By Amy Howe
This October, Carthage will transform into a vibrant tapestry of community spirit, history and celebration as the 58th Annual Maple Leaf Festival kicks off, attracting tens of thousands to America’s Maple Leaf City. Anchored by the beauty of fall foliage, this beloved festival has evolved from its modest beginnings in 1966 as a simple marching band competition into a regional spectacle that now features parades, craft fairs, live music and family-friendly activities. For the City of Carthage and Carthage Chamber of Commerce, it’s a time-honored tradition that marks the changing of seasons and the strengthening of community bonds.
At the heart of this beloved festival are two sponsors whose long-standing dedication has helped shape the event into what it is today: Mercy Hospital Carthage and Southwest Missouri Bank (SMB). Both organizations, with deep roots in the community, have played pivotal roles in ensuring the Maple Leaf Festival remains a staple of Carthage’s cultural calendar.
For Mercy Hospital Carthage, being a presenting sponsor of the Maple Leaf Festival is more than just supporting an event; it’s about upholding a tradition that reflects the values of family, community and connection—principles that align perfectly with the hospital’s mission.
“Maple Leaf is a tradition in Carthage, and it’s important to the entire community,” shares Mindi Wilks, manager of operations at Mercy Hospital Carthage. “Our involvement has grown from being just a parade entry to participating in nearly every event during the festival. It’s a way for us to give back to the community that has given us so much.”
Mercy Hospital’s commitment to the festival mirrors its dedication to the well-being of Carthage residents. Over the years, Mercy’s sponsorship has helped enhance the festival’s offerings, from the parade to other family-friendly activities that bring people together. Wilks emphasizes the importance of this connection, stating, “Sponsoring this event has given us a chance to engage with the community outside of the hospital walls, building relationships with people we may not otherwise interact with.”
Southwest Missouri Bank, with its deep historical ties to Carthage, has been a steadfast supporter of the Maple Leaf Festival for over 35 years. The bank’s involvement in the event goes beyond sponsorship, playing a hands-on role in its organization and execution. As a long-standing corporate sponsor, SMB embodies the festival’s spirit of tradition and community engagement.
“Our bank originated in Carthage 45 years ago, and we’ve been an integral part of the Maple Leaf Festival and Parade for over 35 years,” says Jeannette Clem, Carthage market president and EVP at SMB. “It’s always a joy for our employees to walk in the parade, hand out candy and see familiar faces along the route. The excitement in the air during the parade is contagious, and it’s a highlight for everyone involved.”
For SMB, the Maple Leaf Festival is not just a fun event but also a way to give back to the community that has supported them for decades. “Carthage is where it all started for us,” Clem adds. “We’re proud to support an event that attracts families from all over and stimulates the local economy. We look forward to continuing our sponsorship for many years to come.”
The Maple Leaf Festival is a time when the community of Carthage comes together, creating memories that last a lifetime. The event’s return to its roots this year, with the parade circling the historic Carthage square, is a nod to the festival’s rich history, and the theme—Celebrating America’s Maple Leaf City—honors both the town’s heritage and its future.
This year’s grand marshal, Cheryle Finley, a lifelong resident of Carthage and past chair of the Maple Leaf Festival, exemplifies the festival’s spirit. Her leadership and dedication to various community causes reflect the very values the Maple Leaf Festival upholds—community, service and tradition.
With sponsors like Mercy Hospital Carthage, Southwest Missouri Bank and so many others helping to ensure the festival’s continued success, the Maple Leaf Festival remains a cherished part of the city’s identity. As Mercy Hospital’s Wilks points out, “This event is about tradition, family and community—values that are integral to both the festival and our organization.”
As Carthage prepares for another unforgettable nine days of celebration, it’s clear that the Maple Leaf Festival is more than just a gathering—it’s a reflection of the town’s enduring spirit, a tradition made possible by the commitment of its local businesses. Through their support, the festival will continue to flourish for generations to come.
For all of the details www.carthagechamber.com