By, Macy Goodnight; The City of Wagoner has much to offer visitors year-round, but the most toe-tapping, hand-clapping reason to be in the beautiful and historic town will be returning in September at the 41st annual Bluegrass and Chili Festival! There’s no stopping this fan-favorite event that keeps on keeping on, and this year will be a most memorable time.
Event Coordinator, Dell Davis, is proud to bring the festival back this year, at a time when the community needs it the most. “This event is always so good, and especially now when so many other events have been canceled,” she said. “People have been cooped up, and they can come out and enjoy a live music experience.” With COVID-19 precautions taken into consideration, the event committee has prepared for extra handwashing stations and sanitization, and space for social distancing. “It’s all outside so that people can keep their distance, and we will have everything laid out to allow people to space out,” said Dell. “Face masks are welcome, but not required.”
As always, volunteers to help with the festival are always appreciated and very much needed. “They are our VIPs, our very important persons,” Dell said. “If anyone would like to help, we can find a place for you to serve.” Interested volunteers can sign up by contacting the City of Wagoner, by email at eat0@eau0eav0eaw0, or by phone at (918) 614-0813.
Dell has been around for all 41 years of the festival and she along with her core steering committee do a great job and are recognized for their efforts in maintaining the festival’s timeless traditions. The festival has seen its changes over the years, and also overcome much adversity. “We’ve been through hail, wind, rain, heat, cold, and tornadoes. Now a pandemic!” she said. Everyone works diligently to ensure continuity of the festival and retains the quality of experience that the event is famous for. One of the last free bluegrass events available, the music lineup could easily demand pricey tickets, but the Bluegrass and Chili festival provides world-class musical entertainment, with no ticket necessary. “This is definitely a gift to the community and the people of Oklahoma from the City of Wagoner and the many sponsoring businesses,” said Dell. “We have all generations that come together to enjoy this festival together. It’s incredible.”
More information on the festival, current updates, and a complete list of festival partners can be found at www.bluegrasschilifest.com.
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