The inaugural G Fest Music Festival hits June 16-18 at Hatbox Field, an old airfield located two miles west of downtown Muskogee. The outdoor country, rock and Americana lineup will feature Haggard along with The Avett Brothers, acclaimed Oklahoma band Turnpike Troubadours and red dirt outlaws Jason Boland The Stragglers.
In a 2014 interview with The Oklahoman, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter shared his fondess for Oklahoma and his endearing hit.
“I think there’s several different messages in that song, but I think the most important was that I’m proud — and I am. I’m proud to be a second-generation Okie, and I’ve fought for the name. You know, I’ve shed blood over ‘Okie.’ … I’ve been in fist fights about being called an ‘Okie’ when it wasn’t complimentary,” he said. “Of course, over the years we’ve developed a lot of friendships, played (there) many times. I don’t know how many times we’ve played there in the state of Oklahoma, but it’s been a many a time.”
G Fest director Jim Blair said in a release that now’s a perfect opportunity to establish a unique Muskogee festival. He cited the city’s desire to repurpose Hatbox Airfield into a multi-event facility and the growth of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame during the past three years.
“We wanted to create an event to celebrate the rich music history of the area, and who better to perform than the Okie from Muskogee himself,” Blair said.
Muskogee Chamber of Commerce and Tourism head Treasure McKenzie said she’s eager about the economic impact and awareness this event will bring to Muskogee.
“The G Fest Music Festival will be the highlight of the 2016 calendar in Muskogee. Merle Haggard put us on the map, and celebrating our heritage through music solidifies Muskogee as Oklahoma’s Music City,” McKenzie said.
General Admission tickets are available for $79, and VIP Reserved Seating and VIP Party Pit tickets for $279 for a limited time. VIP Reserved Seating and VIP Party Pit gives ticket holders access to an exclusive area directly in front of the stage, parking, designated bathrooms and a separate bar. Camping is available starting at $80 and RV camping starting at $325. For more information, go to www.gfestmuskogee.com.
G Fest is funded through a joint effort by The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, The City of Muskogee, City of Muskogee Foundation and Muskogee Tourism. Net proceeds of the event will be used to further the mission of the music hall of fame and further develop the infrastructure of the Hatbox complex for future festivals.
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