Meet Pop
At the heart of Pop’s Events was Pop himself, Donald’s father and the true inspiration behind our community gatherings. The restaurant named in his honor, owned by Donald and Rickie, became a place where locals would linger over coffee and heartfelt conversations, reflecting Pop’s unmatched passion for fostering connections and building a sense of belonging.
He thrived on engaging with everyone who crossed his path, turning simple moments into cherished memories through his warm hospitality and love for uniting neighbors in joy and camaraderie.
Pop’s Events honors this spirit by creating events that echo his small-town values, celebrating Missouri’s roots and the timeless bonds that bring people together.
Brought to you by a passionate team of organizers who strive to create an exceptional experience for your community!
Donald Black & Rickie Maples
Owners & Operators
Donald and Rickie, the passionate duo behind Pop’s Events, are dedicated to honoring the legacy of Donald’s father, Pop, whose spirit of community and connection continues to inspire everything they do. Drawing from their own experiences running Pop’s restaurant—a hub where locals gathered for heartfelt conversations and shared moments—they now channel that same warmth into creating unforgettable festivals across Missouri’s small towns. Through their events, Donald and Rickie strive to bring people together to celebrate life’s joys, unwind in a welcoming atmosphere, and foster the timeless bonds that strengthen communities, ensuring every gathering echoes Pop’s enduring love for unity and good times.
Next Event
Y'all, ready for some some small town, big event fun at Harvest Fest in Cameron, MO?
Harvest Fest 2025
Join us for Harvest Fest on September 13, 2025, at the Cameron Memorial Airport—a celebration of small-town spirit and autumn’s bounty that’s sure to create lasting memories!
Dive into the excitement with a thrilling tractor, car, and bike show showcasing vintage rides and modern marvels, plus awe-inspiring crop duster demonstrations soaring overhead.
Savor delicious food from local vendors, explore festival booths brimming with crafts and fun activities, and so much more for the whole family. Artists will be announced soon—stay tuned for the lineup that will have everyone tapping their toes!
Whether you’re a local or coming from afar, come unwind, connect with neighbors, and embrace Missouri’s heartland charm. Tickets available soon—mark your calendars and let’s make this harvest one to remember!
Upcoming Events
Grab your crew and join us for a full day of small-town family fun, followed by a starlit night of toe-tappin' music that'll forge memories to cherish forever—straight from the heart of Missouri!
River Jam & Fall Festival - Van Buren, MO
Join us for the annual Pop’s River Jam & Fall Festival on October 4, 2025, in Van Buren, MO—an action-packed autumn celebration of small-town spirit! Enjoy live music by the river, seasonal treats, family activities, crafts, and Missouri community vibes. More details on performers coming soon—tickets available shortly, so mark your calendars!
River Jam Car Show - Van Buren, MO
Rev up for the River Jam Car Show—the biggest in the Ozarks—on October 4, 2025, at Riverfront Park in Van Buren, MO! Showcase your ride for trophies, cash prizes, and exciting drawings (grand prize TBA), all for a $20 registration fee including an evening concert ticket. Join enthusiasts for chrome, community, and small-town fun honoring Missouri's roots—register soon!
Fall Festival Pageant - Van Buren, MO
Join us for Pop’s 2nd Annual Fall Festival Pageant—a heartwarming celebration of beauty, community, and the unique sparkle in every child, inspired by Psalm 139:14. Wrapped in autumn’s golden glow at Van Buren Riverfront Park, this event honors God-crafted wonders from tiny tots to teens.
Hootin' & Hollerin' Dekalb County Style
Get ready to hoot and holler at Pop’s Presents: Hootin’ & Hollerin’ Dekalb County Style on June 7, 2026, at Clarksdale City Ballpark in Clarksdale, MO—a rootin’-tootin’ small-town festival with family fun like bounce houses, face painting, monster trucks, and a concert featuring Tyler Farr, Brandon Davis, Trevon Dawson, and more! Celebrate Missouri’s heartland—tickets on sale now via Eventbrite!
Meet Livin' Large
The Zombie-Crushing Beast from Zombieland:
Double Tap – Roaring into Missouri!
Get ready to rumble with Livin’ Large, the massive 2000 Ford Excursion monster truck that’s roaring into Pop’s Events and stealing the show! Famous for its star turn in the hit movie *Zombieland: Double Tap*—where it was known as “Big Fat Death” and crushed zombies alongside Woody Harrelson and the gang—this beast brings Hollywood thrills right to Missouri’s heartland. With its towering presence and adrenaline-pumping power, Livin’ Large (formerly Insane Asylum) is owned by Michael Hughes in Van Buren, MO, and promises epic demonstrations that celebrate small-town fun and big-time excitement—perfect for families looking to make unforgettable memories at our festivals.
Gallery
Take a glimpse into the electrifying atmosphere and memorable moments from our past music events.
Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed sponsors whose support has made our events possible.
Get ready to dive into the heart of small-town Missouri magic with toe-tappin' tunes, community vibes, and memories that'll last a lifetime—Pop's way!
Don't miss your chance to catch your favorite artists live under the Missouri stars—grab your tickets now and let's create some small-town magic together!