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 2025 you won’t want to miss!
2026 MO Mac & Cheese Fest
OACAC’s 6th Annual MO Mac & Cheese Fest connects fans with an array of delicious mac and cheese dishes. From classic mac to creative, out-of-the-box mac and cheese, they'll have a great selection for guests to try. This is an all-ages event, so bring the whole family out for a great time!
When: 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Jan. 17, 2026
Where: 333 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy, Springfield
Beer Wine Cheese & Chocolate Festival
Sample beer, wine, cheese and chocolate from all over Springfield at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. There is also a four-course meal the night before where each course is paired with a local beer and wine. There are a limited amount of tickets for this exclusive event so don't delay!
When: 12–4 p.m., Feb. 7, 2026
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
Sertoma Chili Cook-Off
The Sertoma Chili Cook-Off features dozens of area businesses serving a wide variety of chili recipes that attendees are able to sample and enjoy, as well as voting for their favorite booth. A number of live bands and activities are hosted throughout the day alongside the delicious food and drinks. Proceeds from the event go to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield.
When: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Feb. 21, 2026
Where: 635 E. St. Louis St., Springfield
Taco De SoMo
Southern Missouri's premiere taco competition, taco lovers gather to share their universal love for tacos and raise money to help local families caring for loved ones with developmental disabilities. Enjoy margaritas, Mexican cuisine and music.
When: 6–9 p.m. April 30, 2026
Where: 2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield
Corndog Kickoff
Enjoy all your fair food favorites at the 11th 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 2, 2026
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
Ozarks Food Truck Rally
This is a one-day family fun event benefitting the Ozark Empire Fair Foundation and will feature the best gourmet food trucks and trailers from around the region. Featuring the brightest and most inspired street chefs bringing everything from burgers, pizzas, BBQ, tacos, sandwiches, and sweet treats you can purchase, plus live local music on stage, and vendors.
When: May 30, 2026
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., 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. 12, 2026
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 19–20, 2026
Where: Historic Walnut Street, Springfield
Ozarks Bacon Fest
Ozarks Bacon Fest – a tribute to Bacon, Bourbon and Beer – is an exciting celebration of all things bacon, bourbon, and beer. Returning for its 8th annual event at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds E-Plex. This mouthwatering festival brings together the Ozarks’ top chefs, bacon lovers, and purveyors for an unforgettable experience.
When: Sept. 26, 2026
Where: 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
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. Oct. 24, 2026
Where: 635 E. St. Louis St., 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: Nov. 7, 2026
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. Throughout the week, attend several tasting events, such as beef and wine pairings and beef and bourbon pairings.
When: May 1–9, 2026
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. 4–6, 2026
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