STILLWATER, Okla. –
Eskimo Joe’s in Stillwater is celebrating a major milestone with a weeklong anniversary celebration marking 51 years in business.
The restaurant is calling this year’s celebration “Era 51,” featuring special events, giveaways and entertainment for longtime fans and new visitors.
The longtime restaurant and brand will celebrate the milestone with a week of events, giveaways and entertainment from July 13-20.
Stan Clark, co-founder and owner of Eskimo Joe’s, said the idea for this year’s theme came from a member of the company’s creative team.
“A young lady who’s kind of our ink specialist in our production facility, Julie, came up with the idea of, well, how about Era 51? And I was like, perfect,” Clark said. “Now, Spielberg’s making a movie about it. And of course, there’s all the press about, you know, Area 51 and just the whole thing.”
Clark said the anniversary celebration continues a tradition of bringing customers together through the restaurant’s iconic merchandise and community involvement.
“Of course, just so blessed to have such incredible artists on our team that helped make this stuff happen,” Clark said.
The restaurant’s anniversary T-shirt is expected to be a popular item among longtime fans and collectors. Eskimo Joe’s will also give away anniversary posters at Woodland Hills Mall on Saturday, July 11 from 1 to 3 p.m.
“So everybody loves Eskimo Joe’s,” Clark said. “I think this T-shirt has like the T-shirt, the posters that are seen around the world.”
A legacy built on community
Clark said Eskimo Joe’s 51-year history is about more than just the restaurant — it’s about the people and organizations it has supported over the years.
“Over our 51-year history now, I think some of our proudest legacy is, first of all, all the young people that have been a part of our — we’ve been able to share Joe’s big grin for the greater good and been able to do so many things that have just helped our state, certainly our local community,” Clark said.
From a handshake deal to 51 years in business
Clark said Eskimo Joe’s began with a spur-of-the-moment decision shortly after he graduated from Oklahoma State University.
“Well, it’s first of all, just what a blessing,” Clark said. “I got to start a business two months after I graduated from Oklahoma State University.”
Clark credited his original business partner with coming up with the idea for the restaurant.
“I got to thank Steve Fowler, my original partner,” Clark said. “It was his brain, you know, it was his brainchild. He said, ‘Hey, Clark, I’m going to open a bar.’ I said, ‘Hey, Paul, I’m going to partner with you.’”
Clark said the two drove to what would become Eskimo Joe’s, met with the owner and made a deal.
“That’s what a spur-of-the-moment, wild hair this was,” Clark said. “And then, boom, 51 years later.”
Eskimo Joe’s 51st anniversary schedule: July 13-20
Throughout the week, Eskimo Joe’s will host themed nights, entertainment and giveaways:
Monday, July 13
Celebrity Waiter Night benefiting Cowboys vs Cancer Foundation
Tuesday, July 14
JoeBingo benefiting Kickin’ Childhood Hunger
Wednesday, July 15
Live Music at 10 p.m. with The Brothers Moore and special guest Amber Watson
Thursday, July 16
Cosmic Karaoke with Jared Cranke at 10 p.m.
Friday, July 17
Live Music at 10 p.m. with Ray and The Highrollers and special guest Carly Nash
Saturday, July 19
Kids’ Carnival from 9 a.m. to noon (dress to get wet)
Poster Giveaway from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
DJ Moody at 10 p.m.
Sunday, July 20
Cupcakes at noon while supplies last
Dustin, the Twisted Balloon Guy, from noon to 3 p.m.
Throughout the week, guests can check their silverware packs for a chance to win instant prizes, spin the prize wheel or play Plinko for exclusive giveaways.
Joe’s Clothes will also offer a special anniversary shirt for fans and collectors.
Find more details here.
