Jackson County Parks + Rec presents unique fall events
Published on October 01, 2024
Autumn is a great time to visit Jackson County Parks, whether its camping, hiking, fishing, boating or just enjoying the cooler weather and the changing colors.
Weekends in the fall also bring a number of unique events to the parks starting with the 48th Annual Fall Festival of Arts, Crafts and Music October 5 and 6, at Missouri Town Living History Museum.
The festival allows visitors to explore the sights and sounds of the harvest season. Historic interpreters, artisans, musicians, and crafters will bring to life the hard work and celebration that took place as the crops came in. Hitch a ride on a wagon, play 19th century games and make memories to last a lifetime.
Walk, ride or run a different trail each Sunday in October. The month of October is ideal for exercising outside. Walktober makes the most of this great season by inviting participants on a tour of autumn’s most vibrant landscapes and inspiring everyone to make movement a priority. Commemorative Walktober buttons, designed by artist Alex Hamil, for the first 200 participants at each location. Attend all four events and collect all four designs.
Walktober 2024 begins with Jerry Smith Park October 6, then on to Fort Osage National Historic Landmark, Penn Valley Park and finally Longview Lake Park. Plein Air Quick Paint Contests are planned for Jerry Smith Park, Fort Osage and Penn Valley Park.
Don’t leave your furry friends out the fall fun. Join more than 3,000 dogs and dog lovers for a doggone good time during Dogtober Fest, October 20, at the Kemper Outdoor Education Center. Explore more than 75 booths featuring everything from pet photos and pet supplies to pet sitters and rescue. Take part in contests like Best Trick, Best Kisser, Best Tail-wagger, Best Biscuit Eater, Dog/Owner Look-alikes and the always-popular Halloween Costume Contest. Participate in Gunny Sack Races, Bobbing for Biscuits, Musical Discs and more.
To finish the season join us for a haunting good time as we search for paranormal activity during the Paranormal Investigation at Missouri Town Living History Museum with trained ghost hunters Missouri Town is a reconstructed village of buildings and artifacts dating back to the early 1800s, with histories all their own. Did any spirits relocate to our historic village? Join us October 26, to find out. Ages 12 and up only, advance reservations are required.
Get a glimpse of the fun to be had