The vibrant and time-honored tradition of the SantaCaliGon® Days Festival hosted by the Independence Chamber of Commerce and presented by Xfinity, is set to mark its 52nd year, commemorating the rich history of the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails that played an essential role in the westward expansion of the United States. The SantaCaliGon® Days Festival, a beloved Independence tradition, is set to take place over Labor Day Weekend, inviting everyone to relive the pioneering spirit that shaped the nation.
This historic festival, held from August 30th to September 2nd, 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 250,000 attendees annually, the SantaCaliGon® Days Festival is a cornerstone of our community, contributing millions of dollars to the local economy.
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. Local merchants will also open their doors, offering a unique shopping experience that echoes the vibrant history of Independence.
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 with performances from:
- Friday, August 30th:
- Lyin’ Eyes – Eagles Tribute band at 6:00 pm
- Revelation-Journey Tribute band at 7:45 pm
- Bob Jovi – A Tribute to Bon Jovi at 9:30 pm
- Saturday, August 31st:
- Jason Craig and the Wingmen at 6:00 pm
- Damien Gunn and the Bang Bangs at 7:30 pm
- The Frontmen at 9:30 pm
- Sunday, September 1st:
- SoulShine at 6:00 pm
- The Who Generation – A Tribute to The Who at 7:00 pm
- Edge of Forever – Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute at 9:00 pm
All concerts are free, with VIP tickets available for close seating available for purchase online at SantaCaliGon.com.
Carnival Midway Attractions
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.
Main Street 1849: A Pioneer Adventure Awaits
One of the festival's highlights is the Main Street 1849 attraction, offering an immersive pioneer adventure for all ages. Hosted by the City of Independence, this pioneer experience is located on Main Street between Lexington and Kansas avenues, it’s perfect for memorable family photos. Main Street 1849 takes visitors on a journey back in time, allowing them to pan for gold, explore a frontier jail cell, engage with pioneer actors, enjoy live entertainment, partake in games and activities, and witness captivating live demonstrations.
Community Stage: Local Talent Spotlight
The Community Stage presented by Worlds of Fun will be buzzing with local talent, providing a lively atmosphere for all attendees to enjoy throughout the day and under the stars in the evening.
Tom Lesnak, President of the Independence Chamber of Commerce, shared his enthusiasm: “Celebrating the 52nd anniversary of Independence’s premier event is a fantastic opportunity to unite our community. This Labor Day Weekend, we look forward to hosting you and your family for great music, arts and crafts, delicious food, carnival rides, and fun activities.”
Join us for a weekend that bridges the past and present, forging a united community spirit. For more information and to view the entertainment schedules, visit SantaCaliGon.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
