One of Southwest Oklahoma’s Most Prominent Festivals On The Way

One of my very first memories as a young adult was going with my Aunt Nancy and her sons to the Comanche Nation Fair. The food was better than any "fair food" out there and the colors were unforgettable. This was also one of the rare chances for someone like me, unfamiliar with Native American traditions, to see them alive and thriving in one place.

@e_man580 #ComancheNationFair #2022 #nativetiktok #native #nativeamerican #powwow #dance #sing #drums #foryoupage #foryou #fyp #fypシ #nativetiktoks #regalia #wardance #ftsill #lawton #oklahoma #comanche #indian #tribe ♬ War Dance - Comanche Tribal Chants

Even if you aren't native, the Comanche Nation Fair has always been the "must attend" event in southwest Oklahoma. This year, the fair is coming at the end of September, between September 27 - 29, 2024.

Events & Things To Do

The Comanche Nation Fair is different than most fairs - you're not going for the rides. Instead, you're going for the people and the experience. But, if you're looking for things to participate in, this year's calendar includes a ton of options, including:

• Traditional Horseback Trail Ride
• Comanche Hymn Singing
• Art Competition & Showcase
• Comanche Nation Parade
• Cornhole Tournament
• Horseshoe Tournament
• Warrior Run
• Golf Tournament - Two Person Scramble

The highlight of the fair has always been the powwow dances. This year's fair theme, "Sabapaki - the heartbeat of our people," actually highlights one of the most important elements of the powwow - the drum. This year's powwow dances are happening every day of the fair, starting at 3 p.m. on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. 

@e_man580 Comanche Nation Fair in Lawton, Oklahoma aka Comanche County at the Comanche Tribal Complex all weekend long. #comanche #lawton #oklahoma #comanchetribe #nativetok #nativetiktok #regalia #dress #head #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #parati #nativeamerican ♬ Grand Entry - Comanche Native Tribal Chanters

Show Respect While Attending

@thecomanchenationnews At 7 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 1, participants of the #SpiritWalk gathered by the #Comanche Nation Powwow grounds during the #ComancheNationFair ♬ original sound - The Comanche Nation News

It's important to arrive early to the powwow for the introductions and expectations during the ceremony, but a few important rules to remember before attending are:

• During the ceremony, remove your hats, unless they have eagle feathers or are traditional head gear.
• Only those with permission from the lead singer are allowed to sit at the drum; out of respect for the ceremony, do not allow children or other folks near the area.
• Phones and cameras should be put away during memorial dances. You should always ask permission to photograph or video tape the ceremonies.
• The powwow dancers are not wearing "costumes" - you can address them as outfits or the technical term, regalia.

There's Always More

The Comanche Nation Fair also has a free carnival, along with camping, and more at the Comanche Nation Tribal Complex. For details on each individual event, including how to sign up, deadlines and more, visit the Comanche Nation's official website.

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