World‑Renowned Rodeo Champion Jim Shoulders

Henryetta VFW & Auxiliary Post 539

HONORING OUR VETERANS & THEIR FAMILIES SINCE 1921

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 539

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 539, located in Henryetta, Oklahoma, stands as one of the oldest posts in the state, having been founded in 1921. Originally established to assist combat veterans who were seriously injured and to support the widows and children of soldiers killed in action, its mission has since expanded to encompass all veterans and their families.


VFW Post 539 Auxiliary

The Charter for the Auxiliary was signed May 2nd,1921. Between 1921 and 1924, the Post name was officially changed from the Wesley Albert Reynolds Post 539 to Henryetta Post 539, and the Auxiliary proudly adapted alongside it. The names preserved on the historic Charter represent the original dedicated members who helped lay the foundation for our organization.

Help the VFW Auxiliary Continue to Serve and Honor Veterans!

Contact us today to learn how you can join!

 VFW and VFW Auxiliary Scholarships and Contests 2026/2027

Mistletoe Market Information

Get ready to kick off your holiday season and experience the magic of a classic, festive Christmas right here in Henryetta, Oklahoma! The Henryetta Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to welcome residents and visitors alike to the annual Mistletoe Market at 5th and Trudgeon Street.

Mark your calendars for the first THREE weekends in December! Whether you are looking for the perfect, unique holiday gift or just want to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, the Mistletoe Market has something special for everyone.


📅 Event Schedule & Hours

The market runs during the first two weekends of December:

  • Weekend 1: Friday, December 4th & Saturday, December 5th
  • Weekend 2: Friday, December 11th & Saturday, December 12th
  • Weekend 3: Friday, December 18th & Saturday, December 19th

Hours of Operation:

  • Fridays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturdays: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

🎁 What to Expect

Step into a cozy, holiday wonderland packed with local charm:

      • Holiday Shopping: Browse a wonderful, diverse selection of indoor vendors offering handmade crafts, custom jewelry, delicious treats, festive home decor, and perfect stocking stuffers.
      • Delicious Food: Warm up with amazing seasonal foods from local food trucks parked on-site.
      • Live Entertainment: Soak up the cheery atmosphere with holiday music and festive entertainment throughout the event.
      • A Special Visit from Santa: Bring the kids (and the young at heart!) on the second Saturday (December 12th) for a special appearance by Santa Claus himself—perfect for holiday photos!

Activities

  • December 4th • 5pm–8pm: Santa & The Express Conductor. Bring the Kids for a special Treat from our Christmas Conductor.
  • December 5th • 11am–8pm: DJ Jace Christmas Party 6pm–8pm
  • December 11th • 5pm–8pm: Santa & Music
  • December 12th • 11am–8pm: Santa & The Green Guy 7pm–8pm Toy Drive
  • December 18th • 5pm–8pm: Shop Local Night
  • December 19th • 11am–8pm: Last Day of the Market Blow Out

ACTIVITIES BEING UPDATED DAILY.


🛍️ Support Local and Shop Small

By shopping at the Mistletoe Market, you are directly supporting local artisans, makers, and small business owners. Every purchase helps make the holiday season brighter for our community neighbors.

📍 Location

      • Where: N. 5th Street & W. Trudgeon Street, Henryetta, OK 74437
      • Admission: Free!

📢 Want to Participate as a Vendor?

 

Henryetta’s Labor Day Celebration

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.

 

A Historic Tradition Rooted in Henryetta’s Past

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:

Labor Day Parade

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

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.

 Community Competitions & Activities

Depending on the year, activities may include:

  • Baby Pageant
  • Miss Labor Day Pageant
  • Hot Dog Eating Contest
  • Car show
  • Beard Competition
  • Pin Up Competition
  • Free Games at the Gazebo
  • Horseshoe Competition
  • Cornhole Tournament
  • Turtle Races
  • Fish Scramble

Click Here for Labor Day Celebration

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.

 

Why Henryetta’s Labor Day Celebration Matters

Labor Day in Henryetta is more than a festival — it’s a reflection of the city’s identity. It honors the hardworking men and women who built the community, the coal miners and ranchers who shaped Henryetta’s early economy, and the families who continue to preserve local traditions.

Generations have grown up attending the celebration, and many return year after year to reconnect with friends, family, and the place they call home.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first‑time visitor, Henryetta’s Labor Day celebration offers something special — a chance to experience Oklahoma history, small‑town hospitality, and a festival that has stood the test of time.

Henryetta’s Labor Day Celebration

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.

 

A Historic Tradition Rooted in Henryetta’s Past

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:

Labor Day Parade

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

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.

 Community Competitions & Activities

Depending on the year, activities may include:

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.

 

Click Here for Labor Day Celebration

 

Why Henryetta’s Labor Day Celebration Matters

Labor Day in Henryetta is more than a festival — it’s a reflection of the city’s identity. It honors the hardworking men and women who built the community, the coal miners and ranchers who shaped Henryetta’s early economy, and the families who continue to preserve local traditions.

Generations have grown up attending the celebration, and many return year after year to reconnect with friends, family, and the place they call home.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first‑time visitor, Henryetta’s Labor Day celebration offers something special — a chance to experience Oklahoma history, small‑town hospitality, and a festival that has stood the test of time.

Chamber Events & Community Events

 

Popular Henryetta Leagues

 

Fun for the Whole Family

Henryetta is home to exciting community leagues that bring families, friends, and neighbors together. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or friendly competition, these leagues offer a fun and welcoming way to get involved. Join the action, meet new people, and enjoy the best of Henryetta’s community spirit.

These leagues are open to all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned player or trying something new, Henryetta’s community leagues are a great way to stay active, have fun, and be part of something special.

Annual Chamber Community Events

 
  • Cruise Knights – Classic cars, music, and downtown fun for all ages.
  • Rodeo – A showcase of Western heritage, rodeo action, and community spirit.
  • Trick or Treat Main – Safe, festive trick-or-treating along Main Street.
  • Christmas Parade – Holiday floats, lights, and cheer to kick off the season.
  • Mistletoe Market – Local vendors, gifts, and seasonal treats.
  • Shop Small Saturday / Cookie Crawl & Business Bingo – Support local shops with fun promotions and sweet surprises.
  • Labor Day Parade and Festivities – A celebration of community, workers, and hometown pride.

 

 

Community Event & Promotion Policy

 
▼ Click to View Community Event & Promotion Policy

Event Eligibility

  • Community focus: Events must benefit Henryetta residents, visitors, or the local business community.
  • Family-friendly environment: Events should be appropriate for a general audience and support a positive community image.
  • Local business support: Preference is given to events that highlight or involve Henryetta Chamber businesses.

Sponsorship & Participation

  • Sponsorship opportunities: Businesses and organizations may sponsor events in accordance with Chamber sponsorship packages and timelines.
  • Vendor participation: Vendors must comply with all applicable regulations and licensing requirements.
  • Volunteer roles: Volunteers represent the Chamber and must maintain professional, courteous conduct.

Promotion & Marketing

  • Chamber channels: Approved events may be promoted through Chamber communication channels.
  • Accurate information: Organizers must provide complete and accurate details by required deadlines.
  • Brand alignment: Promotional materials should align with the Chamber’s mission and community standards.

Safety & Compliance

  • Legal compliance: All events must comply with applicable laws and safety requirements.
  • Risk management: Organizers are responsible for appropriate insurance and risk mitigation.
  • Code of conduct: The Chamber may decline or discontinue promotion of events that do not meet standards.

For questions about hosting, sponsoring, or promoting a community event through the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce, please contact our office at (918) 652-3331.