DON'T MISS THE BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR:
The 53rd Annual SantaCaliGon® Days Festival!
Presented by Xfinity -
https://www.xfinity.com/
The vibrant and time-honored tradition of the SantaCaliGon® Days Festival hosted by the Independence Chamber of Commerce and presented by Xfinity, is set to mark its 53rd year, commemorating the rich history of the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails that played an essential role in the westward expansion of the United States. The SantaCaliGon® Days Festival, a beloved Independence tradition, is set to take place over Labor Day Weekend, inviting everyone to relive the pioneering spirit that shaped the nation.
This historic festival, held from August 29th to September 1st, stands as the region's oldest and largest FREE event, promising a weekend filled with entertainment, delectable cuisine from numerous food vendors, handcrafted arts and crafts, a world-class carnival, and live performances across two dynamic stages. With over 220,000 attendees annually, the SantaCaliGon® Days Festival is a cornerstone of our community, contributing millions of dollars to the local economy.
> Handmade, crafters, and food vendors (500+ vendor booths)
> Carnival/Midway by Wade Shows
> Live music and performance on 3 stages
> Root Beer Chugging Contest (Sunday)
> Ice Cream Eating Contest (Sunday)
> Festival Food
> Main Street 1949 Experience
>Pioneer Crafts
>Old Fashioned Toys & Games
>Live Demonstrations
> Antique Fire Trucks
> Fall photo opportunities throughout the festival
FESTIVAL DATES & HOURS:
Friday, Aug. 29th | 12 PM - 10 PM
Saturday, Aug. 30th | 10 AM - 10 PM
Sunday, Aug. 31st | 10 AM - 10 PM
Monday, Sept. 1st | 10 AM - 5 PM
CARNIVAL DATES & HOURS:
Thursday, Aug. 28th | 5 PM-11 PM
Friday, Aug. 29th | 12 PM - 11 PM
Saturday, Aug. 30th | 10 AM - 11 PM
Sunday, Aug. 31st | 10 AM - 11 PM
Monday, Sept. 1st | 10 AM - 5 PM
LOCATION:
Independence Square
116 W. Lexington
Independence, MO 64050
MAIN STAGE ENTERTAINMENT:
Presented by Visit Missouri -
https://www.visitmo.com/
Unforgettable Main Stage Performances:
The Main Stage will feature an outstanding lineup of entertainment spanning three days, with performances from tribute bands and local favorites. Enjoy the shows up close with giant video screens on both sides of the stage.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::: MAIN STAGE LINEUP ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Located in the City Hall Parking Lot at the corner of Lynn and Lexington Streets
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29
6:00 PM – Fast Times | Totally rad '80s vibes
8:00 PM – Women of Rock Tribute | A powerhouse salute to the female legends who made rock history
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30
6:00 PM – Jason Craig and the Wingmen | Southern roots, classic twang
8:00 PM – Phil Vassar | Country radio legend LIVE on stage
SUNDAY, AUGUST 31
6:00 PM – Sebastian James | Soulful, smooth, and full of heart
8:00 PM – The Rock Gods | Rock anthems. Big hair. Even bigger sound.
:::::::::::::::::::: COMMUNITY STAGE ENTERTAINMENT ::::::::::::::::::::
Presented by Whataburger
Located in the Pharoah Theatre Parking Lot at the corner of Maple & Liberty Streets
Community Stage: Local Talent Spotlight
The Community Stage will feature local talent, providing lively entertainment throughout the day and under the stars in the evening.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29
5:30 PM – Derick Pierre and Friends
7:30 PM – KC Bones (Grateful Dead Tribute)
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30
10:00 AM – Claudia’s Legacy Dance Company
11:00 AM – Cathy’s Creative Dance School
12:00 PM – Studio 3V Dance Center
2:00 PM – Legacy Entertainment
3:00 PM – Suzette Sings featuring Brother John
4:00 PM – Terry Hancock
5:30 PM – Green Shoebox Band
7:30 PM – Retroactive
SUNDAY, AUGUST 31
12:00 PM – Ice Cream Eating Contest (Sponsored by Clinton’s Soda Fountain)
1:00 PM – Root Beer Chugging Contest (Sponsored by Polly’s Pop)
2:00 PM – Veterans Pinning Ceremony
3:00 PM – Critical Rock Theory
5:30 PM – Mirage KC
7:30 PM – Bound & Determined (KC Mag's The Best of KC 2025 Tribute/Cover Band of the Year WINNER)
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
11:00 AM – KC Heart of America Chorus
12:30 PM – School of Rock
2:00 PM – Time Bandits KC
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MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE FESTIVAL:::👇
Vendor Extravaganza in Historic Downtown:
Nine square blocks of handcrafted goods, artisan treasures, and mouthwatering festival eats await you in charming Historic Downtown Independence. Whether you're hunting for handmade jewelry, wood crafts, or just the perfect funnel cake, it's all here.
Don’t Miss the Square Shops!
While you’re browsing vendor booths, be sure to swing by the local merchants around the Square. They’ll be open during the festival with cool air, unique finds, and plenty of hometown charm. Shop small, shop local!
The Medallion Hunt Returns – Starting July 29!
The popular medallion treasure hunt is back - kicks off July 29th! This year, four (4) medallions will be hidden across Independence, each offering a shot at the grand prize. Clues will be published by The Examiner on Tuesdays (July 29th, Aug. 5, 12th, & 19th and posted on the festival’s Facebook page until all medallions are found. Find a medallion, scan the QR code, and claim your spot to win the grand prize. Only one winner per person/family. Winners will be invited to the Main Stage, with one winner being selected for the grand prize by playing a friendly game of "heads or tails". Happy hunting!
Carnival Midway Attractions:
The carnival midway offers rides for thrill-seekers of all ages. Presale of unlimited ride wristbands will be available online BEGINNING IN AUGUST leading up to the festival.
Main Street 1849:
A Pioneer Adventure Awaits. Experience a journey back in time with Main Street 1849. NEW LOCATION THIS YEAR - Presented by the Independence Square Association & State Farm. Main Street 1849 is moving to Liberty Lounge, just south of Lexington on Liberty Street (between Lexington & Kansas Streets). This frontier-themed experience features pioneer actors, live demos, games, and activities that’ll transport you to the 1800s. Perfect for making core family memories (and snagging a few Instagram-worthy pics).
For more information about the festival or how you can bring your business to SantaCaliGon Days, visit -
https://www.santacaligon.com
Join Us for a Weekend of Celebration! We can't wait to see you there!
Also check out other Festivals in Independence, Music events in Independence, Arts events in Independence.
