Watercress Festival celebrates Cherokee culture at historic Saline Courthouse

The Watercress Festival returns for its second year with a full day of cultural programming, live music and environmental education, set for Saturday, April 26 at the historic Saline Courthouse Museum in Rose, Oklahoma.

Hosted on the scenic grounds of the spring-fed site, the festival offers a blend of tradition and community, with activities designed to highlight the deep connection between people, the land and natural resources.

Cultural Programming and Family-Friendly Activities

Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and enjoy the daylong festival, which runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The event will feature live musical performances, make-and-take craft opportunities, traditional Cherokee games and art demonstrations.

Image Provided By: Cherokee Nation

Live culinary demonstrations will showcase both traditional and modern preparations of watercress, with samples available. Native-owned food trucks and a pop-up market will also be on-site throughout the day.

New Additions and Unique Experiences

New for 2025, festivalgoers can participate in guided trail walks through the historic courthouse grounds. Cultural stations along the trail will offer stories and insights into Cherokee lifeways.

The event also serves as a qualifier for the 2025 Native Games competition during the Cherokee National Holiday.

Another highlight includes land and water discussions, facilitated by the Cherokee Nation Office of Natural Resources. These talks aim to promote environmental quality and sustainable practices through community engagement.

Environmental Awareness and Tribal Leadership

The Cherokee Nation’s Office of Natural Resources plays a significant role in the festival. The department is responsible for managing air, land, water and wildlife programs and is focused on conservation efforts that incorporate cultural knowledge and tribal values.

Image Provided By: Cherokee Nation

The festival provides an opportunity to educate the public about ongoing environmental challenges and the tribe’s initiatives in clean water access, hazardous waste removal, radon detection and more.

Festival Details and Online Resources

The Watercress Festival is open to the public, with activities suitable for all ages.

For more information and a full schedule of events, visit: visitcherokeenation.com/events/watercress-fest

Social media updates are available via the Facebook event page.