The Dancing Turtle Arts Festival is Stillwater’s annual June celebration of art, live music, and local culture. Held June 5-7, this popular event brings together diverse artisans, vibrant performances, creative family activities, and local eats, making it a can't-miss art festival in Oklahoma.
Artisan Booths
The Oklahoma arts festival at Block 34 and the Stillwater Community Center features dozens of artisan booths offering handmade goods and snacks, such as jewelry, candles, mugs, and T-shirts. Vendors change annually, ensuring a fresh craft fair experience each year.
Live Performances
All kinds of art are represented at the Dancing Turtle, including musical and cultural performances. Acts are still to be announced, but the Oklahoma arts festival focuses on local and regional performers, across multiple stages, along with music workshops. There’s an open mic event on June 6, open to all ages and skill levels, with sign-ups available on-site. Performances take place at Block 34, the Stillwater Community Center, and Stonecloud Patio & Tap Room.
Other cultural performances feature Oklahoma dancers, representing everything from Latin and dragon dancing to line dancing and hip-hop.
Family Activities
As a family-friendly event in Oklahoma, the Dancing Turtle Arts Festival is fun for all ages, with hands-on areas designed for younger audiences. The KidZone features activities such as face painting, bubbles, story time, and the Find the Golden Turtle scavenger hunt. Kids can also join in on arts and craft projects.
Local Food Options
Foodies and sweet tooths have lots to savor at the Oklahoma arts festival. In addition to vendors selling scratch-made snacks, food trucks offer a variety of comfort foods, street eats, and refreshing sips. This year’s food trucks will be announced soon, but popular fixtures include mobile coffee bars, taco trucks, and bakeries loaded with cookies and pastries. Adults can get beer from Stonecloud, while iced tea vendors keep customers cool. Don’t miss the interfaith brunch on Sunday morning, with live music and a pancake breakfast. For more dining options, check out the dozens of restaurants downtown.
Plan Your Visit
From parking to weather, here’s how to plan your visit to the Dancing Turtle Art Festival in Oklahoma.
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Free parking is available on downtown streets surrounding Block 34, but be mindful of time restrictions listed on street signs.
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Weather in June can get hot, but the festival offers shaded and air-conditioned spaces for cooling off, along with indoor attractions at the Stillwater Community Center. Arrive mid-morning or early in the evening to beat the heat.
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Events and vendors at Block 34 are accessible, with paved pathways that accommodate wheelchairs and strollers throughout the lawn space. For outdoor performances, attendees can bring chairs or blankets to the lawn. The Stillwater Community Center also provides accessible seating, and designated handicapped parking is available near the building entrances. Accessible restrooms are located at both Block 34 and the Community Center.
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Lodging can be found in and around downtown Stillwater, including affordable rates at Spark by Hilton, Best Western Plus Cimarron Hotel & Suites, and Home2 Suites by Hilton.
FAQ
Is it free to attend?
The Dancing Turtle Arts Festival is free to attend, with art, crafts, food, and drinks available to purchase.
Where is the festival located?
The festival is downtown at Block 34, where performance art takes place on two outdoor stages, and indoors at nearby Stillwater Community Center. All locations are walkable, with free parking on public streets.
What should I bring?
For outdoor shows, guests can bring blankets and lawn chairs, and summer-ready essentials — like water bottles, sunscreen, and sunglasses — are all recommended.
Is the event kid‑friendly?
The Dancing Turtle Arts Festival is very kid-friendly, with a designated KidZone filled with hands-on activities and crafts. Additionally, all performances are family-friendly.
Known as Stillwater’s funky and friendly arts festival, free to attend and fun for the whole family, the Dancing Turtle Arts Festival is one of the best artisan events in Oklahoma. Learn more about the festival and start planning your trip today!
