Post by CuPcAkE on Feb 13, 2008 14:16:34 GMT -6
Spring with
Unique Events and Festivals
From art fairs to azaleas and puppets to parades, big cities and small towns across the Show-Me State welcome travelers with a wide array of unique events and activities. Discover friendly smiles and long-time traditions at any of these great spring festivals.
For a complete listing of events or to get a copy of your 2008 Official Missouri Vacation Planner, log on to www.VisitMO.com or call toll-free 800-519-4800.
FEBRUARY
Heirlooms In Your Attic: Antique Appraisal Fair
Feb. 16
Sedalia
If you¹re a fan of the Antiques Road Show on television, here¹s your chance to experience something similar. Antique experts will be available to appraise items in the following categories: Collectible glassware including depression-era glass, costume and vintage jewelry, quilts, clocks, paintings, folk art, photos, old cameras, guns, war memorabilia, dolls and other memorabilia. Food and entertainment are available. Yeater Building, State Fair Community College Campus. 660-596-7328. www.visitsedaliamo.com.
Backyard Brrrr'ds
Feb. 16
Kansas City
Enjoy a short birding hike on the nature trail and see what birds stick around through the winter, then return to the lobby and make a simple bird feeder. Program for all ages. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center. 816-759-7300. www.kcconservation.com.
The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley
Feb. 21
Springfield
One morning, Stanley Lambchop wakes up flat. In his quest to become a three-dimensional boy once more, he mails himself around the world in a whirlwind musical travelogue that¹s a delight for the whole family. Juanita K. Hammons Hall. www.hammonshall.com.
Bass Pro Shops Grand Opening Weekend
Feb. 21-24
Independence
Independence welcomes its newest attraction at the grand opening of the 180,000-square-foot Bass Pro Shop. Highlights include a two-story atrium with a 20-foot waterfall descending into a 32,000 gallon freshwater aquarium stocked with record-size game fish, laser arcade, murals, pistol and archery ranges, wildlife dioramas, clothing accessories, a kayak pond, the Islamorada Fish Company restaurant and more. www.bassproshops.com.
True/False Film Festival
Feb. 28-March 2
Columbia
A boutique festival with a flea market flair, True/False brings together a carefully curated selection of challenging, insightful and raucous nonfiction films that dispel the notion that documentaries are stuffy and dry. Sandwiched between the nonstop movies you¹ll find parties, panel discussions and more. 573-442-TRUE (8783). www.truefalse.org.
"But Why Bump Off Barnaby?"
Feb. 29, Mar 1, 7, 8, 14, 15
Waynesville
The Pulaski Fine Arts Association's (PFAA) Theatre on the Square presents this mystery farce by Rick Abbot. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau, 573-336-6355. Rated G by PFAA. 573-774-5822. www.visitpulaskicounty.org.
Missouri River Wine Trail Weekend
Feb. 29-March 1
Rocheport
A great way to visit mid-Missouri wineries - a collaboration of four wineries along the designated trail - and enjoy a weekend getaway. Winery tours, tastings and food pairings are just part of the package. 573-689-2022. www.schoolhousebb.com.
MARCH
Opening Day of Trout Season
March 1
Bennett Spring State Park
The first day of trout season typically attracts thousands of anglers who stand shoulder-to-shoulder along the banks of the Niangua River. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty, hiking trails and rustic dining lodge. Bennett Spring State Park. 866-532-2666. www.lebanonmo.org.
Other popular spots around the state include Roaring River State Park in Cassville, Montauk State Park in Salem and Meramec State Park near Sullivan. www.mostateparks.com.
"Truman & Israel" Special Exhibitions
March 1-April 13
Independence
"Behind the Decision" This exhibit lets you experience first-hand accounts of the days leading up to the recognition of the state of Israel. Truman¹s letters, hand-written diary entries and correspondence with Jewish friends, as well as the recollections of people closest to Truman, vividly bring to life this dramatic moment in history. A companion exhibit entitled ³Portrait 2000² from the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, features photographs and biographical sketches of 50 Kansas City area Holocaust survivors. Harry S. Truman Library & Museum. 800-833-1225. www.trumanlibrary.org.
First Friday Art Walk
March 7 (and every first Friday of the month throughout the year)
Springfield
Enjoy an evening of art and fun when gallery owners stay open late showcasing photography, paintings, drawings, pottery, blown glass and sculpture. Downtown Springfield. 417-862-2787. www.springfieldarts.org.
Art in Bloom
March 7-9
St. Louis
At this festival of art and flowers, watch area floral designers demonstrate various techniques and styles of floral arranging. The Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. 314-721-0072. www.slam.org.
39th Annual AT&T St. Patrick's Day Parade
and 30th Annual Michelob Ultra St. Patrick's Day Parade Run
March 15
St. Louis
Elaborate floats, marching bands and giant helium-filled balloons fill the streets for this annual event. The parade begins at 18th and Market streets and ends at Broadway and Market. The five-mile Michelob Ultra run precedes the parade beginning at 9th and Market Streets. Runners of all ages and abilities are welcome. Find food, fun and live entertainment for the whole family at the AT&T Irish Village at Kiener Plaza. 314-241-7287 parade; 314-231-2598 run. www.irishparade.org.
35th Annual St. Patrick¹s Day Parade
March 17
Kansas City
One of the nation¹s largest St. Patrick¹s Day parades, this year¹s theme is Growing Up Irish: 35 Years in Kansas City, honoring second generation Kansas Citians and their Irish heritage. The parade begins at Crown Center on Grand Street ending at the Sprint Center. 816-931-7373. www.kcirishparade.com.
Kansas City Home Show & Flower, Lawn & Garden Show
March 27-30
Kansas City
Are you ready to start your next remodeling project? Searching for the right look for your lawn and garden? The Kansas City Home Show joined together with the Kansas City Flower, Lawn & Garden Show to become the ultimate resource for your home and garden needs. Convention Center Bartle Hall. 816-942-8800. www.kchba.com.
50 Miles of Art and Studio Tour
March 29-30
Hannibal to Clarksville
Visit more than 40 artists and artisans in the communities of Hannibal, Louisiana and Clarksville along a 50-mile stretch of Highway 79. Participating artists live and create along this scenic stretch of highway and open their studios, galleries and retail spaces for this semi-annual event. 573-754-5921or 888-642-3800. www.louisiana-mo.com.
Wurstfest
March 29-30
Hermann
Come enjoy this citywide celebration of the traditional art of German sausage making including sausage competitions, sausage samples and sausage-making demonstrations. Freshly grilled brats available in the Pavilion. 800-909-9463. www.hermannmo.info.
Oregon Trail Days
March 23-30
Defiance
A living history event on the trials and triumphs of traveling on the Oregon Trail. Find out what it took to leave your home and cross a great ³wilderness² for the promise of a new and better life. Historic Daniel Boone Home and Boonesfield Village. 636-798-2005. www.lindenwood.edu.
APRIL
Cool Art Hot Jazz
April 5-6
St. Louis
Formerly the St. Louis Spring Festival of Art, this juried exhibit and sale features more than 130 artists from across the country in all media including oils, clay, glass, wood, jewelry, watercolors, sculpture and photography. Queeny Park. 314-889-0433. www.gslaa.org.
GO! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness Weekend
April 5-6
St. Louis
One of Missouri's premiere family fitness festivals featuring seven different running and walking events from elite runners looking for an invigorating 26.2 mile run to beginners pursuing a personal best in the Diaper Dash. Other events include the Mature Mile, the popular four-person Marathon Relay and half marathon events. 314-727-0800. www.gostlouis.org.
BransonFest 2008
April 8-12
Branson
One of the area's premiere festivals for food, fun and entertainment, this five-day event gives visitors a glimpse of what they will find in Branson. Activities showcase world-class performances, authentic Branson fare, local arts, crafts and culture. Dick Clark¹s American Bandstand Theater. 1-800-BRANSON (272-6766). www.bransonfest.org.
Civil War Days
April 11-12
Doniphan
Hubbard's Battery Artillery Unit from Evening Shade, Ark., will present artillery fire and Civil War memorabilia. Folk and gospel singing, vintage crafts, food and more. 573-996-5298. www.ripleycountymissouri.org.
3rd Annual JoMoPro BMX Competition
April 11-13
Joplin
Autumn Ramp Skate Park, one of the country¹s premier skate and BMX facilities, opens its doors for the third year of the Joplin Pro-Am BMX Competition. Riders in amateur, intermediate and professional classes from all over the country will compete for their share of a $20,000 purse. The Bridge. 417-206-6886. www.thebridgejoplin.com.
40th Annual Dogwood-Azalea Festival
April 17-20
Charleston
Tour the six-mile trail when Charleston glows with the beauty of magnificent dogwoods and azaleas at peak bloom. Enjoy gorgeous, historic homes and three-generation dogwoods and azaleas a true feast for the senses. 573-683-6509. www.charlestonmo.org.
2008 Cherry Blossom Festival
April 24-27
Marshfield
Make plans to celebrate the beautiful cherry blossom trees and local history at the Third Annual Cherry Blossom Festival. The event features dedications, a symposium featuring Pearl Harbor survivors, a tea and more. Marshfield Activity Center. 417-859-2460. www.cherryblossomfest.com.
Sixth Annual "Just Girls Weekend"
April 25-27
Hannibal
Focused on women's interests, shops, restaurants, lodging and attractions roll out the red carpet just for ladies. 573-221-1101. www.visithannibal.com.
3rd Annual Spring ArtWalk
April 25-27
St. Charles
Nearly 100 painters, sculptures, potters, photographers, glass and jewelry artists will showcase their work at this unique event. All exhibits are indoors. Enjoy music, food and more. Main Street and Foundry Art Centre. 636-949-3231. www.historicstcharles.com.
Chalk Walk
April 26-27
Kansas City
The sidewalks become a canvas for local artists at the first annual Chalk Walk in the historic Old Northeast neighborhood. Enjoy live music and more! Concourse Park, Benton and Gladstone Blvds. and St John Avenue. 816-810-8991. www.chalkwalk.org.
Show-Me Gourd Festival
April 26-27
Sedalia
This annual event features a judged competition of gourds in a variety of categories, from their raw state to fine art creations. Nationally recognized gourd artists will be showing and selling their gourd art. Workshops, a raffle, live and silent auctions and hourly door prizes. Missouri State Fair Grounds Agriculture Building. 636-225-6376. www.showmegourdsociety.com.
MAY
Apple Blossom Festival
May 3
St. Joseph
Share the spirit of St. Joseph at this citywide festival which includes concerts, dances, queen and princess contests and the popular Apple Blossom Parade. Parade through St. Joseph; Festival at Coleman Hawkins Park. 816-294-9517. www.appleblossomparade.com.
Fiesta Kansas City
May 9-11
Kansas City
Food, fun and entertainment featuring national and local music groups, including mariachi and folkloric dancing. Crown Center. 816-472-6767. www.crowncenter.com.
Art Fair at Laumeier
May 9-11
St. Louis
150 national artists representing various media, demonstrations, music and food. Laumeier Sculpture Park. 314-821-1209. www.laumeier.com.
Feathers in Flight Birdathon
May 10-11
Joplin
Birding trips will be the primary focus at the newly opened Wildcat Glades Audubon Center. A variety of programs will enhance the experience of any birder. Special events include the nighttime Owl Prowl. Fun for all ages and skill levels. Various Locations. 417-623-2211. www.wildcatglades.audubon.org.
Fiber Fair 2008
May 17
Marshfield
See animal exhibits, demonstrations, mini workshops, children¹s crafts, vendors, a fashion show and knitting and crocheting speed contests. Webster County Fairgrounds. 417-859-7840. www.hfafiberfair.com.
Maifest
May 17-18
Hermann
A traditional spring celebration including winery tours, tastings, live German music and German food. 800-909-9463. www.hermannmo.info.
For a complete list of Missouri¹s spring events and other Missouri vacation ideas, log on to www.VisitMO.com or call toll-free 800-519-4800 to get a copy of your 2008 Official Missouri Vacation Planner.
Unique Events and Festivals
From art fairs to azaleas and puppets to parades, big cities and small towns across the Show-Me State welcome travelers with a wide array of unique events and activities. Discover friendly smiles and long-time traditions at any of these great spring festivals.
For a complete listing of events or to get a copy of your 2008 Official Missouri Vacation Planner, log on to www.VisitMO.com or call toll-free 800-519-4800.
FEBRUARY
Heirlooms In Your Attic: Antique Appraisal Fair
Feb. 16
Sedalia
If you¹re a fan of the Antiques Road Show on television, here¹s your chance to experience something similar. Antique experts will be available to appraise items in the following categories: Collectible glassware including depression-era glass, costume and vintage jewelry, quilts, clocks, paintings, folk art, photos, old cameras, guns, war memorabilia, dolls and other memorabilia. Food and entertainment are available. Yeater Building, State Fair Community College Campus. 660-596-7328. www.visitsedaliamo.com.
Backyard Brrrr'ds
Feb. 16
Kansas City
Enjoy a short birding hike on the nature trail and see what birds stick around through the winter, then return to the lobby and make a simple bird feeder. Program for all ages. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center. 816-759-7300. www.kcconservation.com.
The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley
Feb. 21
Springfield
One morning, Stanley Lambchop wakes up flat. In his quest to become a three-dimensional boy once more, he mails himself around the world in a whirlwind musical travelogue that¹s a delight for the whole family. Juanita K. Hammons Hall. www.hammonshall.com.
Bass Pro Shops Grand Opening Weekend
Feb. 21-24
Independence
Independence welcomes its newest attraction at the grand opening of the 180,000-square-foot Bass Pro Shop. Highlights include a two-story atrium with a 20-foot waterfall descending into a 32,000 gallon freshwater aquarium stocked with record-size game fish, laser arcade, murals, pistol and archery ranges, wildlife dioramas, clothing accessories, a kayak pond, the Islamorada Fish Company restaurant and more. www.bassproshops.com.
True/False Film Festival
Feb. 28-March 2
Columbia
A boutique festival with a flea market flair, True/False brings together a carefully curated selection of challenging, insightful and raucous nonfiction films that dispel the notion that documentaries are stuffy and dry. Sandwiched between the nonstop movies you¹ll find parties, panel discussions and more. 573-442-TRUE (8783). www.truefalse.org.
"But Why Bump Off Barnaby?"
Feb. 29, Mar 1, 7, 8, 14, 15
Waynesville
The Pulaski Fine Arts Association's (PFAA) Theatre on the Square presents this mystery farce by Rick Abbot. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau, 573-336-6355. Rated G by PFAA. 573-774-5822. www.visitpulaskicounty.org.
Missouri River Wine Trail Weekend
Feb. 29-March 1
Rocheport
A great way to visit mid-Missouri wineries - a collaboration of four wineries along the designated trail - and enjoy a weekend getaway. Winery tours, tastings and food pairings are just part of the package. 573-689-2022. www.schoolhousebb.com.
MARCH
Opening Day of Trout Season
March 1
Bennett Spring State Park
The first day of trout season typically attracts thousands of anglers who stand shoulder-to-shoulder along the banks of the Niangua River. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty, hiking trails and rustic dining lodge. Bennett Spring State Park. 866-532-2666. www.lebanonmo.org.
Other popular spots around the state include Roaring River State Park in Cassville, Montauk State Park in Salem and Meramec State Park near Sullivan. www.mostateparks.com.
"Truman & Israel" Special Exhibitions
March 1-April 13
Independence
"Behind the Decision" This exhibit lets you experience first-hand accounts of the days leading up to the recognition of the state of Israel. Truman¹s letters, hand-written diary entries and correspondence with Jewish friends, as well as the recollections of people closest to Truman, vividly bring to life this dramatic moment in history. A companion exhibit entitled ³Portrait 2000² from the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, features photographs and biographical sketches of 50 Kansas City area Holocaust survivors. Harry S. Truman Library & Museum. 800-833-1225. www.trumanlibrary.org.
First Friday Art Walk
March 7 (and every first Friday of the month throughout the year)
Springfield
Enjoy an evening of art and fun when gallery owners stay open late showcasing photography, paintings, drawings, pottery, blown glass and sculpture. Downtown Springfield. 417-862-2787. www.springfieldarts.org.
Art in Bloom
March 7-9
St. Louis
At this festival of art and flowers, watch area floral designers demonstrate various techniques and styles of floral arranging. The Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. 314-721-0072. www.slam.org.
39th Annual AT&T St. Patrick's Day Parade
and 30th Annual Michelob Ultra St. Patrick's Day Parade Run
March 15
St. Louis
Elaborate floats, marching bands and giant helium-filled balloons fill the streets for this annual event. The parade begins at 18th and Market streets and ends at Broadway and Market. The five-mile Michelob Ultra run precedes the parade beginning at 9th and Market Streets. Runners of all ages and abilities are welcome. Find food, fun and live entertainment for the whole family at the AT&T Irish Village at Kiener Plaza. 314-241-7287 parade; 314-231-2598 run. www.irishparade.org.
35th Annual St. Patrick¹s Day Parade
March 17
Kansas City
One of the nation¹s largest St. Patrick¹s Day parades, this year¹s theme is Growing Up Irish: 35 Years in Kansas City, honoring second generation Kansas Citians and their Irish heritage. The parade begins at Crown Center on Grand Street ending at the Sprint Center. 816-931-7373. www.kcirishparade.com.
Kansas City Home Show & Flower, Lawn & Garden Show
March 27-30
Kansas City
Are you ready to start your next remodeling project? Searching for the right look for your lawn and garden? The Kansas City Home Show joined together with the Kansas City Flower, Lawn & Garden Show to become the ultimate resource for your home and garden needs. Convention Center Bartle Hall. 816-942-8800. www.kchba.com.
50 Miles of Art and Studio Tour
March 29-30
Hannibal to Clarksville
Visit more than 40 artists and artisans in the communities of Hannibal, Louisiana and Clarksville along a 50-mile stretch of Highway 79. Participating artists live and create along this scenic stretch of highway and open their studios, galleries and retail spaces for this semi-annual event. 573-754-5921or 888-642-3800. www.louisiana-mo.com.
Wurstfest
March 29-30
Hermann
Come enjoy this citywide celebration of the traditional art of German sausage making including sausage competitions, sausage samples and sausage-making demonstrations. Freshly grilled brats available in the Pavilion. 800-909-9463. www.hermannmo.info.
Oregon Trail Days
March 23-30
Defiance
A living history event on the trials and triumphs of traveling on the Oregon Trail. Find out what it took to leave your home and cross a great ³wilderness² for the promise of a new and better life. Historic Daniel Boone Home and Boonesfield Village. 636-798-2005. www.lindenwood.edu.
APRIL
Cool Art Hot Jazz
April 5-6
St. Louis
Formerly the St. Louis Spring Festival of Art, this juried exhibit and sale features more than 130 artists from across the country in all media including oils, clay, glass, wood, jewelry, watercolors, sculpture and photography. Queeny Park. 314-889-0433. www.gslaa.org.
GO! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness Weekend
April 5-6
St. Louis
One of Missouri's premiere family fitness festivals featuring seven different running and walking events from elite runners looking for an invigorating 26.2 mile run to beginners pursuing a personal best in the Diaper Dash. Other events include the Mature Mile, the popular four-person Marathon Relay and half marathon events. 314-727-0800. www.gostlouis.org.
BransonFest 2008
April 8-12
Branson
One of the area's premiere festivals for food, fun and entertainment, this five-day event gives visitors a glimpse of what they will find in Branson. Activities showcase world-class performances, authentic Branson fare, local arts, crafts and culture. Dick Clark¹s American Bandstand Theater. 1-800-BRANSON (272-6766). www.bransonfest.org.
Civil War Days
April 11-12
Doniphan
Hubbard's Battery Artillery Unit from Evening Shade, Ark., will present artillery fire and Civil War memorabilia. Folk and gospel singing, vintage crafts, food and more. 573-996-5298. www.ripleycountymissouri.org.
3rd Annual JoMoPro BMX Competition
April 11-13
Joplin
Autumn Ramp Skate Park, one of the country¹s premier skate and BMX facilities, opens its doors for the third year of the Joplin Pro-Am BMX Competition. Riders in amateur, intermediate and professional classes from all over the country will compete for their share of a $20,000 purse. The Bridge. 417-206-6886. www.thebridgejoplin.com.
40th Annual Dogwood-Azalea Festival
April 17-20
Charleston
Tour the six-mile trail when Charleston glows with the beauty of magnificent dogwoods and azaleas at peak bloom. Enjoy gorgeous, historic homes and three-generation dogwoods and azaleas a true feast for the senses. 573-683-6509. www.charlestonmo.org.
2008 Cherry Blossom Festival
April 24-27
Marshfield
Make plans to celebrate the beautiful cherry blossom trees and local history at the Third Annual Cherry Blossom Festival. The event features dedications, a symposium featuring Pearl Harbor survivors, a tea and more. Marshfield Activity Center. 417-859-2460. www.cherryblossomfest.com.
Sixth Annual "Just Girls Weekend"
April 25-27
Hannibal
Focused on women's interests, shops, restaurants, lodging and attractions roll out the red carpet just for ladies. 573-221-1101. www.visithannibal.com.
3rd Annual Spring ArtWalk
April 25-27
St. Charles
Nearly 100 painters, sculptures, potters, photographers, glass and jewelry artists will showcase their work at this unique event. All exhibits are indoors. Enjoy music, food and more. Main Street and Foundry Art Centre. 636-949-3231. www.historicstcharles.com.
Chalk Walk
April 26-27
Kansas City
The sidewalks become a canvas for local artists at the first annual Chalk Walk in the historic Old Northeast neighborhood. Enjoy live music and more! Concourse Park, Benton and Gladstone Blvds. and St John Avenue. 816-810-8991. www.chalkwalk.org.
Show-Me Gourd Festival
April 26-27
Sedalia
This annual event features a judged competition of gourds in a variety of categories, from their raw state to fine art creations. Nationally recognized gourd artists will be showing and selling their gourd art. Workshops, a raffle, live and silent auctions and hourly door prizes. Missouri State Fair Grounds Agriculture Building. 636-225-6376. www.showmegourdsociety.com.
MAY
Apple Blossom Festival
May 3
St. Joseph
Share the spirit of St. Joseph at this citywide festival which includes concerts, dances, queen and princess contests and the popular Apple Blossom Parade. Parade through St. Joseph; Festival at Coleman Hawkins Park. 816-294-9517. www.appleblossomparade.com.
Fiesta Kansas City
May 9-11
Kansas City
Food, fun and entertainment featuring national and local music groups, including mariachi and folkloric dancing. Crown Center. 816-472-6767. www.crowncenter.com.
Art Fair at Laumeier
May 9-11
St. Louis
150 national artists representing various media, demonstrations, music and food. Laumeier Sculpture Park. 314-821-1209. www.laumeier.com.
Feathers in Flight Birdathon
May 10-11
Joplin
Birding trips will be the primary focus at the newly opened Wildcat Glades Audubon Center. A variety of programs will enhance the experience of any birder. Special events include the nighttime Owl Prowl. Fun for all ages and skill levels. Various Locations. 417-623-2211. www.wildcatglades.audubon.org.
Fiber Fair 2008
May 17
Marshfield
See animal exhibits, demonstrations, mini workshops, children¹s crafts, vendors, a fashion show and knitting and crocheting speed contests. Webster County Fairgrounds. 417-859-7840. www.hfafiberfair.com.
Maifest
May 17-18
Hermann
A traditional spring celebration including winery tours, tastings, live German music and German food. 800-909-9463. www.hermannmo.info.
For a complete list of Missouri¹s spring events and other Missouri vacation ideas, log on to www.VisitMO.com or call toll-free 800-519-4800 to get a copy of your 2008 Official Missouri Vacation Planner.
