Weekend of nonstop culture returns with spring's popular events
Apr. 18—Stillwater's biggest spring events kick off the weekend starting Thursday and run until Sunday — the international Red Dirt Film Festival, the Friends of the Stillwater Public Library's spring used book sale and the Stillwater Arts Festival (happening April 19-20).
From food trucks to films, and music to movie stars, anyone in Oklahoma can come to downtown from morning 'til evening for the events, music, art, cuisine, farmer's market, movie debuts, book-buying and more.
International Red Dirt Film Festival
Some of the highlights for film fest-goers this year include a record number of film showings.
"These are some of the highest rated films we've ever had — we're getting three times the number of filmmakers than ever before," Executive Director Damon Blalack said.
He also said there should be some special guests who will be "more or less a surprise if they work out — people who are seasoned in Hollywood — that's something that's fresh and rewarding."
People can attend for $5 at the door for a two-hour block of film viewing followed by a Q-and-A panel. A day pass is $10 — the entire weekend ticket cost is $30, which includes some of the networking events.
Events are free for students from kindergarten to college.
The final option is the VIP badge for all four days of festival, the welcome party and the awards and red carpet event, along with food and drink.
Expect to see many of the films attended with their cast and crew from as far away as France, Ethiopia, Vietnam and Australia. In addition, several screenplays will be workshopped with actors and given critiques by industry professionals. Anyone can participate in the events mentioned.
Stonecloud Brewery, 917 South Husband St., will serve as host for the evening musical portions.
For the full schedule and advance ticketing, please go to reddirtfilm.com or for more information search "Red Dirt Film" on Facebook, Instagram or X. Additionally, e-mail questions can be sent to reddirtfilm@gmail.com.
More than used books for sale
The Friends of the Stillwater Public Library's spring used book sale is also going on this weekend.
"Last year, it was lovely to have so many activities happening in the Stillwater Cultural District," said Stacy DeLano, library director.
The volunteer-run, twice-a-year sale, offers thousands of books (plus DVDs and CD books of all genres and reading levels) with prices from a quarter to a dollar. Purchases must be made with cash or check, and all sales are tax-free.
The sale kicks off from 5-8 p.m. Thursday with a "Preview Night."
The cost of this event is $10 to enter for the "first pick" of items, except for individuals who have purchased a "lifetime membership" — they may enter free of charge. Shoppers can buy 100 items total, including 50 children's items.
The book sale opens to the general public with no entry fee from noon to 8 p.m. Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
The ever-popular $1 bag sale is from 1:30-4 p.m. Sunday. Attendees can fill an entire bag full of books of their choosing for $1. The Friends provide the bags and do not limit shoppers on the number of bags that can be purchased.
Proceeds from the sales support library programs and services, including summer and winter reading programs and prizes, new books, community reading events and more.
The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 South Duck St. For information about the sale and the Friends of the Stillwater Public Library, visit stillwaterok.gov/Library.
The Stillwater Arts Festival
Like last year, the Stillwater Arts Festival will be taking place next door to the book sale.
Organizers call the event a "kaleidoscope of colors and textures as you wander through the displays of over 50 talented regional artists, each showcasing their unique vision and style.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a foodie, a music lover, or a family looking for a fun weekend outing, the Stillwater Arts Festival promises an unforgettable experience for all."
This festival is free to walk around and is happening from noon to 8 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday at 1001 South Duck St.
Find original art for purchase at this fest, "making activities" related to art, student exhibitions, artist demonstrations, live music, food trucks and a farmer's market here.
For more information, go to artscenter.okstate.edu.
Know before you go
Anyone going to downtown Stillwater, or people who live there, need to know it's going to be a very busy weekend.
Visitors and residents alike will need to contend with road construction, private construction and Block 34 construction happening that limits some parking, causes some detours and creates areas that are blocked off and need to be circumnavigated in walking or biking.
Organizers ask that guests plan accordingly and know that GPS may not show where roads are blocked.
Some possible areas for parking include Southern Woods Park, the Stillwater Community Center and the First Methodist Church.
