The time is creeping closer for the notorious reptiles to make their appearance once again in the town of Magnum, Oklahoma. The sound of rattles and the distinct markings of the diamond shape bring people back year after year just to view a reptile that most people fear to step near. There will be three full days of good food, entertainment, handmade crafts, safety education programs, as well as the enjoyment of trying our your luck at the carnival games. These three days are referred to as the Mangum Rattlesnake Derby. This year will be the 47th Rattlesnake Derby starting on Friday the April 27 running through Sunday April 29.

Many people come out to this event from all areas within Oklahoma as well as other states or even from other countries. On average, the derby will expect to have 30,000 or more people walk the streets of Mangum throughout the three days. With such a high volume of people traveling to this event, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol would like to assist in making sure that travel is safe to and from the derby. A higher amount of vehicles is always expected during this time which means a higher probability of a collision occurring. In order to help reduce a person’s chances of becoming involved in a collision, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol has prepared to take several steps in decreasing these odds.

Expect to see an increase in law enforcement officers walking the streets in Mangum among the crowd as well as on the highways throughout the county. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol’s goal is to insure that the public has a great time by emphasizing safe travel. The higher presence of State Troopers upon the highways hopes to deter motorists from speeding, being overly aggressive and deter inattentive driving. Always remember to watch your speed because the Oklahoma Highway Patrol will be either from the highways or from the sky. Enjoy your time while visiting the derby.