Community Events

Truck and Tractor Pull to be Held  Tonight

It’s time to crank up the horsepower and let the engines roar—because the Livingston County Fair Truck and Tractor Pull is rumbling back into Chillicothe!

Tonight at 6:30 p.m., the grandstands at the Livingston County Fairgrounds will be shaking with the sound of raw power. Hosted by the Livingston County 4-H & FFA Fair, this adrenaline-packed showdown will feature some of the strongest machines in the Midwest, all vying for bragging rights and black-smoke glory.

The Livingston County Fairgrounds is located on the north end of Chillicothe and you’ll want to arrive early—these bleachers fill up fast. With hundreds already showing interest, it’s clear: this year’s pull is gearing up to be one of the biggest yet.

Kelly’s Fireworks to Debut Private Label at Annual Demo Night in Chillicothe

Kelly’s Fireworks is gearing up for a night of explosive excitement as the company hosts its annual Demo event on Saturday, June 14, at its Chillicothe location. The event kicks off at dusk and offers a sneak peek at this year’s firework lineup ahead of the Fourth of July.

In addition to showcasing crowd favorites, this year’s demo will mark the launch of something new—Kelly’s very own private label: 4 Gen Pyro. The custom-designed collection includes more than ten new fireworks, developed in-house to reflect the legacy of four generations of pyrotechnic expertise. The label is more than just branding—it’s a tribute to the family that has built and continues to run the business.

The event will also feature food trucks and is expected to draw a large crowd. The demo is held exclusively at the Chillicothe location, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and arrive early for the best views.

Competitive Bowlers Get Ready to Strike at June 15 Event

A competitive bowling event has been scheduled to take place at the Fast Lane Family Entertainment Center in Chillicothe. The Fast & Furious Scratch Sweeper, an 8-game USBC-sanctioned tournament, will be held on Sunday, June 15, 2025, beginning at 10 a.m. The event is being sponsored by Father & Son LLC Construction.

The tournament will follow the 2025 Shark oil pattern and will operate under official USBC rules. An entry fee of $100 per player will be required on the day of the tournament. The fee includes $32 for lineage and expenses, with the remaining $68 contributing to the prize fund. A 1:5 payout ratio has been established, and an additional $5 fee will be applied to non-USBC bowlers.

Brackets and side pots will be available for participants seeking additional competitive opportunities. All registration must be completed by 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 14. Early registration is encouraged due to limited availability and anticipated high demand.

The tournament will be hosted at Fast Lane, located at 2870 Grand Drive in Chillicothe, MO. Registration and event details can be accessed online at fastlanefun.com/fast-and-furious, or by contacting the tournament manager at jeffh@fastlanefun.com or 660-707-1700.

Chamber to Host Marketing Workshop

The Chillicothe Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting business owners, marketers, and curious minds to attend its June luncheon workshop titled “Marketing Smart: Reaching Your Audience Without Losing Your Time (or Mind).” The session will be held Wednesday, June 18 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Chillicothe R-II Administration Building, located at 2807 Hornet Road.

Designed for busy professionals, the workshop promises a fast-paced, practical approach to modern marketing. Participants will learn how to clearly define their ideal customer using a take-home worksheet, select the most effective platforms for maximum impact, and incorporate free or low-cost tools like Google Forms, Meta Insights, and POS data trends. The session will also focus on reducing overwhelm and helping attendees move forward with confidence and clarity in their marketing strategy.

Seating is limited and early registration is encouraged. Those interested can sign up online at https://tinyurl.com/June25Lunch. Whether launching a new business or streamlining an existing one, this event aims to help participants market smarter—not harder.

Library to Host Music by Skippy-The Human Beatbox

On Wednesday, June 18, at 10 a.m., and 4 p.m., at the Lillian DesMarias Youth Library and at 6 p.m., at the Main Library area residents are invited to see Music by Skippy – the Human Beatbox.

This is sure to be an electrifying performance by Music by Skippy, also known as The Human Beatbox! This unique event promises to be a memorable experience filled with rhythm, creativity, and musical innovation. Skippy is renowned for his extraordinary ability to create complex musical sounds using only his voice. As a master beatboxer, he combines elements of percussion, harmony, and melody to deliver captivating performances that leave audiences in awe.

Feed the Funnel Event set to Combat Hunger

An effort to combat hunger in the Chillicothe community is being organized by the Lillian DesMarias Youth Library through its upcoming Feed the Funnel event. The event is scheduled to take place on June 19, 2025, from 1-3 p.m., and will involve the packing of thousands of shelf-stable, nutritious meals for individuals and families in need.

Volunteers are being sought to help assemble the meals during the high-energy packing session. Donations are also being requested to help offset the cost of ingredients, with each donated dollar being used directly toward food supplies. Organizers have noted that at just $0.37 per meal, a significant impact can be made with even modest contributions.

The goal of the initiative is to pack up to 30,000 meals, ensuring that members of the community have continued access to reliable, healthy food.

Community members interested in volunteering or donating are encouraged to call 660-646-0563 for more information or to get involved. The event will be held at the Lillian DesMarias Youth Library in Chillicothe.

Calvary Baptist’s VBS Registration Open

Vacation Bible School registration has been opened by Calvary Baptist Church in Chillicothe, with plans announced for a camping-themed adventure set to take place later this summer.

The program will run from Sunday, June 22 through Wednesday, June 25. Each evening will begin with a dinner served to campers at 5:30 p.m. and will conclude by 8:30 p.m.

Participation is being offered to children aged 4 years and older who are potty-trained, up through those who have just completed 5th grade. Registration is available online through the church’s website at www.chillicbc.org/vbs-registration.

Super Hero Snack Lab to Be Hosted by Grand River Area YMCA on June 24

A hands-on culinary adventure designed to inspire young heroes will be hosted by the Grand River Area Family YMCA on June 24. The “Super Hero Snack Lab,” scheduled from 1 to 2:15 p.m., will welcome children ages 6 to 11 for a fun-filled afternoon of snack making, learning, and superhero-sized creativity.

During the program, participants will be guided through a variety of interactive activities that focus on building their own healthy, tasty snacks. Children will be encouraged to mix, roll, and create while learning how nutrition impacts strength, energy, and brainpower. In addition to culinary skills, lessons on how healthy foods can help young bodies grow stronger and minds think faster will be included.

The camp is priced at $20 for YMCA members and $30 for non-members or program participants. Capes are optional, but appetites will be required, as kids will be kept busy crafting their edible creations throughout the session.

The event is part of the YMCA’s ongoing youth programming aimed at promoting health, wellness, and educational enrichment in a fun and engaging format.

For more information or to register, contact the Grand River Area Family YMCA at 660-646-6677.

Chillicothe Garden Club Flower Show to be Held June 25-27

The Chillicothe Garden Club Flower Show is June 25-27, from 10 a,m,. to 4 p.m. This is a free event is open to the public. It’s a wonderful display of beautiful flowers grown in the area.

A new category has been added this year which is “Creative Container”.

There are prizes for all eight categories as well as “Best in Show” and “Best Arrangement”.

Anyone can submit an entry as long as they are a Livingston County resident. There is a maximum of eight entries allowed per person and one may enter in each category, all in a single category, or any combination. The eight categories are Annual, Perennial, Succulent, Rose, All One Color Arrangement, Creative Container, Junior Division, and Wild Flower Arrangement. Entries can be dropped off on June 25 from 8 a.m., to 10 a.m., at the Cultural Corner located at 424 Locust Street, Chillicothe.

Water Fun Camps Begin at the Y

Two summer day camps offering high-energy activities and water-based fun will be held at the Grand River Area Family YMCA in Chillicothe.

The first camp, “Pool Palooza,” will be offered June 24–26 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. The program promises non-stop aquatic fun with pool games, relays, contests, and a variety of wacky, water-themed activities. Participants are encouraged to bring goggles and expect plenty of splashes and smiles. The camp is open to children ages 8–14 and costs $40 for YMCA members or $65 for program participants.

The second option, “Run, Jump, and Splash,” is scheduled for July 7–11 from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Children ages 6–14 will spend one hour each day in the gym or gymnastics area and another hour in the pool. The camp is designed to help kids burn energy, build physical skills, and have a great time both in and out of the water. Registration is $55 for members and $80 for program participants.

Both camps are open for registration through the YMCA’s online portal. Families are encouraged to secure spots early, as space may be limited. Goggles are highly recommended for all campers.

First Baptist Church in Chillicothe to Host “Magnified” VBS in July

The First Baptist Church of Chillicothe is inviting area youth to take a closer look at God’s creation this summer during its upcoming Vacation Bible School, themed “Magnified: Discovering the Bigness of God in the Smallest of Things.”

The program will run from July 7-11, offering a week of fun and faith-filled activities for children entering Pre-K through sixth grade. Each evening session will be held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the church.

Children will explore Bible stories, hands-on crafts, music, and interactive lessons that bring the theme of Psalm 34:3 to life. The goal of the week is to help kids discover God’s greatness by focusing on the often-overlooked details in the world around them.

Sign-ups are already open and families can register online at fbchilli.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2952478.

Organizers encourage early registration to help prepare materials and ensure every child has a spot in the summer adventure.

CHS Drama Dept. & Chillicothe Theatre Co. to Host Youth Drama Camp

The spotlight is ready, and the stage is set for the return of the Summer Youth Drama Camp, hosted by the Chillicothe High School Drama Department and the Chillicothe Theatre Company. This year’s camp will take young performers on a creative journey with a Shakespearean twist, offering behind-the-scenes exposure to the world of theatre through acting, improv, games, and more.

Two sessions will be offered:

Week One runs from July 7–11, 2025, for students entering grades 6–8.

Week Two is scheduled for July 21–25, 2025, for students entering grades 3–5.

Camp sessions run daily from 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. and each week will conclude with a Friday evening performance at 7 p.m. for friends and family.

The cost is $75 per participant per week, and students will gain hands-on experience in theatre arts with a special focus on Shakespearean performance. To register or ask questions, families can contact Lisa Rule at lrule@chillicotheschools.org.

Chula Community Garage Sales

Chula is clearing out the closets and firing up the yard signs—because it’s almost time for the annual Chula Community-Wide Garage Sales! Set for Thursday, July 11 through Friday, July 12, the two-day bargain blitz runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and promises treasure-hunting fun for all ages.

Hosted at the Chula Community Center, located at 625 Mansur Street, the event invites area residents to join in by holding their own sales throughout the town. It’s not just about shopping—it’s a community tradition. Locals can register their sale with the center, and organizers will promote the addresses and create a map of participating households to guide eager deal-seekers.

Don’t have your own sale? You can still contribute. The Community Center is accepting donated items to sell during the event for a free-will donation. It’s a great way to declutter while supporting a beloved community space.

Volunteers Wanted to Prep “Out of the Darkness” Walk for Suicide Prevention

Area residents are invited to take part in the “Out of the Darkness” Walk for suicide prevention on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2025. The event will be held at Grand River Technical School in Chillicothe, Missouri, with the site opening at noon.

Organized in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the walk aims to raise awareness, honor those lost to suicide, and offer hope and connection to anyone affected by mental health struggles.

Local organizers are currently seeking support from the community to help make the event meaningful and visible. Volunteers are encouraged to assist with placing yard signs, distributing flyers, or suggesting public locations for informational materials and awareness coasters.

Those interested in helping or seeking more information can contact: Sarah Caselman at 816-439-1568; Connie Yarbrough at 660-973-0932; or Stacey Yarbrough at 660-240-1491.

Registration for the walk is available online at afsp.org/Livingston. All are welcome to attend, and the event is open to individuals, families, organizations, and teams. Together, the community will walk to shine a light on mental health, support those who are struggling, and help prevent suicide.

Featured Local Savings