Check out these events happening in the Springfield, Missouri area in May 2024, from outdoor festivals and shows to Mother’s Day events and art activities. To see a full event calendar, click here.
“Azusa Street” at Stained Glass Theater
Stained Glass Theater performs “Azusa Street” a story about Adam Oaks as he takes his prophesied journey across the great desert of the West to Azusa Street. As he goes, he carries with him a dreadful secret. The revival at Azusa Street brings great joy for Adam, but he must also face many trials.
Thursday and Friday performances begin at 7 p.m., and Saturday performances begin at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 on the day of the performance. Tickets for kids 5–12 are $5.
When: April 26–May 25, 2024
Where: 1996 W. Evangel St., Ozark
“The Other Place” at the Historic Fox Theatre
Springfield Contemporary Theatre presents “The Other Place” at the Historic Fox Theatre in downtown Springfield. Tickets range between $29–$32 for adults. The show is about Juliana Smithton, a successful neurologist whose life seems to be coming unhinged.
When: April 26–28, May 2–5, 9–12, 2024
Where: 157 Park Central Square, Springfield
Taco De SoMo
Southern Missouri's premiere taco competition, taco lovers gather to share their universal love for tacos as well as raise money to help local families caring for loved ones with developmental disabilities. Enjoy margaritas, Mexican cuisine and music.
When: 6–9 p.m. May 2, 2024
Where: 2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield
“Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue
The Golden Girls are back! See “Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue” at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. Miami’s sassiest seniors have returned for one more hurrah. Relive the heartfelt hilarity of four ladies who never stopped being your friends. This production is for 18+.
When: May 3, 2024
Where: 525 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy., Springfield
“Springfield Ballet: Alice in Wonderland” at the Landers Theatre
The Springfield Ballet is excited to present the premiere production of a ballet adaptation of “Alice in Wonderland.” Tumble down the rabbit hole and join them for a fantastic journey.
When: May 3–5, 2024
Where: 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield
First Friday Art Walk
Attend First Friday Art Walk on the first Friday of every month, a feast for the senses in 24+ locations. This free self-guided tour of galleries and art venues features original artworks, live art demonstrations, live music, local history, international culture, and all the dining, shopping and entertainment the city is known for.
When: 6–10 p.m., May 3, 2024
Where: Downtown, Springfield
Artsfest
An arts-centered festival on Historic Walnut Street, this celebration has been known to attract nearly 30,000 people to downtown Springfield. The festival features over 100 artists from all over the country and local and regional entertainment. Tickets are $5 each and kids five and under are free. Tickets allow entrance to the festival on both days.
When: 10 a.m.– 5 p.m., May 4–5, 2024
Where: Historic Walnut Street, Springfield
Corndog Kickoff
Enjoy all your fair food favorites at the 9th Annual Corndog Kickoff at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. One price will get you endless fair food and beverage tasting plus live entertainment by local artists. Tickets start at $20, and VIP Tickets go up to $45-$55.
When: May 4, 2024
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
Downtown Dog Day 2024
Let your furry friend enjoy food, games, activities, entertainment and more at Downtown Dog Day 2024. There will even be adoptable dogs, dog-friendly vendors and more. This event is free to attend!
When: 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. May 4, 2024
Where: 118122 Park Central Square, Springfield
Missouri Beef Days
This week-long celebration of all things beef is hosted by one of Missouri’s top beef-producing counties and highlights the industry’s importance to the region, state, and nation. Attend concerts, tasting events, a rodeo, and more.
When: May 4–11, 2024
Where: Bolivar, Missouri
Ozark Mountain Stargazing
Meet with astronomers at Ozark Mountain Adventure while you look at the night sky through high-powered telescopes to search for planets and learn about constellations. This event is free and open to the public and made possible by the Springfield Astronomical Society.
When: 8–10 p.m., May 4, 2024
Where: 1720 Sunset Inn Road, Branson
Springfield Prehistoric Native American Artifacts Show
See prehistoric Native American artifacts like arrowheads, stone axes, pipes, Mississippian & Caddo pottery, bone and shell artifacts at the 18th annual show. Collectors will display lots of museum-quality artifacts from eight states. Admission is $5 for adults, and kids 12 and under are free.
When: 8 a.m.–3 p.m., May 4, 2024
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
417 Salsa Fest
Attend the first-ever 417 Salsa Fest at Relics Event Center. The afternoon will include salsa tastings and a hot pepper tasting challenge. Authentic Mexican items, along with other vendor items, music and more, will be for sale.
When: 12–5 p.m. May 5, 2024
Where: 2015 W. Battlefield Road, Suite E, Springfield
Mother’s Day Perfume Making Workshop
Attend a special perfume-making workshop in honor of Mother’s Day. Celebrate Mother’s Day uniquely and memorably by creating your very own signature scent. You’ll take home your one-of-a-kind fragrance in a beautiful 30ml perfume bottle. Tickets are $40.
When: 5–8 p.m., May 9, 2024
Where: 5176 N. Fremont Road, Nixa
Rountree Historical House Tour
Rountree Council for Preservation invites you to see five beautiful homes featured in one of Springfields’ highly sought-after historic neighborhoods. This self-paced tour provides insight into the design and decorating inspiration of five selected homes and gardens. Park and ride the complimentary shuttles starting at University Heights Baptist Church.
When: 6–9 p.m. May 10, 12–4 p.m., May 11, 2024
Where: 1010 S. National Ave., Springfield
Schofield + Gray Antique & Gift Market
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Schofield + Gray Market. Shop from a great lineup of antiques, vintages, gardens, boutiques, home decor, and gift vendors, all nestled in a one-of-a-kind outdoor atmosphere. Listen to live music and order food and desserts from various food trucks. Admission is $5 at the gate.
When: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. May 11, 2024
Where: 353 E. Main St., Fordland
Baker Creek Spring Planting Festival
Enjoy expert speakers, local food, unique vendors, greenhouse and garden tours, and old-fashioned entertainment at Baker Creek’s Mansfield, Missouri, farm. Join thousands of gardeners, farmers, and craftspeople to celebrate heirloom gardening at this Missouri homeplace. Admission is free but parking is $15 a car.
When: May 12–13, 2024
Where: 2278 Baker Creek Road, Mansfield
Candlelight Tribute: A Tribute to Queen
Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen brings the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before. Discover and enjoy the music of Queen in a new and awe-inspiring way at The Old Glass Place under the gentle glow of candlelight.
When: 6–7:15 p.m. May 16, 2024
Where: 521 E. St. Louis St., Springfield
Mother’s Day Festival
Gather in the Mother’s Brewing backyard and celebrate years of brewing love at the Mother’s Day Festival. Enjoy live music all day, food by the Almighty Sando and Tinga Tacos along with all kinds of beer.
When: noon-10 p.m., May 18, 2024
Where: 215 S. Grant Ave., Springfield
Swift: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Taylor Swift like never before! “Swift” is your ticket to a night filled with chart-topping hits and cherished deep cuts. This dynamic tribute band, armed with unmatched musical talent, takes you on a journey through Taylor’s iconic career.
When: 7 p.m. May 18, 2024
Where: 325 Park Central E., Springfield
41st Annual NRSA Mid-America Street Rod Nationals
Attend the 41st Annual Mid-America Street Rod Nationals at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. At this event, you will see street rod vehicles of nearly every make, model and style. In addition to street rods, spectators will also see cars from the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s.
When: May 23–25, 2024
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
Sip & Sea
Sip and snack your way through Wonders of Wildlife. This unique 21+ after-hours experience is designed for guests to enjoy Ozark’s finest breweries and distilleries surrounded by stunning aquarium views. Enjoy this enhanced experience with live music, appetizers, keeper chats, and a chance to win a raffle prize - all with a drink in hand!
When: 6:30–10 p.m., May 24, 2024