DURANT, OK - The 14th annual Magnolia Festival is in full swing from Thursday to Saturday.

The festival is named after the blooming magnolia trees that can be found all over Durant, including the most planted at Southeastern Oklahoma State University's campus.

The festival is a big draw for tourists and local businesses. This year there are nearly a hundred vendors set up near Durant's Main Street wiith everything from unique crafts to tasty foods.

City Manager Jim Dunegan said the festival boosts businesses and restaurants in the area, but also provides local artists a way to share their talents with the public.

Up to 30,000 people will visit this festival during the weekend, so it brings a lot of people in it's good for our businesses, I've had some businesses downtown tell him it's their biggest weekend of the year," said Dunegan.

He said there are many traditions that have lasted over the years, such as the quilt and art show, antique booths and events for kids. Some of the food and craft vendors have even been around since the Magnolia Festival began 14 years ago.

Saturday will also be a big day at the festival with a childrens parade and activities, a car show, pageant and live music.