Published: April 29, 2009 07:37 pm         

Okeene Rattlesnake Roundup helps to purchase Christmas gifts

OKEENE — When the last snake slithers out of town Sunday evening, it will be for the good of the children in town.

Proceeds raised through 70th annual Okeene Rattlesnake Roundup, slated Friday through Sunday, are used to cover the event’s expenses. Anything left benefits children in the community.

“The biggest thing that got me into it was that the money raised goes back to buy Christmas gifts for the kids in town,” said Aaron Williams, who each year takes his turn in the roundup’s Den of Death, where those attending the event can safely see thousands of deadly snakes up close.

Each year the town of Okeene shuts down a portion of Main Street, also known as Oklahoma 11, to allow vendors to set up their booths. Everything snake — from roundup shirts to snake meat — can be found for purchase at the booths this weekend.

Cost to enter the Den of Death is $3 for adults, $2 for children younger than 12 and free for those younger than 6. Inside, those attending can see rattlers and ask questions of the volunteers inside the pit. Other snakes from Oklahoma also can be found in the pit, Williams said.

A carnival will be set up, and ticket booths will be available for the rides.

A parade will start at 10 a.m., and officials say Colby Barnes, originally of Loyal, is expected to participate. Barnes rides in a vehicle with a special passenger — his bull Rex.

There are minimal fees to the Old Smokey history booths and butcher shop.

Railroad Museum of Oklahoma will offer round-trip train rides from Enid to Okeene and Okeene to Southard on Saturday. Children must be accompanied by adults on all rides.

The train departs from 1122 Trails West in Enid at 9:30 a.m. and arrives in Okeene at about 10:45. It returns to Enid at 2:15 p.m. Ticket cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children age 1 to 12.

Excursion rides from Okeene to Southard will leave at 11:15 a.m. and 1 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children age 1 to 12.

Those wishing to participate in snake hunting can get information at the event’s club headquarters. Williams said hunters must have a state license, or they can buy a five-day state-legal permit at the roundup. The permit fee is paid to the state. There also is a hunting fee specifically for the roundup. Registration starts at noon Friday. There will be regular caravan rides to the hunting grounds.