Events in Excelsior Springs are on-going with many of the City’s biggest events recurring annually. From Christmas, to Gatsby Days, to Waterfest, to Barbeque on the River, you are invited to experience the excitement of concerts, parades, festivals, food and fireworks year after year!
There is always something going on in Excelsior Springs. Check out our full activities calendar for year-round run events.
Lyrics on the Lawn
June – September 2025
A Summer Music Series
Join us this summer on the Hall of Waters Lawn for an unforgettable series of free, family-friendly concerts. Experience the magic of live music under the stars in the heart of Excelsior Springs. This event series promises to bring together the community, music lovers, and families for evenings filled with enchanting melodies and unforgettable performances.
Farmers Market
Wednesdays June – October 2025
Fresh Finds & Local Vibes
Fresh vegetables, fruit, homemade goods, flowers, honey and more! Activities for the kids.
Vic Bonuchi Golf Tournament
July 2025
Celebrate a Local Sports Hero
Annual Vic Bonuchi Golf Tournament and ESHS Football Fundraiser. Event includes golfing, food, drinks, silent auction, hole contests and much more.
BBQ & Fly-in on the River
August 15-16, 2025
Smoke Em' If You Got Em'
Whether you spell it BBQ, Barbeque or Barbecue, it’s the taste of America. The BBQ & Fly-In on the River is back for year 25 in the heart of our community, Downtown Excelsior Springs.
On The Rocks Whiskey Stroll
August 15, 2025
Raise a Glass to Great Whiskey
Stroll through Downtown Excelsior Springs and enjoy whiskey tastings at each stop. With live music, great BBQ, and plenty of local flair, this event is a whiskey lover’s dream. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the best spirits during BBQ weekend!
Home Brew Contest
August 16, 2025
Taste the Best of Home Brews!
Sample the finest creations from local home brewers and vote for your favorite at the annual Home Brew Contest! This friendly competition showcases the talent of amateur brewers and offers attendees the chance to taste a wide variety of creative and delicious brews.
DEP Annual Dinner
September 25, 2025
A Night of Celebration
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the DEP Annual Dinner, where community spirit and big dreams for Downtown Excelsior Springs come together! This special night features fine dining, live entertainment, and exciting fundraising activities, including unique auctions and prizes. Celebrate our shared accomplishments, connect with fellow community members, and get inspired by our vision for a vibrant future. Your support directly benefits public improvement projects, ensuring a thriving, beautiful downtown for all to enjoy.
Opal Wapoo
October 11, 2025
Gravel Experience
Situated 30 minutes northeast of Kansas City, Missouri, the roads of Excelsior Springs give quick access to a huge network of gravel roads winding through the hilly countryside. The views give way to towering hills, tree lined roads, streams and farmland.
Witch Way to the Wine
October 25, 2025
Sip, Stroll, Shop & Cast A Spell
Don your witchy best and join us for a magical day of wine tasting in Downtown Excelsior Springs. With bewitching stops at local shops and restaurants, this spooky wine walk is the perfect way to kick off the Halloween season. Sample regional wines, indulge in treats, and enjoy a spellbinding day out with friends.
Downtown Trick or Treat
October 31, 2025
Boo! A Spooktacular Evening For Families
Come one, come all! Bring the kids for a safe, fun and candy-filled trick or treat experience in the heart of Excelsior Springs! The streets come alive with costumes, laugher, and Halloween Spriit!
Christmas in Excelsior Springs
November 22, 2025
Celebrate the Magic of Christmas in Downtown Excelsior Springs!
Step into a winter wonderland in the heart of Excelsior Springs, where the holiday spirit comes alive through a dazzling series of festive events and attractions.
Downtown Holiday Open Houses
November 22, 2025
Shop Local & Unwrap the Magic of Christmas
Head to Downtown Excelsior Springs for one of the most wonderful times of the year! Get into the holiday spirit. Browse holiday decor, enjoy exclusive sales, and sip on seasonal beverages as you explore beautifully decorated storefronts. This is the perfect chance to get a head start on your holiday shopping while soaking up the cozy, small-town holiday atmosphere.
Mistletoe Market
November 22, 2025
A Festive Market for All Your Holiday Gifts
Kick off your holiday shopping at the Mistletoe Market, where local artisans and vendors come together to offer unique, handcrafted gifts. From holiday décor to one-of-a-kind treasures, you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your list. Enjoy the holiday cheer and festive atmosphere while you shop!
Elf Factory
November 22, 2025
Create Your Own Holiday Magic
Let your little ones channel their inner elves at the Elf Factory! Kids can craft their own holiday creations to take home while enjoying festive music and sweet treats. This hands-on event is perfect for sparking creativity and making magical holiday memories with the family.
Mayor’s Downtown Lighting Ceremony
November 22, 2025
Watch Downtown Shine Bright
Join the community for a dazzling kickoff to the holiday season as the mayor flips the switch to light up Downtown Excelsior Springs. With sparkling lights, festive décor, and joyful music, this event is the perfect way to start your holiday celebrations and experience the magic of the season!
Lighted Christmas Parade
November 22, 2025
A Dazzling Parade of Lights and Festive Floats
Join us for Excelsior Springs’ greatest parade! Be amazed by twinkling lights and elaborately decorated floats as they roll through downtown in our annual Lighted Christmas Parade. It’s a holiday tradition that brings together families, friends, and the community to celebrate the season in style. Don’t miss the grand finale float featuring a special holiday guest!
Lane of Lights
November 22 – December 25, 2025
A Sparking Drive Through Holiday Display
Gather your family, hop in the car, and cruise through a dazzling lane of holiday lights! From whimsical displays to classic holiday scenes, the Lane of Lights is a must-see attraction that brings the magic of the season to life. Perfect for all ages, this drive-through experience will leave you feeling festive and bright.
Hall of Trees
November 22 – December 31, 2025
A Forest of Christmas Magic
Step into the enchanting Hall of Trees, where local businesses and organizations showcase their creativity by decorating beautiful Christmas trees. Wander through this winter wonderland and vote for your favorite tree while getting inspired by the festive spirit. It’s a joyful way to embrace the holiday season!
Letters From Santa
November 22 – December 14, 2025
Santa's North Pole Express
Add a personal touch to your holiday season with a custom letter from Santa Claus himself! Each letter is personalized for your child and sent directly from the North Pole, making this a magical experience that will keep the holiday excitement alive throughout the season.
Small Business Saturday
November 29, 2025
Shop Local, Support Dreams!
This holiday season, shop small and make a big impact on our community! Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to discover unique gifts, score exclusive deals, and support the local businesses that make Excelsior Springs special. Find something extraordinary for your loved ones and feel great about keeping it local.
Holiday Homes Tour
December 6, 2025
Step Inside Festive Holiday Homes
Take a tour through some of Excelsior Springs’ most beautifully decorated homes during the Holiday Homes Tour. Each home offers a unique glimpse into stunning holiday décor, and you’ll leave with plenty of inspiration for your own festive transformation. It’s the perfect holiday outing to get into the spirit of the season!
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
December 12, 2025
Meet Santa in Downtown
Meet us at the Hall of Waters, located at 201 E. Broadway for your FREE Pictures with Santa, Santa Claus is making a special stop in Excelsior Springs! Bring the kids for a chance to meet Santa, share their wish lists, and take memorable photos. This magical event is sure to bring joy to little ones and spread holiday cheer throughout downtown.
Candy Cane Hunt
December 13, 2025
A Sweet Adventure for Kids!
Kids of all ages are invited to join the hunt for hidden candy canes! This fun and festive event offers plenty of prizes and surprises for those who find the most candy canes. It’s a great way to enjoy some outdoor holiday fun and create sweet memories for the whole family. Sponsored by Excelsior Springs Parks and Recreation.
Cocktails and Candy Canes
December 13, 2025
Sip, Savor, and Celebrate the Season
Celebrate the holidays with delicious cocktails and festive treats at this lively downtown event. With participating locations offering signature holiday drinks and plenty of holiday cheer, this is the perfect evening out with friends to kick off the most wonderful time of the year in style.
Chocolate Tour
February 1, 2025
Indulge in a Sweet Escape!
Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you! Treat yourself to a decadent day of chocolate sampling as you tour downtown Excelsior Springs. Each stop features a unique chocolate creation, making this a deliciously fun way to explore local shops and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Murder Mystery
March 1-2, 2025
The Murder Mystery is Back!
Make a date and bring your friends to decide “whodunnit.” The all-volunteer local cast will present a play at the lovely Montgomery Event Venue, 425 S. Thompson Ave., in Downtown Excelsior Springs.
Sippin’ Into Springtime
March 29, 2025
Sip, Stroll, Shop & Support Local
Celebrate the arrival of spring with a delightful wine-tasting experience in downtown Excelsior Springs! With stops featuring seasonal wines, delicious bites, and plenty of local charm, this event is the perfect way to shake off the winter blues and welcome the warmer days ahead.
Spring Open Houses
March 29, 2025
Refresh Your Style For Spring!
Spring is in the air, and so are fresh finds at downtown shops! Visit participating businesses for exclusive sales, new arrivals, and special events as they open their doors to showcase the latest trends for the season. It’s a perfect time to revamp your home and wardrobe for spring.
Mug Shots
May 17, 2025
Snap a Shot & Sip Local Brews!
Raise your mug at this fun-filled beer-tasting event, where local breweries showcase their best craft brews and you get to taste other regional brews. With each ticket, you’ll receive a commemorative mug and access to unlimited tastings. Don’t forget to snap a photo with your friends as you enjoy good brews and great company!
Wine Festival
June 7, 2025
Uncork & Unwind In Downtown Excelsior Springs
Sip your way through Excelsior Springs’ premier Wine Festival, where local and regional wineries come together to offer tastings of their finest selections. With food, live music, and an array of wine varietals, this event is perfect for wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike!
Waterfest
June 27 – 28, 2025
Make a Splash at Waterfest
Dive into fun at Waterfest, an annual celebration of all things water! From water games and activities for the kids to live entertainment, food vendors, and local crafts, this fun-filled event has something for everyone. Dive in and experience one of Excelsior Springs’ favorite summer traditions.
