Boone County Hosts 6th Annual Ready Festival to Promote Community Preparedness

COLUMBIA, Mo. (September 10, 2026) - On Thursday, September 17, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Boone County Office of Emergency Management will host the 6th Annual Boone County Ready Festival at Cosmo Park’s Lamb Shelter. This exciting community event is designed to engage, educate, and empower residents to be prepared for emergencies.

Over 60 local and regional vendors will be in attendance, including many local first responders, both of the area’s hospital systems, the Missouri National Guard, and the American Red Cross. Attendees will have the chance to interact with these organizations and learn vital preparedness skills.

The festival will also feature family-friendly activities, including games for kids, a magic show, and a variety of local food trucks offering tasty treats. To encourage emergency readiness, the first 200 households to attend will receive free preparedness kits.

A highlight of the festival will be the announcement of this year's recipient of the Tom S. Hurley Public Safety Service Award. This award, named in honor of the late Emergency Management Director Tom Hurley, recognizes an individual, agency, or organization that exemplifies outstanding community service in fostering preparedness, responding to emergencies, or building resilience.

“The Ready Festival is a fun way for people to connect with the community resources available to them, while also preparing their families and homes for emergencies,” said Deputy Director Jake Waller. “Whether it's learning how to create an emergency kit or ensuring your family is ready for the unexpected, these small steps can make a huge difference.”

This year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, with a wide variety of educational opportunities and fun for all ages. The public is invited to join in the fun at Cosmo Park’s Lamb Shelter and help build a more resilient community!

To avoid missing out on the fun, text READY2026 to 67283 to receive updates about the Boone County Ready Festival sent straight to your phone!

Boone County Ready Festival is possible this year through the generous support of our sponsor, First Responder Support (Silver Sponsor).

For more information, please visit https://www.boonemo.gov/oem/plan-prepare/festival.asp.

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