Weekend Community Events

NEOSHO

Ice Skating Gnome Painting Party 

Join us for a fun, guided painting night where you'll create your own adorable ice-skating gnome! All supplies, step-by-step instructions, and a relaxed vibe are included—perfect for beginners and friends alike. Everyone goes home with their finished masterpiece!

Date: Friday, January 16, 2026

Time: 7:30–9:30 PM

Location: Country Charm Event Venue, 18389 E. Hwy 86, Neosho

Price: $35 per adult | $60 per couple

Door prizes + refreshments included!

Come paint, laugh, and enjoy a magical creative evening! 

Here are some cute inspirations for the gnome you'll be painting:

WEBB CTY

Webb City Farmer’s Market, 9 am to noon, 106 East Tracy St, www.webbcityfarmersmarket.com

CARTHAGE

Handmade & Vintage Market – New Year, New Finds! 

Hosted by Carthage Parks & Recreation, this exciting indoor event is your chance to discover a wonderful variety of handmade crafts, vintage collectibles, and unique treasures from local vendors and enthusiasts—something special for everyone! Best of all, admission is completely free for shoppers. Join us on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Carthage Memorial Hall, located at 407 S Garrison Ave, Carthage, MO 64836.

Vendor spots are still available for just $10 per table. If you're interested in selling your handmade items or vintage goods, register online at https://secure.rec1.com/MO/carthage-mo/catalog or call Angie Judd at (417) 237-7053. Please note: no guns or livestock are allowed, and each table must be registered.

Come support local creators, hunt for one-of-a-kind finds, and enjoy a fun, community-filled day of shopping! For more information, feel free to call Carthage Parks & Recreation at (417) 237-7053. We hope to see you tomorrow at the market! 

MLK Day Commemoration at George Washington Carver National Monument

Join us in honoring the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a special screening of a powerful 60-minute PBS documentary that celebrates his profound contributions to civil rights, equality, and justice for all. This free public event offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on his impact and remember his vision. The film will be shown on Saturday, January 17, 2026 (as well as January 18 and 19), from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM each day at the George Washington Carver National Monument, located at 5646 Carver Road, Diamond, MO 64840. Everyone is warmly welcome to attend and participate in this thoughtful commemoration.

For more information, please contact the park at (417) 325-4151 or email gwca_interpretation@nps.gov (mailto:_interpretation@nps.gov). We look forward to seeing you tomorrow at 1:00 PM as we come together to celebrate Dr. King's lasting inspiration!

Never Quit Winter Series - Rodeo

Join 7C Rodeo Productions and Rogers Bucking Bulls for an exciting double-header event in the Never Quit Buckle Winter Series at the Civil War Arena! This thrilling rodeo takes place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, starting at 5:00 PM at 11838 Civil War Rd, Carthage, MO. Admission is just $10 gate fee, with a $45 membership option available. Individual rides are $60 each, or take advantage of the double-header special for $120 to ride in both events.

Divisions include Walk Trots (6 and under), Pee-Wee (7-9), Jr Mini (10-12), Sr Mini (13-14), Jr Bulls (15-16), and Novice (17-18). To enter, call in to Robin between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 417-346-6075.

Come out for high-energy action, support local rodeo talent, and enjoy a fun night of bucking bulls! Spots are limited—don’t miss this double-header extravaganza!

The 3rd Annual Bridal Market

Discover The Bridal Market, Carthage’s favorite wedding event, described as the perfect blend of a traditional bridal expo and an indoor garage sale! Join us under one roof for a unique shopping experience where specialty vendors and individuals offer incredible deals on remaining wedding items—everything from décor and accessories to dresses, favors, and more—all ready to help brides-to-be create their one-of-a-kind celebration.

This exciting third annual event takes place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Carthage Memorial Hall in Carthage, MO. Whether you're a soon-to-be bride, a planner, or simply love all things wedding, this is the place to find treasures and inspiration for your dream day.

Come explore, save big, and make your wedding uniquely yours! For more local business events and exhibitions in Carthage, be sure to check out what else is happening in the area. We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

JOPLIN

2026 Cardinals Caravan

Cardinals fans, get excited—the 2026 Cardinals Caravan is coming to town for a completely free, family-friendly event! On Saturday, January 17, 2026, doors open at 10:00 AM, with the main program starting at 11:30 AM at the Taylor Performing Arts Center on the Missouri Southern State University campus in Joplin, MO. 

This special appearance features Meet and Greet with players Victor Scott II, JJ Wetherholt, Jose Fermin and Kyle Leahy with alum Kerry Robinson, and the beloved mascot Fredbird, offering fans the chance to enjoy free autographs, exciting raffle prizes, and up-close interactions with their favorite Redbirds. It’s the perfect winter tradition to celebrate baseball, meet the team, and kick off the offseason with some Cardinal spirit. Come early to secure your spot—this free event is open to everyone, so bring the whole family and make some unforgettable memories!

Frosty4 Trail Run 

Get ready for a cozy winter family adventure at the Frosty4 Trail Run! On Friday, January 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, parents and kids are invited to bundle up and head to Morse Park for a relaxed walk or gentle jog along the scenic trail—no racing required, just fresh air, quality time together, and the joy of being outdoors in the crisp winter weather. When you finish, everyone will be treated to warm, delicious hot cocoa to thaw out and celebrate the fun. This laid-back event is perfect for all ages, offering a wonderful way to enjoy a frosty morning filled with movement, laughter, and sweet treats. 

7th Annual Empire Market Chili Cook-Off 

Join the Joplin Empire Market and Downtown Joplin Alliance for the 7th Annual Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (or until the chili runs out)!

Professional judges kick things off at 10:00 AM, followed by public tasting starting at 10:30 AM. Sample delicious chilis from top competitors, hear the judges' feedback, and then cast your vote for the coveted People’s Choice Award!

Awards will be presented for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, plus the fan-favorite People’s Choice.

Admission: Just $5 gets you unlimited tasting and a vote in the People’s Choice category.

Tickets available at the door or online (link in original post).

All proceeds benefit the Downtown Joplin Alliance and the Empire Market—come hungry, bring friends, and enjoy a spicy, fun-filled morning supporting our local community!