If 2020 is anything like 2019, it’s going to continue the tradition of offering stellar memory-making events. It’s never too early to start making plans, so keep these entertaining events in the back of your mind as you plan out your year.

 

The Shipyard Music Festival

Celebrate the community and listen to some killer acts at the Shipyard! This festival is usually two days of fierce musical artists who come from all over the country to perform in the heart of Cape Girardeau. In 2019, 11 different bands took the stage, jamming with a huge crowd of partying onlookers. We’re hyped to see what 2020 has in store for the Shipyard!

 

The Great Race

Classic cars, cross-country driving and a contest on top of it all? Sounds like the makings of a perfect summer evening. Mark June 23, 2020 in your calendar now because you are not going to want to miss The Great Race. This popular event parked in Cape Girardeau in 2013 and inspired more than 5,000 spectators to take to the streets downtown. Businesses opened their doors with welcoming arms, and grills were set up roadside for a carefree afternoon marveling at Americas historic roadsters. For more information about The Great Race, see our post about it here.

 

The SEMO District Fair

Each September, The SEMO District Fair comes to town. For more than 165 years, the event has been a must-see destination for families and friends. The carnival rides are an obvious draw for many, and of course, there are those who attend just for the food – fried Oreo, anyone? But the fair also offers live animal demonstrations, performing artists, daily shows and tons of other strolling entertainment! There’s so much to do you’ll have to come more than one day.

 

 

BONUS section: 4 MORE events you should attend in 2020

 

Cape Girardeau also offers several reoccurring events each year that are not to be missed!

 

The Cape Riverfront Market

From May through October, the Cape Riverfront Market is the Saturday morning destination for locals and out-of-towners alike. Often featuring live music, the market brings together a great selection of unique items as well as carefully selected produce from local farmers. Stop by with your family, and then go for a stroll down the river wall for a relaxing morning.

 

First Fridays with the Arts

The first Friday of every month, local galleries open their doors to meandering patrons, often offering them snacks and beverages. The art changes from month to month, and sometimes there is a theme to the event to go with the season. Make your way downtown during the warmer months to see all the fascinating art – and discuss it over a bite to eat!

 

Cape Catfish games

Cape Girardeau’s own prospect league baseball team has gathered and intense following, and it’s not hard to see why. They were named the 2019 Prospect League West Division Champions! Make sure you make time to see them play at Capaha Park this year.

 

Tunes at Twilight

If you’re downtown on a Friday late spring through summer, you’ll hear the melodies of musicians as they play to the setting sun. This long-standing tradition continues to grow in popularity because of its charming atmosphere and relaxing vibe. Tunes at Twilight is a tradition worth adopting and ensures you end your work week on a high note. What’s more calming than listening to high-quality music on your favorite outdoor blanket?

 

If you’re looking to attend some events in the next few weeks, here are some that you might want to check out:

• It’s Cold Outside Vendor and Craft Fair, February 1^st at the Osage Center
• Rodney Carrington LIVE, February 1^st at the Show Me Center
• NSSC Volleyball Tournament, February 1^st, 15^th– 16^th and March 7^th at the Sportsplex
• Pickleball Tournament, February 29^th through March 1^st at the Sportsplex

 

For more events in Cape Girardeau, explore our Event page here.