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Dates:
May 2, 2026
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Location:
Doan’s Adobe
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Time:
May 2
The Doan’s May Picnic is the oldest continuously celebrated pioneer festival in Texas. It marks the May Day picnic of the C. F. Doan family in 1884 in Watts Grove. The day was so pleasant, the family decided to invite friends and repeat it the next year. The picnic became a tradition and has been held every year since. Crowning of a queen began in 1911, and a king was added in 1939. Due to flooding some years back, the event moved to the grounds that surround the Doan’s Adobe home. The 143rd picnic is set to take place on the lawn adjacent to the historical home, located three miles east of the intersection of FM 2916 and State Highway 283 between Vernon and Altus, Oklahoma. The day gets underway with a morning registration for attendees, including descendants of the settlers who have celebrated the event annually since it first began in 1884. Live music precedes the crowning of the king and queen, surrounded by their royal court, as part of the tradition to honor past, present and future generations. Following the ceremony, there’s a traditional barbecue lunch.
