If you're looking for one of the best fall festivals in Oklahoma, the Original Fall Festival at Robbers Cave deserves a spot at the top of your list.
In this episode of the All Things Carlton Landing Podcast, Amanda Coleman sits down with Lauren Davis, Chairman of the Original Fall Festival and Chairman of Latimer County Tourism, to talk about the nearly 40-year tradition that continues to bring thousands of visitors to Robbers Cave State Park each October.
A Festival Saved by the Community
One of the most inspiring parts of Lauren's story is how close the festival came to disappearing. When the longtime organizing committee stepped away, a new group of local volunteers stepped up with one goal: preserve the tradition while modernizing it for future generations.
From creating a new website and online vendor registration to growing the festival's social media presence, they've worked hard to keep everything people love while making it even better behind the scenes.
What You'll Find at the Festival
The Original Fall Festival isn't just one event—it's an entire weekend of activities for every age.
Visitors can enjoy:
Live music throughout the weekend
Hundreds of local artisans and makers
Food vendors featuring local favorites
A classic car show
A community talent show
Family-friendly activities
Beautiful fall scenery at Robbers Cave State Park
Hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation
Oklahoma-owned carnival
Whether you're traveling with toddlers, teenagers, grandparents, or friends, Lauren explains why there's truly something for everyone.
More Than Just a Festival
One of the biggest themes from this conversation is nostalgia.
Many of today's volunteers grew up attending the festival themselves. Now they're creating those same memories for the next generation while making sure the Original Fall Festival continues for decades to come.
It's a reminder that some of the best traditions aren't just about entertainment—they're about community.
Planning Your Visit
If you've never been, Lauren recommends making an entire weekend of it. Between the festival, Robbers Cave State Park, hiking trails, cabins, scenic drives, and nearby Wilburton, there's more than enough to fill your schedule.
And if you've attended before, you'll find many of the traditions you remember alongside thoughtful improvements that make the experience even better.
Listen to the Full Episode
In this episode you'll hear:
The history of the Original Fall Festival at Robbers Cave
How local volunteers saved the festival
What first-time visitors should expect
Insider tips for making the most of your visit
Favorite festival traditions
The future of one of Oklahoma's most beloved fall events
Highly recommend the Root Beer vendor!
For event information, schedules, vendor applications, and updates, visit www.originalfallfestivalatrobberscave.com and follow Original Fall Festival at Robbers Cave on Facebook.
And don't forget—the Original Fall Festival is always the third weekend in October, making it easy to add to your annual fall traditions.
To listen to the full episode on Spotify, click HERE and on Apple podcast, click HERE.
