Events in Joplin, MO

The second annual Royal Disorder Tattoo Expo brings three days of tattoo culture to Joplin Expo at NorthPark Mall in Joplin, Missouri. Attendees can look forward to live tattooing, piercings, and friendly competitions, with artists traveling from across the country. Beyond the tattoo booths, the event features stage entertainment, vendors, educational seminars, an art show, a car, bike, and truck showcase, giveaways, and face painting. Highlights include sideshow performances by Jax SilverTree, stunt bike action, and a seminar led by award-winning artist Ryan Nickens. Presented as a family friendly gathering, it celebrates tattooing as an art form, encourages creativity, and fosters inspiration within the community. Hosted by Alex May, Tasha May, Flat Line Ink, and Trippy Butter.

This three day barrel racing weekend at Lucky J Steakhouse & Arena features $10,000 added, along with plenty of prizes and awards. The event is sanctioned, and pre-entries are available ahead of time.

Kick off the tenth year of North Heights Porchfest with a warmup concert at The Main Event. This teaser celebration sets the countdown in motion with fancy drinks, great company, and a big helping of fresh, locally made, farm-to-table music. The lineup will be announced.

Royale Cinema Lounge keeps the night alive with a weekly mystery movie, pulling from a mix that ranges from cult gems to overlooked classics, from easy laughs to pulse-quickening thrillers. For an early reveal of the film, a free signup on the venue’s website provides the title in advance. The VHS lounge stays open late as a comfortable place to relax, grab a drink, and spend time with friends while enjoying the after-hours atmosphere. Built around community and a love of cinema, this late-night gathering spot offers Joplin a place to connect, with access available through a $5 day pass.

Celebrate the turn of the season at the North Heights Fall Market in the Park, a community gathering with shopping, food and activities for all ages at Michael & Jeri Lynn Joseph Family Park. Explore booths featuring handcrafted goods, vintage treasures, artwork, home accents, fashion and plenty of delicious treats. Food trucks and food vendors will be on site, making it easy to enjoy a meal without leaving the park. Enjoy performances by local musicians and kid friendly activities throughout the event. Additional information, including a list of participating vendors, will be shared as the event approaches.

Keep your dog’s nails in check at a returning pop-up nail trim clinic. Walk-ins are welcome, no appointment needed, and every pup gets a complimentary treat for being brave. If your dog has had a difficult experience before or you are unsure how they will handle a trim, sometimes the right person with the right approach makes all the difference. The clinic only charges if the nail trim can be completed. Organizers plan to hold these clinics on the second Saturday of each month and will share updates if dates change.

A day dedicated to caring for ourselves and each other, with a focus on self reliance, sustainability, and community. The gathering takes place in a family friendly spiritual setting where everyone is welcome.

Professional boxing arrives at Downstream Casino Resort with The Violent Gentleman Promotions presenting its first show at this location. The program highlights a refined setting, high-caliber bouts, VIP offerings, and a premium production built to raise the bar for fight night across the region. Organizers note they have spent months developing the experience, marking the start of a new standard for events of this kind.

Responding to visitor requests, the galleries now welcome guests on the second Sunday of each month. This recurring Sunday opening supports broader access to the arts for a range of schedules, with additional second Sundays planned in 2026 for those who prefer a weekend visit.

Mercy Breast Center, in partnership with the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks (BCFO), is offering no-cost screening mammograms to support early detection of breast cancer. Detecting breast cancer early can make a critical difference. Please bring a photo ID. For details, call 417.862.3838 or email meagan@bcfo.org.

Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing brings quick-witted sparring, disguises, and surprising romance to the stage in a lively comic tale of crossed signals and second chances. Directed by JP Dickey, this production is presented by Missouri Southern State University’s Division of Theatre and Department of Performing Arts in collaboration with Connect2Culture. The performance is planned for the Leggett & Platt Green at the Cornell Complex as an outdoor show, with a move indoors if rain occurs and any changes shared with ticket purchasers by email. General admission is $15 plus a $3 fee, and children ages 2 to 12 are $5 plus a $2.60 fee. Attendees may bring their own chair or rent one on site for $5 plus a $0.20 fee.

This four player scramble offers two flights, one earlier and one later in the day. The earlier flight begins with check in and moves into a shotgun start, then wraps up with awards and a raffle. Lunch is provided between flights along with a presentation. The later flight follows the same sequence, beginning with registration, moving into a shotgun start, and concluding with awards and a raffle. Information about sponsorships and team registration is available online.

The Precious Moments Family Reunion centers on the theme Love Lifted Me, bringing collectors and friends together at the Precious Moments Chapel for a warm weekend of connection and creativity. Expect group ceremonies and a shared dinner, VIP artist signings, hands-on workshops, chapel tours, live music, special entertainment, and exclusive chapel and event merchandise. An exclusive event figurine titled Love Lifted Me is part of the celebration. Featured classes include Made to Shine for jewelry and charm making with host Jasmine Butcher, Sent with Love for handmade cards and keepsakes with host Deb Butcher, and Lifted in Prayer for Bible journaling with host Tricia Coleman.

Main Street in Downtown Joplin comes alive for Third Thursday, the city’s monthly celebration of local culture. September’s edition features a Green and Gold theme with MSSU, filling the district with artisans, live music, entertainment, and a wide range of food options. This free, all-ages gathering is part of the event’s 19th season, made possible with support from KSN/KODE. Each month from March through October, the series transforms the heart of downtown into a vibrant community hub.

Porchfest pops up downtown for a special Third Thursday edition with 2 to 3 live bands, a lively crowd, and an early look at the 10th Anniversary of Porchfest. Sample the music and energy before the main celebration, discover talent, and help kick off the countdown.

Smokin’ for Support: A TILC Barbecue Bash returns for its second year with an evening of savory barbecue, live entertainment, and community fun in support of The Independent Living Center’s programs and services. Guests can look forward to delicious food, adult beverages, activities for kids, and a performance by the Bobby DeGonia Band. Meal tickets are $10, and for an additional $10 attendees can sample ribs from competing teams and vote for the People’s Choice award. The barbecue competition still has room for teams and cooks, with cash prizes that include a $1,000 Judge’s Choice and two People’s Choice awards of $400 each. For questions or to sign up to compete, call (417) 659-8086.

The 4th Annual St. Peter’s Septemberfest offers an outdoor, family-friendly evening filled with community spirit, good food, shared faith, and live music. Guests can take part in raffles and bid on featured items. The Kids Zone highlights House of Bounce Inflatables, and socks are required for play. Face painting will be available, and a lively Chicken Dance competition adds to the fun. Event proceeds support St. Peter’s ministry programs.

Michael Cavanaugh, the vocalist and pianist personally chosen by Billy Joel for the Broadway run of Movin’ Out, leads a high energy concert celebrating the music of Billy Joel and Elton John. Expect powerhouse vocals, standout piano work, and polished showmanship from an artist who has appeared around the world at leading symphony halls and performing arts centers, including Carnegie Hall. Presented as part of the C2C Curtains Up Series, the program leans into classic rock with a piano driven focus. Tickets cost $60, plus fees. If it rains, the performance will be moved indoors, and ticket purchasers will receive updates by email.

Bobby DeGonia will perform with a full band at The Independent Living Center for a fundraising event. This live show is presented to help raise funds.

This monthly meeting invites participants to take part in the conversation. It takes place at Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce.

This monthly class shows you how to make your own Swiffer-style cleaning pads. The fee is $5 per person and includes yarn, a pattern to take home, and a needle to borrow if needed. No crochet experience is required. Beginners and returning participants are welcome, and the class is open to all.

An open mic night invites singer-songwriters and poets of any age to share their work. Take the stage or settle in to enjoy performances and cheer on local creatives. It is a welcoming space to perform, listen, and support the talent in the community.

This teaser concert at The Main Event offers an early preview of Year 10 of North Heights Porchfest, the community music festival. Local music takes center stage, with beverages on hand and a nod to the changing season as the countdown begins. The performer lineup will be announced.

Taking place at Carthage Municipal Park, this pet-friendly race features 1K and 5K distances, with the option to participate on your own or alongside a pet. Finishers are acknowledged, top performers in each age group are awarded, and there are special honors for dog and handler teams. Vendors will offer pet treats and other goods, and gift certificates are included. All net proceeds benefit the Carthage Humane Society. Additional race details are provided on the event flyer.

This fifth annual charity event supports Hope 4 You with a community meet at Frank Fletcher SuperStore in Joplin, Missouri, followed by a driver meeting and a convoy to Southern Missouri Offroading Ranch in Seymour, or a scenic backroads drive for those who prefer a relaxed route. The superstore gathering features vendors, a food truck, a junior Jeepers obstacle course, face painting, a duck pond game with a $5 donation for a chance at a prize, a silent auction, and raffles. Registration is open. A $40 registration includes one event T-shirt and entry for a driver and one passenger at the superstore, plus the option to join guided off-roading at SMORR, with SMORR fees paid separately. Attendees ages 17 and under are free. If not registered, entry at the superstore is a $20 donation per person, with ages 17 and under free. Additional event T-shirts are available for $20. SMORR admission is separate and collected on site by cash or check only, set at $40 for a driver and Jeep and $15 per passenger ages 13 and up. Camping at SMORR is available by reservation. The event is open to the public, and vendor and sponsor opportunities are available.

The Annual Four States Invitational returns soon. Check back for more details as the event approaches.

Take a scenic backroads cruise that supports the 5th Annual Rock Stars Event and benefits Hope 4 You in Joplin, MO, an organization that helps people who are uninsured or underinsured receive mammograms. The route is stock friendly and led by Lori and Dave Ewbank, planned for roughly three hours, beginning after the activities at Fletcher Superstore. Registration is $40 per Jeep and includes an event T shirt, plus admission to the Rock Stars Event for the driver and one passenger. Additional shirts are $20. Before the drive, the gathering at Fletcher Superstore offers vendors, raffles, a food truck, a silent auction, a pick a duck prize game, face painting, and a junior jeeper obstacle course. This event is open to the public.

Open to the entire community, this Family Weekend event at MSSU showcases a cruise car show, a vendor market, food trucks, dancers, and live music, with free admission. The market is located inside the Billingsly Student Center.

The streets will be closed for a family-friendly celebration featuring inflatable bounce attractions, face painting, games, a flower bar, food trucks, live music, and boutiques. Admission is free, and the bounce houses are complimentary. For vendor information, email booking@roxyjoplin.com.

The Second City brings Laughing for All the Wrong Reasons, a new comedy revue honoring almost seven decades of renowned sketch and improvisation. Performed by the acclaimed Second City Touring Company, it blends classic favorites with fresh satire, original songs, and interactive moments with the crowd, all delivered at a brisk pace with sharp, irreverent humor that feels both classic and current. The ensemble has been a launching pad for talents such as Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Keegan-Michael Key, and Bill Murray. Presented at Connect2Culture as part of the Cornell Series, this comedy and improv performance offers tickets at $50 plus fees. Intended for mature audiences, and content may be adult in nature.

Art on the Green Golf Classic brings the community together at Briarbrook Golf Course for a team tournament in support of Spiva Center for the Arts. Prizes are awarded to the first, second, and third place teams, and on-course challenges add extra excitement, including Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, a Hole in One challenge, and a Poker Run. Proceeds help fund Spiva’s exhibitions, education programs, and outreach throughout the region. The tournament is designed for both experienced golfers and casual players who want to enjoy a friendly round while backing the arts.

Benefit Day at Club 609 raises support for local art, with 10 percent of proceeds benefiting Spiva Center for the Arts. Contributions help fund programs, exhibits, classes, and more, keeping art accessible throughout the community. Details about Club 609’s menu, drinks, and history are available for anyone who wants to learn more about the venue.

Eric and Erica French deliver upbeat, feel-good songs that radiate positivity. This father and daughter duo blends acoustic sounds with touches of reggae and folk to create an easygoing set that lifts the spirit and sparks smiles. The atmosphere is relaxed and happy, with a calm, zen-like vibe from start to finish.

An informal gathering focused on drag racing and relaxed cruising. The plan is to keep things flexible with no set schedule, letting the experience unfold naturally. For lodging, Sleep Inn & Suites in Webb City is referenced, and attendees are responsible for making their own room reservations.

Vintage Swing Movement presents an evening at Joplin Avenue Coffee Company with a swing dance lesson followed by live jazz and plenty of time to dance. Jump Company supplies the soundtrack with lively swing that keeps the floor moving. After the lesson, attendees can try out new steps or relax with beverages and craft cocktails. Capacity is limited to the first 100 people. Tickets are available in advance and at the door, with student pricing at $8 in advance, $10 at the door with cash, or $12 at the door with card, and adult pricing at $18 in advance, $20 at the door with cash, or $22 at the door with card.

Hosted at Joplin Expo, this card show offers an optional $5 early bird entry, with free admission available to everyone afterward. Additional details will be announced.

In the Joplin area, Wings and Wheels Car Show & Fly-In brings together the thrill of classic automobiles and the excitement of aviation in a lively, family friendly setting. The showcase includes vintage and custom cars, motorcycles, and aircraft, with planes taxiing, taking off, and landing overhead. Attendees can step right up to the displays, talk with pilots and vehicle owners, and take in the roar of engines on the ground and in the sky. Beyond the machines, the day features on-site food, live music, and activities for all ages, creating a community gathering that goes beyond a typical show. This celebration of American craftsmanship, flight, and local spirit attracts thousands each year for a full day of learning, entertainment, and excitement.

A run in Joplin illuminated by luminaries features chip timing and a festive glow. Participants receive glow bracelets and a super soft race shirt, with shirts available for those who register by the stated cutoff. Age category awards are distributed on site to those present, since awards are not mailed. After finishing, celebrate at the clubhouse, where beverages can be purchased.

Green Jello, also known as Green Jelly, brings its 45 Year Anniversary World Tour to Blackthorn Pizza and Pub with support from Gravehuffer and Why Bother. This standing room only show is for ages 21 and up. Advance tickets are $20 and admission is $25 at the door on the day of the show. The venue suggests arriving early to enjoy dinner before the music begins.

StoneLion Puppet Theatre brings Stellaluna to Connect2Culture, a puppet retelling of Janell Cannon’s cherished children’s book. After a young fruit bat is separated from her mother and taken in by a family of birds, she navigates the differences between their worlds and learns about friendship, family, and acceptance. Known for inventive storytelling and finely crafted puppets, StoneLion has entertained audiences across the country and abroad since 1992. Expect a production with warmth, humor, and eye-catching visuals that welcomes children and families. For this performance, seating is general admission, and patrons are encouraged to bring blankets and pillows to sit close to the set for a more intimate view of the puppets. Tickets are $10 for kids plus fees and $20 for adults plus fees. Part of the Ignite Series and especially suited for kindergarten through third grade.

A one-person acoustic performance is set for The Coda Concert House in Joplin, Missouri, presented in a simple unplugged format.

This event centers on the formal induction of the Class of 2026 into the Hall of Carthage Heroes. It marks their official entry into the hall.

Joplin’s largest celebration of music, food, and the arts marks its tenth anniversary. Further details will be announced, and the milestone edition is being promoted as a true 10 out of 10.

Exploreum On the Go will be on site for Porchfest 2026 at North Heights Porchfest. Attendees can check it out during the event.

North Heights Porchfest marks its tenth year with a special partnership with Market in the Park, creating an expanded celebration for the North Heights neighborhood. The day features live music alongside makers offering handmade crafts, artwork, home decor, fashion, and a variety of treats. An increased selection of food trucks, plus beverage, snack, and dessert vendors, makes it easy for attendees to find lunch, dinner, or a quick bite while enjoying family friendly fun. Kids activities and giveaways add to the festivities. This milestone edition is presented by Sparklight in collaboration with North Heights Market in the Park and will take place at Michael & Jeri Lynn Joseph Family Park. More details, including the vendor lineup, will be announced closer to the event.

Club Comingo Gala: Casino Royale unfolds at the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex with an evening designed to blend sophistication, entertainment, and meaningful support for the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Missouri. Guests can enjoy a seated dinner, place bids in both a live auction and an online silent auction, and cap the night with a lively silent disco. Sponsors and VIP attendees receive exclusive access to the upstairs Gallery, where complimentary drinks, gourmet appetizers, and interactive table games await. Every ticket, bid, and sponsorship helps provide a safe place, caring mentors, and life-changing opportunities for the youth served by the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Missouri. Dress to impress and embrace the Casino Royale spirit for a night of high stakes and lasting impact.

In response to visitor requests, the galleries open on the second Sunday of each month to make the arts more accessible for a variety of schedules. This monthly Sunday option provides a convenient way to spend time in the galleries on a weekend.

CHERUB presents a Maple Leaf pre-party highlighting fresh fall arrivals. Attendees can put together a parade-ready outfit for a stroll around the square while enjoying refreshments that include drinks, charcuterie, and desserts. The celebration features discounts and sale tables, special offers on jewelry, deals on shoes and sweaters, and additional surprises.

Third Thursday is Joplin’s community cultural gathering on Main Street in Downtown Joplin, where crowds explore local artisans, music, entertainment, and food. This installment features a Harvest Festival theme presented by Verts and is part of the event’s 19th season. Admission is free and suitable for all ages. The season is made possible with support from KSN/KODE. Please note that only messages from the Downtown Joplin Alliance are official, and they will not request personal or financial information through Facebook.

Mark six decades of tradition with a 5k run following the Maple Leaf Parade route. Race day registration is available. Early registration costs $48 for adults and $38 for students, and later registration is $53 for adults and $43 for students.

Entry to the scale model car show and contest is free. The Sprue Crew Scale Modelers Club hosts this activity. For questions or details, contact Spruecrewsmc@yahoo.com.

Discover a new craft or build on one you already enjoy. Additional event details will be announced soon.

Kids will experiment with playful bowling techniques, from backward rolls to underhand bowling and one-foot balances inspired by ballet, using a 6-pound orange kids bowling ball that serves as the pumpkin. A hands-on craft is included, designed to be taken home and displayed on the refrigerator. The activities take place after the Maple Leaf parade.

At Connect2Culture, Owen/Cox Dance Group shares a contemporary dance program shaped by the lived experiences of survivors, caregivers, medical professionals, and loved ones affected by cancer. The performance interlaces vivid movement, newly composed music, and narrative elements to reflect on resilience, hope, grief, and the bonds that connect people. Established in 2007 and based in Kansas City, the company is known for collaborative projects that bring together dance, live music, and community engagement, earning recognition for performances that keep contemporary dance accessible and deeply personal. Presented as part of the Cornell Series, with tickets priced at $30 plus fees.

An inviting open mic welcomes singer-songwriters and poets of every age to step up to the mic or relax and listen. Share original pieces, discover new voices, and show support for local talent in a welcoming setting. Performers can sign up on site.

Put that great costume to use at a festive bowling party. Each lane is $30, and shoe rental is an additional cost. Reservations are recommended for convenience, but they are not required.

This singles bowling tournament features a three-game series of 8-pin, no-tap play. The $25 registration fee includes games and contributes to the prize fund. Prizes are awarded for the most turkeys, which are strikes in a row, and for the most strikes overall. The number of prize placements depends on how many participants enter. For every turkey a bowler rolls, a turkey will be donated to a family in need through Carthage Crosslines. A raffle for additional prizes will be held, and participants earn one ticket for each unexpired non-perishable food item donated. Cash turkey pot tickets will be available, with a drawing and special rolls taking place between games two and three.

This three-day holiday shopping market offers free admission and fills a 40,000 square foot trade show area with more than 100 vendors. Explore a wide variety of items throughout the expansive venue. Vendor booth applications are available for those interested in participating.

Learn crochet from the ground up at Schifferdecker Park in a welcoming class that covers the basics and invites conversation with fellow crafters. Those who already know a few stitches can expand their skills while everyone crochets and chats together. Open to all experience levels, and the class is free to attend.

UPTOWN ignites the stage with a high-energy concert that blends the smooth, classic sound of Motown with the pulse of current chart-toppers. Originating in New York City, this powerhouse ensemble pairs soaring vocals with precision choreography and charismatic presence to keep the crowd moving from start to finish. Drawing inspiration from icons like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye while channeling the vibe of today’s pop and R&B stars, the show bursts with soul, style, and nonstop fun. Presented at Connect2Culture as part of the Curtains Up Series. Tickets are $50 plus fees. Genre: Motown and soul.

Returning for a second year, this holiday market at Northpark Mall brings together holiday shopping, food offerings, and Santa for a fun seasonal experience.

The third Show Me Card Show returns to Carthage Memorial Hall for a day dedicated to collectibles, gaming, trading, and community connections. Vendors and a buy, sell, and trade area will feature Pokémon, sports cards, One Piece, Magic, Lorcana, and a mix of vintage and modern collectibles. Sealed product raffles will run throughout the day. Three retro gaming stations will be available, including Guitar Hero, Pokémon on the GameCube, and Frogger on PlayStation 1. Early entry is offered before general admission for first pick on deals, and admission is free once general admission begins. A community trade night wraps up the event, and collectors are welcome to bring binders for trading.

Celebrate and honor veterans with a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, live music from the band Second Generation, and a square dance led by guest caller Drew McCoy from the St. Louis District. Guests are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue to show appreciation for veteran square dancers.

By popular request, the galleries are now open on a consistent monthly schedule so more people can visit when it works for them. This recurring opening focuses on accessibility, giving visitors an easy opportunity to experience the art while accommodating a variety of routines and commitments.

Learn how to crochet a small coin purse that closes with a zipper at Joplin Public Library. The cost is $5 per person and includes all supplies, with yarn and a zipper provided, needles available to borrow, and a pattern you can keep.

This open mic welcomes singer-songwriters and poets of all ages. Step up to share your work or settle in to listen and encourage local voices. Sign-ups are available for those who want a turn at the mic.

TAKE3 delivers a high-voltage tribute to the 1970s, pairing chart-topping favorites with flashy classical technique and rock energy. Expect songs made famous by Billy Joel, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and more, all reimagined with powerhouse vocals, virtuoso strings, and an engaging stage presence. Led by acclaimed violinist Lindsay Deutsch, this genre-bending trio blends classical training with pop and rock for a dynamic live show. Part of the Curtains Up Series, the program spans classical crossover and 70s music. Tickets are $40 plus fees.

Set on the Ruby Jack Trail Head in Carthage, this RunFest features 5K, 10K, 25K, and 50K options on USATF certified courses with electronic chip timing. The 50K serves as the RRCA Missouri State Championship and offers cash awards. All participants can look forward to finishers awards, plus recognitions for age groups, age-graded results, Missouri state records, and RRCA categories. Starts are staggered by distance so the longer races head out first. Registration includes a no shirt early option, with opening prices of $25 for the 5K, $30 for the 10K, $40 for the 25K, and $45 for the 50K, and fees increase in later registration periods. A virtual entry is available for any distance for $50 and includes a shirt and an award. Net proceeds support JRR charity events as well as improvements to the Ruby Jack Trail.

Take part in a competitive bowling tournament with a $40 registration fee per person, split between a $20 bowling fee and a $20 prize fund. Registration is limited to the first 40 bowlers and is handled at Grace Lanes in Carthage, MO. Between rounds, bowlers can try for the Strike Pot, and Color Pin Wins add extra excitement. Cash prizes are awarded for 1st through 5th place, along with awards for High Scratch Series, High Scratch Game, and High Handicap Game.