On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
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 • Downtown West Plains
Please verify dates and times for all races. Visit legitspeedway.com or Legit Speedway Park on Facebook for more information.
On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
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.
Meet at Johnny Hatchet’s Axe Throwing & Coffee House at 9:15am. Clean-up from 9:30-11:30am. Bring gloves!
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 • Downtown West Plains
Please verify dates and times for all races. Visit legitspeedway.com or Legit Speedway Park on Facebook for more information.
From the boots and denim to the music, dancing, laughter and incredible community spirit, last year’s Blue Jean Ball was one to remember! 🤠
And guess what? We’re doing it all again.
📅 Saturday, October 3, 2026
📍 Silver Springs Ranch
⏰ 6 p.m.
Pull on your boots and join us for the 13th Annual Blue Jean Ball — a night of fun, fellowship and fundraising in support of the Ozarks Healthcare Foundation.
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now: https://givebutter.com/c/blue-jean-ball-2026-mg4rzt
Consider this your sign to start planning your boots-and-denim look.
Pay what you can admission.
Music at 7pm
Artist Fee $12
On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
The MSU-West Plains University Community Orchestra will present its’ inaugural performance, Autumn Reflections: Blockbusters and Beyond, at the West Plains Civic Center Theater on Sunday, October 4, 2026 at 3:00 pm. This concert is free and open to the public with donations accepted. For more information email MicahBoise@MissouriState.edu or call 417-255-7290.
On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
The MSU-West Plains University Community Band will present our annual Evening of Pops Concert at the West Plains Civic Center Arena on Monday, October 5, 2026. The band will perform many of your favorite songs and some seasonal selections. This concert is free and open to the public with donations accepted. For more information email RockyLong@MissouriState.edu or call 417-255-7291.
On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
West Plains Women’s A cappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, First Church of God, 1700 Wayhaven Drive. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686
On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
On display through October 8 during regular hours of operation of Civic Center.
FREE for the Community Sound Bath with Trance Drumming. Bring a comfy mat or blanket to lay on and a hammock or comfy chair.
For the first time ever, the Missouri State University–West Plains Grizzlies are bringing college rodeo to home dirt at the Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds.
18 COLLEGES
11 STATES
400+ CONTESTANTS
3 DAYS OF RODEO
Like and follow Hirsch Feed Grizzly Stampede College Rodeo on Facebook for additional information.
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
For the first time ever, the Missouri State University–West Plains Grizzlies are bringing college rodeo to home dirt at the Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds.
18 COLLEGES
11 STATES
400+ CONTESTANTS
3 DAYS OF RODEO
Like and follow Hirsch Feed Grizzly Stampede College Rodeo on Facebook for additional information.
Check-in is from 7:30-8 AM. The ride will begin at 8 AM. Kids track, short course (almost 7 miles) long course (13 miles), walking 1.4 miles, or 30 minute spin bikes sessions with an instructor. Ride starts and finishes at West Plains High School. For more information, see West Plains Rides for Pedal the Cause! on Facebook.
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.
For the first time ever, the Missouri State University–West Plains Grizzlies are bringing college rodeo to home dirt at the Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds.
18 COLLEGES
11 STATES
400+ CONTESTANTS
3 DAYS OF RODEO
Like and follow Hirsch Feed Grizzly Stampede College Rodeo on Facebook for additional information.
The annual Bo Pace Grizzly Golf Classic, presented by UBS Financial Services Inc./Camden, Lunsford, Sanfelippo & Dickinson Wealth Management, will take place Oct. 12 at the West Plains Country Club. The tournament, hosted by the Grizzly Club, will be a three-person scramble benefiting Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) Grizzly Athletics.
Check-in for the tournament begins at 10:30 a.m. Participants will tee off at noon. Golfers are welcome to practice their swings at the driving range with range balls before the event begins.
Lunch and premium Grizzly prizes will be provided to all participants. Scotty Cameron putters will be awarded to first-place flight winners, while prizes will be awarded to second- and third-place flight winners. Closest-to-the-pin and most accurate/longest drive contests also will feature premium prizes.
The cost is $150 per player or $450 per team. Teams also may purchase a Grizz Pass, which gives team members access to participate in several side games, including four mulligans, organizers said.
Teams are encouraged to provide their own golf carts. Those needing to rent a cart should submit their cart and tournament registration by Sept. 21. The rental fee is $70 per cart.
To register a team or sign up as a hole sponsor, contact the MSU-WP Grizzly Athletics office at 417-255-7975 or MSU-WP Director of Athletics Rachel Peterson at 417-255-7990, or visit //WP.MissouriState.edu/GrizzlyGolf.
From Avenue Theatre: Yes, Virginia, we ARE having a Christmas play!
We are thrilled to announce auditions for “Miracle on 34th Street” coming up on October 12th and 13th! Mark your calendars and come be a part of this holiday classic.
Sign up for an audition slot here.
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.
From Avenue Theatre: Yes, Virginia, we ARE having a Christmas play!
We are thrilled to announce auditions for “Miracle on 34th Street” coming up on October 12th and 13th! Mark your calendars and come be a part of this holiday classic.
Sign up for an audition slot here.
West Plains Women’s A cappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, First Church of God, 1700 Wayhaven Drive. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686
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
See ozarkheritagefestival.com for more information.
Get Ready for Slime, Laughs, and Gross-Busting Fun! Join the Avenue Theatre for a hilariously spooky live performance of GrossBusters. Presented by their youth theater group, this high-energy show is packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, crazy creatures, and non-stop entertainment for the whole family.
Tickets for GrossBusters available here.
Don’t let the monsters take over — grab your tickets early to reserve your seats!
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!
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.
Indoor event. Open to the public.
Contact Mary for details: 916-259-6539
See ozarkheritagefestival.com for more information.
Please verify dates and times for all races. Visit legitspeedway.com or Legit Speedway Park on Facebook for more information.
Get Ready for Slime, Laughs, and Gross-Busting Fun! Join the Avenue Theatre for a hilariously spooky live performance of GrossBusters. Presented by their youth theater group, this high-energy show is packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, crazy creatures, and non-stop entertainment for the whole family.
Tickets for GrossBusters available here.
Don’t let the monsters take over — grab your tickets early to reserve your seats!
Let’s welcome back one of our most exciting and popular bands!
Pomona, Missouri
Get Ready for Slime, Laughs, and Gross-Busting Fun! Join the Avenue Theatre for a hilariously spooky live performance of GrossBusters. Presented by their youth theater group, this high-energy show is packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, crazy creatures, and non-stop entertainment for the whole family.
Tickets for GrossBusters available here.
Don’t let the monsters take over — grab your tickets early to reserve your seats!
West Plains Women’s A cappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, First Church of God, 1700 Wayhaven Drive. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686
You can check the West Plains Parks and Recreation Department Facebook page for more information closet to the date.
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.
This event is sponsored by the Ozarks Heritage Research Center and WPCA. Refreshments provided.
Performer/storyteller/singer-songwriter and fifth generation Ozarker, Dawn grew up amid lots of mountain music, arts, storytelling, beautiful hills and rivers. She taught herself to play guitar at 13. At a family gathering at about that age, after she had finished singing traditional ballads and was taking a break, her mother pulled her aside and asked, “Don’t you know anything besides death and dying music?” She’s proud to play Roots music, which is full of “death and dyin,” an integral part of the human condition. She regularly plays festivals, house concerts, listening rooms, gives workshops in performing and writing, and other events. She completed a songwriting artist-in-residency in Northern Ireland in 2024 and has also released two CDs of original music. She founded and operated the last traveling Toby tent show in the country for ten years. In 2025 she retired as Professor of Theatre at Francis Marion University in South Carolina where she specialized in American popular entertainment, especially rural comedy.
About the presentation — The Halloween season is the perfect time to sit back and have a listen to old (and new) songs of the Ozarks and its dark and spooky past. There might be a couple of stories thrown in as well. Come join the fun… if you dare…
West Plains Women’s A cappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, First Church of God, 1700 Wayhaven Drive. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686