Medicine Park’s Memorial Weekend Roots Ball

MEDICINE PARK – Are you ready to get “rootsy” this Memorial Day weekend?

Beginning on May 27 and concluding on May 29, the annual Roots Ball will be held at Medicine Park’s Town Center Mainstage, and feature a variety of musical acts, ranging from Red Dirt and country to New Orleans-style jazz and rock n’ roll.

Event organizer Dwight Cope told Southwest Chronicle that in the past the focus had been more on Red Dirt music. And while this year Red Dirt will be included, the idea was to “open up to more expansive (musical) genres.”

“There will be folk and Americana as well as blues and indie rock,” Cope said. “So, great music along with a great lineup. And the weather is going to be beautiful.”

Not only will there be artists from southwest Oklahoma, but some are coming from as far away as Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Tulsa’s King Cabbage Brass Band has a full-horn section, bass and drums and will make late May in Medicine Park feel like Mardi Gras in February.

“I’m really proud of this lineup,” Cope said. “Plus, our sponsors have really come through big time for us. I just want to really emphasize our sponsors because we couldn’t do it without them.”

The event is free and open to all ages. There will be plenty of food options around, from local restaurants to food vendors. Outside alcohol is not permitted but Cope recommended folks bring a lawn chair and pick a comfy spot.

Parking, he said, is centered on the old ballfield. A golf cart will be on site to transport folks to the mainstage.

And if you are looking to stay the entire weekend, Cope suggested contacting Medicine Park Town Hall and reserve a primitive camping site just across Medicine Creek from the center of town. The cost for camping is $15 per night, he said.

For more information, visit medicinepark.com/festivals or call (580) 529-2825.