The Most Epic Annual Events in Missouri: Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals (Currently Open)
Missouri is a state bursting with heritage, vibrant culture, and spirited celebrations. From historic river towns to jazz-filled vineyards and bold hot-air balloon spectacles, the state hosts festivals that promise unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a curious tourist, a local seeking something new, or a family wanting to dive into the best festivals in Missouri, this guide will take you through ten of the most epic annual events currently operating. Each festival is a unique window into what makes Missouri shine.
1. PrideFest St. Louis – Downtown St. Louis
Each year in late June, downtown St. Louis bursts into color and celebration with PrideFest St. Louis. Wikipedia
Why it’s a must-do
Huge parade downtown, with vibrant costumes, high-energy music, and inclusive crowds.
A mix of vendors, food, entertainment, live performances—perfect for families or groups.
Celebrates identity, community, and the fun of being together in Missouri.
What to expect
Arrive early for prime parade viewing.
Bring a reusable water bottle (festival grounds can be warm).
Check for any updated schedule or closure notices (events are currently open but always good to verify).
Best for
Locals and visitors looking for an inclusive, joyful Missouri festival experience.
Families and friends wanting to share a day of celebration in the heart of the city.
2. Great Forest Park Balloon Race – St. Louis (Forest Park)
If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing dozens of hot-air balloons rising into the sky, this festival brings that dream to life. Wikipedia
Why it stands out
One of the country’s most well-attended hot-air balloon races, set in the iconic Forest Park.
The spectacle of “balloon glow” events the night before adds magic.
Great for couples, adventure-seeking families, and anyone wanting an elevated Missouri festival.
Highlights & tips
Early morning launches are spectacular—set your alarm.
Wear layers: mornings can be chilly even when days warm up.
Park access may be limited—arrive by public transport if possible.
The Missouri twist
Forest Park is a cultural hub of St. Louis, and the balloon race adds an aerial viewpoint on the city’s heritage.
3. Missouri State Fair – Sedalia
For a classic “state fair” experience—rides, livestock, concerts, midway food, crafts—this festival captures the broad spirit of Missouri. Missouri State Fair | Aug 13-23, 2026
What makes it epic
A long-running tradition (dating back to 1901) that speaks to rural and urban visitors alike. Wikipedia
Exhibits, competitions, food innovations and entertainment for all ages.
Planning notes
Check daily headliner concerts if you’re going for music.
If you’re bringing children, allocate time for the kid-friendly zones.
Comfortable shoes recommended.
Ideal audience
Families seeking a wholesome Missouri festival.
Anyone curious about agricultural heritage + modern entertainment in Missouri.
4. True/False Film Fest – Columbia
For culture-seekers, cinephiles and those looking to expand beyond food and carnival festivals, this documentary film festival hits the mark. Wikipedia+1
Highlights
Held each spring in Columbia, Missouri.
Shows documentaries, hosts discussions, interactive events.
It blends local and global perspectives—bringing the world to Missouri.
Experience tips
Reserve your tickets ahead of time—popular screenings sell out.
Bring a notebook or device if you enjoy following director Q&As.
Stay downtown in Columbia and explore the local food scene in between screenings.
Why it fits the “must-experience in Missouri” category
Offers a deeper, thoughtful festival experience rather than just entertainment.
Great for adults, couples, film students, culture enthusiasts.
5. Hermann Wine & Jazz Festival – Hermann
This is where wine country meets live jazz in Missouri. Set in charming Hermann, this festival ticks the boxes for sensory experience, style and local authenticity. Hermann Wine & Jazz Festival
What you’ll love
Outdoor venue amid vineyards, sipping local Missouri wines while jazz music plays.
A sophisticated yet relaxed afternoon-to-evening festival.
Pro tips
VIP tickets often include reserved seating and early pours—worth it if you want comfort.
Bring layers and a lightweight blanket for outdoor seating.
Designate a driver or use ride-share if you plan on wine tasting.
Best for
Couples looking for a romantic Missouri festival outing.
Wine lovers who also enjoy live music and scenic small-town charm.
6. Festival of Nations – St. Louis (Tower Grove Park)
A celebration of global cultures in one of Missouri’s most inclusive festivals. Wikipedia
Why it stands out
Food booths from dozens of nations, cultural dance, crafts, music in one lush park setting.
Great for families, groups, anyone interested in diversity and world culture.
Planning for fun
Sample food from multiple booths—share plates so you can try more.
The kids’ area offers crafts and interactive fun.
Bring cash or cards for smaller vendors.
Location matters
Set in Tower Grove Park—a beautiful urban green space in St. Louis. A perfect day-out combo of festival + picnic + city park.
7. National Tom Sawyer Days – Hannibal
For lovers of literary heritage and small-town charm, this festival delivers. Wikipedia
Why it’s memorable
Held in Hannibal, Missouri—the beloved hometown of Mark Twain.
Events include canoe races, costume contests, parades, and offerings tied to the Tom Sawyer universe.
Festival experience
Walk the streets of historic Hannibal, join a parade, enjoy riverside views.
Family-friendly activities and a time capsule of Missouri tradition.
Who should go
Families visiting the Midwest who want a Missouri festival that feels distinctly rooted in place.
Anyone interested in combining riverside scenery, American literature and festival fun.
8. Dogwood‑Azalea Festival – Charleston, Missouri
Spring in Missouri brings blooms—and this festival is one of the most scenic. Festival Guides and Reviews
Why it’s a standout
Celebrates the flowering dogwood and azalea season in southeastern Missouri.
Reflects nature, outdoor beauty, and community.
Best tips
Visit the gardens and landscape displays early for best photos.
Check for seasonal events like garden tours and local artisans.
Ideal for
Nature lovers, photographers, couples after a slower-paced festival experience in Missouri.
9. Boulevardia – Kansas City
A lively, modern festival combining craft beer, local food, live music and urban fun in Kansas City. 97.9 KICK FM
Festival highlights
Craft beer gardens, food trucks, local cuisine, outdoor stages.
Located in the heart of Kansas City—a major metro festival accessible for city-visitors and locals alike.
What to know
Bring ID if you’re sampling beer.
Choose flats or comfortable shoes (urban streets, crowd).
Arrive early to secure parking or public transit.
Who it suits
Young adults, groups of friends, foodies, beer and music lovers who want a lively Missouri festival in the city.
10. Snake Saturday – North Kansas City
This quirky, family-friendly parade and festival takes place the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day—fun, festive, and uniquely Missouri. Wikipedia
Why it’s unique
The parade is themed on the legend of Saint Patrick and snakes, set in a lively suburban setting near Kansas City.
Combines tradition, fun, costumes, parade floats and spring-season energy.
Things to know
Early arrival for best viewing spots.
Dress warm (March in Missouri can be unpredictable) and bring a blanket for the ground.
Best for
Families, local residents, anyone wanting a hearty festival experience without the huge crowds of mega-festivals.
How to Choose the Right Festival for You
Here are some quick pointers:
Location vs travel: Urban festivals (St. Louis, Kansas City) are easily accessible, while smaller towns (Hermann, Hannibal, Charleston) offer more relaxed charm.
Interests: If you love music & wine, go for Hermann Wine & Jazz. If you love culture and food, Festival of Nations or Boulevardia may be your match.
Timing: Spring festivals (like Dogwood-Azalea) offer blooms; summer festivals (PrideFest, Missouri State Fair) bring heat and energy; early spring (True/False), late winter (Snake Saturday) offer early year picks.
Audience: Families? Consider National Tom Sawyer Days or Snake Saturday. Couples or adults? Hermann Wine & Jazz or Boulevardia. Locals exploring? Festival of Nations or PrideFest.
Prepare ahead: Buy tickets early when required, dress for weather, map accommodations if out-of-town, and check for parking or transit info.
Why These Festivals Matter for Missouri
They highlight diverse experiences across the state—from metro areas to river towns.
They reflect Missouri heritage: literary tradition, wine country, cultural diversity, outdoor landscapes.
They are evergreen and shareable: each festival offers photo-worthy moments, stories to tell and lasting memories.
They support local economy and community: vendors, entertainers, small businesses thrive at these events.
They offer current season relevance: all listed festivals are currently operating and open to visitors.
Final Thoughts: Your Festival-Ready Missouri Itinerary
Missouri invites you to celebrate, explore and engage. Whether you’re drawn to the jazz-filled vines of Hermann, the balloon-lit skies of Forest Park, or the global taste of Festival of Nations, you’ll find an epic annual event worth marking on your calendar.
Grab your calendar, pick one or two festivals that speak to you, book your lodging early, and plan for weather-appropriate clothing and transport. These festivals are more than events—they are treasures of Missouri’s cultural and communal life.