Springfield’s culinary scene is known for its vibrant regional flavors, farm-fresh ingredients and talented chefs. One of the best ways to sample the city’s offerings is to explore the local food festivals. Here are some tasty food and drink events coming up in 2024 you won’t want to miss!
Ozarks Beerfest
Ozarks Beerfest is the region’s largest beer festival, featuring unlimited samples of over 200 craft brews and seltzers, ciders, and non-alcoholic beers. Games, food, music, raffles, and much more will be going on, and all proceeds will support Big Brothers and Big Sisters of the Ozarks!
When: 12–4 p.m. April 27, 2024
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
International Food Carnaval
Hispanic Networking Group in The Ozarks will be showcasing diverse culinary delights from around the world at the C-Street City Market for International Food Carnaval. Admission is free!
When: 12–6 p.m., April 28, 2024
Where: 321 E. Commercial St., 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
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.
When: May 4, 2024
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
Taste of SoMo
Taste of SoMo is an outdoor food sampling event in the downtown square that showcases the diverse restaurant scene in Southwest Missouri. Patrons can vote for their favorite restaurants in several categories. Award winners will receive bragging rights and an award to display at their restaurant. Food samples will be complemented by tastes of the region’s beer, live music, market vendors and more.
When: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. June 22, 2024
Where: 118122 Park Central Square, Springfield
MO Food Truck Fest
The MO Food Truck Fest is one of Missouri's largest food truck gatherings each year. Dozens of food trucks line up at the fairgrounds, ready to serve hungry patrons, plus there’s live music.
When: Sept. 14, 2024
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
Cider Days
The Ozarks’ premier autumnal craft fair, Cider Days is a walking showcase of artisans. Buy a locally-made candle or homemade toy before slowing down to eat at all kinds of vendors and enjoy live music. You can’t leave without trying some homemade apple cider.
When: September 21–22, 2024
Where: Historic Walnut Street, Springfield
Wingapalooza
Sample thousands of wings with live music from some of the Midwest’s best bands performing all day long at Wingapalooza. All wing samples are free with paid admission.
When: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 2–3, 2024
Where: 635 E. St. Louis St., Springfield
Honorable Mentions
Missouri Beef Days
A week long celebration just a short drive from Springfield, Missouri Beef Days is a celebration of all things beef in Bolivar, Missouri. Attend several tasting events throughout the week such as beef and wine pairings and beef and bourbon pairings.
When: May 4–11, 2024
Where: Bolivar, Missouri
Japanese Fall Festival
Attend the Japanese Fall Festival at the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden to celebrate Springfield’s sister city relationship with Isesaki, Japan. In addition to numerous artisan booths featuring wares authentic to Japanese culture, many Japanese restaurants and vendors will share their cuisine at the festival.
When: Sept. 6–8, 2024