Horizons

Cultural events across Missouri are taking center stage as part of the Horizons initiative created by Missouri Humanities, Missouri Arts Council and Missouri Division of Tourism.

Horizons is designed to encourage in-state travelers and out-of-state visitors to experience culture, art and the humanities at Missouri events, festivals and institutions.

“Missouri is rich in history and culture,” said Ashley Beard-Fosnow, executive director of Missouri Humanities, “and we want people of all ages and interests to learn more about how people, the arts and different traditions helped shape our state. Horizons is designed to do that by encouraging people to find new experiences.”

As part of the program, nine organizations were selected to participate in Horizons and to receive $10,000 grants from Missouri Humanities to support cultural events that are open to the public and meet other selection criteria. Organizers are encouraged to promote their activities to audiences who live more than 50 miles from the event location.

Many of these programs feature artists who celebrate Missouri’s cultural traditions through song, artistic expression, history demonstrations and other interpretative means.

“Our goal is to generate more interest in Missouri as a hub for cultural activities and for our residents and visitors to have an increased appreciation for the arts,” said Michael Donovan, executive director of the Missouri Arts Council. “The events featured in Horizons are a source of local pride for the areas in which they’re held and our organizations want all Missourians, and visitors, to feel that sense of community.”

“While these events are the stars of the show, there’s much to explore in the host communities,” said Stephen Foutes, director of Missouri Division of Tourism. “Visitors will find great local dining, art and history museums, beautiful outdoor spaces, and perhaps a renewed appreciation for all Missouri has to offer.”

PAST HORIZON EVENTS

September 23-24, 2022 Carl Junction Bluegrass Festival, Carl Junction

February 20, 2023 Pony Express Museum Family Festival, St. Joseph

March 17, 2023 Dogtown Irish Festival and Parade, STL

April 13-16, 2023 Dogwood Festival, Charleston

May 5-6, 2023 Guadalupe Center Cinco De Mayo, Kansas City  

May 27-28, 2023 Twain on Main, Hannibal

May 27-28, 2023 For the People Pow Wow, Jefferson City

May 31-June 3, 2023 Scott Joplin Festival, Sedalia

June 2-3, 2023 Old Time Music Ozark Heritage Festival, West Plains