Only in OKlahoma Show

Harley Covington and Brett Manzer

Howdy Y'all…just kidding! Welcome to our page. We are the Only in Oklahoma Show, where you can hear about travel and entertainment in the Great State of Oklahoma. Our sole purpose is to shine a light on some of the people, places and stories that make Oklahoma, more than just "OK". In fact, Oklahoma is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the country even by some of the locals. Powered by award winning podcasters (2018 Podcast Award – Society and Culture), Harley C. and Brett Manzer. Tune into the Only in Oklahoma Show to hear interviews, news and reviews about Oklahoma's best restaurants, hotels, festivals, museums, outdoor activities, breweries, rodeos, concerts, casinos, Route 66, and more (literally this list is endless). If it's fun and in Oklahoma, we will be talking about it. We will also be covering some not so topics, like bureaucrats, bridges, toll booths and taxes. If it affects your bottom line or your lake time, we will be cussin' and discussin'. If you are joining us from the Odd Pod, some things never change. Manzer and Harley will be trying to make you laugh while dropping some knowledge about the places we cover. Don't worry, we will still be covering the occasional red-dirt ghost story, cryptid, and UFO conspiracy…as long as it is north of the Red River (BOOMER!). Boots and straps and cowboy hats are optional. Welcome to the Only in Oklahoma Show!

  1. 2d ago

    Banjo Fest 2026: Live Music, Legends & The American Banjo Museum!

    We are diving into one of the biggest music events in Oklahoma City: Banjo Fest 2026! Hosted right in the heart of downtown OKC's Bricktown district at the world-renowned American Banjo Museum, this three-day celebration (October 8–10, 2026) highlights America's adopted native instrument with live jams, workshops, and Hall of Fame inductions. Housing over 400 instruments across a massive 21,000-square-foot facility, the American Banjo Museum features the largest collection of banjos on public display in the world, tracing the instrument's story from its roots in African history to minstrel, jazz, bluegrass, and modern acoustic styles. Banjo Fest 2026 Weekend Highlights: Thursday, Oct 8: Kickoff Welcome Reception & BBQ (6 PM–10 PM) followed by late-night "A Night at the Museum" jam sessions open to all skill levels. Friday, Oct 9: Daytime workshops (10 AM–3 PM) leading into the formal Hall of Fame Dinner & Induction Ceremony at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel Venetian Room. Saturday, Oct 10 (Main Event): Bricktown Banjo Bash from 12 PM–5 PM! This event is 100% FREE to the public across the museum and Bricktown venues, featuring pickers like Gary "Biscuit" Davis, Gavin Rice, Mark Johnson, Lucas Ross, and more. Wrap up the weekend with the Pizza Parlor Sing-Along Party (6 PM–9 PM) at the museum! 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees: Mark Johnson (Five-String Performance): Creator of "Clawgrass" and Steve Martin Award winner. Howard Alden (Four-String Performance): Renowned jazz guitarist elevating tenor banjo. Bill Dendle (Education & Innovation): Iconic jazz educator and performer. Banjomania (Promotion): Pioneer group blending 4-string and 5-string styles. David "Stringbean" Akeman (Historical): Early Bluegrass Boy and beloved Hee Haw star. Brent Hayes (Historical): Early 20th-century world-touring virtuoso. Visitor & Event Details: Address: 9 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 Phone: (405) 604-2793 Website: https://americanbanjomuseum.com/banjofest2026/ Also discussed:   #BanjoFest2026 #OnlyInOKShow #AmericanBanjoMuseum #BricktownOKC #OklahomaCity #Banjo #DiscoverOKC #ExploreOklahoma #LiveMusicOKC #BluegrassMusic #JazzBanjo

  2. Sep 7

    Route 66's Ultimate Hidden Gem: The D.W. Correll Museum in Catoosa

    If you're driving Route 66 through Catoosa, most folks stop for the famous Blue Whale—but just down the road sits one of the coolest, most surprisingly diverse hidden gems in the entire state: the D.W. Correll Museum! D.W. Correll was a prominent local businessman whose lifelong, passionate curiosity created a personal collection so expansive that it took a dedicated team three full years just to curate it for the public. Spread across two giant buildings, this incredible stop blends pure Americana, world-class geology, rare automotive history, and heavy machinery. In this episode, we explore: Building 1: Geological Wonders & Worldly Treasures – A deep dive into Oklahoma's Tri-State mining roots (galena, sphalerite, quartz crystals), massive global geode and fossil displays, Native American artifacts, antique decanters, and rotating exhibits like the Tulsa Ship Modelers Society's Port City Model Ship Exhibit. Bonus: You can even buy select rock and mineral specimens to take home! Building 2: Vintage Wheels & Heavy Machinery – Over 100 years of fully working, meticulously restored automotive history. Highlights include an 1898 steam-powered Locomobile, a 1902 Oldsmobile Runabout, a 1917 Twin 6 Packard, a 1926 Rolls-Royce, 1927 & 1929 Stutz 8s, a 1957 Chevy 210, horse-drawn buggies, vintage Texaco gas pumps, and antique toy tractors. Visitor Info & Programs – Budget-friendly admission ($5 Adults, $4 Seniors, $2 Youth, FREE for Military ID holders), car club cruise-in opportunities, and educational field trip programs where kids get hands-on Earth science lessons and real rocks/fossils to take home! Visitor & Booking Information: To schedule special tours or group visits, contact Director Eric Hamshar via the City of Catoosa. Official Website: https://www.cityofcatoosa.org/page/dw-correll-museum Also discussed: Think Ability Inc, KOCO, Oklahoma City's iconic Gold Dome & Precor Realty Advisors. Tune in to discover why this spot needs to be on your next Route 66 road trip itinerary! #OnlyInOKShow #Route66 #Route66Oklahoma #CatoosaOK #DWCorrellMuseum #ExploreOklahoma #OklahomaTravel #HiddenGemsOK #ClassicCars #VintageAutomobiles #GeologyLovers #OklahomaHistory #RoadTripOK #DiscoverOklahoma

  3. Aug 24

    Ray Harral Nature Center: Broken Arrow's Hidden 40-Acre Oasis

    On this episode of the Only in OK Show, we head to Broken Arrow to explore the Ray Harral Nature Center! Tucked away off Tucson St (121st St) and west of Lynn Lane (behind Childers and Spring Creek schools), this 40-acre hidden gem offers shaded woods, diverse ecosystems, and quiet trails for Oklahomans wanting to escape the usual crowded hotspots—and best of all, entrance is 100% FREE! In this episode, we cover: The History: Who Ray Harral was and his lasting impact on Broken Arrow's park system. Outdoor Highlights: Walking across the iconic suspension bridge, splashing in the natural spring system, strolling through native flower gardens, and spotting the mystery abandoned water tank. The Trails: 3 miles of winding, heavily shaded paved and unpaved trails—perfect for escaping the Oklahoma summer heat! Inside the Nature Center: Getting up close with native wildlife (tarantulas, tree frogs, turtles!), checking out interactive exhibits, and budget-friendly room rentals for events. Pro-Tips for Visiting: Pet policies, park/center hours, and crucial navigation advice so you don't get lost on the 40-acre loop! Whether you're taking a quiet stroll, bringing the kids to splash in the creek, or bringing your pup for a walk, Ray Harral Nature Center is a must-visit Oklahoma destination. Learn More & Visit: Location: 7101 S 3rd St, Broken Arrow, OK 70011 Park Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Nature Center Hours: Mon–Sat, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mar–Oct) | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Nov–Feb) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RayHarralNatureCenter/ Also discussed KOCO & the OKC Zoo. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share the show with your fellow Oklahomans! #OnlyInOKShow #Oklahoma #BrokenArrowOK #BrokenArrow #RayHarralNatureCenter #ExploreOklahoma #OklahomaParks #DiscoverOklahoma #OklahomaTourism #NatureLovers #OklahomaOutdoors #FreeOklahoma #TravelOK

  4. Aug 17

    A Deep-Fried Culinary Tour of the 2026 OK State Fair

    Agriculture, manufacturing, carnival rides, and games are great—but let's be real: we're here for the unapologetic, deep-fried culinary breakdown! On this episode of the Only in OK Show, we take a deep dive into the delicious, decadent, and downright wild eats coming to the 2026 Oklahoma State Fair running September 17–27 at Oklahoma State Fair Park in Oklahoma City. From classic golden staples to global street food fusion and insider budget tips, here is your ultimate guide to eating your way through the fairgrounds: Golden & Deep-Fried Cornerstones Brown's Corndogs & Cheese On a Stick: Jumbo, batter-dipped perfection. Wade Shows Funnel Cake: Crispy, golden, and smothered in powdered sugar. Salty & Savory Handhelds: Giant smoked turkey legs, roasted corn on the cob, bacon-wrapped treats from The Bacon Habit, and Swain's Pizza On-a-Stick. Sweet Indulgences: Deep-fried Oreos, Granny's Cheesecake, and Rodney & Lisa's Fancy Caramel Apples. Global & Specialty Eats African Flavors (Afrikan Delights): Egusi + Fufu plates (chicken, beef, goat, or vegan), smoky skewers, and jollof rice. Southwestern & Street Food Fusion: Birria street corn, Carne Asada street corn, and Dan's famous Indian Tacos. Cajun & Southern Comfort: Big G's Cajun shrimp, crawfish boils, and Eli's Soul Food. Wild Desserts & Drinks: Cobbler in a Cone, Mochi donuts, Turkish Delights, Waffle Chix, and cold refreshing Agua Fresca, Horchata, or Sunrise Boba. Insider Tips for Foodies on a Budget Taste of the Fair Tuesday (Sept 22): The absolute best day for food lovers! Gate admission drops to $4, and vendors across the fairgrounds offer select $4 menu items for sampling. The "Little Book of BIG DEAL$": Pick one up at the gate or the Made in Oklahoma Store (Bennett Event Center) for over 60 coupons and $250+ in food and fun savings. Pro-Tip Strategy: Use the fair's official online Food Finder tool beforehand to plot a strategic route across vendor rows so you don't miss key spots like Mac Me Crazy or Wondervan Pops. Event Logistics & Discount Days Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd, OKC) Early Savings: Buy gate admission and carnival armbands before September 17 to lock in advance discount pricing. Thrifty Thursdays (Sept 17 & 24): $10 gate admission, $25 ride armbands. Military Monday (Sept 21): Free admission for active duty, veterans, and spouses. Senior Day (Sept 23): Free admission for 55+ with free shuttle access. College Day (Sept 24): $5 admission with college ID. Important Policies: Minors under 18 require an adult chaperone (25+) after 5:00 PM. Paid parking is cashless (credit/debit required). Links: Oklahoma State Fair Ticket Info & Advance Savings Interactive OK State Fair Food Finder Map Question for the listeners: If you could only eat ONE fair food for the rest of your life—are you picking a giant corn dog, an Indian taco, or a hot funnel cake? Let us know! Also discussed:  Misfit Pits BBQ, Enid SOS, HeyDey Entertainment, OTA, Visit Norman #OnlyInOKShow #OKStateFair #OklahomaStateFair #OKCFoodie #OKCFood #OklahomaCity #FairFood #DeepFried #TasteOfTheFair #ExploreOklahoma #OKEvents #OKC #IndianTacos #FunnelCake

  5. Aug 10

    Up, Up, and Away in Muskogee: Hot Air Balloons

    The Muskogee Hot Air Balloon Festival (formerly the Oklahoma Festival of Ballooning) is back, and it's kicking off a whole new chapter! Join us as we break down everything you need to know about this action-packed weekend at Hatbox Event Park. Muskogee Tourism Director Justin O'Neal highlights a massive focus on live music this year—pairing top-tier concerts with all the classic, high-flying family favorites you love. Whether you're taking to the skies, running a 5K among the balloons, or rocking out to Oklahoma's own country star Kaitlin Butts, this is an August weekend you won't want to miss! 📍 Event Details At-A-Glance When: Friday, August 21 & Saturday, August 22, 2026 Where: Hatbox Event Park (4000 Border Ave / 640 S 40th St, Muskogee, OK) Gates Open: 5:00 PM nightly | Live Music: 7:00 PM nightly 🎈 Sky-High Attractions Nightly Balloon Glow & Fireworks: Watch the evening sky light up with colorful, glowing hot air balloons, followed by a grand finale fireworks display every single night! Tethered Balloon Rides: Take a mini-flight on-site during the festival for a bird's-eye view of the grounds (no reservations needed!). Chartered Rides: Want the ultimate adventure? Full-charter flights are available Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (call ahead to book). Up Up & Away 5K: Saturday morning (Aug 22) at 7:30 AM—run a scenic course surrounded by hot air balloons! 🎵 Live Music Lineup Friday Night (Aug 21): Oklahoma's own Kaitlin Butts headlining, with special guests The Red Dirt Rangers. Saturday Night (Aug 22): New Orleans legends Dirty Dozen Brass Band, with special guests The Full Flava Kings. 🍔 Family Fun & Admission Free Kid Zone: Loaded with activities to keep the little ones entertained. Food & Shopping: Local food trucks and artisan vendors packed throughout the park. Admission: FREE! General Parking: $20 per vehicle (cash/card at the gate). Premium Parking: $30 per night or $55 for a Weekend Combo Pass (purchase online or at the Muskogee Civic Center Box Office). 🔗 Connect & Learn More Website: VisitMuskogee.com Phone: 918-684-6302 #OnlyInOK #VisitMuskogee #MuskogeeOK #OklahomaEvents #HotAirBalloonFestival #HatboxEventPark #KaitlinButts #RedDirtRangers #DirtyDozenBrassBand #ExploreOklahoma #OKTourism #FamilyFunOK

  6. Aug 3

    Hidden Ozark Paradise: The Ultimate Spring-Fed Hideaway in Eucha, OK!

    Welcome back to the Only in OK Show! Today, we are taking a trip down a bumpy dirt road to New Eucha, Oklahoma (pronounced YOU-chee!), tucked right at the edge of the Ozarks in the heart of Green Country. We're exploring a Top 5% Airbnb guest favorite that sits on a breathtaking 1-acre, spring-fed pond where you can literally watch natural spring water gush right out of the hillside! Join us as we break down this incredible Oklahoma escape, including: The Bumpy Arrival: Why getting there is half the fun (and why you'll want a truck!). The Ultimate Water Setup: Free access to paddle boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and stocked pond fishing. Cozy Cottage Vibes: The unique floor-bunk setup, rustic-meets-modern layout, and that famous step-up bathroom quirk. Pure Seclusion: Morning coffee on the deck, string-lit evenings, s'mores by the campfire, and why 166 reviews gave it a nearly perfect 4.99-star rating. Grab your fishing poles, turn up the volume, and find out why this hidden spring-fed oasis is a must-visit Oklahoma destination! Also discussed:  Lake Eucha Park, Natural Falls State Park, Grand Lake O' the Cherokees & Ruzycki Farms. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/53540683?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=719d02c9-2b72-4b43-b8d0-0463bc9c7cfe https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/oklahoma-named-doe-finalist-for-proposed-nuclear-innovation-campus #OnlyInOKShow #OklahomaTravel #DiscoverOklahoma #GreenCountryOK #EuchaOklahoma #OklahomaAirbnb #Ozarks #SpringFedPond #OKCabinRentals #VisitOK #OklahomaPodcasts #ExploreOklahoma #TravelOK

4.9
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Howdy Y'all…just kidding! Welcome to our page. We are the Only in Oklahoma Show, where you can hear about travel and entertainment in the Great State of Oklahoma. Our sole purpose is to shine a light on some of the people, places and stories that make Oklahoma, more than just "OK". In fact, Oklahoma is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the country even by some of the locals. Powered by award winning podcasters (2018 Podcast Award – Society and Culture), Harley C. and Brett Manzer. Tune into the Only in Oklahoma Show to hear interviews, news and reviews about Oklahoma's best restaurants, hotels, festivals, museums, outdoor activities, breweries, rodeos, concerts, casinos, Route 66, and more (literally this list is endless). If it's fun and in Oklahoma, we will be talking about it. We will also be covering some not so topics, like bureaucrats, bridges, toll booths and taxes. If it affects your bottom line or your lake time, we will be cussin' and discussin'. If you are joining us from the Odd Pod, some things never change. Manzer and Harley will be trying to make you laugh while dropping some knowledge about the places we cover. Don't worry, we will still be covering the occasional red-dirt ghost story, cryptid, and UFO conspiracy…as long as it is north of the Red River (BOOMER!). Boots and straps and cowboy hats are optional. Welcome to the Only in Oklahoma Show!

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