From chrome-covered bikes and rocking tribute bands to cascading water slides and international recognition for a car smash, Waterfest 2025 was more than just a festival—it was a celebration of community, creativity, and connection.
Organized each year by the Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, Waterfest is the city’s largest annual event, taking months of planning and a dedicated team of volunteers to pull off. This year, the two-day celebration exceeded expectations despite a high heat index and heavy humidity. And while Waterfest is often known for attracting rain, this year Mother Nature cooperated—offering mostly partly cloudy skies and plenty of sunshine for the thousands who attended.
“Our goal for this year’s Waterfest was to create a weekend that celebrated the history and spirit of Excelsior Springs through community connection, local business support, and family-friendly fun—and we were thrilled to see those goals exceeded,” said Chamber President Brian Rice. “From outstanding attendance and vendor participation to rave reviews on entertainment, fireworks, and atmosphere, the event truly showcased the best of our town.”
Smash Hit from the Smash Car
One of the surprise highlights of the weekend was the Smash Car, sponsored by Andrew Shoemaker, which not only entertained hundreds locally but also gained international attention. A video clip of the event went viral—being viewed over 109,000 times in countries including Mexico, Canada, the UK, Germany, France, Norway, Sweden, and even Australia.
“These cars are absolutely destroyed—you made them nearly unrecognizable!” said Shoemaker. “Thank you Excelsior Springs for your overwhelming support. We had a great turnout and people from across the country are now reaching out wanting to bring this idea to their own towns.”
Festival Favorites and Local Impact
The festival grounds were filled with music, food, family activities, and a wide variety of vendors. Kalyn Goode, Tray Harkins, and Kenny Manley brought back the much-loved Kids Splash Zone, with inflatable water slides and refreshing fun for families throughout the weekend. Kalyn also sponsored the charming Little Mr. and Miss Waterfest pageant, which continues to grow in popularity for its focus on confidence and community spirit.
Music rang out from the Rite-Way Stage, featuring a stellar lineup of bands that had the crowds singing and dancing. Local favorites JD and The Chasers kicked things off Friday night and kept the crowd going long after the fireworks. Saturday’s “Summer Jam” featured performances by The Cowardly Lions, The Steve Miller Experience, The Styx Illusion, The Doobies KC, and The John Cougar Project, creating a festival soundtrack filled with classics.
Waterfest was also a time for reunion and remembrance. The Class of 1985 celebrated their 40th reunion during the weekend, and the American Italian Pasta Company of Winland Foods, Inc. joined in the fun by marching in the parade with “Pasta Vibes” t-shirts and hosting a company picnic in Carolyn Schutte Park.
Local nonprofits and historical groups also used the opportunity to raise awareness and funds.
- Friends of the Wells raised $168 through donations, book raffle tickets, and sales, supporting their mission to restore the city’s mineral waters.
- The Excelsior Springs Museum & Archives held a hugely successful rummage sale, raising $6,670 toward their preservation efforts.
- Veterans Outreach Ministries hosted a raffle for a handmade quilt, raising money to send veterans to D.C. as part of the Kansas City Honor Flight and to support Valor Ranch. The winning ticket went to Kevin O’Connell.
Community at the Core
Throughout the weekend, it was clear that Waterfest is more than a festival—it’s a reflection of Excelsior Springs’ unique character. It brings together residents, businesses, schools, alumni, visitors, and volunteers in a shared celebration of local culture, history, and pride.
“None of this weekend’s fun would have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors and the dedication of our volunteers, who gave their time, talent, and energy to make the festival a success,” said Rice.
As the fireworks fade and tents come down, one thing remains—the spirit of Excelsior Springs is stronger than ever, thanks to a community that shows up, pitches in, and celebrates together.
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