DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is giving back to the community this weekend with the annual Labor Day Festival – five days of admission-free concerts, carnival, and sporting events. 

“We are blessed to have tremendous neighbors in the towns and communities across the Choctaw Nation,” said Chief Gregory E. Pyle, “Hosting an enjoyable festival for all to come and attend is one way that we can show our appreciation.“ Everyone is welcome to attend, and fun can be found for all ages at the Choctaw Capital Grounds in Tushkahoma.

Activities will begin on Thursday, Aug. 30, with the crowning of the new Choctaw Princesses, and will continue through Monday morning, Sept. 3, with Chief Pyle’s State of the Nation speech.

The Inter-Tribal Pow Wow will begin Friday at 7 p.m. with the Grand Entry. It will feature colorful Native American dancers from several tribes – a true sight to see.

This year’s concert line up is outstanding, with Hankerin’ 4 Hank kicking off the entertainment on Friday, followed by superstars Sarah Evans and Josh Turner. Saturday will feature Ricky Skaggs and Martina McBride, with Sunday boasting a long lineup of gospel singing through the day and Christian artists, The Kingsmen, Brit Nicole and Newsboys later that night.

The Traditional Choctaw Village will give patrons an interactive lesson about Choctaw past while demonstrating flint napping, weapon making, dancing, pottery and more. You and your family can enjoy dancing with our Choctaw dancers and getting your hands dirty while making arrowheads.

A stickball tournament will also be hosted during the festival for everyone to witness. It is a fast-paced, intense and exciting game that has deep roots in the history of the Choctaw Nation.  This year’s tournament will feature teams from multiple tribes.

Sports competitions for youth and adults, held on Saturday will include basketball, horseshoes, volleyball, a 5k run/walk and a tough man competition.  A softball tournament will be ongoing through the weekend as well.

Carnival rides and games will be a source of excitement for all. They will be available through the whole weekend and are absolutely free to ride.

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is happy to host this annual event and provide a fun filled holiday weekend that everyone can enjoy.  These events and many more are sure to make the Choctaw Nation Festival the destination this Labor Day weekend.