Community Events

The Joplin Parks & Recreation Department hosts a wide variety of community events throughout the year. 

Fourth of July 2016 1

Joplin Independence Day Celebration 



Thursday, July 4 at Missouri Southern State University

Activities begin at 7:00 pm, Fireworks begin at 9:45 pm

 

This event is held at the Fred G. Hughes Stadium on the campus of Missouri Southern State University. The event includes family activities, live music, food vendors, and more! 

This is a community event with good music, good food, and plenty of fun for the whole family. This celebration is wrapped up with a spectacular fireworks show beginning at 9:45pm. Grab your chair or blanket and meet us on our soccer, baseball, or softball fields for the biggest fireworks show in the area! 
Old Fashioned Hayride 2016

​Old Fashioned Hayride

Friday, October 18 at 7:00 pm at McClelland Park



This family-friendly event is a wonderful way to enjoy an autumn evening under the stars. Old-fashioned tractor-drawn hayrides will take visitors through the park. Everyone is encouraged to bring their roasting sticks and have a weenie roast and make s’mores around the campfires. Costumes are optional, but encouraged! 
Spiva Tree Lighting 2016

Spiva Park Tree Lighting



2019 Date TBD 



The holiday season officially kicks off in Joplin with the annual Spiva Park Tree Lighting Ceremony. This free family-friendly event begins at 6:00pm at Spiva Park, located on the corner of 4th and Main Streets in downtown Joplin. Activities include music, refreshments, as well as a craft project for kids. In 2016, the display was upgraded to a Christmas light show that starts on the half hour and runs from 5:00pm – 10:30pm.