GLADSTONE — Gladstone’s biggest fall tradition is back this weekend and bigger than ever. Gladfest returns Oct. 3–4, celebrating its 46th year.
Train show
The Gladfest Train Show is on track to display N-scale and T-track models in the climate-controlled Gladstone Community Center, located at 6901 N. Homes St. Northeast Model Railroad, Lionel Switching Operations and wooden play tracks will also be featured.
Train show hours are 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.
Little Miss & Mr. contests
Each year, the Northland’s cutest residents, ages 3 to 8, can dress up for the chance to represent Gladfest as local royalty. Little Mr. & Miss Gladfest and Gladfest Prince and Princess contest participants will gather at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, on the Linden Square Stage, located at 602 NE 70th St.
Each contestant will be asked to recite a simple poem or nursery rhyme, or sing a simple song a capella. Additionally, contestants are encouraged to dress for the theme, “Get Your Kicks At Gladfest 46.” Winners must be available to be in the parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.
Contestants ages 3 to 5 will vie for the title of Gladfest Prince and Princess, while those 6 to 8 will compete for the title of Little Mr. & Miss Gladfest. The entry deadline is Sept. 22, and entries will be limited to the first 30 applications received. Only Northland residents are able to compete. Winners from 2024’s festival are not eligible. There is no fee to enter.
Entertainment
Jackson & Mars is a high-energy live band and production showcasing the biggest hits of two of pop music’s biggest icons: Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars.
The band will take the Linden Square stage at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 3. The band features a Bruno Mars look-alike and a top Jackson impersonator. JAM brings the performances and videos of these two artists to life.
Kansas City’s Groove Pilots officially took off in January 2009. The band features a mix of rock, funk and blues covers along with a few of their own originals.
This professional but fun band provides a laid back rock experience that will leave everyone toe tapping and having a good time. The band will take the stage at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.
Midnight Rodeo is known for great harmonies and an amazing sound while creating a fun, energetic show for their many fans. Midnight Rodeo has opened for several national acts including Ricochet, Craig Morgan, and Restless Heart. The band will rock the Linden Square Stage starting at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.
Gladfest Parade
The beloved Gladfest Parade is returning to the streets of Gladstone this fall, bringing with it a renewed sense of excitement and community spirit.
Set for 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, this year’s parade will feature a lively mix of creative floats, unique performances, and spirited participation from local schools, businesses, and community organizations — all coming together to craft an unforgettable experience that celebrates the heart of Gladstone.
This year, parade participants have two themes to choose from and both celebrate Kansas City. The first is “Get Your Kicks – Celebrating the World Cup” and the second is “A Kansas City Love Story – Where Football Meets Music.”
There are prizes in the categories of business, nonprofit/charitable, best use of theme, best musical use of theme, and best use of Gladfest mascot “Sam the Scarecrow.”
Kids Corner
Kids’ Corner, presented by Oakhill Day School, will feature free activities for children of all ages and interests. Exciting features will include arts and craft projects, a prize wheel, coloring and reading corners, outdoor games and tech/makers’ space.
Pride Martial Arts and Clay County Parks & Rec have also joined in the fun too as will Mid-Continent Public Library – Antioch Branch.
Kids’ Corner is located on the Oakhill Day School playground immediately east of the main building at 7019 N. Cherry St. Kids Corner hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3 and noon to 7 p.m. Oct. 4.
Carnival
The Gladfest carnival is a mainstay for those seeking adventure on the midway.
The carnival will be open all three days of the festival for children of all ages. It will offer all-you-can-ride wristband specials for $28.
Wristband specials run from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, from noon to 5 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5. Each timeframe requires a separate wristband.
The carnival will be stretching midway-style down Holmes Street in front of Gladstone City Hall and south between the Gladstone Community Center and Oakhill Day School’s south campus, said festival organizers.
Be sure to get a wristband and enjoy all the rides the carnival has to offer.
Bike rodeo
Gladfest includes activities that aren’t just fun, but also educational. The Midwest Trauma Society presents a bike rodeo from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 4.
Kids from the ages of kindergarten to sixth grade are invited to try out the free obstacle course.
Attendees may bring their own bike or borrow one provided. Participants must be accompanied by an adult to sign a consent form to participate
