Carney Fest returns to The Church Studio May 1–2 with two days of live music and celebration inspired by Leon Russell’s 1972 album “Carney.” Now in its fourth year, the festival continues to grow as a signature spring event, uniting national, regional and local artists in the spirit of Tulsa’s rich musical legacy, which continues to thrive today.

Carney Fest kicks off Friday, May 1 at Cain’s Ballroom with Grammy Award-winning musician Robert Randolph headlining the night. Known for his genre-blending sound, Randolph will no doubt deliver a high-energy start to the festival. Tulsa-based group Knipple will also be on the bill for the show. Equal parts garage, jazz and punk, this duo will start things off at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

On Saturday, May 2, Carney Fest expands into a full-day, family-friendly street festival surrounding The Church Studio. From 10 a.m.-7 p.m., guests can experience live performances across two stages, featuring a curated lineup of Oklahoma and regional artists, all of whom have recorded or performed at the historic studio. Featured performers include David Thayer Band, Brother Rabbit, Native Strange, Tempest Revival, The Websters, Tom Pevear, Peggy Johnson, Upscale Smoke, Patti Steel, Jim Bachmann, Luke Rountree & the Wild Mercury, as well as the Hi-Fi Hillbillies.

New in 2026, Carney Fest expands off stage with a special Carney Fest Cruise In, which turns the festival grounds into a showcase of classic and custom cars that capture Tulsa’s signature style. Registration is free and includes two tickets to the Saturday Festival. More information here. 

Also on Saturday, a Coney Island Hot Weiner Contest is adding a spirited touch of nostalgic Americana to the festival. Open to participants 18 and older, the competition challenges contestants to eat as many hot dogs as possible in seven minutes, with prizes awarded to first, second and third place.

Beyond the music, attendees to the festival should expect food trucks, vendors and guided tours of the historic Church Studio. Vendors include Andolini’s, Clouds Cotton Candy Creations, Cherry and Bark, Masa, Lost Boy Leather Company, Outlaw Customs, Pottery by Jezz and so many more.

Guests will also encounter street performers, visual artists and pop-up experiences that reflect the creativity and character of Tulsa’s evolving arts scene.

“Carney Fest is about more than a weekend of music,” said Teresa Knox, CEO of The Church Studio. “It’s a celebration of a creative legacy that continues to shape artists today, while creating new opportunities for musicians right here in Oklahoma.”

Tickets for the Cain’s show begin at $40 and tickets for the Carney Fest street party are $10 — children 12 and under are free. TulsaPeople readers can get a 10% off discount by using the code TULSAPEOPLE.

For more information about Carney Fest, including performance times for Saturday, head to the link here.