Just a Few Signature Annual Events in the Northland
Excelsior Springs Annual Celebrations – From Waterfest and Wine Festival to Mug Shots local brew event and seasonal celebrations like Sippin’ Into Spring, Excelsior Springs offers year-round reasons to visit.
Full event listings: https://visitexcelsior.com/annual-events/
Gladfest – Gladstone’s annual fall festival brings carnival rides, contests, entertainment, craft and vendor booths, and fireworks — a fall favorite for families and friends alike. Event page: https://www.gladstonechamber.com/gladfest Event details & schedule: https://www.zonarosa.com/events/events/festa-italiana/ (Zona Rosa)
Spring Fest at Zona Rosa – Celebrate spring with the Easter Bunny, bounce houses, crafts, pop-up shopping, and outdoor fun in Central Park + North Park. See events: https://www.zonarosa.com/events/
Summer Fest at Zona Rosa – A lively summer party with music, food trucks, foam parties, games, and the Strawberry Swing indie craft fair. More info: https://www.zonarosa.com/events/ 816 Block Party at Zona Rosa – Celebrate 816 Day each August with music, food trucks, local deals, and community fun in Central Park. Event page: https://www.zonarosa.com/events/
Fall Fest at Zona Rosa – Enjoy pumpkins, mini golf, music, crafts, and family activities during this autumn event. Details: https://www.zonarosa.com/events/
Northern Lights Holiday Lighting Ceremony – Ring in the holiday season with the Christmas tree lighting, performances, seasonal treats, ice skating at The Rink, and special character appearances. Holiday info: https://visitplatte.com/event/holiday-lights/
Jesse James Festival – Honor this legendary figure in his hometown with parades, rodeos, BBQ competitions, live music, and carnival attractions each summer. Official site: https://jessejamesfestival.com/
Liberty Fall Fest – A festive autumn event on Liberty Square with carnival attractions, artisan vendors, live music, food trucks, and seasonal fun for all ages. Festival details: https://libertyfallfest.com/
Historic Downtown Liberty Pumpkin Festival & Wellness Weekend – A free, family-friendly celebration with pumpkins, seasonal activities, and community spirit. Community event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1487981528930441
Snake Saturday Parade & Festival – A long-loved Northland tradition the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day with a vibrant parade and festival activities for all ages. Official site: https://snakesaturday.com/ Parkville Days – A community classic each August with rides, vendors, live music, food, and fun along the Missouri River in Historic Downtown Parkville and English Landing Park. Details: https://www.parkvillemo.org/whatsgoingon/parkville-days
Parkville 4th of July Celebration – A full day of patriotic festivities with pancakes, a parade, kids’ activities, and fireworks that bring the community together. Learn more: https://parkvillemo.gov/events/parkville-fourth-of-july-celebration/
Parkville Microbrew Fest – Springtime craft beer celebration with local brews, live music, and food in downtown Parkville’s lively setting. Calendar listings: https://www.parkvillemo.org/whatsgoingon
Briarfest – Riverside’s neighborhood music festival brings live performances, food trucks, local brews, arts vendors, and family fun each fall in the heart of the community. (Check local community calendars for dates) Smithville Lake Festival – A signature summer tradition on the shores of Smithville Lake, complete with music, food vendors, rides, and entertainment for all ages. Festival site: https://smithvillelakefestival.com/
Smithville Oktoberfest & Festi-Ville – Fall festivities in historic Smithville with craft brews, food, music, classic car shows, and family activities — great for seasonal visits. Oktoberfest details: https://www.historicsmithville.com/smithville-events/oktoberfest/ Festi-Ville info: https://www.facebook.com/events/downtown-smithville-mo/festi-ville/1670024960343082/
Weston Applefest – Celebrate the harvest season in charming historic Weston with a beloved fall festival featuring apples everywhere, arts & crafts vendors, live music, and family activities along scenic Main Street. More info: https://www.westonapplefest.com/
