Warmer days are here, and with it, spring festivals to add to your seasonal calendar. Communities across Missouri will usher in the new season with celebrations featuring music, culture, art, flavorful fare and more.
At the Pedaler’s Jamboree (May 24-25) in Columbia, participants bike along Katy Trail State Park taking in scenic views by day and listening to a diverse lineup of musical performances at night. It’s a laid-back atmosphere where the fun of cycling meets the energy of live music. In Southeastern Missouri, Arcadia Valley Mountain Music Festival (May 16-17) in Ironton offers a traditional mountain vibe. Guests can enjoy the backdrop of the beautiful mountains while listening to bluegrass, country and folk tunes. Additionally, admission is free, and food and craft vendors will be set up on-site.
Experience life on a farm at Longmeadow Rescue Ranch’s Wagon Days (March 29, May 31, June 21) in Union. Spend a day with rescued animals, meet the Barn Buddies and take a wagon ride through the 165-acre facility. Entry is free, and guests can purchase food and beverages at the ranch or bring a picnic lunch. In Sibley, visitors can learn about 19th-century wool production from sheep to shawl at Sheep Shindig (May 3). Interpreters give the flock their annual shearing, and attendees will have the chance to try spinning and weaving themselves. In short, it’s educational, the entry fee is budget-friendly, and the sheep are adorable!
Get your hands dirty at 573 Chalk Festival (April 26) in Marquand. The event is free to attend and features sidewalk chalk art by professionals, amateurs and art enthusiasts created in real time (kids draw free). Moreover, there will be music, a cakewalk and food. Another event that showcases creative expression is Sawdust Fest (June 14), where woodworkers and artisans demonstrate their skills by turning raw materials into unique, beautiful sculptures. The day also includes a best and worst beard contest, live music, a petting zoo, old time photos, and so much more!
Attend the 10th Annual Corndog Kickoff at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds (May 3) in Springfield. Featuring over 40 favorite fair food samples, including fried PB&Js, deep fried Oreos, root beer floats, and, of course – delicious corndogs. It’s a chance to get all the best fair flavors without breaking the bank. Ticket purchase includes the food samples and a punch card for one full-size corndog and two drinks. For a farm-to-table experience, travel to Hermann for the Farmers’ Table Wine Trail (April 5) and meet the local farmers behind the food and wine pairings at the six participating wineries. For instance, enjoy delicious smoked beef flour tacos with Vignoles, spicy Asian pork meatballs with Pinot Noir, creamy whipped feta dip with Traminette, among other delightful pairings.
In Warrensburg, attendees can bring their furry friends to a festival for dogs, Old Drum Festival (June 14). With live music, mouthwatering carnival food and activities for children, it’s a memory your family (and your family’s best friend) will cherish. Another family fun event, no matter how you slice it, is Chillicothe’s Sliced Bread Day (June 7). The weekend kicks off with a concert, followed by several entertaining activities: a bread baking contest, the Sliced Bread Pageant, Grand River Museum activities, inflatables and so much more!
The 2025 Missouri Travel Guide is here. We’ll show you all the Show-Me State has to offer, from family-friendly destinations to romantic getaways and everything in between.
Request GuideNotifications