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EVENTS

Click on the “+” on the right side of the event for additional information, if available. Check back often to view West Plains events!

May
12
Mon
Art at OzSBI ~ Artist Cindy Temple, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
May 12 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.
Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 12 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale @ West Plains Public Library Community Room
May 12 @ 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
From the Library: Early sales start Thursday, May 8th from 4pm-7pm for current active friends members OR with a $10 donation to the Friends Foundation. Open to the public Friday, May 9, 9 am, and Saturday, May 10, 9 am. Bag Sale for whatever is left will be Monday, May 12, 9am. Hope to see you there!
Live Music ~ Boon & Kiel @ The Yellow House
May 12 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Organizers say, “Don’t miss on this talented duo who are currently on tour from the west coast to the midwest. Boon & Kiel play a variety of music from original songs to favorite covers. Coming through town on the Two Man Tour mainly acoustic styling that will capture audiences of any age. 10 dollars at the door will secure your ticket to ride this musical experience.” See The Two Man Tour Boon & Kiel Facebook event.

West Plains Photography Club
May 12 @ 6:30 pm

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.

May
13
Tue
Art at OzSBI ~ Artist Cindy Temple, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
May 13 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.

Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 13 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

“Si Siman, the Ozark Jubilee Music Business at the Crossroads” Presentation by Ozarks Heritage Research CenterDr. Kitty Ledbetter hosted by @ Garnett Library
May 13 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
A special presentation, “Si Siman, the Ozark Jubilee, and Music Business at the Crossroads” featuring Dr. Kitty Ledbetter will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, at the Garnett Library. The program is underwritten by the Missouri Humanities Council. Free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served.

The presentation will provide an entertaining, well-illustrated account of Si Siman, a native Ozarker and executive producer of the Ozark Jubilee (1955-1960), the first continuous, live network country music television show in history. Hosted by superstar Red Foley, the weekly show was broadcast live from the Jewell Theater in Springfield, Missouri. Siman played a crucial role in developing and securing talent for the Jubilee, which was the only network television show at the time originating outside New York or Los Angeles.

More than a third of the Ozark Jubilee performers are now in the Country Music Hall of Fame, including Chet Atkins—whom Siman nicknamed “Chet” in the 1940s—Porter Wagoner and Brenda Lee. Following the Jubilee, Siman became a music publisher and managed the career of Wayne Carson, writer of two legendary songs: “The Letter,” recorded by The Box Tops in 1967, and Willie Nelson’s Grammy-winning version of “Always on My Mind” in 1982.

Ledbetter’s presentation will draw from her recent book, Broadcasting the Ozarks: Si Siman and Country Music at the Crossroads (University of Arkansas Press), offering insights into Siman’s impact on country music and the music business. This presentation is supported by the Missouri Speakers Bureau, a joint initiative of Missouri Humanities and the State Historical Society of Missouri.

Baking Dish Etching Workshop hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Civic Center
May 13 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

From organizers: Create a personalized etched glass baking dish at this workshop in May! West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host the workshop, conducted by local artist Tara Shahan, Tuesday, May 13, 2025. The workshop will run 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the West Plains Civic Center (Dogwood 1&2), 110 St. Louis St. in West Plains. The price for the workshop is $45, all supplies included. Seating is limited, so please register by May 6.

Join us for a hands-on evening of creativity and fun as we explore the art of glass etching! You’ll create a personalized 9″ x 13″ baking dish using professional chemical etching cream. Whether you’re making a gift or treating yourself, you’ll go home with something beautiful and one-of-a-kind! Choose your design at the time of registration including any personalization.  See the website at Craft Workshops 2024-2025 | West Plains Council on the Arts for more details on the possibilities.

About the instructor: Coordinator Tara Shahan was raised in a small town in the Appalachian foothills of southern Ohio until about the age of 12 when her family moved to Missouri.  Her upbringing included being a member of 4-H, where most her projects consisted of food, sewing and crafts taught by her mother, a 4-H leader. Tara won ribbons for her work at local and state fairs.

Her love of arts and crafts continued throughout her adult life and now she teaches workshops in the local area including north-central Arkansas.  Her art includes acrylic painting on canvas and wood as well as other craft projects such as door hangers, wreaths, faux stained glass, and glass etching to name a few.  Tara now lives in West Plains and has conducted local art and craft workshops for the West Plains Council on the Arts for about 6 years.

Space is limited. Reserve your spot by texting 417-505-0812 or email

West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsal @ Boys & Girls Club
May 13 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, West Plains Boys and Girls Club. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686

May
14
Wed
Art at OzSBI ~ Artist Cindy Temple, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
May 14 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.

Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 14 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

Bikes Soccer @ Robert Neathery Skatepark
May 14 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

From organizers: Bikes Soccer will be in the grass area next to the skatepark. This event is for anyone who likes to have fun on bikes. We will review all the rules for those that are trying it for the first time. It’s super fun – see you there!

What to bring: Helmet, Hydration, Bicycle
May
15
Thu
Art at OzSBI ~ Artist Cindy Temple, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
May 15 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.

Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 15 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

Food Truck Festival @ West Plains Civic Center Parking Lot
May 15 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Food Truck Thursdays at the Civic Center in 2025 include: April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, and September 18.

Golden Years Senior Showcase Art Exhibit @ Harlin Museum
May 15 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

From the Harlin Museum: Family members can enter their loved one’s (who may be in a nursing home or who is no longer able to do art) age 75+ artwork. This is a free event to honor the artistic talents of our senior artists. We will take up to 10 entries (and a biography!) for each artist May 1-4.  The showcase is May 10-31. May 31 will be a reception, 2-4 p.m. Message Harlin Museum of West Plains for more information.

Downtown Farmers Market @ West Plains Farmers & Artisans Market
May 15 @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Outdoor market for local growers, producers, farmers, bakers, makers, crafters, and artisans!! Thursdays through October 30

Group Mountain Bike Ride @ Witte's End Trail at JMB Park
May 15 @ 5:30 pm
A weekly event. Contact Michael at West Plains Bike Shop, 417-712-0076, for more information.
May
16
Fri
Art at OzSBI ~ Artist Cindy Temple, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
May 16 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.

Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 16 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

Head Start 60th Birthday Celebration @ West Plains Head Start
May 16 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

From organizers: Head Start is turning 60! Come celebrate with us. Grab a hot dog and a piece of cake.

Golden Years Senior Showcase Art Exhibit @ Harlin Museum
May 16 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

From the Harlin Museum: Family members can enter their loved one’s (who may be in a nursing home or who is no longer able to do art) age 75+ artwork. This is a free event to honor the artistic talents of our senior artists. We will take up to 10 entries (and a biography!) for each artist May 1-4.  The showcase is May 10-31. May 31 will be a reception, 2-4 p.m. Message Harlin Museum of West Plains for more information.

Ticolini Circus @ Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds Harper Building
May 16 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

THE TICOLINI CIRCUS IS COMING TO WEST PLAINS, MO

We promise 90 minutes of joy and laughter for all ages with our wide variety of high-end acts. It’s 110% wholesome fun for the entire family. Doors open one hour before the show.

General admission 13 years and over $10.00
1 free kid per paid general admission ticket. Visit website here for tickets.

Tickets are also sold at the Circus entrance at a regular price while seats are available.
TICKETS AT THE GATE
13 yrs and over $20.00
Children 12 years and under are free
1 free kid per paid adult.
An extra kid is $5.00

Ticolini Circus on Facebook.

Karaoke Night @ Dev’s Steakhouse Piano Bar Lounge
May 16 @ 8:00 pm

This is a recurring (first Friday of every month) event scheduled by Dev’s Steakhouse Piano Bar Lounge. Please check with them for details and potential cancellations.

Live Music ~ Southern Edge @ Country Nights Dance Club
May 16 @ 9:00 pm
May
17
Sat
Art Exhibit ~ Current & Retired Art Teachers hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Civic Center - Mezzanine
May 17 all-day
All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast @ American Legion Hall
May 17 @ 7:00 am – 10:00 am

The American Legion hosts a breakfast on the third Saturday of every month as a fundraiser. All you can eat and lots of options at a bargain price!

Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 17 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains @ Endurance Church Parking Lot
May 17 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Open every Saturday 9 a.m. t0 1 p.m. and on Wednesdays, seasonally. GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

Missouri Hunting Expo hosted by the Missouri Bear Foundation @ West Plains Civic Center
May 17 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Organizers say there will be outdoor and hunting vendors, conservation groups, speakers and more. Missouri Hunting Expo on Facebook.

Cornhole Tournament @ South Side of Court Square
May 17 @ 11:00 am
Dedication Ceremony for Reflection Plaza @ Lincoln School
May 17 @ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

From the organizers: The community is invited to join us for the dedication ceremony of Lincoln School’s Reflection Plaza, a groundbreaking new space designed to foster community connection and appreciation for our shared history and culture. The event will take place on May 17th from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, a date that holds special significance as it marks the 71st anniversary of the Supreme Court’s ruling in the landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which ruled that segregation in education to be unconstitutional.

We are honored to announce that Dr. Gary Kremer, notable author and Executive Director of The State Historical Society of Missouri, will serve as the keynote speaker. Dr. Kremer has dedicated his career to the preservation and promotion of Missouri’s rich historical narrative, and his insights will undoubtedly enrich the event. His work has been pivotal in enhancing public understanding of the state’s historical significance.

Additionally, esteemed international artist/muralist and professor Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo will be in attendance, bringing his artistic vision and perspective to the celebration of this unique space, which pays homage to our community’s history and future.

The West Plains Chamber of Commerce will facilitate a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official completion of the physical space. Reflection Plaza is designed to encourage reflection, dialogue, and connection among community members; its two bronze statues, steep with symbolism, are a first of its kind. This space will serve as a serene environment for visitors to gather, think, and celebrate the diverse narratives that shape our community.

Founders of Lincoln School Project, Crockett and Tonya Oaks III, emphasize the importance of this event: “The dedication of Reflection Plaza not only honors our past, but also serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. It is a reminder that education and unity are the cornerstones of progress.”

The program will be held outdoors, with limited seating available; attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs for comfort. This is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together, show support for Reflection Plaza, and engage in meaningful conversations about our collective heritage.

For more information, please contact Crockett and Tonya Oaks at 

West Plains Downtown “Welcome to Summer” Block Party @ Court Square Downtown
May 17 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

West Plains, Let’s Kick Off Summer Together!
Get ready for an exciting community celebration in downtown West Plains! Grab your family and friends and join us for a day filled with live music, delicious food, local shopping, and fun for all ages!

✨ What’s in Store:
Live music from The Owlettes, Spitfire, Kirk Pierce, Cosmic Criminals, and Native Souls
Food trucks & local vendors – Come hungry & ready to shop!
Bounce Houses & Kids’ Corner – Fun for the little ones!
Community Painting Activity – Add your brushstroke to a group masterpiece!
Kids’ Fire Brigade from Howell Rural Fire Department – A fun, hands-on firefighting adventure!
Face Painting – Brighten up the day with fun and colorful designs!
Free Photo Booth – Sponsored by Hirsch Feed & Farm Supply – Capture the memories with your crew!
Beer Garden – Relax and enjoy an ice-cold drink!
Car Show – Check out classic rides & cool wheels!
Cornhole Tournament – Hosted by the Elks Lodge—bring your A-game and compete for fun and bragging rights!

Support Local, Celebrate Community, and Kick Off Summer in Style!

Golden Years Senior Showcase Art Exhibit @ Harlin Museum
May 17 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

From the Harlin Museum: Family members can enter their loved one’s (who may be in a nursing home or who is no longer able to do art) age 75+ artwork. This is a free event to honor the artistic talents of our senior artists. We will take up to 10 entries (and a biography!) for each artist May 1-4.  The showcase is May 10-31. May 31 will be a reception, 2-4 p.m. Message Harlin Museum of West Plains for more information.

Live Music ~ Brandy Lee @ The Yellow House
May 17 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Comedy Night ~ featuring Bryce Stanley of Dirt Road Comedy Show @ Avenue Theatre
May 17 @ 7:00 pm
From organizers: Ladies & Gentlemen COMEDY NIGHT is coming to The Avenue!! We are proud to announce that Bryce Stanley is coming to the Historic Avenue for one night only. Bolivar Missouri’s Bryce Stanley is known for being part of the Dirt Road Comedy show’s, he has opened for comedians such as Jeff Foxworth, Larry the Cable Guy, Jon Lovitz and many more. Come on down. Tickets are on sale now at: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/comedy-at-the-avenue
Ticolini Circus @ Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds Harper Building
May 17 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

THE TICOLINI CIRCUS IS COMING TO WEST PLAINS, MO

We promise 90 minutes of joy and laughter for all ages with our wide variety of high-end acts. It’s 110% wholesome fun for the entire family. Doors open one hour before the show.

General admission 13 years and over $10.00
1 free kid per paid general admission ticket. Visit website here for tickets.

Tickets are also sold at the Circus entrance at a regular price while seats are available.
TICKETS AT THE GATE
13 yrs and over $20.00
Children 12 years and under are free
1 free kid per paid adult.
An extra kid is $5.00

Ticolini Circus on Facebook.

Weekly Dance with live music by Country Express Band @ West Plains Senior Center
May 17 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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 ~ Southern Edge @ Country Nights Dance Club
May 17 @ 9:00 pm
School’s Out All-Night Skate @ S&S Skateland
May 17 @ 11:00 pm – May 18 @ 7:00 am

School’s Out All Night Skate! $25. Please remember we are cash or check only. Make sure your child brings money for concession. Concession will be available all night. Breakfast served at 6 am.

School’s Out All Night Skate event page on Facebook.

May
18
Sun
Art Exhibit ~ Current & Retired Art Teachers hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Civic Center - Mezzanine
May 18 all-day
Golden Years Senior Showcase Art Exhibit @ Harlin Museum
May 18 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

From the Harlin Museum: Family members can enter their loved one’s (who may be in a nursing home or who is no longer able to do art) age 75+ artwork. This is a free event to honor the artistic talents of our senior artists. We will take up to 10 entries (and a biography!) for each artist May 1-4.  The showcase is May 10-31. May 31 will be a reception, 2-4 p.m. Message Harlin Museum of West Plains for more information.

Galloway Park on Bikes + E-bike Test Ride Event @ Galloway Nature Park
May 18 @ 1:00 pm
From organizers: Let’s pedal the paved paths in the park. Great for all ages! Bring the fam + picnic lunch. PLUS, test ride the new Aventon Ramblas Mountain E-Bike. Don’t forget your bike, helmet and hydration and we will meet you there! Galloway Park on Bikes + E-bike Test Ride Event on Facebook.
May
19
Mon
Art Exhibit ~ Current & Retired Art Teachers hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Civic Center - Mezzanine
May 19 all-day
Art at OzSBI ~ Artist Cindy Temple, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
May 19 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.

Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 19 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

May
20
Tue
Art Exhibit ~ Current & Retired Art Teachers hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Civic Center - Mezzanine
May 20 all-day
Art at OzSBI ~ Artist Cindy Temple, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
May 20 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.

Art of Honest Imagination participants on display, hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
May 20 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.

flyer-block party
West Plains Downtown information here.
 

Tickets here or scan the QR code.