The Rise of Self-Sufficiency: The Okie Homesteading Expo

In March 2026, Pryor, Oklahoma, a town with a population of 9,700, became the focal point for the Okie Homesteading Expo, attracting approximately 3,000 attendees from across the United States. This event, held at the Mayes County fairground, featured a diverse array of activities aimed at promoting self-sufficiency. Participants engaged in lectures on topics such as home-schooling and livestock management, while also enjoying local foods and hands-on demonstrations, including butchering and canning.

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The expo was established five years ago by Sean Farnsworth and Kevin Pritchett, who share a vision of escaping the corporate lifestyle and preparing for potential crises, such as natural disasters or societal breakdowns. Both founders actively practice self-sufficiency on their farms, raising livestock and preserving food. Pritchett emphasized the importance of being prepared, stating, “Let’s say if the United States was attacked by another country or something, and the power grid goes down — if there’s no food, no gasoline — we could live on our farm for an extended period of time.”

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The Okie Homesteading Expo reflects a broader trend in the United States where individuals and families are increasingly interested in self-sufficiency. This movement is characterized by a desire to reduce reliance on external systems for food, energy, and other necessities. Attendees at the expo, including young couples and families, are drawn to the idea of returning to traditional skills and practices that enable them to live independently.

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The expo's founders have expressed their commitment to educating others about self-sufficiency. Farnsworth noted that the event serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and skills that can empower individuals to take control of their food sources and lifestyle choices. The growing attendance at the expo indicates a rising interest in these topics across the country.

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While the self-sufficiency movement garners significant interest, it is not without its critics. Some experts argue that the focus on individual preparedness may overlook systemic issues that require collective solutions, such as food security and climate change. Critics contend that while self-sufficiency can be beneficial, it should not replace broader societal efforts to address these challenges.

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As the self-sufficiency movement continues to gain traction, future expos and workshops are likely to expand, offering more resources and training for those interested in homesteading. The Okie Homesteading Expo may serve as a model for similar events across the nation, fostering a community dedicated to sustainable living and resilience.

New York Times

• “Let’s say if the United States was attacked by another country or something, and the power grid goes down — if there’s no food, no gasoline — we could live on our farm for an extended period of time,” — Kevin Pritchett, Co-founder of the Okie Homesteading Expo.

New York Times