One Of Oklahoma’s Largest Music Festivals Kicks Off This Week

Music has always been a big deal in Oklahoma, but this weekend it becomes the absolute highlight for central Oklahoma. Debatably one of the largest music festivals kicks off on Thursday, April 24 and the line up is overwhelming to say the least. If you've never been to the Norman Music Festival, you're in for a treat this weekend.

Although Oklahoma State University (OSU) and the University of Oklahoma (OU) have always had the strongest rivalry in the state, there's one thing that both college towns do best: music festivals. But, while OSU usually highlights red dirt or outlaw country, the Norman Music Festival celebrates what seems like every OTHER genre of music.

Hundreds of major acts and local acts planned for this year's NMF.

The official lineup for the Norman Music Festival is incredible, filled with artists from R&B, Country Americana, Indie Lo-Fi, Garage Psychedelic, Alternative Rock, Emo Pop and so many others. Since there are over a hundred artists expected, guests can take a look at the entire line up here.

Although the official lineup kicks off on Thursday, this year the town is hosting a "Warm Up Wednesday" event by highlighting local talent and businesses the evening before the kick off. There will also be a "Hangover Brunch" the following Sunday, hosted by the Standard in downtown Norman.

While there are lots to highlight for adults, the Norman Music Festival committee wanted the event to be for all ages. Therefore, Saturday during the day, the Kids Fest will be happening. Plenty of music and activities for the kiddos will be happening at the festival grounds and special guests might be seen making an appearance, like Spider Man and Spider-Gwen.

Important Do's and Dont's for the Norman Music Festival.

While the festival is much like the other several events we hold in Oklahoma, the folks who host the NMF have a few stipulations that are meant to keep everyone safe while the  party goes on. When making plans for the Norman Music Festival, remember:

• Chairs will be allowed at the festival grounds until 6 p.m. to prepare for headliners.
• No electronic scooters, bikes or other personal vehicles besides wheelchairs are allowed on the festival grounds.
• Leave the carts, large backpacks and coolers home. Diaper bags and strollers are good to go!
• You CAN bring outside water and baby food, but other outside food and drinks (including alcohol) will not be allowed.

Norman area in Oklahoma stands out from the rest of the state.

Norman is well-known for being the artistic hub of Oklahoma, usually hosting the biggest arts events and contests. Here, most people forget about the "country living, red dirt lifestyle" and get more of a sense of exciting "city life," if you will.

@normanmusicfestival Shout out to @shannonigans08 to being our first #TikTokNMFRewind. #NMF4EVER #normanmusicfest #beerandmarijuanafestival #hurryupApril #firstTikTok ♬ original sound - NormanMusicFestival

They're usually hosting concerts, outdoor events for all ages, and a unique variety of opportunities to bring the artistic side out of every Oklahoman. Art and education matters quite a bit to the folks of Norman, ranking #29 out of 249 school districts in the state. Maybe that was why Norman was 45 in 50 of the best places to live in 2022, according to Money Magazine.

The Norman Music Festival is only one of several major festivals happening this year in Oklahoma. Check out the other biggest fests for both the spring and summer below.