Rose Rock Festival

In 1968, the rose rock was officially adopted as Oklahoma’s State Rock.  In May 1984, Governor George Nigh declared Noble the Rose Rock Capital of the World.  In honor of this designation, Noble sets aside the first weekend in May to celebrate its annual Rose Rock Music Festival.  The event, sponsored by the Noble Chamber of Commerce, brings visitors from all over Oklahoma and beyond to celebrate with Noble.

Traditionally, the festival begins on Friday evening, with a star search contest.  Awards are given in several categories.  Food vendors and other vendors begin moving in Friday and by Friday night the festival is in full swing.   At 10 AM on Saturday, the annual Rose Rock parade which now lasts more than one hour begins at Etowah and Main Street and progresses through the downtown area before dispersing.  The parade honors one of Noble’s own as Parade Marshall.  Floats from local businesses, churches, and statewide dignitaries are numerous.  Several high school bands provide great music, and area round-up clubs proudly display their beautiful horses and regalia. Contestants and queens from the annual Rose Rock Pageant participate as well as many entrees in the Rose Rock car show.

By the time the parade concludes, the festival centers on the City Hall complex at 304 S. Main Street.  Craft vendors are everywhere and you can purchase unique items such as homemade furniture, custom jewelry, rose rock commemorative t-shirts, hats, quilts and more.  The food court is busy featuring a good sample of Oklahoma cuisine:  turkey legs, Indian Tacos, Onion Burgers, Bar B Que, Cinnamon Rolls and Strawberry Newberg, Then music begins.  The music program is diverse and features some of the best musical groups in Oklahoma.   The music program runs all day Saturday and concludes with a feature country dance band from 7pm to 10pm.   This has become a country dance family event where you can set back and enjoy the music or get up and do a waltz with your sweetheart or teach your kids to two step.

The festival picks up again after church on Sunday where we have a battle of the praise bands from 1pm to 5pm.  The food and craft vendors are still available.  A key feature of the Rose Rock festival is the carnival that operates from Friday evening until the event closes on Sunday afternoon.  The carnival sets up north of City Hall and offers a wide variety of rides for participants of all ages.