Photo courtesy ShutterstockSee the Little Prince performed live at the Gillioz Theatre this weekend.
Life
This Week in Springfield, Missouri
Find the best things to do this weekend in Springfield and around southwest Missouri.
by Katie Pollock Estes
Apr 10 2025 at 8 a.m.
THIS WEEK'S DATEBOOK PRESENTED BY
April 10–17
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Top Picks
April 11 & 13: The Little Prince
Gillioz Theater
Composer Rachel Portman has created a beautiful orchestra inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved book The Little Prince. See the talented musicians with Ozarks Lyric Opera tell the story of the young prince visiting Earth from a nearby asteroid, and the crash-landed pilot he meets.
April 11: Think Summit
Convoy of Hope World Distribution Center
Biz 417 ’s all-day conference features TED Talk–style speakers who take the stage with thought-provoking, forward-looking and inspirational presentations. Lunch is provided, and there are plenty of opportunities to connect and network with other attendees throughout the day.
This Week
April 11–13: HBA Home & Outdoor Living Show
Wilson’s Logistics Arena, Ozark Empire Fairgrounds
If you have home building or remodeling on the mind—either inside your house or outside—this event is the place to find inspiration and resources. More than 150 local vendors and professionals will be on-hand. There are interactive workshops planned as well.
April 12–May 12: Spring Exposition
Silver Dollar City
There’s so much new stuff to explore at Silver Dollar City’s Spring Exposition festival. The park is debuting its Plaza expansion, a colorful two-story-high Parasol Sky installment over Valley Road, live music at the new Fest House in Red Gold Heritage Hall, a clogging jamboree, ragtime piano music, great new foods for the spring season and more.
April 11: Serial Killers with Dr. Scott Bonn
Aetos Center for the Performing Arts
If you can’t get enough of true crime podcasts and documentaries, then you’ll enjoy this event with criminologist and serial killer expert, Dr. Scott Bonn. He’ll touch on the terrifying stories of Ted Bundy, Jeffrey Dahmer and more.
April 12: Balloon Glow & Firework Show
Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds
This event starts with a lineup of live entertainment, including concerts by Thundershine, Bryant Band and Simply Seger. Then, guests get to see a gorgeous hot air balloon glow followed by a fireworks finale. This event benefits the Child Advocacy Center. Bring a blanket to sit on.
April 16, 23 & 30: April at the Amphitheatre
John Goodman Amphitheatre
Bring a brown bag lunch to John Goodman Amphitheatre every Wednesday this month for free performances from local musicians. This year’s lineup includes Matteson Gregory on April 16, Chris Albert & the Roadies on April 23 and Missouri State Opera Theatre on April 30.
Coming Up
April 17: Sesame Street Live! Say Hello
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts
This one’s for the kiddos! They get to see some of their favorite Sesame Street characters live on stage, like Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby and more. Elmo’s puppy, Tango, even makes an appearance. It’s a fun night full of singing and dancing perfect for kiddos of all ages.
April 17: Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert
Gillioz Theater
If a movie features David Bowie, you know it’ll have legendary music, and that’s true for the beloved cult-favorite film Labyrinth. See the movie while you experience the music performed by a live band. There’s even a pre-show costume contest for anybody wanting to dress up as their favorite character. Spring for the VIP ticket to get fun extras like a Labyrinth tote bag and a show poster.
April 17: Spring Farm to Table Dinner
Cassidy Station
Chef Pat Duran of Metropolitan Grill has created a four-course farm-to-table experience, taking place at the beautiful Cassidy Station at Estes Farms. Locally grown ingredients make an appearance on the fresh, springy menu.
Want more info?
Need to know more about what's going on in 417-land right now? Check out the calendar for local resources. Visit our Events & Promotions page to stay up to date on the latest 417 events, contests, promotions and more!
I’m Katie Pollock Estes, and I’m 417’s Editorial Director. I’ve been here almost 19 years, spending my workdays hunting for the best things to do and people to know in the Ozarks—and working with writers to share it all with you. Got a tip? Email me your story ideas for Datebook and 417 Magazine!
