Annual Bill Payne Halloween Party Lives On

Whether it’s eating Dari-B in March, heading to the Christmas parade in November, or hitting the Sonic pothole year round, Excelsior Springs is steeped with tradition! For the last 96 years, the American Legion has been hosting the Annual Bill Payne Party, offering a safe place for kids and families go and celebrate the holiday. Here’s the history behind the event:

In 1925 Bill Payne was appointed chief of police and he held that position until 1953. In 1926, Payne experienced his first big test as chief of police. Halloween that year was described as a “disgrace to the city”. Vandals painted windows, slashed tires on automobiles, defaced the streets and storefronts, caused damage to one of the city’s bridges. As Halloween of 1927 was approaching, Payne was determined that the same thing would not happen again. He decided that on Halloween he would give a party for the citizens of Excelsior Springs, both young and old. About 100 people attended the party. Free drinks and food were donated by the city merchants, and to gain admittance to the party, citizens had only to pledge not to damage or destroy any property. The party was a huge success, and the amount of vandalism was greatly reduced that year.

Children are treated from 4 to 6 p.m. by downtown merchants on Monday, October 31, 2022. Afterwards, everyone will gather for the Bill Payne Costume Contest and judging promptly at 6 p.m. at the Clay Ray Veteran Hall, 208 Veterans Memorial Dr., Excelsior Springs. Hotdogs and sodas available.