Independence’s favorite festival is saddling up for another unforgettable ride this Labor Day Weekend as the 53rd Annual SantaCaliGon® Days Festival takes over Historic Downtown Independence from Friday, August 29 through Monday, September 1, 2025. Presented by Xfinity and hosted by the Independence Chamber of Commerce, this four-day festival honors the pioneering spirit of the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails, and invites tens of thousands to celebrate where history and fun collide.
This historic festival, held from August 29th to September 1st, stands as the region's oldest and largest FREE event, promising a weekend filled with entertainment, delectable cuisine from numerous food vendors, handcrafted arts and crafts, a world-class carnival, and live performances across two dynamic stages. With over 220,000 attendees annually, the SantaCaliGon® Days Festival is a cornerstone of our community, contributing millions of dollars to the local economy.
“SantaCaliGon is where our past meets our present, boldly, loudly, and with a lot of funnel cakes,” said Festival Director, Amy Knipp. “We’re excited to welcome locals and visitors alike to enjoy live music, local artisans, thrilling rides, and a community celebration unlike any other.”
Vendor Extravaganza in Historic Downtown
Stretching across nine square blocks in Independence’s historic downtown, where pioneers once outfitted for their westward journey, vendor booths will showcase a diverse array of handcrafted treasures like jewelry, soaps, wood crafts, and more. Delight in an eclectic range of food, including homemade root beer, kettle corn, funnel cake, cobbler, pulled pork sandwiches, Greek salads, and other delectable treats. And don’t forget the Square’s local shops! Step into air-conditioned havens filled with unique finds and hometown charm. Shop small. Shop local. Score big.
 |  |
Unforgettable Main Stage Performances
The festival’s Main Stage has featured many national country music acts such as artists Clint Black, the Dixie Chicks, Kenny Chesney, Dierks Bentley, Brett Eldridge as well as legendary artist Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Wynonna (Judd) and the Big Noise, who did not disappoint. Most recently, Country music’s award-winning bands, Sawyer Brown, Little Texas and Lonestar.
This year, the Main Stage sponsored by Missouri Tourism is set to feature an outstanding lineup of entertainment spanning three days. Attendees will be treated to an exceptional experience, enhanced by giant video screens on both sides of the stage for up-close entertainment enjoyment. This year, the lineup is set to dazzle once again, stacked with powerhouse talent and throwback energy.
FREE Main Stage Concerts – All Weekend Long!
- Friday, August 29
6:00 PM – Fast Times (Totally rad '80s vibes)
8:00 PM – Women of Rock Tribute (Legends. Loud. Legendary.) - Saturday, August 30
6:00 PM – Jason Craig & the Wingmen (Southern twang, serious charm)
8:00 PM – Phil Vassar (Chart-topping country star, live in concert) - Sunday, August 31
6:00 PM – Sebastian James (Smooth, soulful, unforgettable)
8:00 PM – The Rock Gods (Hair, hits, and high-volume rock anthems)
Carnival Midway Attractions – Rides, Lights, and Screams of Joy
Thrill-seekers, rejoice! The carnival midway is one of the biggest attractions of the festival offering an array of rides for thrill-seekers of all ages. No matter what kind of ride you like – slow and steady or scary fast – you can find it here. Presale of the unlimited ride wristbands will be available online beginning in August leading up to the festival.
 |  |
The Medallion Hunt Returns – Presented by The Examiner
Let the hunt begin! One of SantaCaliGon’s most beloved traditions is back and better than ever. Beginning Monday, July 29, the SantaCaliGon Medallion Hunt returns with four unique medallions hidden throughout Independence, and each one unlocks a shot at a grand prize and local fame.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Tune into The Examiner every Tuesday beginning July 29th through August 19th. Find a medallion, scan the QR code, and claim your prize, and your place in SantaCaliGon history. Then, on Friday, August 29, all four medallion finders will take the Main Stage, where Mayor Rory Rowland will host a spirited game of “Heads or Tails” to determine the ultimate grand prize winner. It’s part treasure hunt, part brain game, and 100% hometown fun.
Main Street 1849: A Pioneer Adventure Awaits with a NEW Frontier (NEW Location!)
Step back in time at Main Street 1849, one of SantaCaliGon’s most beloved attractions! Presented by State Farm and hosted by the Independence Square Association, this immersive frontier experience is located on Liberty Street between Lexington and Kansas Avenues, a prime spot for memory-making and must-snap family photos.
Kids and adults alike can experience the old frontier, interact with pioneer reenactors, and dive into hands-on games, activities, and live demos that bring the 1800s to life. With live entertainment and Instagram-worthy moments around every corner, it’s the perfect blend of education, exploration, and good old-fashioned fun.
 |  |
Community Stage – Presented by Whataburger
The heartbeat of SantaCaliGon beats loud at the Community Stage, proudly presented by Whataburger, where local talent shines all weekend long. From dance teams and live bands to eating contests and hometown tributes, this stage delivers homegrown magic that makes Independence unforgettable.
Highlights Include:
- Ice Cream Eating Contest (Sponsored by Clinton’s Soda Fountain)
- Root Beer Chugging Contest (Sponsored by Polly’s Pop)
- Veterans Pinning Ceremony
- Dance Troupes, Bands, and More
From wagon wheels to Ferris wheels, SantaCaliGon is a bold, joyful celebration of our shared history, and our community’s bright future. Whether you're here for the music, the memories, or the mouthwatering food, you belong at SantaCaliGon #53. For more information and to view the entertainment schedules, visit SantaCaliGon.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
