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GREENWOOD DIST. – The inaugural Neon Prairie Fest will kick off in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on September 6 and 7, offering a unique celebration of local culture, creativity, and diversity. Taking place at the scenic Post Oak Lodge in the beautiful Osage Hills, the festival promises an eclectic mix of live music, art installations, yoga, and special experiences such as fire breathers and pool parties, all designed to showcase Tulsa’s talent and contribute to the city’s economic development.
Tulsa Remote Brings Festival Expertise to the Heartland
Karin Whang, the mastermind behind the event, brings years of international festival experience from countries like Mexico and Korea. Though this is her first time organizing a festival in the U.S., she has already made a mark with an ambitious vision for Neon Prairie.
“I’ve been living outside the U.S. for about 15 years, organizing concerts and festivals mostly in Latin America and Asia. Then, I ended up in Tulsa,” Whang shared in an interview with The Black Wall Street Times. “I’ve been living here for almost four years after participating in the Tulsa Remote program, and I’ve seen firsthand how the city’s creativity and community can shine through events like this.”
Whang moved to Tulsa via Tulsa Remote, a unique program that attracts remote workers from across the country by offering financial incentives and a vibrant community, helping to foster economic growth and innovation in Tulsa.
“After arriving, there was talk of starting a festival. It kept building, and here we are, ready to launch [Neo Prairie Fest] tomorrow! Tulsa’s a great place for festivals—they boost the economy, bring people together, and are just fun.”
Neon Prairie Fest: The Next Big Boost to Tulsa’s Economy
According to the Tulsa Regional Tourism office, tourism in Tulsa generated approximately $1.7 billion in direct spending, with events like Black Wall Street Legacy Fest, Mayfest, Tulsa Juneteenth, USA BMX Grand Nationals and other events playing significant roles in attracting thousands of visitors from outside the region. These events not only enhance the cultural vibrancy of Tulsa but also stimulate local businesses, hotels, and restaurants through increased visitor spending, further boosting the city’s economy.
In addition to boosting Tulsa’s artistic and cultural profile, Neon Prairie aims to have a lasting economic impact. The festival is expected to draw between 5,000 and 10,000 attendees over the two days, with people traveling from across the country, including from as far as California, to participate. Visitors are encouraged to explore local Tulsa attractions, such as the Philbrook Museum and Woody Guthrie Center, contributing to the city’s broader economic development.
Killer Mike, Marc Rebillet, Local Talent, and 41 Artists: Neon Prairie’s Diverse Lineup
Whang says that Neon Prairie Fest is more than just a festival and economic boost—it’s a grassroots effort aimed at building community through immersive, artistic experiences. The event features national headliners like Killer Mike and Marc Rebillet alongside local Tulsa talents like Branjae, Damion Shade, Steph Simone, and more. In total, 41 musicians, bands, and DJs will perform across multiple stages, representing a range of genres from bluegrass to electronic.
The festival is unique in its setting within the Osage Hills, a 1,000-acre forest that will only partially be utilized this year, with plans to expand in the future. Attendees will have the option to camp on-site, a first for a multi-genre music festival in the Midwest. With glow yoga, sound healing sessions, and even a wedding on the schedule, Neon Prairie is designed to be a full-fledged cultural experience that the city has never seen.
Whang has pulled together a roster of sponsors to help bring Neon Prairie to life, including Osage Casino, Gateway Bank, Monster Energy and others.
As the festival’s reputation grows, she hopes it will become a staple event in Tulsa, contributing to its national profile as a hub for arts and culture.
Join the Experience: Neon Prairie’s Creative Vibe Starts This Friday
Performances begin on Friday, September 5th, at 4 pm and run until 3 AM. On Saturday, September 6th, the first show begins at 4 pm and will run until 5 am. Attendees are encouraged to come with open minds, make new friends, and immerse themselves in the festival’s creative energy.
For those interested in learning more, the festival’s website offers details on parking, shuttle services, and other important information.
Neon Prairie Fest is shaping up to be an unforgettable weekend, marking the start of a new chapter in Tulsa’s festival scene, with plans for even bigger things to come.