Neon Prairie Music Festival will host their inaugural event September 6-7 with a celebration of music, art and community in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The festival will blend a diverse lineup of music genres, including national and local talent, with stunning art installations, local food and interactive activities to create a unique cultural experience. This festival is not just an event; it’s a movement towards fostering community ties, showcasing local talent and creating an inclusive space where everyone is welcome to explore, engage and enjoy.
Can you tell us how and why you started your business?
Neon Prairie was founded to bring a unique, multi-genre music festival experience to Tulsa, Oklahoma. We wanted to create a community-driven event that not only showcases diverse musical acts but also highlights the cultural vibrancy of Oklahoma and the Midwest. The festival was born out of a desire to blend music, arts and local engagement in an immersive outdoor setting.
What services do you provide within the music industry?
We organize a large-scale music festival featuring a variety of genres and performances from both established and emerging artists. Additionally, we highlight art, community involvement and social impact, integrating these elements to create a holistic festival experience that resonates deeply with attendees.
How has your company grown to meet the needs of Oklahoma’s music industry over the last 3-5 years?
While this is the inaugural year of the Neon Prairie Music Festival, it is the culmination of years of dedicated planning and community engagement. We have thoughtfully curated our lineup to showcase a broad spectrum of local artists and diversified genres that reflect the rich musical tastes and cultural fabric of Oklahoma. Our commitment to high production quality and forging strong partnerships with local businesses and cultural organizations has been integral in laying a solid foundation for a festival that aims to leave a lasting impact on the community.
What are the benefits of basing your company’s operations in Oklahoma?
Operating in Oklahoma allows us to tap in to a rich musical heritage and a growing creative community. The state’s central location is also advantageous for drawing audiences from across the Midwest. Oklahoma’s supportive local government and thriving arts scene provide a strong foundation for hosting large-scale events like ours.
What would you consider your business’s greatest accomplishment to date?
Our greatest accomplishment is not just launching Neon Prairie, but envisioning it as a dynamic economic development project disguised as a thrilling festival. This inaugural event is more than a celebration; it’s a strategic initiative to amplify Tulsa’s visibility on a global scale and catalyze its cultural and economic transformation. We aim to draw people from around the world to experience the unexpected best of Tulsa—its music, art, adventure and impactful social scene. By showcasing local talents and fostering new opportunities for musicians and creatives, we’re not only growing Tulsa’s cultural footprint but also its economic viability.
Are there any recent successes your company would like to highlight related to work within the Oklahoma music industry?
At Neon Prairie, we’re building something extraordinary from the ground up—literally. As a grassroots, independent community event, we’re as eclectic as Oklahoma itself and resonate with the vibrancy needed to compete on the world-class festival circuit.
What are you working on now/next?
We are in the throes of preparing for our inaugural Neon Prairie Music Festival, scheduled for September 6-7. Our focus is on creating an immersive festival experience that goes beyond musical performances. Attendees can look forward to a rich tapestry of experiences, including innovative art installations, a selection of local culinary delights, and a variety of interactive activities that are designed to engage and inspire. Each element is being meticulously planned to ensure that our first festival not only sets a high standard but also distinctly reflects the vibrant spirit of Tulsa.
What is your goal/vision for the future of your company?
Our vision is to establish Neon Prairie as one of the leading music festivals in the United States, known for its unique atmosphere and community focus. We aim to continue growing sustainably while pushing the boundaries of what a music festival can offer in terms of cultural impact and community development.
What advice do you have for others who are considering starting a music business in Oklahoma?
Dive into the community, understand the local culture and build relationships. Be adaptable and open to feedback. Oklahoma’s music scene is collaborative and supportive, so take advantage of this environment to create something truly impactful.
What opportunities do you believe await Oklahoma’s music industry in the future?
The growth of digital media and music streaming opens up new opportunities for Oklahoma artists to gain national and international recognition. The state’s music industry is poised for significant growth, driven by investments in arts education and infrastructure, increasing its attractiveness as a destination for big events and talented artists.
Each featured individual or business is given the provided questions to answer in their own voice. Other than formatting and grammar, the answers are personal to each featured voice, and are not provided by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.
