meal and live music and theater. Trust me, this one is more than just a meal. You’re going to make memories, guaranteed.

Tips for Enjoying Oklahoma’s Fall Food Festivals

Maximize your festival experience with a bit of planning. These simple tips from a local ensure you’ll enjoy every moment.

• Dress in Layers: As all Oklahomans know, fall can be unpredictable. Layers are always a safe bet.
• Bring Cash: Some vendors might not accept cards, and it can be a lifesaver for smaller purchases.
• Go Early: Arrive early to beat the crowds and find parking, especially at the bigger events.
• Pace Yourself: You’ll want to try everything, so take your time and share with friends so you can taste a little of everything on your list.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking. Trust me on this one.
• Bring a Tote Bag: You’ll want a bag to carry all the goodies and souvenirs you find!
• Go With a Group: Food is always better when shared with friends and family.

deVine Water

Max McDermott used to stop by the “Artesian Well on Highway 11” when he was dating Jane, now his wife, in 1973. He dreamed of bottling it, but it took time. He purchased the land in 2003 and began the process of bottling in 2004 with the help of his children. Max kept the well on Highway 11 open to the public after finding two others on the property.

Over the years, this family business has grown to become a staple in Oklahoma, and it is continuing to expand. They have no desire to slow down; their hard work and determination has improved Oklahoma’s economy and will continue to do so as the company reaches its full potential.

Mountain View Meats

Cliff and Betty Phelps began this family business in the 1970s as a wholesale packing plant. The company found its niche in expanding to sausage products, particularly their signature hot links. The company grew to a full Hot Link, Smoked Meat, and Beef and Pork Distribution Center.

Now run by the second and third generations, including Courtney Phelps-Talbot, the company still provides its popular family recipes. Today, Mountain View Meats is a regional distributor beyond Oklahoma. The financial impact on the state is undeniable. Employees have stayed with the company for decades, and the expanded sales contribute to the state economy.

Miller Pecan Company

Jared Miller remembers picking pecans with his father, Len, when he was 12 years old. He and his brother, Jared, have expanded the family business by adding harvesting facilities and new retail products. As one of the few US producers to manage every step of the process, from planting, harvesting, and cleaning to shelling and marketing, their freshness is unbeatable.

A young company, the Miller family took advantage of working with established businesses in the MIO Coalition and became the 2017 Pecan Grower of the year. As their company expands, so do the jobs they offer, improving the economy and the lives of their employees.

Amelia Creamery

Tony Barros’s love of French yogurt, helped launch a family business, which he named after his granddaughter. The Oklahoma-based company now makes a French-style yogurt with unique flavor profiles by using only the highest-quality ingredients, creating a product unlike any other in the marketplace.

As artisans, the family embraced the mentorship of MIO Coalition members, promoting their brand and build awareness. The company is dedicated to giving back to others and now guides new members towards success.

Ace In The Bowl Salsa

Created by Susan Witt for a family gathering, Ace in the Bowl Salsa has a unique flavor that has delighted people for over 20 years. Susan began selling her products in 2012. With Mild, Medium, and Hot varieties, this all-natural condiment is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a little spice in their life.

Susan appreciates how the MIO Coalition keeps everyone informed about shows and demonstrations. Susan places high value on the relationships and camaraderie that come with an MIO membership. She appreciates how the MIO Coalition encourages folks to buy local and support the state economy for generations to come.

Del Real Foods

Back in 1957, a young entrepreneur named Jesus Cardenas journeyed from his home in Jalisco, Mexico to the farmlands of southern California. With his wife, Luz, their children, and his American dream of starting his own family farm, Jesus traded in his bucket of tools for a pig. And Del Real Foods was born.

Today, Del Real Foods makes tamales, carnitas, salsas, and other recipes inspired by the Cardenas’ native Jalisco—all created by hand with fresh ingredients and nothing artificial. Delicious, slow-cooked meats and homemade sauces that taste like you cooked them yourself are now available at your local grocery store and ready to serve in minutes.

What started as a pie in the sky dream, is now a big business. Oklahoma’s own Field’s Pies celebrates 97 years in business.

From the very beginning, the Ben Jack Larado family has remained focused on producing wholesome products for customers across the country.  Today, the Ben Jack Larado product line of pickled goods and custom seasonings can be found in gourmet and specialty shops across the United States.