Toes in the Grand Festival

The Toes in the Grand Festival, also known as the Toes in the Grand Summer Kickoff Festival, is a vibrant and eclectic celebration that embodies the laid-back, lake lifestyle of Grove, Oklahoma, and the grandeur of Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. This annual event, presented by the Grove Convention & Tourism Bureau and organized by the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce, is a magnet for a diverse array of attendees, including families, music enthusiasts, foodies, boaters, and athletes.

At its core, the festival is designed for anyone seeking a fun-filled weekend of music, food, and outdoor activities. Families will find ample entertainment in the kids’ activities, carnival rides, and arts and crafts vendors. Music lovers will revel in the two days of live music, highlighted by the American Heritage Music Festival and National Fiddling Contest, which kick off the festivities on Thursday and Friday. Foodies can indulge in a variety of offerings from food trucks, while boaters and anglers can enjoy the hydro boat races and the scenic beauty of Grand Lake.

Notable guests and performers include some of the finest fiddlers in the country, as well as local legends and bands that bring the stage to life with energetic performances. The festival also features a car and motorcycle show, attracting automotive enthusiasts from across the region.

The Toes in the Grand Festival takes place from June 12 to June 15, with each day packed with unique events. On Thursday, June 12, the carnival opens at 6 p.m., and practice days for the boat races begin. Friday, June 13, sees the main stage opening at 5 p.m. and the continuation of the carnival and boat race practice sessions. Saturday, June 14, is a bustling day with the YMCA Tri-Athlon, kids’ activities, a car and motorcycle show, and the main stage opening at 5 p.m. The carnival operates in two sessions: from noon to 5 p.m. and then again from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sunday, June 15, culminates with the final day of boat racing, known as the Thunder on Wolf Creek boat races, often hailed as the Greatest Show on Water.

The festival is headquartered at Wolf Creek Park in Grove, Oklahoma, a picturesque venue that offers stunning views of Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. Located in the heart of northeastern Oklahoma, Wolf Creek Park is easily accessible by car via Highway 59 or by boat through Grand Lake’s extensive waterways. The nearest airport is the Tulsa International Airport, approximately a two-hour drive away, making it a convenient destination for both local and out-of-town visitors.

The Toes in the Grand Festival is a must-attend event for several compelling reasons. It offers a unique blend of live music, outdoor activities, and family-friendly entertainment that is entirely free to attend. The live music performances, including the National Fiddling Contest and the main stage acts, create an electric atmosphere that resonates across the lake. The carnival, with its colorful rides and games, provides endless joy for children and adults alike. The hydro boat races are a thrilling spectacle, and the car and motorcycle show is a paradise for automotive enthusiasts.

The festival also features a variety of food vendors, including food trucks that serve a range of delicious cuisine, from classic festival fare to gourmet delights. Helicopter rides offer a bird’s-eye view of the festivities, while arts and crafts vendors showcase local artisans’ work. As the sun sets, the fireworks display lights up the sky, creating a magical ending to each day.

In addition to these signature experiences, the festival’s setting at Wolf Creek Park adds an undeniable charm. The park’s natural beauty, with its lush greenery and serene lake views, provides a perfect backdrop for the festivities. Whether you are strolling along the lake’s shores, enjoying a meal from a food truck, or dancing to the live music, the Toes in the Grand Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of fun, music, and community.

This event is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of the local culture and lifestyle, making it an essential experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the best of Oklahoma’s summer vibes. So mark your calendars for the second weekend in June and get ready to soak up the sun, music, and laughter at the Toes in the Grand Festival.