Scott Joplin Festival celebrates 50 years with record attendance and economic impact

The Sedalia City Council meeting on February 13, 2025, highlighted the upcoming Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival, with Festival Director Shelly Rounds detailing the event's significant impact on the community. Celebrating its 50th anniversary last year, the festival attracted visitors from 40 states and five countries, showcasing Sedalia's status as a premier destination for Ragtime music enthusiasts.

Rounds reported a remarkable 31% increase in concert ticket sales, totaling 1,243 tickets sold, and a direct economic impact of $358,848 over the four-day event. The festival featured 52 musicians, multiple venues, and new programming, including a movie screening of "The Sting," which also celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Looking ahead, the 2025 festival is already generating excitement, with 33 performers confirmed. Organizers are shifting the parade from Wednesday night to Saturday morning to maximize attendance, ensuring that all festival-goers can participate. The trolley tour, a new addition last year, will also return due to its popularity.

The meeting underscored the festival's role in promoting Sedalia's cultural heritage and boosting local tourism, with Rounds emphasizing the importance of community involvement and volunteer leadership in making the event a success. As preparations continue, the city anticipates even greater attendance and economic benefits from this beloved annual celebration of Ragtime music.