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59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival in Carthage

October 10, 2025 - October 18, 2025
Free

From October 10th to the 18th, downtown Carthage once again comes alive with tradition, community, and celebration for the 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival. What began in 1966 has blossomed into one of the region’s most anticipated events—drawing over 65,000 visitors each year to experience its charming blend of parades, crafts, music, food, and hometown pride. With dozens of events taking place across this 8-day festival, it’s almost impossible to list them all!

 

Event Hours & Pricing

This event takes place over the course of an entire week! The hours and events vary greatly each day, so for the most up-to-date information, please visit them on the web. While the parade, vendor areas, and the Friday night concert on the square are free, some activities do require admission.

 

Events at Maple Leaf Festival:

  • Bikes & BBQ Cook-off
  • Rodeo
  • Toddler and Baby Show
  • Parade
  • Hall of Carthage Heroes
  • Chicken Pageant
  • Chili Cook-off
  • Dog Show/Dachshund Race
  • Touch-A-Truck
  • Taco Tuesday
  • Night of Praise
  • Three Minutes of Fame
  • Car Show
  • Quilt Crawl
  • Cake Walk
  • Maple Leaf 5K
  • Arts & Crafts Show
  • Brats on the Square
  • Concert on the Square
  • Tractor Show
  • Toy Con
  • Renaissance Fair
  • And the Maple Leaf Pageants!

 

Parade Starts October 18 at 9 am and Features:

  • A City of Pure Imagination Theme
  • Traditional Floats
  • Marching Band Competition
  • Judging Categories for Floats with Cash Prizes for Winners
  • And More!
Want to participate? Sign up here: https://cca.carthagechamber.com/EvtListing.aspx

 

Highlighted Amenities:

  • Limited Lot Parking Near The Square
  • Street Parking Available

 

Helpful Tips!

It may be a good idea to bring a stroller for the comfort and safety of younger children. If you have difficulty standing for long periods of time, you may want to pack a lawn chair for the parade. Some vendors may be cash only, so plan accordingly. This event takes place in Downtown Carthage on the Historic Square. A nearby address you can use for navigation is 323 S Main St. in Carthage.

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