Upcoming Events
This Month
You can check out all the exciting events we have lined up this month at a glance or keep scrolling to discover what’s coming up next. You can also discover how to become a part of the change with our committee meetings!
We’re thrilled about everything happening and hope you'll join us for the fun!
What’s Next
Dolly & Porter Days
October 2-3, 2026 | West Plains Downtown
Join us for a brand-new tradition celebrating two of country music's most iconic names and the hometown legacy that started it all.
Dolly & Porter Days is a two-day festival in Downtown West Plains honoring Country Music Hall of Fame member Porter Wagoner and his legendary partnership with Dolly Parton. Building on the success of the 2025 Dolly & Porter Stroll, this expanded celebration brings music, art, food, family fun, and community together for an unforgettable weekend.
Festival activities include:
• Live gospel, country, Americana, and bluegrass performances
• Hot Dog eating contest
• Local vendors and artisans
• Live music throughout the festival
• The "Rags to Art" fiber arts exhibition inspired by Dolly's Coat of Many Colors put on by Explore West Plains
• Dolly & Porter costume contests for adults, kids, and pets
• Kids' Makers Market and family activities
• Dessert bake-off competition
• Food trucks
Porter Wagoner's story began right here in West Plains before taking him to the Grand Ole Opry, television screens across America, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. His partnership with Dolly Parton helped shape country music history, and this festival celebrates that legacy while showcasing the creativity, hospitality, and culture of the Ozarks. Along with celebrating Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton, Dolly & Porter Days will recognize the contributions of Speck Rhodes, the legendary Ozarks entertainer and Porter Wagoner Show regular whose humor and musicianship remain an important part of our region's country music history.
Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.
Mark your calendars for October 2-3 and join us in West Plains Downtown for a weekend of music, memories, and hometown pride.
Free Admission • Family Friendly •
Civic Spruce
Introducing Civic Spruce — Join Downtown’s New Clean-Up Crew!
West Plains, we’ve seen some incredible downtown beautification lately — from vibrant murals and the whimsical umbrella sky to the (under construction) bocce ball court. Now, we’re launching Civic Spruce, a volunteer-powered clean-up team to help keep our downtown looking fresh and welcoming!
First Clean-Up Day: Saturday, September 6th
-Meet at 9:15 AM at Perry’s Barbershop / Johnny Hatchet’s Coffee House
-Clean-up runs from 9:30–11:30 AM
Bring your leaf blowers, brooms, and general tidying tools — we’ll take care of the rest!
A huge thank you to Hughes Towing for sponsoring this initiative and helping us build a cleaner, more beautiful downtown for everyone to enjoy.
Let’s keep the momentum going and show some love to the heart of our town. See you there!
Live Music ~ Preston McCabe @ Shenanigans
Come celebrate “Dolly Porter Days” at Shenanigans with Preston McCabe!
Preston McCabe is a country singer and songwriter from a small town in Indiana. He has been performing since he was 14, and believes in bringing back the traditional country sound. Preston brings a genuine and spirited performance to every stage, drawing on influences from traditional country and his own life on the rodeo circuit.
His biggest role models are Waylon Jennings, George Jones, Alan Jackson, George Strait, Chris Ledoux, and most of all his grandpa.
Preston puts on a lively, honky tonkin show that keeps the crowd engaged; while never failing to keep the story telling aspect of country music alive.
Preston has also opened for multi-platinum artist Josh Turner, as well as country music legends Shenandoah; the GRAMMY-winning group behind the timeless hit “Two Dozen Roses.” Preston’s shows allow him to connect with longtime fans of classic country while introducing his spirited sound to new audiences.
Open early for Dolly Porter Days
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
Civic Spruce
Introducing Civic Spruce — Join Downtown’s New Clean-Up Crew!
West Plains, we’ve seen some incredible downtown beautification lately — from vibrant murals and the whimsical umbrella sky to the (under construction) bocce ball court. Now, we’re launching Civic Spruce, a volunteer-powered clean-up team to help keep our downtown looking fresh and welcoming!
First Clean-Up Day: Saturday, September 6th
-Meet at 9:15 AM at Perry’s Barbershop / Johnny Hatchet’s Coffee House
-Clean-up runs from 9:30–11:30 AM
Bring your leaf blowers, brooms, and general tidying tools — we’ll take care of the rest!
A huge thank you to Hughes Towing for sponsoring this initiative and helping us build a cleaner, more beautiful downtown for everyone to enjoy.
Let’s keep the momentum going and show some love to the heart of our town. See you there!
Civic Spruce
Introducing Civic Spruce — Join Downtown’s New Clean-Up Crew!
West Plains, we’ve seen some incredible downtown beautification lately — from vibrant murals and the whimsical umbrella sky to the (under construction) bocce ball court. Now, we’re launching Civic Spruce, a volunteer-powered clean-up team to help keep our downtown looking fresh and welcoming!
First Clean-Up Day: Saturday, September 6th
-Meet at 9:15 AM at Perry’s Barbershop / Johnny Hatchet’s Coffee House
-Clean-up runs from 9:30–11:30 AM
Bring your leaf blowers, brooms, and general tidying tools — we’ll take care of the rest!
A huge thank you to Hughes Towing for sponsoring this initiative and helping us build a cleaner, more beautiful downtown for everyone to enjoy.
Let’s keep the momentum going and show some love to the heart of our town. See you there!
Live Music ~ Hayefield and Sound Awake @ Shenanigans
Join us for an evening of Arkansas Country-Core | Dirtwave from Hayefield with support from Columbia, MO based Hard Rock, Sound Awake
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
Live Music ~ “Rock to Freedom” Concert hosted by Ozark Independent Living @ West Plains Civic Center
Ozark Independent Living’s Rock to Freedom Concert will feature two bands, Southern Edge; Prowler, a rejuvenated band from the 1980s; and local veteran Billy Wayne. Free admission but taking donations for local Veterans. Doors open at 5 p.m. Show at 5:30 p.m.
Amelia Market @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
Join the Amelia Network and OzSBI for the Amelia Market (previously the Business Women’s Expo)! Shop 40+ local women-owned businesses in Downtown West Plains. There’s something for everyone, from handmade treasures, to professional services.
Everyone is welcome to attend! Visit the Amelia Market event page, mark yourself as “Going” to stay up to date, and we’ll see you there!
Senior Resource Fair ~ free event hosted by several agencies @ First Baptist Church
Seniors are invited to attend this free event. Includes pancakes, prizes, music, resources and fun.
Live Music – FREE Ha Ha Tonka concert @ The Back Lot, Luster Arcade
Live Music – FREE Ha Ha Tonka concert @ The Back Lot, Luster Arcade
Sep 5 @ 7:00 pm
Food trucks, cold drinks, and great music in downtown West Plains. Broken Knuckle kicks off the night at 7:00 PM, with food trucks and beverages available beginning at 5:00 PM.
Free Admission. Bring your lawn chair. Outside drinks prohibited
Gather your friends, come hungry, and spend part of your Labor Day weekend enjoying one of the region’s favorite bands right here in downtown West Plains.
Civic Spruce
Introducing Civic Spruce — Join Downtown’s New Clean-Up Crew!
West Plains, we’ve seen some incredible downtown beautification lately — from vibrant murals and the whimsical umbrella sky to the (under construction) bocce ball court. Now, we’re launching Civic Spruce, a volunteer-powered clean-up team to help keep our downtown looking fresh and welcoming!
First Clean-Up Day: Saturday, September 6th
-Meet at 9:15 AM at Perry’s Barbershop / Johnny Hatchet’s Coffee House
-Clean-up runs from 9:30–11:30 AM
Bring your leaf blowers, brooms, and general tidying tools — we’ll take care of the rest!
A huge thank you to Hughes Towing for sponsoring this initiative and helping us build a cleaner, more beautiful downtown for everyone to enjoy.
Let’s keep the momentum going and show some love to the heart of our town. See you there!
United Way Family Festival ~ Food Trucks, Camel & Pony Rides Petting Zoo & Bounce Houses @ West Plains Civic Center
United Way Family Festival ~ Food Trucks, Camel & Pony Rides Petting Zoo & Bounce Houses @ West Plains Civic Center
Sep 4 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Kids 12 and under, free admission.
Live Music ~ Adam McCabe @ Shenanigans
Live Music ~ Adam McCabe @ Shenanigans
Sep 3 @ 7:00 pm
Join us for solo artist, Adam McCabe from SW Missouri
Open at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $7
Downtown Stroll
Join us in Downtown West Plains on the first Thursday of every month from 4:00–7:00 PM for a Downtown Stroll!
Take a walk around the Square and discover local shops, restaurants, public art, special promotions, and pop-up experiences. Each stroll is an opportunity to explore downtown, connect with friends and neighbors, and see what's new in the heart of our community.
Be sure to pick up a free Downtown Stroll Passport and collect stamps as you visit participating businesses. Passports are a fun way to encourage exploration, support local businesses, and can be entered for prizes throughout the season.
Whether you're shopping, dining, browsing, or simply enjoying an evening outdoors, Downtown Strolls are a great way to experience everything downtown has to offer at your own pace.
Downtown West Plains
First Thursday of Every Month
4:00–7:00 PM
Come stroll, shop, dine, discover—and don't forget your passport!
Live Music ~ Preston Ary Band @ Shenanigans
Live Music ~ Preston Ary Band @ Shenanigans
Sep 4 @ 8:00 pm
Come join us for local favorites, Preston Ary Band! Bringing a little country with a blend of rock and alternative.
Open at 4pm
Music at 8pm
Artist Fee $12
Sounds Downtown Sponsored by Community First Banking Company
Sounds Downtown Sponsored by Community First Banking Company
Live Music ~ Preston Ary (Acoustic) @ Shenanigans
Preston Ary will be playing an acoustic set of covers and originals
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $7
West Plains Photography Club
The West Plains Photography Club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.
The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.
Weekly Dance with live music by Country Express Band @ West Plains Senior Center
Check the Country Express Band Facebook page for cost and other details, including potential cancellations due to weather, holidays or other unforeseen circumstances.
From Country Express: Two step, Cha Cha, Waltz, Electric Slide, Charleston, Foot Boogie, River Waltz, Sweetheart, Around the Room, Tennessee Waltz, Neon Moon Cha Cha, and many more. Or just come listen to some good ole country music. Old country, new country, southern rock music. No alcohol allowed. Family fun for all ages.
Live Music ~ Hunter Hathcoat @ Shenanigans
Hunter Hathcoat Band’s debut performance at Shenanigans! Come for Hunter’s red dirt, Americana, country-ish originals and covers!
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
Live Music ~ The Vybes @ Shenanigans
The Vybes will be hitting the stage again with their blend of Ozark Party Music! If you have never see these guys you are missing out… so be sure to join us!
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
KC's Sports Bistro Brunch Cruise-In
Join KC’s Sports Bistro on Saturday, August 1st for their Brunch Cruise-In! Whether you’ve got a classic hot rod, muscle car, Corvette, sports car, custom truck, Jeep, or motorcycle, they’d love to see it!
Brunch served 9:30 AM–1:00 PM
Breakfast drink specials
Food specials
Games & activities
Great food, cool rides, and good company!
Bring your family, bring your friends, and enjoy a laid-back morning checking out some incredible vehicles while enjoying one of the best brunches in town.
KC’s Sports Bistro
Downtown West Plains
No registration required—just shine it up, cruise in, and enjoy brunch together!
This event will have road closures on Washington Avenue from Broadway to Trish Knight.
Civic Spruce
Introducing Civic Spruce — Join Downtown’s New Clean-Up Crew!
West Plains, we’ve seen some incredible downtown beautification lately — from vibrant murals and the whimsical umbrella sky to the (under construction) bocce ball court. Now, we’re launching Civic Spruce, a volunteer-powered clean-up team to help keep our downtown looking fresh and welcoming!
First Clean-Up Day: Saturday, September 6th
-Meet at 9:15 AM at Perry’s Barbershop / Johnny Hatchet’s Coffee House
-Clean-up runs from 9:30–11:30 AM
Bring your leaf blowers, brooms, and general tidying tools — we’ll take care of the rest!
A huge thank you to Hughes Towing for sponsoring this initiative and helping us build a cleaner, more beautiful downtown for everyone to enjoy.
Let’s keep the momentum going and show some love to the heart of our town. See you there!
Live Music/Dance ~ Country Express Band @ West Plains Civic Center Exhibit Hall
From Country Express Band: Well folks we have a new schedule and another new venue to play music. We are very excited to be playing at the West Plains Civic Center in the Exhibit Hall. It is on the Northwest side of the building, we have played there before. Classic Country, Classic Rock and a lot of favorites. Two step, Line Dance, cha-cha and a waltz or two. Come and join us for a fun dance and a good time with friends, family friendly event.
* $6.00 per person to get into the dance
* 7:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M.
No alcohol. We will have bottled water for $1.00 a bottle
Dates scheduled:
Saturday, June 27th
Friday, July 10th
Friday, July 31st
Live Music ~ Leilani Kilgore “Turn & Burn Tour” @ Shenanigans
Leilani Kilgore will be bringing Nashville Rock n’ Roll to Shenanigans for their Turn and Burn Tour
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
Taste of Nashville @ Shenanigans
Join us for a new series, Taste of Nashville, featuring the varied styles of Nashville music presented KDK Booking & Friends.
Featured Hosts: Dillon Hasten, Lyal Strickland, Buster Clifton Davis
Special Guests: Preston Ary, Holly Crays
Nashville Style food and drink specials!
Doors at noon
Music at 3pm
Artist Fee $12
Live Music ~ The Mothers of Lovers @ Shenanigans
Join us for a Little Rock and Roll Band from NYC bringing an unique indie sound to the Shenanigans stage!
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $7
Live Music ~ Justin Alan Payne @ Shenanigans
Based in East Nashville, Justin Alan Payne has been turning heads around the United States for over 10 years on and off the road, solo, or with his projects Justin Payne & Co. and Rough Lovers. On the crest of his first proper Nashville solo LP, Justin is a singular songwriter with incredible range and depth. An all around good hang that is making big indie waves all on his own with great songs.
https://justinpayneandco.bandcamp.com/
https://bnds.us/315k2j
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $7
Live Music ~ Dillon Hasten (Full Band) @ Shenanigans
Come welcome Dillon Hasten and his band to the Shenanigans Stage with an Americana sound steeped in folk, country, and roots rock traditions!
Doors at 4pm
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
Live Music ~ Proxima, Stevie Victory oxywitch, M4LNOURISH, ATTI @ The Yellow House
Doors at 7 p.m. $10 donation suggested.
Have a Public Downtown Event Approaching?
Submit your event to be featured with the other upcoming event listings by completing the form that is linked below.