Arguably, one of the best things about living in Missouri is all of the traditions. While we have our own traditions with family and friends, we also have traditions as a state. We come together at the Missouri State Fair each August, for example. Did you know there’s a longstanding festival in Independence, Missouri, that’s become an annual Labor Day weekend tradition for five decades? If it’s not on your calendar, you might want to add it.

Independence leaps alive Labor Day weekend for the Annual SantaCaliGon Days Festival, set for September 1-4, 2023 at Independence Square.
Facebook/Santa Cali Gon Days Festival
The annual festival celebrates the rich heritage of the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails, each of which starts right in Independence.
Facebook/Santa Cali Gon Days Festival
The inaugural festival took place in 1940. It wouldn’t be until after World War II, in 1947, that the SantaCaliGon Festival Days would be held again. The next hiatus would be a lot longer – until 1973.
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Thousands of locals and visitors have descended upon Independence each Labor Day weekend, since 1973, for this epic festival that features a full menu of events, including live entertainment.
Facebook/Santa Cali Gon Days Festival

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Those set to perform in 2023 include the M-80s, Trea Landon, Eddie Montgomery, and the Styx Illusion.
Facebook/Santa Cali Gon Days Festival
Stroll down Main Street 1849, and feel as though you’ve traveled back to the Independence of yesteryear. The attraction usually features such fun activities as panning for gold, a one-room schoolhouse, and old-fashioned toys.
Facebook/Santa Cali Gon Days Festival
The weekend will also feature a mustache and beard contest, a classic carnival, food vendors, and craft and artisan vendors.
Facebook/Santa Cali Gon Days Festival
Find more information on the official website of the SantaCaliGon Days Festival. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this longstanding festival in Missouri.
Facebook/Santa Cali Gon Days Festival

Have you been to the SantaCaliGon Days Festival, a longstanding festival in Independence, Missouri? Will you go this year? Let us know in the comments! While you’re in the area, make sure you stop by and visit the most easily-accessible waterfall in Independence, Missouri.

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