ALL ABOARD THE POLAR EXPRESS

December 5-7, 2025
10 W. South Main
Tickets $15.00
Bring the whole family to enjoy an evening of Christmas wonder, storytelling, and festive cheer inside our historic train depot — transformed into the world of the Polar Express!

Christmas Lights at East Park

December 6 – January 2
Take a magical drive through East Park and enjoy sparkling Christmas light displays from the comfort of your car. This family-friendly experience is free and open nightly. Come celebrate the season with us!

Grille it Up

📍 East Park | 998 Hwy 114, Dexter, MO

Get ready for a sizzling summer celebration! Grille It Up! is a family-friendly event hosted by Dexter Parks and Recreation, packed with food, fun, and friendly competition. The day features a classic car show, cornhole tournament, mud volleyball, and a crowd-favorite cook-off contest.

Enjoy delicious bites from food vendors, browse event booths and local crafts, and let the kids bounce and play while you soak up the community atmosphere. Whether you’re competing or just coming to hang out, Grille It Up! is a must-attend summer highlight in Dexter!

Music for the Mind

📍 Camp Wappapello | Lake Wappapello, MO
🗓 Friday, August 15 – Saturday, August 16, 2025

Get ready for a weekend of music, connection, and purpose at the Music for the Mind Festival! Set against the scenic backdrop of Camp Wappapello, this two-day event blends live music, lake fun, yoga sessions, and unique experiences like pancake art all in support of mental wellness.

Enjoy great vibes while giving back. Proceeds benefit Music for the Mind, helping fund mental health initiatives and support services across Southeast Missouri. Whether you’re coming for the tunes, the activities, or the mission, it’s a weekend you won’t forget.

Follow Music for the Mind on Facebook for updates and ticket info.

Stoddard County Fair 

📍 Stoddard County Fairgrounds | Dexter, MO
🗓 September 16–21, 2025

Experience one of Dexter’s most cherished traditions at the Stoddard County Fair a week-long celebration of our community’s culture, agriculture, and hometown spirit. Enjoy thrilling carnival rides, live music, rodeo events, livestock shows, and a wide variety of food and vendor booths.

With family-friendly fun, exciting competitions, and unforgettable entertainment each night, the fair is the perfect place to make memories with friends and loved ones. Whether you’re a Stoddard County local or just visiting, this annual event is not to be missed!

Follow the Stoddard County Fair on Facebook for the full schedule and updates.

Fall Festival

📍 Downtown Dexter, MO
🗓 Saturday, October 11, 2025

Celebrate the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season at Dexter’s Downtown Fall Fest! This beloved annual event brings the community together in the heart of Dexter with food trucks, local craft vendors, and unique swag from area businesses.

Families can enjoy a day full of fun with bounce houses, games, a petting zoo, and interactive activities hosted by the local fire department. Whether you’re browsing booths or simply soaking in the fall atmosphere, Fall Fest is the perfect way to support local and make lifelong memories.

Christmas Tree Lighting

📍 10 W. South Main Street (Welcome Center & Train Depot), Dexter, MO
🗓 Sunday, November 9th

Kick off the holiday season with festive cheer at the Downtown Dexter Tree Lighting! Join us at the Welcome Center and Train Depot for hot chocolate, cookies, and Christmas carols. Don’t miss pictures with Santa and a visit from his reindeer it’s a magical evening for the whole family!