Grab your favorite partner-in-crime and join Sue, and the ScallyWags as they dive into the riotous world of the CanCan, the high-kicking, skirt-flinging dance that once shocked 19th-century Parisian music halls. Sue will guide you through playful partnered variations, cheeky formations, and the rebellious spirit that made the CanCan a symbol of freedom and flair. Expect laughter, energy, and a dash of daring as you learn to kick together in true cabaret style. Perfect for adventurous couples of all experience levels. Some skirts available or bring your own circle skirt.

4:30pm, September 5, 2026 Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD30 Add To Cart

You are invited to a lovely afternoon tea party. There are not many traditions that are universally accepted as "steampunk" and Tea Time is one of them! Conversation, treats and, of course, tea will help you relax on what is sure to be a gorgeous summer afternoon.

Please RSVP by purchasing a ticket. It's the polite etiquette to ensure that the hostess has plenty to offer her guests!

2:30pm, September 5, 2026 (session one)
3:30pm, September 6, 2026 (session two) Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD30 (per session)

Add To Cart (September 5, 2026) Add To Cart (September 6, 2026)

Discover how Victorian society danced its way into the modern age as we explore the lively "animal dances" (Fox Trot, Turkey Trot, Grizzle Bear) craze, and the sultry arrival of tango that once shocked polite parlors. Whether you fancy yourself a brass-buttoned aristocrat or a dashing sky-pirate, you'll leave ready to glide, strut, and prowl across any festival floor in true retro-futurist style. Beginner level.

4:30pm, September 4, 2026 Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD30Add To Cart

Session One: Steampunk Belly Dance - Accents and Motion
No experience needed. Basic movements with Steampunk Flourishes.

Session Two: Steampunk Belly Dance - Your Costume as Dance Prop
Bustle, parasols, canes and more components of Steampunk attire make wonderful dance props. Bring or wear them and let's dance!

11:00am, September 5, 2026 (session one)
11:00am, September 6, 2026 (session two) Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD30 (per session) Add To Cart (September 5, 2026) Add To Cart (September 6, 2026)

Kick up your heels in our high-energy CanCan Lesson! Led by a former professional CanCan dancer, this workshop welcomes full levels and all abilities - from first-timers to seasoned high-kickers. Learn classic steps, cheeky chorus-line formations, and the joyful spirit that made the CanCan a sensation of the cabaret stage. Skirts will be available on a first-come basis, so arrive early and get ready to swish, kick, and celebrate the art of exuberate dance.

1:00pm, September 5, 2026 Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD30

Add To Cart

Steampunk-up your favorite comic book character and show us you true power! Creativity? Super speed? Imagination? Charity? We want to see!

Thank you Hannibal Heroes Unlimited!

4:00pm, September 6, 2026 Broadway Stage Free

Braid it. Wax it. Twirl it. Curl it. Show it off for a chance to win a prize in our Facial Hair Contest.

12:00 noon, September 5, 2026 Broadway Stage Free

Show off your chapeau! Did you create it yourself, add accoutrements or even buy it from one of our vendors? Come show us how you have chosen to top off your ensemble. Win a prize for what's above your eyes!

11:00am, September 6, 2026 Broadway Stage Free

Let's play dress up! Costume contests are fun for all ages, but this one is for infants, toddlers, children, preteens and teenagers. Show us your best costume, don't be shy... You could win a prize if you try!

1:00pm, September 5, 2026 Broadway Stage Free

Have you ever wanted to catch a murderer? Join us to unravel a twisted plot while drinking and dining during an audience participation Murder Mystery Game Dinner.

Tickets are USD50 per person. Bar opens and seating begins at 5:30pm. Game begins promptly at 6:00pm so don't be late! Seating is limited!

6:00pm, September 4, 2026 (session one)
6:00pm, September 5, 2026 (session two) Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD50 (per session)

Add To Cart (September 4, 2026) Add To Cart (September 5, 2026)

Show off your fur-or-feather or -scale-baby's style during our Pet Parade and Costume Contest! Join in the fun and costume yourself to match your pet, if you'd like!

10:00am, September 7, 2026 Lineup at Broadway Stage Free

Step into the smooth charm of yearly vaudeville as the lovely and talented Sue McGuinness guides you through the graceful world of Soft Shoe. This light-footed cousin of tap dancing - performed in soft-soled shoes with an easy, relaxed rhythm - first emerged in the 1800s and became a star of the vaudeville stage in the early 1900s. Glide along to ragtime tunes, pick up a bit of dance history, and enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for making new friends. Open to all ages and all experoience levels, from absolute beginners to confident intermediates. For the best experience, wear shoes with smooth soles so you can slide in style.

1:30pm, September 6, 2026 Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD30Add To Cart

Join us for an epic Tea Dueling contest at the Broadway stage!

1:00pm, September 6, 2026 Broadway Stage Free

Scoring is based on appearance, fair play, humor, bribing, and race results! We have fun! Be prepared to smile a lot!

3:00pm, September 6, 2026 Wasteland Free

Ever wonder how steam power actually works? Join Magister Aloysius VonDiesel as he journeys through the origins of steam power, refinement of that power, and the huge influence high pressure hot water had and still has on our industrial society!

We start in ancient Rome, travel to Victorian England, and ultimkately land on the shores of The New World in search of the elusive Mysteries of Steam!

12:30pm, September 6, 2026 Noblewares, 101 N Main Street USD25Add To Cart

Having performed for over two decades, the ScallyWags are one of the longest running Pirate Acts in the U.S. and have been a most entertaining part of the Big River Steampunk Festival since our very first year! Be prepared for drinks, adult humor and typical ScallyWag shenanigans! This is a 21+ event!

11:00pm, September 5, 2026 Main Street Social House, 408 N Main Street USD60

Add To Cart

Join Captain Steve Terry aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat for a beautiful sail on the Mississippi River. Dance to music played by Boilerplate and marvel at the magic of Thom Bedlam.

9:00pm, September 5, 2026 Mark Twain Riverboat, 300 Riverfront Dr USD50

Add To Cart