UPDATE: The inaugural Oklahoma Air Fest is officially underway today, September 5, at the Canadian County Expo in El Reno, Oklahoma. This groundbreaking event promises an exhilarating lineup featuring jaw-dropping aerial stunts, paramotor pilots, hot air balloons, and live entertainment, attracting an expected 10,000 attendees daily.
As the festival launches, founder Carri Lawrence expressed excitement about introducing the thrill of flight to Oklahomans. “We’ve never seen this either,” she said, highlighting the state’s unique opportunity to showcase paramotor sports amidst its flatlands and winds. Celebrated as Oklahoma Air Fest Week by Governor Kevin Stitt, the festival is set to become an annual highlight.
The Air Fest features an array of captivating events, including video gaming tournaments, BMX and skateboarding exhibitions, food trucks, a Dog Show Extravaganza, live music, and a classic car show. The aerial shows, however, are the main attraction, with paramotor and paraglider pilots demonstrating their skills in thrilling performances across the sky.
This year, the event has partnered with Jaco Sport Fest-FEST Internacional from Costa Rica, bringing in elite athletes such as four-time world champion Ramón Morillas. “We just literally brought in eight people from a group called Fest International,” Lawrence added, emphasizing their expertise in organizing large-scale aerial festivals.
In addition to the adrenaline-pumping activities, attendees can enjoy a giant kite show, daily helicopter rides, and hot air balloons that will light up Oklahoma’s skyline as the sun rises and sets. Tickets are available at the gate, ranging from $40 for single-day passes to $150 for VIP Day Passes.
With the anticipation building, Lawrence hopes to create a lasting tradition in Oklahoma’s festival scene. “Next year marks the 100-year Route 66 anniversary,” she noted, revealing plans to merge the air show with other local events to create an even grander celebration.
As the excitement unfolds, the Oklahoma Air Fest is set to deliver unforgettable memories and elevate the state’s reputation for hosting dynamic, diverse events. Stay tuned for updates as the festival progresses through September 7.
