Northeast Missouri Wildlife & Outdoor Expo Returns to Historic Bethel in August
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BETHEL, MO– Historic Bethel German Colony will host the 2025 Wildlife & Outdoor Expo on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The free, family-oriented event promises educational seminars, exciting contests, and hands-on activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
“Hunting and other outdoor activities are very popular in this part of the country,” said Larry Smoot, event organizer for Historic Bethel German Colony. “It is our hope that this expo would offer something for the entire family. We want to offer interesting things to see, education on a variety of outdoor topics, and entertainment for everyone attending.”
Educational Seminars and Demonstrations
The expo will feature several educational opportunities, including a live line demonstration by Lewis County REC and Macon Electric Cooperative, a seminar on the fundamentals of trapping, a presentation on solar cooking, and a Q&A session with a representative from the Missouri Department of Conservation. Plus, watch chainsaw carving, a portable saw mill, fishing lure tips on fly tying, and more.
Contests and Activities
Participants can enter the Trophy Buck Contest and Wildlife & Outdoor Photography Contest, with photo entries due by 8:30 a.m. The event includes a free 3D Archery Shoot (participants must bring their own bow) running from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Youth archery, a BB shooting booth, and birdhouse building will provide additional entertainment for younger attendees. Plus, there will be prize raffles all throughout the day.
For information about the 3D Archery Shoot, contact Brian Barrick at 660-988-5404.
Special Attractions
A Swap Meet will run throughout the event from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., where attendees can buy, sell, or trade hunting and fishing supplies with no fees. The Quincy Axe Company mobile unit will be on-site from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., offering free axe throwing thanks to sponsors Mesmer Fertilizer, Peoples Land Co., and Bethel Colony.
Vendors and Exhibits
The expo will showcase a variety of exhibitors and vendors featuring hunting products and accessories, wildlife crafts, deer stands, and outdoor-related items for purchase.
The Colony Foodstand will be open serving food all day, in addition to the Fest Hall Restaurant and Bethel Bakery.
Event Details
What: 2025 Wildlife & Outdoor Expo
When: Saturday, August 23, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Historic Bethel German Colony, Bethel, Missouri – located on Highway 15, just 13 miles north of Route 36 from Shelbina.
Admission: Free (donations welcome to help preserve historic landmarks)
For more information about exhibiting, vending, or donating prizes, contact Larry Smoot at 660-651-0259 or [email protected]. Additional details are available on the event’s Facebook page or www.historicbethel.org.
About Historic Bethel German Colony
Historic Bethel German Colony is dedicated to preserving the historic landmarks and heritage of the Bethel community in northeast Missouri,
