National Sand Bass Festival

The National Sand Bass Festival returns to Madill, Oklahoma from June 2 through June 6, 2026, drawing more than 15,000 visitors to this intimate lakeside community where Lake Texoma’s legendary sand bass runs have inspired celebration since 1963. This free, five-day festival transforms the historic town square into a gathering place alive with carnival lights, nightly concerts featuring Nashville recording artists, and the kind of small-town warmth that defines summer in southern Oklahoma’s Chickasaw Country.

The festival honors an extraordinary natural phenomenon that unfolds each spring in the surrounding waters. Sand bass fight their way up Lake Texoma’s tributaries, driven by ancient reproductive instincts, creating fishing conditions that draw anglers from across the Southwest. Tournament fishing anchors the week’s activities, with the Fish Bowl Bass and Striper Tournament launching from Catfish Bay at Lake Texoma State Park and the King Sandie Kids Fishing Tournament introducing young anglers to the sport at Madill City Lake. Beyond the water, the celebration unfolds with turtle races that delight children and adults alike, a car and motorcycle show along Lillie Boulevard, the King Sandie Fun Run, a three-on-three basketball tournament on the courthouse lawn, a corn hole competition, and a talent show that has launched local performers onto larger stages.

The main stage comes alive each evening with entertainment that has historically featured artists like John Michael Montgomery, Blake Shelton, Sawyer Brown, and John Conlee, though specific performers for 2026 will be announced closer to the festival dates. Food vendors fill the air with the aromas of festival favorites, while craft booths showcase regional artisans whose work reflects the creative spirit of this corner of Oklahoma. The carnival spins and sparkles after dusk, offering arm band nights that let families ride until closing without counting tickets.

Lake Texoma State Park serves as the region’s crown jewel, offering swimming beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife watching opportunities across Oklahoma’s second-largest lake. The Texoma Striper Guide Association can arrange guided fishing excursions for those hoping to land the lake’s famous striped bass, with the lake record standing at an impressive 35.12 pounds. History enthusiasts will find Fort Washita Historic Site compelling, where restored structures from this 1842 military post tell stories of frontier Oklahoma and, according to local legend, harbor the ghost of a woman named Aunt Jane. The Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge lies just east, providing 16,464 acres of protected habitat along the Central Flyway where migratory waterfowl congregate and photographers find endless inspiration.

Back in town, Hobo Joe’s Restaurant serves as the local gathering spot for hearty breakfasts and home-cooked comfort food. Bridgeview Cafe offers deck seating with magnificent lake views, while La Grande Mexican Restaurant satisfies cravings for authentic south-of-the-border flavors that have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The surrounding area harbors numerous fried catfish restaurants that serve up what many consider the region’s signature dish, golden and crispy alongside hush puppies and coleslaw. Before heading home, browse Amazing Grace Boutique for women’s clothing and home goods, or discover vintage treasures at Effie’s Unique Boutique. The Texoma Peanut Inn offers an unexpectedly delightful detour, with their Goober Wagon featuring over 24 varieties of flavored peanuts alongside homemade pickled products and jams.

Book a vacation rental on Lake.com to establish your base for exploring everything Lake Texoma has to offer, where the water sparkles, the music plays late, and southern hospitality welcomes every visitor like family.