Celebrate 125 years of Red Oak: A Nostalgic Small Town Fourth of July 

There’s something truly magical about spending Independence Day in Red Oak, Oklahoma—where the warmth of a small-town celebration meets the heart and soul of Americana. It’s the kind of holiday that feels straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, filled with the sounds of laughter, the sizzle of bbq grills, and the sight of families gathering to celebrate under a wide-open sky.

The 4th of July Festivities: Fun for All Ages

When the morning sun stretches across the fields and the scent of fresh-cut grass lingers in the breeze, Red Oak bursts into celebration mode. This isn’t just any Independence Day event—this is one of the most beloved traditions in southeast Oklahoma.

Start the day off with the Craft and Vendor Fair at the Community Center and Butterfield Square Pocket Park.  Discover unique handmade treasures, support local artisans, and enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with creativity and community spirit. Don’t miss out on this exciting event—come shop, explore, and make unforgettable memories! 

Next, check out the Wahoo Tournament at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall from 12-2pm. Never heard of Wahoo?  It’s a board game, along the same lines of Parchisi, that involves moving a set number of marbles around the board. The incredibly unique thing about Wahoo is that many of the boards are custom-made and one of a kind!  Stop in, watch the players, check out the boards and maybe take home a new hobby!

As the day progresses, beat the afternoon heat by stretching out on a blanket under a tree, enjoying some cool treats from G & H Sundries and a home cooked lunch or early dinner from Dawn’s as you prepare for the night’s festivities.  The magical evening kicks off with a kids parade at 7:15. No one can resist the joy, laughter, and the adorable excitement of a kids’ parade, where little patriots march with big smiles and bring the spirit of freedom to life!  The kids parade is followed by a full parade with floats, cars, local heroes and more.  The Grand Marshalls of this year’s parade are alumni from the Red Oak High School Class of 1955. 

( Note: The Red Oak Alumni Gathering will be Saturday, July 5 at 10:00am at the Gillespie Field House!)

After the parade, take a leisurely stroll over to the baseball fields for all of the field festivities and more small town fun!  From turtle races that make kids cheer as their slow-moving contestants inch toward victory, to the heart-pounding excitement of the diaper dash, where the tiniest future athletes crawl toward the finish line, every event brings its own special charm. The bull frog jumping contest gets everyone cheering and literally jumping up and down!  Families gather for the golf ball toss, testing their aim and competing for bragging rights. And, of course, don’t miss the available concessions….red, white and blue snowcones anyone?

The Grand Finale: Fireworks Under a Starlit Sky

As the sun fades beyond the horizon and the evening heat gives way to a cooler summer breeze, families spread out their blankets, settle into lawn chairs, and prepare for the grand finale. The hum of conversation quiets as everyone looks toward the sky. Then—BOOM.

Fireworks explode in dazzling bursts of red, white, and blue, illuminating faces in awe. Children gasp, parents smile, and generations of Red Oak families share the moment together, watching the sky paint a celebration of freedom. The crackle and glow linger in the warm night air, closing out another unforgettable Independence Day in true small-town fashion.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Celebration!

If you’ve never spent the Fourth of July in Red Oak, Oklahoma, it’s time to experience the nostalgia and magic for yourself. Whether you’re here for the food, the family fun, or the fireworks, there’s something for everyone.

So bring your lawn chair, your appetite, and your patriotic spirit, and celebrate like they do in Red Oak—where community, tradition, and good old-fashioned fun make for the perfect small-town Fourth of July.

 Happy Independence Day!

Click HERE for a schedule of events!

*Looking for a great place to stay?  Check out these vacation rentals near Red Oak as well as our accommodations page!

Bison Ridge Resort

The Butterfield House

Brown Bear Cabin