Oma and Noma Days
Lake of the Ozarks
It is the vivacious nature of the inhabitants of the Ozarks that has made Lake of the Ozarks as famous as it is today. Thanks to the vibrant and lively attitude of every individual, the fun at the Ozarks never seems to end. Every single day of the year is a celebration of some aspect of life. Nature, plants, animals, festivals, cars, people…. everything is considered worth celebrating.
Oma and Noma days, celebrated during the months of September and October, at the Ozarks are a tribute to the bubbly and enthusiastic people of the Ozarks who brought it the fame it enjoys today. You cannot witness this type of celebration in any other part of the world. The birth of this celebration dates back decades.
Oma and Noma Degraffenreid, in the year 1931, took a decision to be the first ones to drive on the now famous Bagnell Dam when it was thrown open to the public. On May 31, 1931, at 6am, they realized this dream when this dam was officially opened to the public.
It may seem silly to you and may make you wonder if this is worth celebrating at all? Well, it may not seem to be a great deal now, but for the people who existed in 1931, it was a historic moment. Also, Oma and Noma’s grandfather and father were an integral part of the dam’s construction. The people of the Ozarks deem this to be an important event till date and hence, celebrate the Oma and Noma days in tribute to these vivacious women.
Lake of the Ozarks completely transforms itself into a party town for these three days. Events, activities, fairs, contests… there is just about everything you can experience during this period at the Ozarks. It is Bagnell Strip again that dons the festive looks and prepares to greet the thousands of visitors who flock to the Ozarks to commemorate the spirit of the land.
A guided tour of the famous Bagnell Dam is held each year for the people visiting this region. Historic artifacts dating to this period are also put up for display. These educational displays help understand the Ozarks and the lifestyle in great detail.
The smell of meat on the barbeque fills the air tantalizing the taste buds of the visitors and inspiring them to give it a try. There are innumerable food booths set up along this strip that sell everything ranging from hot dogs and burgers to fish and chips.
There is a 5 mile run that is organized as a part of the fund raising event for the Ozarks. A vintage and classic car show is organized during this three day period. This is the best time for the local musicians to display their talents. Local artisans and those from other parts of the world put up their wares for sale in the respective booths. Country dancing is another highlight of this three day celebration.
If you thought these celebrations have nothing to offer your children, think again! Your children will be as busy as you in this part of the world. The Little Mr and Miss Oma and Noma contest is held exclusive for them. There is also the frog jumping contest and checker tournament they can participate in.
All in all, if you want nothing but fun and merriment all through your vacation, then, head to the Oma and Noma days celebration at the Ozarks with your friends and family.
