Children of the sun shine at zOyaha Festival 2025

OklahomaEventsIndigenous
Children of the sun shine at zOyaha Festival 2025 image
Collaborator: Russell Sun Eagle
Published: 09/25/2025, 7:39 PM
Edited: 09/25/2025, 7:41 PM
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(GLENPOOL, Okla.) Excitement is building as the Yuchi Language Project prepares to host zOyaha Fest 2025, a two-day cultural gathering taking place this weekend in Glenpool. The free, family-friendly festival has quickly grown into one of Oklahoma’s most dynamic celebrations. offering a full weekend of games, art, food, music, and community.


The festival begins Friday, September 26, with events focused on creativity and cultural pride. Visitors can look forward to flash tattoos by tattoo artist Missy Dunn-Mahan, an evening language presentation highlighting revitalization efforts, and a fashion show with a live DJ. An art show and silent auction, curated by Yuchi Language Project Teacher Assistant Sierra Revis, will showcase works of both adults and children, bringing together traditional themes and contemporary expression. These opening events set the tone for a weekend grounded in identity and resilience.


On Saturday, September 27, the grounds will come alive with the sounds of competition as the Little Warz on the Rez stickball tournament begins at 9 a.m. The sport, sometimes called the little brother of war, has deep roots in Native history and has become a centerpiece of zOyaha Fest. Alongside the games, attendees can participate in make-and-take workshops throughout the day, including ribbon skirt sewing, ball stick making, and patchwork designs. A Yuchi hymn and Native American Church singing will also bring spiritual strength to the gathering.


As evening arrives, festival-goers can enjoy live music by the Muscogee Sunrise band followed by the Native Comedy Show, presented by Full Blood Productions. Curated by owner of Full Blood Productions Justin Mclemore and hosted by comedian Rachel Rose, the performance will feature Native comedians Keland Bearpaw, Brent Deo, Jordan Jayi, and Will Buck, who promise to bring laughter, storytelling and medicine through humor.


Throughout the festival, visitors will also find plenty of family friendly attractions. Children can enjoy bounce houses and free fishing, while families can view bison and shop from a wide range of vendors and concession stands. From traditional crafts and handmade art to Native food favorites, the market reflects the best of Indigenous entrepreneurship.


The Yuchi phrase zOyaha translates to “children of the sun,” and this festival promises to showcase the shining, resilient culture of the Yuchi people. For organizers, the event is about more than entertainment; it is a celebration of the people and their endurance. With supporting donations from zOyaha Nation, Yuchi Language Project, the Muscogee Nation, the College of the Muscogee Nation, and actor Wotko Long, the festival provides a safe, alcohol- and drug-free environment where community members and visitors can experience the vibrancy of zOyaha culture.


The festival will be held at the Yuchi Language Project, located at 200 E. 171st St. S. in Glenpool. Admission is free and open to the public. Visit zOyaha Fest 2025 to celebrate Indigenous traditions, enjoy family activities and support the ongoing revitalization of Yuchi language and culture.

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