Life
This Week in Springfield, Missouri
Find the best things to do this weekend in Springfield and around southwest Missouri.
by Katie Pollock Estes
May 29 2025 at 8 a.m.
It’s like Memorial Day happened, summer unofficially started and the 417-land community responded with: Yes! Summer’s here, so this week we’re going to do everything! There's a foodie pop-up at Good Spirits & Co. HQ, a barkuterie board event at Finley Farms and the Redbird Run 9K/5K race at Hammons Field. Here at 417, we celebrate the unofficial start of summer by implementing Summer Fridays, when staff can scoot out a little early to jumpstart the weekend. Where do we look when we need ideas for filling those extra hours? Hey, that’s what Datebook is for, right?
May 29–June 5
May 31: Ozarks Food Truck Rally
Central Buildings Event Center at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds
There will be more than 25 food trucks in attendance at this delicious event, where you have the chance to taste a variety of delicious eats from around the region—from barbecue and desserts to tacos, burgers and more. There is also live music from four bands throughout the day. This event is free to attend, and guests can purchase food and drink from the vendors.
June 1: Slap the Tin
Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters
The Almighty Sando Shop is momentarily exiting the sandwich game to host a “Euro-style picnic” tinned fish pop-up. Come for tasty cocktails, tinned fish, all the accoutrements and a laid-back, lazy vibe.
May 30: Barkuterie Boards
Finley Farms
Bring your dog (on a leash, of course) to this hands-on class where you’ll get to create a charcuterie board designed just for pups. It will include tasty treats like dog-friendly fruits and veggies.
May 31: Redbird Run
Hammons Field
You’ve been to Hammons Field for a Springfield Cardinals game, but have you ever been there for a Springfield Cardinals race? This race starts and ends at the stadium, and the event is packed with Cardinals fans! Runners can sign up for 9K, 5K or 1-mile runs, and there’s also a kids fun run for the youngest athletes. All runners get some swag, like a T-shirt, finisher’s medal, bib, photos and a free ticket to that day’s Springfield Cardinals game.
May 31: Strawberry Festival
Gardener’s Orchard & Baker
As fresh strawberry season comes to a close, Gardener’s Orchard is hosting one final strawberry-themed fest. Bring the kids for farm activities like the giant slide, jumping pad, a petting zoo, lots of bubble-making; a fluffy petting zoo and of course loads of strawberry-centric eats. We recommend the strawberry-chocolate cup for something way too sweet, but worth it.
June 4, 11, 18 & 25: Wednesday Concerts at Noon
Founders Park
Enjoy a downtown Springfield summertime tradition with the Wednesday Concerts at Noon events at Founders Park. These free half-hour concerts by local musicians are perfect additions to a fresh-air lunch break.
Through June 1: Creating Communities: Jews of Springfield
History Museum on the Square
This special temporary exhibition at History Museum on the Square shares the history of Springfield’s Jewish community from the 1860s through today, including their contributions to the city.
June 6: Romance in the Garden
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
Visit Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden for a unique experience that includes tiki torches, romantic music and a charcuterie board. You can also purchase wine and floating wishing lanterns.
June 7: Pickwick Street Fair
Pickwick neighborhood
Stroll the scenic streets of the Pickwick neighborhood while you enjoy art demonstrations, hear live music, take your little one for some Kids’ Zone fun, visit lots of local vendors and munch on a variety of delicious local food. There will be more than 50 local artists, crafters and vendors on site for the event.
June 7: Styx & Kevin Cronin + Don Felder
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena
During The Brotherhood of Rock Tour, you can see classic rock’s Styx on stage alongside Kevin Cronin and Don Felder. You might just hear some Styx favorites like “Mr. Roboto,” “Come Sail Away” and more. There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences.
June 8: La Tavola Francaise Dinner
Cassell Vineyards
Head to Cassell Vineyards for a special dinner experience featuring a a four-course meal prepared by beloved French chef Roland Parny. There’s live entertainment in the form of French songs with accordion accompaniment, a tasty pre-dinner cocktail hour, and wine pairings to go with the meal.
July 10: B-School Q&A
Mother’s Brewing Company
Join us for a special B-School live Q&A with new Springfield city leadership: City Manager David Cameron and Mayor Jeff Schrag. Be sure to read the “Dear New City Leadership” feature in the May/June edition of Biz 417 before you go!
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Want more info?
Need to know more about what's going on in 417-land right now? Check out the calendar for local resources. Visit our Events & Promotions page to stay up to date on the latest 417 events, contests, promotions and more!

I’m Katie Pollock Estes, and I’m 417’s Editorial Director. I’ve been here almost 19 years, spending my workdays hunting for the best things to do and people to know in the Ozarks—and working with writers to share it all with you. Got a tip? Email me your story ideas for Datebook and 417 Magazine!
