All The Info You Need For Oklahoma’s Historic Red Fern Festival

Surely you've heard of the American classic novel "Where The Red Fern Grows," which was set in the Ozarks in and around Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Now, the town hosts an annual celebration in honor of the novel. The Red Fern Festival has become one of the most anticipated events of the year in Oklahoma. After 17 years, there are more than a few things that folks have learned to really get the fullest experience from the event.

One of Oklahoma's most known festivals coming at the end of April.

This year's Red Fern Festival is happening in downtown Tahlequah, Oklahoma on Friday, April 25 from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Since the festival is celebrating one of the classic stories of man's best friend, this celebration is absolutely dog-friendlyand family-friendly.

While most festivals will include the standard vendors, food trucks and live music, the Red Fern Festival is notorious for hosting an array of other events to keep guests entertained. Throughout the two-day event, guests can enter in the fiddle contest, the 5k fun run, duck race, Red Fern Festival pageant and even hound dog trials and hunts.

There are other events and activities set up at the festival as well, such as the Kids Zone, movie screening, arts activities, safety expo and chances to learn more about the Cherokee nation and their traditions. You can check out the full schedule of events here.

Tips and tricks to enjoy the best of Oklahoma's Red Fern Festival

As you can tell, there's a ton to do in just a few short days. So, if you're planning on attending this year's festival, you'll want to make the most of the time you spend there. Here are some helpful tips from festival goers who've attended the Red Fern Festival in the past.

Although there are bounce houses and set ups for the kids, it is not a carnival event.

You'll also be able to see the exact places that Wilson Rawls wrote about and scenes filmed in the movie. You can tour through the area either before the festival or afterwards. Just be prepared for others to do the same.

@annamclemore27 Oklahoma bucket list trip to where they filmed “Where the Red Fern Grows” #hikingoklahoma #campingwithkids #hikingwithkids #outdoorsymom #naturalfallsstatepark ♬ Coastline - Hollow Coves

This festival is set up to keep folks walking and exploring the area. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes; although, the festival is situated on the road and is easily accessible for those with disabilities or scooters.

Luckily after 17 years, the Red Fern Fest committee has learned to work out the kinks every year. Guests have always had an overwhelmingly positive response to the festival every year and this year won't be any different.