A new festival for the community is being planned for April 10-11, 2026. “Party with a Purpose,” is a two-day celebration which will feature live music across several genres, a taco cook-off (Friday only) food and drink, a variety of activities and games, local craft and artisan vendors, and more. That’s the party. The purpose is to raise funds for the operational needs of Christos House.
The idea grew out of the excitement surrounding the ‘Party in the Path’ eclipse festival in April 2024. There was such wonderful feedback on how much the community enjoyed the eclipse events, we want to keep that energy alive with another big celebration in April, and we’re combining a lot of different elements to do that. In fact, we’re calling it the most random festival ever!
The festivities will be held in and around the West Plains Civic Center. While some things, such as games and displays, will be scheduled inside, the music and vendors will be outside, along with some of the other activities. But in the event of inclement weather, activities can be moved inside.
Admission to the festival is free, though food, beverages, and other activities will be available for purchase. The festivities will begin on Friday evening with live music, a taco cook-off, beverage tent and raffles. Saturday’s activities are set to start at 10:30 a.m. when vendors will be in place and live music gets underway. Saturday is also when there will be extra fundraising activities. Music line-up:
FRIDAY, APRIL 10
5:30-7:00 p.m. ~ Johnny Cash Tribute Band (Main Stage)
7:00-7:30 p.m. ~ BrotherPaint (Second Stage)
7:30-9:30 p.m. ~ Tom Bryant Band (Main Stage)
SATURDAY, APRIL 11
10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. ~ New Grass Attack (Main Stage)
12:00-12:45 p.m. ~ BrotherPaint (Second Stage)
12:45-2:15 p.m. ~ HARMS CROSSING (Main Stage)
2:15-3:00 p.m. ~ Brandy Lee Music (Second Stage)
3:00-4:30 p.m. ~ IMH (Main Stage)
4:30-5:15 p.m. ~ Molly Clair Music (Second Stage)
5:15-6:45 p.m. ~ ThunderShine (Main Stage)
6:45-7:30 p.m. ~ 3rd Cut (Second Stage)
7:30-9:30 p.m. ~ Shoot to Thrill – AC/DC Tribute Band (Main Stage)
People can enjoy the music both days, and browse the vendors on Saturday, no gate fee required. On Saturday, will be things like trivia rounds, a cornhole tournament, ‘drink and dice’ stroll, costume and beard contests, a puzzle competition and more. We’re confident everyone will find something to enjoy, and we’re leaning into the fun of the unusual mix of activities.
To find out more about participating in the event as a vendor or if your business or organization would like to participate in the taco cook off or as a retail vendor, contact Melissa Wharton at melissa.wharton@westplains.gov or 417-256-8835. Food truck applications are not being accepted for this event.
For sponsorship information, contact Kenya Cook at kenyac@christoshousemo.org or 417-256-3408.
For information about volunteering, contact Terry Hampton at terry.hampton@westplains.gov or 417-256-8835.
Visit the Party with a Purpose Facebook page for additional information and updates.