Christmas in July

at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park

7/17/2026 to 7/19/2026 | Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park | Miami, Mo.

'Tis this season … kind of, anyway. For those of you who love the holiday season but don’t like the cold weather, come join the crew at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park to celebrate Christmas in July.

Regular camping fees apply, and guests are encouraged to reserve a site in advance; however, the event itself is free and does not require registration.

Event Schedule:

Friday, July 17

  • Bring your Christmas decorations and transform your site into a Christmas village for a chance to win a fun prize. Check-in starts at 2 p.m.

Saturday, July 18

  • Noon – Campsite judging: Park staff members will anonymously go through the campground and cast votes for the campsite decorating contest. In the evening, park visitors will also have a chance to vote for their favorite site. Prizes will be awarded for the top two sites.
  • 2 p.m. – Ugly sweater fashion show: Stop in the park’s cultural center and show us your ugliest Christmas sweater or other Christmas apparel.
  • 3 p.m. – Christmas treats and crafts: Make some Christmas crafts and treats in the cultural center.
  • 5-7 p.m. – Photo booth: Get your photo taken inside our photo booth. The location of the photo booth will depend on the weather.
  • 9 p.m. – Lighting of the tree: Watch as the Van Meter staff lights the park Christmas tree in the campground.
  • 9-10 p.m. – Drive through the Christmas town: Visitors will be encouraged to drive through the campground loop to see the decorated campsites.

Sunday, July 19

  • Campsite decorating contest winners announced: Contest winners will be informed in person at their campsites before 10 a.m.
  • Pack up the Christmas decorations and return to the real world. Check out by 10 a.m. 

Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park Contact Information:

  • Address: 32146 N. Highway 122
  • Phone number: 660-886-7537