First gaining notoriety in the 1870’s as the location of the “Old Drum” trial which coined the phrase “man’s best friend” for dogs, Warrensburg’s diverse selection of attractions and Midwestern hospitality make it the perfect spot for your next Missouri getaway. The city is a foodies paradise, and visitors will encounter some great homegrown eateries like Cafe Blackadder, Heroes Restaurant, and more. Whether soaking in the local culture at McClure Archives and University Museum or playing 18 holes at the Mules National Golf Club, Warrensburg has something for every visitor.
Burg Fest has established itself a major community event in only its fifth year, and it will take place September 22-23 in downtown Warrensburg. This family-friendly community celebration will include a variety of dance and music performances by local groups, and more than 50 craft and food vendors, and a farmers market on Saturday morning. Attendees will also encounter a Beer Garden with a variety of beer choices and live music by local bands. The Warrensburg Wheels Cruise-In Car Show will feature a variety of vintage, muscle, and unique cars. The Mazzio Wing Eating Contest will crown a new chicken wing eating champion. Children will have a blast in the kids’ fun zone that will have bouncy houses, games, and more. The event’s proceeds will go back into the festival for next year and to the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Johnson County and Warrensburg Main Street which works to support and promote businesses in the downtown area. We got the opportunity to interview Jill Purvis, a representative of the event, to learn more about his great community celebration.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
JP: This is the 5th year for Burg Fest.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
JP: We expect between 5,000-7,000 people.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?
JP: The festival attracts all demographics from Warrensburg and the surrounding areas. We have a variety of activities and performances that will appeal to everyone.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
JP: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Johnson County and Warrensburg Main Street have been organizing Burg Fest since it began in 2012. There are also a variety of other local organizations and groups that contribute, ensuring that we have a successful community driven event. We have a broad range of activities and entertainment options that appeal to a wide variety of people. There will be performances by local dance and cheer groups, singing from children, and a group from the local university. We will have a burn house presented by the Warrensburg Fire Department and a vintage car show. There will be live music, a beer garden, and games for adults. The kid's fun zone features a fun zone full of bounce houses. We have over 50 craft and food vendors and our local farmers' market. A family Glow Run, wing eating contest, and beauty pageant are also a part of this fun filled weekend.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
JP: Here are some of the activities:
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Over 50 Vendors
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Car Show
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Farmers' Market
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WFD Burn House
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Kids’ Fun Zone
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Outdoor Movie
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Beauty Pageant
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Glow Run
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Live Music
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Local Entertainment
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Adult Games
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Wing Eating Contest
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Warrensburg High School All Class Reunion
Follow the link for a complete schedule.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
JP: Warrensburg has some great lodging options which are listed here.
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
JP: Burg Fest is an opportunity for our community to come together and make memories. The festival is a source of pride for our community, and we want to invite everyone to join us.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
JP: Many of our local businesses will have a booth at Burg Fest including several of the businesses located in our downtown area.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?
JP: Yes, proceeds go to the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Johnson County, Warrensburg Main Street, and Burg Fest.
For more information about Burg Fest, please visit the event website.