06/08/2026
Toes in the Grand opening ceremonies to honor veterans, America 250 celebration.
Read all about it below!
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America’s 250th birthday will take center stage this weekend during the annual Toes in the Grand summer festival in Grove.
Each night of concerts, on Friday and Saturday, June 12 and 13, legendary Jana Jae of Hee Haw fame, along with Broadway entertainer Ron Young, will kick off events with a patriotic offering.
Veterans from American Legion Post 178 will join Jae and Young, by presenting the colors.
Amanda Davis, Grove Area Chamber president, said they also plan to recognize veterans in attendance and PSO and Solid Rock Realtors plan to provide patriotic giveaways, including American Flags, during the ceremony.
“It is a tremendous honor for Grand Lake to play a role in celebrating America 250 and recognizing the enduring spirit, history and freedom that define our nation,” Davis said. “As we gather for this special celebration, we are especially grateful to the brave veterans who have served and sacrificed to protect the liberties we enjoy every day.
“We proudly invite veterans from across the region to join us for our opening ceremonies as we come together to celebrate our great state, our great country and the generations of Americans who have shaped our story.”
Davis said it’s important those attending Toes in the Grand have an opportunity to take part in the historic milestone of America at 250.
“From patriotic festivals and historical exhibits to concerts, educational programs and community events, these activities are designed to honor America’s past while inspiring future generations,” Davis said. “Grand Lake is proud to be part of this historic milestone and to showcase the patriotism, hospitality and community spirit that make Oklahoma and America so special.”
Honoring the Nation
Young’s performances of the National Anthem began after he moved back to Grove after a career in New York performing on Broadway.
In the past 15 years, Young has sung the nation’s song more than 230 times. Initially he sang the anthem alone. Now Young performs it alongside trumpet player Timmy Moore.
“I feel like one of the most fortunate people around,” Young said. “I’m still singing at my age.”
Young, 85, credits his music teacher, Beverly Davis, for helping him develop techniques which allow him to continue to sing.
America’s Musical Heritage
Jae said she’s excited to be part of the festival. She plans to bring her famous blue fiddle and a group of musicians to perform a short melody of American fiddle tunes.
“I’m honored. I feel the patriotism of the moment and I’m so happy to be part of it,” Jae said, adding she plans to play “sparkly fiddle tunes,” in celebration of the country’s birthday.
Jae said she will end the opening ceremony by playing God Bless America. As in her other concerts, she plans to encourage attendees to stand up, and sing along with the music.
“This [fiddle tunes] is our American music,” Jae said. “It’s what developed on the back porches of Appalachia and within the wagon trains of the pioneers.
“It’s such a high, to be an American and pay tribute to our country,” Jae said.
Celebrating 250 Years
Steven Thomas, commander of post 178, as well as the Oklahoma State Commander, agreed. \
He said the post’s members – which span a multitude of eras of service – are proud to be part of the country’s 250th birthday celebration.
He said whether a veteran serves five years or 35 years, being able to represent and present the colors of the nation, brings a flood of emotions.
“It means the world to any of us who served, to march underneath [the flag], or carry it over our heads,” Thomas said.
Did You Know?
In addition to appearing at Toes in the Grand, Jae will host the 29th American Heritage Music Festival at Har-Ber Village in Grove.
That festival takes place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday, June 12 and 13. Admission to Har-Ber Village is $5. Additionally a “kick-off” jam concert is set for 6 p.m., Thursday, June 11, at Snider’s Camp, on the shores of Grand Lake. A second evening concert is also planned for 6:30 p.m. on Friday evening at Snider’s Camp.
For more information, persons interested may visit the festival page on Facebook American Heritage Music Festival
Grove Area Chamber
