Henryetta Labor Day Committee Meeting
The Henryetta Labor Day Committee will meet on October 5th, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the corner of 5th and Gentry (Girl Scout House).
Anyone interested in volunteering for Labor Day 2027 is welcome to attend. If you have thoughts or ideas to share, please sign up as a volunteer.
Volunteer Opportunities:
- Labor Day Pageant
- Parade
- Set Up and Clean Up
- Ruby Gooden Games
- Photographers/Videographers for Events
- and MORE...
Henryetta proudly hosts Oklahoma’s longest‑running Labor Day celebration, a tradition that began more than a century ago and continues to bring thousands of visitors to the community each year. What started as a simple gathering for coal miners and ranching families has grown into one of the state’s most beloved holiday festivals — a multi‑day celebration of heritage, community, and hometown pride.
In the early 1900s, Henryetta was a thriving coal‑mining town. Labor Day became an important holiday for miners who worked long, difficult hours and rarely had time off. Families gathered at Nichols Park to enjoy food, fellowship, and friendly competitions. Over time, the celebration expanded, adding parades, rodeo events, and entertainment that reflected Henryetta’s strong community spirit.
Today, Henryetta’s Labor Day celebration remains a cherished tradition — a living connection between the city’s past and present.
Labor Day Weekend Events
The celebration spans several days and features activities for all ages. While each year brings new additions, several hallmark events have become staples of the holiday weekend:
The Main Street parade is one of Henryetta’s largest annual gatherings, featuring:
- Local businesses and civic organizations
- School groups and marching bands
- Classic cars and tractors
- Community leaders and special guests
Jim Shoulders Living Legends Rodeo Tickets
Held at Nichols Park, the rodeo honors Henryetta’s own Jim Shoulders, one of the most decorated cowboys in rodeo history. Events often include:
- Bull riding
- Barrel racing
- Team roping
- Youth rodeo competitions
- Specialty acts
Carnival
The carnival brings excitement for all ages with rides, midway games, and classic festival food.
Location: Main Street
Time: Thursday before Labor Day through Labor Day Monday Night
Community Competitions & Activities
Depending on the year, activities may include:
- Baby Pageant
- Labor Day Pageant
- LUV FORD Schwab's Hot Dog Eating Contest
- FFFCU Smokin Hot Car show
- OKBL Beard & Stache Competition
- Ms. Smokin Hot Pin Up Competition
- Free Ruby Gooden Games at the Gazebo
- LOVE WINS Horseshoe Competition
- Lions Club Cornhole Tournament
- Turtle Races
- Henryetta Fire Department Fish Scramble
Fireworks Display
The celebration often concludes with a fireworks show over Cameron Stadium, right off Main Street — a brilliant finale to a weekend filled with tradition and togetherness.
Location: Cameron Stadium Football Field
Time: Starts at Dark
Media Contact for the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce:
Amber Mordecai, Executive Chamber Director
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