Discover the 2024 Vibrant Events and Festivals
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Welcome to the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, where the calendar is brimming with events, festivals, and celebrations that capture the heart and soul of this beautiful region. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something happening that promises excitement, community spirit, and memorable experiences. From lively music festivals to charming craft fairs, here's your ultimate guide to the events that make Lake of the Ozarks a year-round destination for fun and festivity.
January - Winter Wonderland
Polar Plunge
- Dates: January 27
- Location: Public Beach #2
- Website: Polar Plunge
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Bring warm clothes to change into after your icy dip and enjoy the post-plunge party for some fun and refreshments!
February - Romance and Fun
Mardi Gras Pub Crawl
- Dates: February 17
- Location: Bagnell Dam Strip
- Website: Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras Pub Crawl
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Wear your most extravagant Mardi Gras attire for a chance to win prizes and take advantage of the shuttle services for safe transportation.
March - Spring Awakening
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- Dates: March 16
- Location: Bagnell Dam Strip
- Website: St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- Contact: (573) 480-3610
- Insider Tip: Arrive early to snag a prime viewing spot and enjoy the festive atmosphere with live music and food vendors.
St. Patrick’s Water Parade
- Dates: March 17
- Location: Captain Ron's Bar & Grill
- Website: St. Patrick’s Water Parade
- Contact: (573) 374-5852
- Insider Tip: Bring your boat or book a spot on a charter to get the best view of the decorated boats and enjoy the party on the water.
Home Business & Lake Living Expo
- Dates: March 30-31
- Location: Lodge of Four Seasons
- Website: Home Business & Lake Living Expo
- Contact: (573) 346-2227
- Insider Tip: Attend workshops and seminars to gain insights on lake living and home improvement ideas from experts.
April - Blooming Festivities
Dogwood Festival
- Dates: April 19-21
- Location: Camdenton
- Website: Camdenton Dogwood Festival
- Contact: (573) 346-2227
- Insider Tip: Check out the arts and crafts fair for unique handmade items and enjoy the carnival rides with the family.
Spring Big Bass Bash
- Dates: April 20-21
- Location: Lakewide
- Website: Big Bass Bash
- Contact: (866) 515-0102
- Insider Tip: Pre-register for the tournament to save time and arrive early to claim your favorite fishing spot.
Spring Harbor Hop
- Dates: April 27
- Location: Lakewide
- Website: Spring Harbor Hop
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Map out your stops ahead of time to maximize your fun and visit as many participating locations as possible for a chance to win prizes.
May - Kicking Off Summer
Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers In-Water Boat Show
- Dates: May 3-5
- Location: Dog Days Bar & Grill
- Website: In-Water Boat Show
- Contact: (573) 480-2300
- Insider Tip: Take advantage of demo rides to test out the latest boats and gear.
Magic Dragon Street Meet Car Show
Lake of the Ozarks Endurance Runs
- Dates: May 4
- Location: Lake of the Ozarks State Park PB1
- Website: Lake Ozarks Endurance Run
- Insider Tip: Traverse (32 miles run, 3 miles paddle), 25k, and 5 miler
Ozarks Ride Rally
- Dates: May 9-11
- Location: Lake of the Ozarks
- Website: Lake of the Ozarks Harley Davidson Rally
- Insider Tip: Ozark Rides Rally highlights scenic guided and un-guided rides of the beautiful Missouri Ozarks.
Moonlight & Moonshine at Stark Caverns
- Dates: May 10
- Location: Stark Cavernes
- Website: Moonlight & Moonshine
- Insider Tip: Experience an exclusive adults-only evening at Stark Caverns, delving into the fascinating world of Moonshiners who once operated in the cave.
Powerboat P1 Shootout Offshore - Lake Race
- Dates: May 30 - June 2
- Location: Bagnell Dam Strip
- Website: Lake Race
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Check out the VIP viewing areas for the best seats in the house and attend the meet-and-greet sessions with the racers.
June - Sun and Fun
Hot Summer Nights
- Dates: June 14 (recurring monthly event)
- Location: Bagnell Dam Strip
- Website: Hot Summer Nights
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Bring your classic car or just come to admire the vintage vehicles, and enjoy the live music and food trucks.
Canine Cannonball
- Dates: June 7-9
- Location: Dog Days Bar & Grill
- Website: Canine Cannonball
- Contact: (573) 348-9797
- Insider Tip: Bring a towel; the splash zone is no joke! Enjoy the fun competitions and meet other dog lovers.
July - Patriotic & Music Celebrations
Fireworks Over the Lake
- Dates: July 4
- Location: Multiple locations around the lake
- Website: Fireworks Over the Lake
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Various resorts and parks offer prime viewing spots. Check for local events offering live music and BBQ leading up to the fireworks.
Concert - Ice Cube
Concert - Yes Featuring Jon Anderson & Emerson Lake and Palmer
August - Sizzling Summer Events
Aquapalooza
- Dates: August 3
- Location: Captain Ron's
- Website: Aquapalooza
- Contact: (573) 348-1958
- Insider Tip: Arrive by boat for the best experience and be prepared for a full day of live music and water fun.
Concert - Crowder
Concert - Warrant
Shootout
- Dates: August 24-25
- Location: Captain Ron’s Bar & Grill
- Website: Lake of the Ozarks Shootout
- Contact: (573) 374-5852
- Insider Tip: Check out the vendor village for unique souvenirs and boat gear. Arrive early for the best viewing spots.
Concert - Jamey Johnson What A View Tour
September - Harvest Celebrations
Concert - Justin Moore
- Dates: September 1
- Location: Ozarks Amphitheater
- Website: Ozarks Amphitheather
- Contact: (573) 346-000
Concert - Frank Foster
- Dates: September 12
- Location: Ozarks Amphitheater
- Website: Ozarks Amphitheather
- Contact: (573) 346-000
Concert - Koe Wetzel
- Dates: September 13
- Location: Ozarks Amphitheater
- Website: Ozarks Amphitheather
- Contact: (573) 346-000
Lake of the Ozarks Air Show
- Dates: September 21
- Location: Camdenton Memorial Airport
- Website: Lake of the Ozarks Air Show
- Contact: (573) 346-2227
- Insider Tip: Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable viewing. Check the schedule for meet-and-greet opportunities with pilots.
Turkey Festival
- Dates: September 28
- Location: Eldon
- Website: Eldon Turkey Festival
- Contact: (573) 392-3752
- Insider Tip: Sample the turkey dishes from various vendors and enjoy live music and crafts.
October - Autumn Adventures
Concert - Foreigner
Concert - Brantley Gilbert: Off The Rails Tour
- Dates: October 5
- Location: Ozarks Amphitheater
- Website: Ozarks Amphitheather
- Contact: (573) 346-000Contact: (573) 346-000
Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest
- Dates: October 9-13
- Location: Various locations around the lake
- Website: Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Don’t miss the passport ride for a chance to win a custom motorcycle. Enjoy scenic rides and live music.
Fall Big Bass Bash
- Dates: October 5-6
- Location: Lakewide
- Website: Big Bass Bash
- Contact: (866) 515-0102
- Insider Tip: Arrive early to claim your favorite fishing spot and attend the weigh-in sessions for exciting moments.
Fall Harbor Hop
- Dates: October 12
- Location: Lakewide
- Website: Fall Harbor Hop
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Map out your stops ahead of time to maximize your fun and visit as many participating locations as possible for a chance to win prizes.
Osage Beach Fall Festival
- Dates: October 19
- Location: Osage Beach City Park
- Website: Osage Beach Fall Festival
- Contact: (573) 302-2000
- Insider Tip: Enjoy family-friendly activities such as pumpkin decorating, hayrides, and live entertainment.
November - Giving Thanks
Buddy Bass Open Bass Tournament
- Dates: November 23-24
- Location: Alhonna Resort
- Website: Buddy Bass Open
- Contact: (573) 365-2634
- Insider Tip: Join the tournament with a buddy for a fun fishing competition and attend the awards ceremony.
December - Holiday Cheer
Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Parade
- Dates: December 14
- Location: Bagnell Dam Strip
- Contact: (573) 348-1599
- Insider Tip: Dress warmly and enjoy hot cocoa while watching the festive floats and marching bands.
Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Village
- Dates: December 1-23
- Location: Old Kinderhook Resort
- Website: Old Kinderhook Christmas Village
- Contact: (573) 317-3500
- Insider Tip: Enjoy ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits with Santa in this enchanting Christmas village.
Insider Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
- Plan Ahead: Check event websites for the latest updates and book accommodations early, especially for popular events.
- Pack Smart: Bring essentials like sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture memories.
- Explore Local Eats: Discover local restaurants and food stalls for delicious regional cuisine.
- Join the Fun: Participate in contests and games to fully immerse yourself in the festivities.
- Stay Safe: Follow local guidelines and safety measures to ensure a fun and safe experience.
Explore the Lake of the Ozarks with enthusiasm and curiosity, and you'll discover a region bursting with life, laughter, and unforgettable experiences. From the thrill of the races to the joy of holiday lights, there's always something to celebrate at the lake. See you there!