OKLAHOMA CITY – Road closures in downtown Oklahoma City began Friday in preparation for the annual Arts Festival later this month.

With the 59th annual event just two weeks away, setup for the festival is underway, prompting temporary road closures from April 11 to May 5.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome the many visitors to this year's Arts Festival and are working diligently to ensure everyone has convenient access to the event," said Angela Cozby, Executive Director of the Oklahoma City Arts Council. "We encourage everyone to be aware of the road closures during this time and consider alternative transportation options, such as public transit."

The Arts Festival is scheduled to take place in Bicentennial Park from April 24 to April 27. The event hours are:

Thursday, April 24: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday, April 25: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, April 26: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday, April 27: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The following road closures are now in effect:

Walker Avenue: Northbound from Colcord Drive to Robert S. Kerr Avenue; Southbound from Robert S. Kerr Avenue to Main Street. 1  Access to City Hall and Arts District parking garages will remain available via Walker Avenue and Latting Circle.  

Lee Avenue: Northbound from Main Street to Couch Drive (alley access will be maintained); Both directions from Colcord Drive to Couch Drive.
Colcord Drive: Eastbound from Shartel Avenue to Walker Avenue.
Couch Drive: Westbound from Walker Avenue to Lee Avenue; Eastbound to Hudson Avenue.
The celebration of art brings together local artists, performers, volunteers, and food vendors to create a unique experience that draws thousands of residents and visitors each year.

This year’s festival will feature 144 artists from across the United States, with 72 of them making their Oklahoma City debut. Additionally, over 100 local performers will provide a diverse lineup of music, dance, and theatrical entertainment.

Two new attractions will debut at this year’s Arts Festival: the ‘Creators Collective’ and the ‘Emerging Artist Tent.’

The Creators Collective, located on the northeast corner of Oklahoma City Hall, will showcase the works of select local crafters and makers. Attendees can expect to find handmade goods, locally produced food items, and creative artistry from across Oklahoma.

The Emerging Artist Tent will provide a platform for up-and-coming artists to display their talents to festivalgoers, offering a valuable opportunity to support the next generation of Oklahoma City artists.