What’s Happening in and Near Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri, offers a vibrant mix of events, attractions, and activities that keep locals and visitors entertained year-round. With its rich jazz heritage, delicious barbecue, and unique arts scene, there’s always something to experience in this lively city. Here’s a roundup of some of the top happenings in and around Kansas City that you won’t want to miss.

Kansas City’s arts and cultural scene is in full swing with several upcoming exhibits, live performances, and festivals. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art frequently hosts exhibitions that appeal to art lovers of all ages. Meanwhile, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is an excellent place to catch a live show, whether it’s the Kansas City Ballet, Symphony, or Opera. For those who prefer local theaters, Unicorn Theatre and The Coterie Theatre feature productions by regional talent and are great options for a more intimate performance experience.

One of the must-visit events in Kansas City is the American Royal World Series of Barbecue, held annually in the fall. Known as the largest barbecue contest in the world, this event draws thousands of barbecue enthusiasts and top chefs from across the country. It’s a great opportunity to sample a variety of smoked meats, enjoy live music, and experience Kansas City’s famous barbecue culture up close.

Music lovers will find Kansas City a treasure trove of live music experiences. Known as the birthplace of jazz, Kansas City keeps the spirit alive with venues like The Blue Room and Green Lady Lounge, where you can catch jazz performances almost every night of the week. Jazz festivals and tribute events also occur regularly, especially in the 18th & Vine District, which celebrates the city’s rich music history. During the summer, Starlight Theatre offers open-air concerts and musicals, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

For families, Kansas City Zoo and Worlds of Fun amusement park are year-round hits. The zoo offers a variety of animal exhibits and interactive experiences, and it hosts seasonal events that make each visit unique. Worlds of Fun is a thrilling destination for amusement park lovers and often has themed events, especially around Halloween and the holiday season. Winter events such as Holiday Lights on Farmstead Lane provide a family-friendly way to celebrate the season, with light displays and special holiday activities.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the numerous parks, trails, and gardens near Kansas City. Loose Park is a local favorite, known for its beautiful rose garden, picnic spots, and walking trails. If you’re willing to venture just outside the city, Lake Jacomo and Swope Park offer hiking, boating, and scenic views, providing a refreshing escape from city life. The Kansas City River Market is another popular spot for enjoying the outdoors, with its bustling farmers market, food stalls, and specialty shops.

Foodies will find Kansas City’s culinary scene buzzing with new flavors and time-honored classics. Alongside its famous barbecue joints like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Arthur Bryant’s, Kansas City has an array of restaurants offering diverse cuisines. The Crossroads Arts District has become a hotspot for trendy dining experiences and craft breweries, making it a popular destination for food tours and tastings.

Sports fans have plenty to cheer about, especially when it comes to football and baseball. Arrowhead Stadium is home to the Kansas City Chiefs, and attending a game there is an unforgettable experience filled with enthusiastic fans and the iconic Arrowhead “sea of red.” During baseball season, Kauffman Stadium hosts Kansas City Royals games, where families and fans gather to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. If you’re more into soccer, Children’s Mercy Park is the place to watch Sporting Kansas City in action, adding to the city’s reputation as a top sports destination.