The Sooner State

Oklahoma, often called the Sooner State, is a place where American history, natural forces, and cultural icons converge in unforgettable ways. From the roar of Route 66 to the thunder of Tornado Alley, it is a land where heritage meets resilience — shaping country music legends, advancing military innovation, and inspiring unwavering pride across the state.

Land of Tornadoes

Sitting squarely in Tornado Alley, Oklahoma is one of the most tornado-prone regions in the world. On average, the state sees about 60 tornadoes each year. The flat plains and unique geography create ideal conditions for severe weather, shaping not only the land but also the character of its people.

Oklahomans have earned a reputation for toughness, preparedness, and community spirit in the face of nature’s most powerful storms. This constant challenge has also made the state a hub for meteorological research, with the National Weather Center in Norman leading global efforts to understand and predict severe weather.

Military Might and AWACS

Beyond its culture and music, Oklahoma plays a critical role in North American defense. The state is home to several major military installations, most notably Tinker Air Force Base near Oklahoma City — where many Canadians also serve in support of the mission.

Tinker functions as a central hub for aircraft maintenance, logistics, and innovation. It is also the headquarters of the E-3 Sentry AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) fleet, often described as the military’s “eyes in the sky.” These aircraft deliver unmatched airborne surveillance and command capabilities, supporting missions around the globe. The base’s presence not only strengthens national security but also drives the local economy and fosters a deep sense of service and pride in surrounding communities.

A State Like No Other

From weathering tornadoes to cheering under Friday night lights, from Route 66 road trips to the roar of military aircraft, life in Oklahoma is equal parts challenge and charm. For newcomers, the accents, the heat, the critters, and the football fever may take some getting used to—but they soon become part of the rhythm of a state that blends grit with hospitality and history with heart.

Fun on the Frontier
A few "quirky fun facts" for your trivia playbook

• Country Music Legends – Oklahoma has produced some of the biggest names in country music, including Reba McEntire, Toby Keith, Garth Brooks, Blake Shelton, and Carrie Underwood.
• Route 66 – The state boasts the longest drivable stretch of historic Route 66. Travelers can explore quirky roadside attractions, neon-lit diners, vintage motels, and classic gas stations that recall America’s golden age of the open road.
• Bedlam Rivalry – Oklahoma is home to one of college football’s fiercest rivalries: the University of Oklahoma Sooners versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys. For locals, Bedlam is more than a game—it’s a cultural event that symbolizes school pride, friendly competition, and the state’s deep love of college sports.
• Lakes, by Design – Oklahoma is the only state in the U.S. where every lake is man-made. With more than 200 reservoirs scattered across its landscape, these lakes were built for flood control, water supply, recreation, and power generation.
• Native American Heritage – Oklahoma is home to 39 federally recognized tribes, more than any other state. The very name “Oklahoma” comes from the Choctaw words okla (“people”) and humma (“red”).