Summer 2025 is just around the corner, and there’s nothing quite like soaking up the sunshine in the heart of the 417! The Ozark’s are bursting with exciting summer activities, outdoor adventures, and can’t-miss local events.
From farm-fresh pizza nights under the stars to cooling off at a local splash pad or dancing at downtown festivals, there’s something for everyone in Springfield this season. Whether you’re a longtime local or new to town, we’ve rounded up ten of the best things to do this summer — all at a variety of price points. So grab your calendar and start planning some unforgettable summer fun in one of the most vibrant cities in the Midwest!
1. Millsap Farms Pizza Club
There’s no better way to celebrate a summer evening than with wood-fired pizza, live music, and fresh air. Every Thursday from May through October, Millsap Farm hosts their wildly popular Pizza Nights. Their handmade, farm-to-table pizzas are cooked in an earthen oven and topped with ingredients grown just steps away.
Bring your own blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy all-you-can-eat pizza, a lineup of rotating local bands, and an unbeatable outdoor vibe. Adults are $17, kids 4–12 are $6.50, and littles under 4 eat free. Pro tip: book early—these spots go fast!
2. Ozark Empire Fair
Funnel cakes, ferris wheels, and live music — oh my! The Ozark Empire Fair returns July 24 – August 2, 2025, and it’s bigger than ever. The fairgrounds come alive with carnival rides, livestock shows, vendor booths, concerts, monster trucks, and all the classic summer fair feels.
Whether you go for the entertainment or the fried Oreos (no judgment!), this is a tradition worth circling on your calendar. General admission is around $15 for adults and $5 for kids 6–11.
3. Taste of SoMo
Calling all foodies! Taste of SoMo returns to downtown Springfield on June 21, 2025. This beloved outdoor food festival lets you sample delicious bites from dozens of local restaurants and breweries, all in one place.
With live music, market vendors, and the chance to vote for your favorite dish, this is one tasty way to support the 417’s culinary scene. Entry is free — just bring your appetite and purchase tasting tickets on-site.
4. Free Movies in the Park
Pack a blanket, grab some snacks, and head downtown for a classic summer movie night under the stars. The Springfield Park Board hosts Free Movies in the Park at Jordan Valley Park all summer long. From animated hits to beloved classics, these Friday night screenings are fun for all ages.
Movies start at dusk, and themed concessions and kids’ activities are part of the fun. Check the Park Board’s website or social media for the summer schedule.
5. Ozark Balloon Glow
Looking for a photo-worthy night out? Head to Finley River Park in Ozark on June 20, 2025, for the return of the Ozark Balloon Glow. Dozens of colorful hot air balloons will inflate and glow after dark, creating a dreamy landscape you won’t want to miss.
Talk to pilots, see the burners up close, and enjoy a magical atmosphere — totally free! Bonus: food trucks and live entertainment make it a full evening of fun.
6. Tent Theatre at Missouri State
Summer and Shakespeare just go together, and this year, Tent Theatre is going all out. Enjoy Broadway-style performances under the stars at MSU’s John Goodman Amphitheater.
The 2025 lineup includes Serenade, a swingin’ musical revue (June 12–21), the suspenseful Vintage Hitchcock radio play (June 26–July 2), and A Grand Night for Singing, a Rodgers & Hammerstein classic (July 9–19). Grab a drink and a treat from the concession stand and settle in for a beautiful evening of local theatre.
7. Parties in the Park
This summer, Farmers Park is bringing back its Thursday night tradition: Parties in the Park. Mark your calendar for one Thursday a month — featuring food trucks, beer and cocktail vendors, live music, and a kid-approved splash pad.
It’s just a $5 donation to get in, and each event benefits a different local nonprofit. Dates and lineups vary, so follow Farmers Park on social media to stay in the loop!
8. Jazz Nights at Hold Fast Brewery
Every Tuesday this summer, Hold Fast Brewing transforms into a smooth, sultry hub for local jazz. Grab a beer, order from the on-site taco truck, and enjoy two hours of toe-tapping live music starting at 7 p.m.
This is one of Springfield’s hidden gems, with acts like the Brueggemann-Gouge Jazz Band and MOJO Lite. Admission is free, and tipping the musicians is encouraged.
9. The Fountains at Jordan Valley Park
If you’re looking for a quick cool-down for your kids while moving about downtown Springfield during the heat of the afternoon, you’re in luck! The Springfield Park Board has made water-fun for the family easy to enjoy with fountains that run continuously from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m!
The fountains alone are exciting, but Jordan Valley Park also has a easy-flow stream, shaded picnic area, walking trail, outdoor amphitheater, unique children’s play features, the K-Man interactive sculpture, and five pieces from the Springfield Sculpture Walk! So Bring your lawn chair, picnic blanket, and bathing suit to have some free fun at the Fountains at Jordan Valley Park!
10. Shakespeare Plays at the Springfield Art Museum Amphitheater
Known locally as “Shakespeare At The Columns”, this particular event has been on hold since the COVID-19 shutdown in 2020 but is now relaunched and revitalized for Summer 2023!
The Actors Theatre of Missouri production staff is well into rehearsal for the upcoming June performance of Shakespear’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, which will be taking place at the outdoor amphitheater adjacent to the Springfield Art Museum. The last time this performance took place was in 2015, so don’t miss this opportunity to see one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays!
While the official dates for this year’s performances have not yet been announced, the admission will be free and donations will be gladly accepted. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket for seating, and all ages are welcome to view the performance.
Are you new to town and searching for what to do in Springfield, MO, this summer? What are you waiting for? Go on out there and see what our community has to offer, you’ll understand why thousands of people happily call Springfield home.
Do you want to learn more about fun things to do in Springfield, MO? Download our relocation guide and discover the greatness of Springfield all year round.
