Annual event to feature music, vendors, fireworks, free fishing and more

By Gwendylan Harmon Cassville Democrat Intern

Cassville residents can expect a night sky filled with color and sound, as this year’s Trout Fest includes a fireworks celebration of the United States’ 250th birthday on June 5 at the Cassville Aquatic Park. 

While the event includes live music, food trucks and family friendly activities, city officials say the fireworks display will once again serve as the highlight of the evening.

The event, titled “Trout Fest Music and Fireworks,” will begin at 6 p.m., with live entertainment leading up to the main attraction. City leaders have placed a strong emphasis on ensuring the fireworks display delivers both quality and value. During the March city council meeting, City Administrator Richard Asbill discussed the planning process behind this year’s show, explaining that the city worked carefully within its budget to secure a high quality display.

According to Asbill, the city reviewed three bids, all for $15,000. After comparing proposals, officials selected Display Pyrotechnics as the provider for this year’s show. Asbill said the company stood out for its ability to deliver a strong, visually engaging performance while staying within financial limits.

“In the end, we felt like this one gave us the best bang for our buck,” he said.

Officials hinted that attendees should be excited for a surprise element built into the performance. 

“There are going to be some surprises in the show,” said Rachel Freeman, with FullCourt Media, which handles economic development for the city. “We don’t want to give everything away, but it’s definitely something people won’t want to miss.”

This year’s show will be launched by the Aquatic Center sports complex. Organizers say the setup will allow the fireworks to reach higher elevations and be seen from multiple vantage points around the park and surrounding areas.

Freeman encouraged residents to plan ahead when choosing where to watch the show.

“People should find seating facing west to get the best view,” she said. 

Event organizers are also advising attendees to arrive early to secure a good spot. With large crowds expected, lawn chairs and blankets are recommended for those planning to settle in for the evening.

“Definitely bring lawn chairs,” Freeman said. “It’s meant to be a relaxed, family-friendly environment where people can come out, sit back, and enjoy the show. The music and fireworks are part of a weekend-long event. We want people to come out not just for the show, but to enjoy the whole experience.”

Freeman said concert lineup will be released in May.

“We can’t announce it until May,” Freeman said. “There’s a radius clause in the contract, so we just have to wait until that clears.”

As in previous years, the “Trout Fest Music and Fireworks” event serves as the kickoff to a broader weekend of activities that extend beyond Friday night. Since its start in 2020, Trout Fest has grown into a multi-day celebration aimed at highlighting outdoor recreation and community engagement.

Typically coinciding with Free Fishing Weekend at Roaring River State Park, one of the key additions this year is a fishing derby, which Freeman said is intended to encourage families and individuals to take advantage of the area’s natural resources.

“It’ll be for everybody,” Freeman said. “We’re looking at having divisions for both youth and adults.”

While final details for the derby are still being worked out, organizers expect it will include an entry fee. In addition to music, fireworks and fishing, another activity is a free swim day at the Aquatic Park on Saturday, offering families another opportunity to gather and enjoy the facilities.

Freeman said the overall goal is to create a “fun, family-friendly” and “busy weekend” that gives residents multiple reasons to participate.

“We want people to have things to do all weekend long,” she said. “It’s about bringing the community together and giving families something to look forward to.”

As preparations continue, organizers encourage residents to stay updated as more details are finalized in the coming weeks. Additional announcements regarding entertainment, schedules and activities are expected ahead of the event.