The Maple Leaf Festival® is not just an event; it's a testament to the spirit of our community. It began in 1966 as a marching band competition, and since then, volunteers have come together to organize an event that celebrates the beauty of maple-leaf trees' fall foliage. The City of Carthage, known as America's Maple Leaf City, hosts one of the region's biggest festivals, drawing over 65,000 visitors in October to pay homage to this historic festival. Held the 3rd week in October, this festival hosts daily events for an entire week, starting with a BBQ cookoff and motorcycle show the Saturday before and ending with the biggest parade in Southwest Missouri. This nearly two-mile parade begins at 9 a.m. and encompasses the beautiful Historic Carthage Square, traveling down Grand Ave. and ending at the Carthage Jr. High School. The square is a hub of excitement, filled with a diverse range of activities. There's something for everyone; arts & crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, a quilt show, activities for kids, a petting zoo, and more. Activities including Touch-a-Truck, Taco Tuesday, a Night of Praise, walking tours, a Friday night evening FREE concert on the square and other festivities for all ages fill the week. The Maple Leaf Festival® volunteers, the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Carthage welcome you to America's Maple Leaf City this October. For more information contact the Carthage Chamber of Commerce at 417-358-2373 or email at info@carthagechamber.com