Chisholm Trail Festival in Yukon

The Chisholm Trail Festival will take place on October 12, 2024, at Mollie Spencer Farm in Yukon, Oklahoma. The festival runs from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and offers free admission. The venue is easily accessible, located half a mile north of Interstate 40, and free parking is available at the nearby Yukon Middle School. This location has historical significance as it was frequently crossed by cattle along the Chisholm Trail, making it a fitting site for the festival that celebrates western history.

This family-oriented event showcases the rich history of the Chisholm Trail through various activities and attractions. Attendees can expect to see living history reenactors portraying the Old West, enjoy a selection of food trucks and craft booths, and engage with the popular Kids Korral, specifically designed for children's entertainment. This year, the festival will feature the Canadian Valley Rangerettes, a drill team with a history of over 50 years, known for their vibrant performances at rodeos across several states.

The festival's Entertainment Stage will host an array of live music starting at 10 a.m., featuring performances from Casey & Minna, Blue Tradition, and Pearlgrace & Co throughout the day. On the southern side of the festival grounds, a western-themed old town provides a backdrop for historical reenactments from the 19th century. Attendees can explore various historical structures, including a livery stable with presentations by the Express Ranch Clydesdales and a General Store offering traditional treats and toys. The School House will provide educational activities by the Historic Fort Reno Museum, while the camp area features interactions with blacksmiths and settlers.

For children, the Kids Korral offers a wide range of activities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., including pony rides, a petting zoo, and creative crafts. A pumpkin patch lets kids pick pumpkins to take home, with opportunities to earn wooden tokens that can be exchanged for pumpkin decorating activities. Those interested in food can observe chuckwagon chefs demonstrating traditional cooking techniques or enjoy a variety of modern food options from food trucks.

The festival also includes several contests, such as the Pie Eating Contest and the Kids Karaoke Contest, adding an element of friendly competition to the day's activities. The pie-eating competition will feature divisions for both adults and children, while cash prizes will be awarded for the Kids Karaoke Contest. Participants are encouraged to register early, as space is limited. Overall, the Chisholm Trail Festival presents a unique opportunity to experience western culture, engage with history, and enjoy a day of family-friendly fun.