Jul 10 Friday
Scout Hall presents Matt “The Rattlesnake” Lesch at its next “Broadway Blues” event.
Born in 1997 in St. Louis Missouri, Matt “The Rattlesnake” Lesch started playing guitar at the age of 11. By the age of 12, he took a serious interest in blues and started studying the masters such as Albert King, B.B. King, Freddie King, Buddy Guy, Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf.
Jul 21 Tuesday
Elvis Presley performed at the A. C. Brase Arena Building in Cape Girardeau on July 20, 1955 and Elvis impersonator Finley Watkins is bringing the full live band show to Cape Girardeau in celebration of Elvis' original visit 71 years to the day.
There will be food available beginning at 5:00 p.m. and the show kicks off at 6:00 p.m. and the event is free and all are welcome.
Jul 04 Saturday
Join us as we celebrate the spirit of America at our Red, White & Blue Fest, held in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States! This special market day is a tribute to our nation’s history, community, and enduring pride.
Enjoy a vibrant morning filled with local vendors showcasing fresh produce, handmade goods, and festive red, white, and blue-themed items. From patriotic treats and summer favorites to unique artisan finds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Bring your family and friends to experience a lively, community-centered celebration featuring music, shopping, and all-American charm along the riverfront. It’s the perfect way to honor this historic milestone while supporting local businesses and makers.
Come dressed in your red, white, and blue and celebrate 250 years of American spirit with us! Red, White, and Blue Fest | Facebook
To see a list of weekly vendors, visit Cape Riverfront Market | Fresh & Local Downtown and select the date.
For updates on each Saturday's musical guest, visit the Cape Riverfront Market's Facebook page.
Fourth at the Fort!Saturday, July 4, 9 am-3 pm
Fort D Historic Site920 Fort StreetCape Girardeau, MO
The soldiers of Fort D were very patriotic. On the national holiday, they would celebrate by firing their rifles and cannon and flying their flags proudly. Celebrate the birth of our nation with local living history reenactors at Fort D. The 1861 Woodruff cannon, a veteran of the Civil War, will be fired during the day. The stone building, with its interpretive displays of life during the Civil War, will also be open. Admission is free.
Join our favorite scientist, Becky Hicks, in some adventurous experiments!
(ages 6-11)
AccessibilityThe library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
Accompanying AdultsThis program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop-offs will not be permitted.
AcknowledgementThis event is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
The City of Cape Girardeau will honor our nation’s 250th birthday at Riverfest on July 4.
The event will feature live entertainment, family activities, food and beverage vendors, and more. Entertainment on the Themis Street main stage will include Greg Vaughn, Joy Brooker, The Ivas John Band, and Mike Walker’s Lasting Impressions. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to view festivities from the courthouse lawn terraces. The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show over the Mississippi River.
Riverfest will take place on Saturday, July 4, from 3 to 9 p.m. in downtown Cape Girardeau.
Riverfest Cape
Jul 07 Tuesday
Build reading readiness and kindergarten readiness skills with our Preschool Storytime program! This fun and educational program features longer books that are accompanied by a variety of activities, including flannel boards, dramatics, and songs.
(Ages 3-5)
This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop-offs will not be permitted.
Join art teacher Cristy Crites for a hands-on workshop where you'll sculpt and design a whimsical terrarium home for your very own baby dinosaur! Let your creativity roam as you craft miniature landscapes, learn fun sculpting techniques, and bring your prehistoric pal’s habitat to life. All materials provided—just bring your imagination! Perfect for all ages. (ages 6-11)
Accessibility: The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
Accompanying Adults: This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop-offs will not be permitted.
This event is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
Ever looked at a classic painting and thought, “This needs a dinosaur”? So have we! Join us for a hands-on art event where you’ll use paints, textiles, and mixed media to transform traditional artwork into wild, imaginative masterpieces. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and get ready to make art history a lot more exciting! (ages 12-18)
Teens Only: Parents, please plan to drop your teen off to enjoy this event with their peers.
Embark on a thrilling role-playing adventure with us in Dungeon Crawl Classics! Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or brand new to tabletop RPGs, everyone is welcome—no experience needed and pre-made characters are available. Prefer to bring your own character? Go for it! We’ll be running short campaigns that tell a complete story arc, with new adventures starting every four weeks.
This time, your party is called to investigate mysterious lights and strange happenings at a remote northern mountain, rumored to be the site of dark magic. What begins as a simple investigation will launch you and your fellow adventurers on an epic quest—one that may even transport you to another era!
All necessary dice, including Dungeon Crawl Classics’ unique “funky dice,” will be provided. Bring your own dice, notebooks, and snacks if you like. Registration is required and signing up for one session secures your spot for the entire campaign. Join us for an unforgettable journey! (ages 18+)
Food Allergies: We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Jul 08 Wednesday
The City of Cape Girardeau will host its annual Parks & Rec Day on July 8.
This free, kid-friendly event will include ice cream, prizes, crafts, games, and more. Vendors will be on-site, and kids will have the opportunity to hang out and take pictures with the PLAYMO mascot.
The 2026 Parks & Rec Day will take place Wednesday, July 8, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Osage Center in Cape Girardeau. No pre-registration necessary.
Join us for BabyBook, a lively lapsit storytime designed to spark your baby’s love for reading! Through joyful stories, playful music and movement, and gentle rhymes, your little one will build early literacy skills and connect with others in a warm, nurturing environment. Perfect for babies and their caregivers—come share cuddles, giggles, and the magic of books together! (ages 0-1)
Accessibility: The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.Accompanying Adults: This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop-offs will not be permitted.