Twister Fest

CHICKASHA – Where else can you go and hear 50 bands over three days at the low, low price of $50?

Well, the answer is at this weekend’s Twister Fest, held Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Muscle Car Ranch in this Grady County city.

Co-organizer Ben Ellis and facility owner Curtis Hart told Southwest Chronicle that with 50 different bands and solo artists – mainly from Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas and Missouri – and playing genres ranging from jazz and country to rock and hip-hop, there is something for everyone.

“There is no better festival venue out there,” Ellis said. “On 100 acres are three lakes and sticker-free camping.” Swimming is allowed in the lakes and a pontoon-diving board has just been added for your aquatic enjoyment.

For those wanting to come for a day, there are $15 day passes available as well.

“There is no way you can see this many bands at this low of a price,” Ellis boasted.

Ellis said there will be plenty of food vendors on site and coolers and barbecue grills are welcome as well.

“We even provide free firewood,” he added.

Speaking of firewood, Ellis noted that Twister Fest is known for its big bonfire, one that can be seen 19 miles away in the town of Cyril.

The Muscle Car Ranch, meanwhile, is a destination in its own right, having been featured in custom-car magazines like Motor Trend and Hot Rod with its ample collection of antique signage and vehicles.

Ellis also mentioned that wild stuntman Dr. Danger is expected to make a return visit to wow the crowds with his pyrotechnic antics and stunts.

Muscle Car Ranch, at 3609 S. 16th Street in Chickasha, has been hosting well-known rock groups and more at this location since 1992, ranging from ’60s pop group The Turtles and ’70s arena rockers Jefferson Airplane (both featuring Oklahoma-based drummer John Barbata) to yacht-rockers Ambrosia and The Lovin’ Spoonful.

This weekend’s artists will be appearing at one of four stages on the property. The first act, Anthony Spencer, kicks things off on Friday at 7 p.m. and things start once again on Saturday at 3 p.m.

All proceeds from tickets sold for the Sunday performances will go to the Jimmy Jack Whitaker Foundation, which helps underprivileged kids have access to musical instruments, Ellis said. Austin, Texas, artist Ramsay Midwood will end the show with his performance on Sunday.

Other artists include Rance May & The Coyotes, Roswell AD, Jonathan Tyler, Armadillo Road and Norville. The last group features a nine-piece band of metal fans, including Lawton music critic Scott Rains.

Tickets are available online through TicketStorm.com or at the gate.

To see the full list of artists performing at Twister Fest, go to twisterfest.com.