Azalea Festival fuels Muskogee's economy

You know its spring in Muskogee because the azaleas have burst on to the scene in all their natural brilliance.<br/><br/>Kay Niemeyer: "its absolutely beautiful, breathtaking." "The colors are so radiant

Saturday, April 9th 2005, 7:19 pm

By: News On 6

You know its spring in Muskogee because the azaleas have burst on to the scene in all their natural brilliance.

Kay Niemeyer: "its absolutely beautiful, breathtaking." "The colors are so radiant in some of it."

Crimson, fuscia, lilac, the azaleas come in all shades but they also draw a lot of green.
Muskogee expects millions of dollars will pour into their economy thanks to the tourism boost from the azalea festival.

These ladies have come from as far as Tecumseh and Edmond to enjoy the beauty of Honor Heights park.During the Azalea Festival, its the city of Muskogee that's really in full bloom and on display. Hundreds of thousands of folks will visit over the next month.

Nathaniel Walker, Muskogee: "yeah its a big deal cause we're drawing in people from as far away as Tulsa, Tahlequah so its gonna be a big day for Muskogee."

If the azaleas don't hook you, the chili and barbecue just might. Dozens of vendors crowded downtown, tempting passers-by with their wares. It's just another way Muskogee is capitalizing on all the visitors.

Ruth Campbell, Inola: "Oh I think its very important you need something to do in a community to bring people in and spend money."

But for some, the azalea festival is just a good excuse to stop and smell the flowers.

Nova Sarren: "just to enjoy the nature and let them see all of the flowers that are growing and its just a really nice day."