Broken Arrow, Oklahoma – Known affectionately as the “City of Roses,” will celebrate its floral heritage this weekend with the annual Rose Festival, scheduled for Sept. 11‑13 in downtown Broken Arrow. The three‑day event is organized by the nonprofit Keep Broken Arrow Beautiful, whose mission is to keep the city clean, safe and beautiful through community projects and initiatives.
Gardens at Central Park Take Center Stage
The festival serves as a major fundraiser and educational platform for The Gardens at Central Park. The gardens began as a grassroots effort to “Bring Back the Roses” and reconnect residents with the city’s historic identity. Over the years, the vision expanded to include a diverse collection of pollinator‑friendly monarch plants, herbs, prairie grasses and fragrant species alongside the classic roses.
Organizers describe the gardens as “a beautiful place to wander, learn, enjoy nature and experience a little of the story behind the Rose Festival.” Visitors can stroll the pathways, read interpretive signage and participate in hands‑on activities that teach about pollinator health and sustainable gardening practices.
Family‑Friendly Activities and Entertainment
Festival attendees can look forward to a packed schedule of events. The Rose Show will display a variety of rose cultivars, while local artists exhibit paintings and crafts inspired by the city’s floral theme. Live music stages will feature regional bands playing a mix of country, folk and contemporary hits, creating a lively backdrop for shoppers and families alike.
Vendors will line the streets offering food, handmade goods, and seasonal treats. Children can enjoy dedicated family activities, including face painting, craft stations and interactive games that celebrate community spirit.
Rose Kites Over Broken Arrow
On Sunday, the festival will culminate with the “Rose Kites Over Broken Arrow” event at the Broken Arrow Events Park. Colorful kites shaped like roses will fill the sky, providing a visual tribute to the city’s nickname and a memorable experience for participants of all ages.
Community Impact
Proceeds from the festival directly support The Gardens at Central Park, ensuring ongoing maintenance, educational programming and future expansions. Keep Broken Arrow Beautiful emphasizes that the event not only honors tradition but also strengthens community bonds, encouraging residents to take pride in their shared public spaces.
Mayor Scott Fetgatter praised the festival, stating, “The Rose Festival is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers, local businesses and families who work together to keep Broken Arrow beautiful and vibrant.” The mayor’s office highlighted the festival’s role in promoting tourism, supporting local entrepreneurs and reinforcing the city’s identity as a welcoming, family‑oriented community.
Plan Your Visit
The festival will be held in the downtown district, with parking available at the municipal lot on Main Street and several nearby private garages. All events are free to the public, and organizers encourage attendees to bring reusable water bottles and practice safe social distancing as needed.
For a full schedule, vendor list and volunteer opportunities, visit the Keep Broken Arrow Beautiful website or follow their social media channels.
Original reporting: Broken Arrow Sentinel — read the source article.
