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LOCAL EVENTS

Experience small-town charm at its finest with Osage County's signature events: BBQ battles at Smoke in the Spring, thrilling Rodeo Days action, three hometown county fairs, festive parades, and the scenic Lap the Lake festival at Melvern Lake.

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Smoke in the Spring

Join 100+ competition BBQ teams as they fire up their smokers and battle for Kansas BBQ glory at Smoke in the Spring, where the mouthwatering aroma of slow-cooked perfection fills Osage City's fairgrounds every April.

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Overbrook Osage-County Fair

Small-town traditions shine bright at the Overbrook Osage County Fair, where 4-H shows, demolition derby action, and the smell of funnel cakes create summer memories that last a lifetime.

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Osage City Fair

Osage City comes alive during fair week with carnival lights, local bands, and generations of families gathering to celebrate our community's oldest and most cherished tradition.

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Rodeo Days

Rodeo Days in Burlingame, Kansas, is a lively annual celebration featuring a thrilling rodeo, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant showcase of local culture along the historic Santa Fe Trail.

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Lap the Lake

Lap the Lake is an inspiring annual gravel bike/run/walk event in Melvern, Kansas, where participants tackle a scenic course around Melvern Lake, fueling community activities and projects.

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Kite Festival

Get ready for a sky full of wonder as Great American Kites brings some of the largest and most whimsical kites in North America to Melvern Lake for the first-ever Osage County Kite Festival! This free, family-friendly event features giant kites, colorful displays, and hands-on fun as part of the “Lap the Lake” festivities.

EVENTS CALENDAR

Click each for more info!

Image by Rémi Müller
Coming to KC in 2026:
FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup coming to Kansas City is more than just a win for soccer fans—it’s a massive opportunity for the entire region. With KC set to host matches, surrounding counties stand to benefit from a surge in visitors, increased hotel bookings, and a spotlight on local businesses.

 

Restaurants, shops, and attractions in neighboring areas will see new faces and fresh energy, while infrastructure upgrades and community projects could bring lasting improvements. Major events like this tend to leave a ripple effect, boosting local pride and putting the whole region on the map for future investment and tourism. For counties around KC, it’s a chance to show off what makes them special and share in the excitement of a world-class event.

Kansas Turns 250!

Kansas is turning 250 in 2026, and in Osage County, we’re proud to be part of this historic milestone. Our communities have always reflected the spirit and grit that built the Sunflower State—where rolling prairies, friendly faces, and deep-rooted traditions set the stage for generations to thrive.

 

As we celebrate this landmark birthday, it’s a chance to look back on the stories that shaped us and the people who call Kansas home. From the earliest pioneers to today’s families, Osage County has played its role in the larger Kansas journey.

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