CARTHAGE, Mo. – The Carthage Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the full schedule for the 2025 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival®, taking place October 10 – 19, 2025. This year’s festival theme, “A City of Pure Imagination,” inspired by the classic Willy Wonka story, promises a fun, colorful, and whimsical celebration for the entire community.
The festivities officially kick off on Friday, October 10 with the opening of the Maple Leaf Rodeo, followed by daily events leading up to the festival’s biggest day, Saturday, October 18. That morning, thousands will gather to watch the Maple Leaf Parade wind through the historic Carthage Square, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
“This year’s theme really captures the magic of Carthage during the Maple Leaf Festival,” saidJulie Reams, President of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce. “‘A City of Pure Imagination’ reminds us that this festival is more than just events—it’s about showcasing the heart, creativity, and community spirit that makes Carthage such a special place.”
Festival-goers can look forward to longtime favorites as well as exciting new competitions. Entry forms are now open for:
- Maple Leaf Pageants
- NEW BBQ Cookoff
- Chili Cookoff
- Taco Tuesday Cookoff
- Dog Show and Races
- Chicken Pageant
- Lip Sync Competition
- Maple Leaf 5K
All entry forms can be found on the Chamber’s website at www.carthagechamber.com.
Parade registration is also open now through September 26, 2025. Floats are encouraged, and the “best of the best” will be presented with a trophy during the awards ceremony. Community members interested in volunteering on parade day are encouraged to sign up through the Chamber office.
“We are grateful to all of our incredible sponsors who make the Maple Leaf Festival possible,”added Reams. “We truly couldn’t do this without their continued support, and we thank them for helping us keep this Carthage tradition alive for 59 years.”
The Maple Leaf Festival® has grown to be one of the largest festivals in Southwest Missouri, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually with its unique blend of tradition, entertainment, and hometown pride.
For a full schedule of events, registration forms, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.carthagechamber.com or contact the Carthage Chamber of Commerce at (417) 358-2373.
