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September 03.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover Kansas City’s Best Festivals: A Guide for Local Explorers

Kansas City festivals with crowd enjoying live music performance

Explore the Festival Scene in Kansas City

As the leaves begin to turn and the spicy aroma of pumpkin spice fills the air, Kansas City's vibrant festival scene comes alive! If you're a local resident looking for ways to connect with neighbors while enjoying family-friendly activities, these festivals offer something for everyone.

Art Westport: Where Creativity Flourishes

The 45th annual Art Westport runs from September 5-7 and is a celebration of the city’s artistic talent. Whether you are an avid art lover or just curious, this event showcases a variety of arts and crafts by local artisans. This year, beyond the artist booths, there will be engaging hands-on activities for kids and diverse musical performances, making it a perfect outing for families. You can even grab a bite from some of the best restaurants in Kansas City nearby, ensuring a delightful day filled with art and good food.

Unveiling the Plaza Art Fair

Next, immerse yourself in the culture at the Plaza Art Fair from September 19-21. Spanning nine blocks in the historic Country Club Plaza, this acclaimed event draws over 250,000 visitors each year. Featuring 240 skilled artists alongside three stages of live music and over 20 restaurant booths, this celebration combines art with culinary delights. Don’t forget to explore local restaurants near you, where you can uncover the best BBQ in Kansas City! You will surely find something tantalizing after a day of appreciating artistic talent!

Family Fun at the Overland Park Fall Festival

For an event the whole family can enjoy, head to the Overland Park Fall Festival from September 26-27. With more than 75 local artisans, live performances, and appetizing food trucks, this festival is the perfect spot for a weekend outing. And while you’re at it, check out nearby family-friendly restaurants in Kansas City to complete your experience with a delicious meal.

A Taste of Autumn at KC Wine Co.

As the harvest season kicks in, the KC Wine Co. Fall Festival from September 27 to October 26 is a must-visit. Covering over 40 acres, this all-ages festival features various activities from corn pits to mega slides, ensuring a day filled with fun! Of course, don’t forget to indulge in their famous wine slushes to sip while you enjoy festive activities.

Oktoberfest: A Local Favorite

October in Kansas City wouldn’t be complete without the lively KC Oktoberfest at Crown Center from October 3-4. Join thousands as you savor authentic German cuisine, enjoy live music, and participate in the unforgettable Masskrugstemmen beer stein holding competition. It's a fantastic opportunity to gather with friends and celebrate the season. For an unforgettable meal, be sure to explore some outdoor dining options nearby, where you can savor seasonal dishes to complement the festivities!

Chicano Art Festival: A Celebration of Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions at the Chicano Art Festival on October 5. This event emphasizes Chicano culture through dance, music, and culinary delights. Perfect for car enthusiasts, this festival also hosts KC’s largest lowrider show, creating an environment rich with community spirit and artistic expression.

Weston Applefest: A Slice of Country Charm

For a charming countryside experience, don’t miss the Weston Applefest, taking place from October 5-6. Celebrate the 35th year of this festive event, complete with a parade, artisan makers, and mouth-watering apple dumplings. After exploring the festival, take a minute to relax at O’Malley’s 1847 Pub, an historical establishment renowned for its incredible selection of drinks.

Chili Lovers Unite at the Lenexa Chili Challenge

While the details on the Lenexa Chili Challenge are still heating up, this cooking competition promises to be a mouth-watering highlight you won’t want to miss this fall. Enjoy samples from local chili cooks and engage in lively community activities that showcase culinary enthusiasts from all around.

Join in the Local Fun!

With so many exciting events popping up, this fall is a fantastic time to explore Kansas City’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re attending festivals or enjoying the diverse restaurant scene, you'll find no shortage of ways to enjoy the season with your loved ones.

To stay updated on all local happenings, share your own festival experiences, and connect with our community, consider subscribing to Kansas City's art and cultural newsletters—it’s the perfect way to ensure you never miss out on local gems!

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10.30.2025

Discover Exciting Events in Kansas City This Weekend, October 30—November 2

Update Explore Kansas City This Weekend: A Guide to Local Events As the vibrant colors of fall envelop Kansas City, residents and visitors alike are treated to an array of cultural, artistic, and entertaining events this weekend from October 30 to November 2. Whether you're a fan of Broadway musicals, local art, or intriguing theatrical performances, there’s something happening all around that’ll surely capture your attention. Disney's Beauty and the Beast: A Magical Journey The timeless tale of Beauty and the Beast is back! This North American tour brings the beloved characters of Belle, the Beast, and their enchanted friends to life on stage at the Kansas City Music Hall from October 28 to November 2. Expect stunning new sets and costumes designed by the original Tony Award-winning team to breathe fresh life into this classic story. It's not just a show; it's an experience that families and friends can enjoy together. Don’t miss out on this enchanting opportunity! Artistic Expression at Charlotte Street Foundation This weekend, the Charlotte Street Foundation hosts Becoming: A Journey of Transformation, an immersive performance combining visual storytelling and unique textile artistry by designer Stephanie McIntosh and filmmaker Lamal Mack. Set for October 30 at 7:30 PM, this one-of-a-kind show highlights the vibrant arts scene in KC and showcases local talent. The Arterie Grand Opening: An Art Pathway Awaits Join in the festivities at the grand opening of The Arterie, a new arts-centric pathway in the Southmoreland neighborhood. This interactive exploration features three artistic hubs: the Kemper Museum, the Nelson-Atkins Museum, and the Kansas City Art Institute, along with live performances and hands-on activities for attendees on November 2 at 1 PM. It’s a brilliant way to blend community and creativity while celebrating the expansion of the streetcar service. Thrilling Experiences This Weekend For those interested in a good scare, watch the iconic The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Screenland Armour on November 1. Dressing up is encouraged! If comedy is more your scene, catch Steve Hofstetter at the Funny Bone on October 30, who brings a fresh perspective on mental health through humor. Halloween Fun and Other Exciting Activities Halloween celebrations continue with Get Cranked 2.0 on October 31 in the Power and Light District. DJ Crankdat promises to turn up the energy with a stunning mix of electro-house beats and visual effects that create an unforgettable atmosphere. Meanwhile, if you’re in the mood for classical haunting, the Kansas City Symphony presents Rachmaninoff Celebration, Part I over the weekend, delivering a blend of spooky classics and beautiful music. A Taste of Kansas City: Dining Options Abound When searching for the best restaurants in Kansas City this weekend, be sure to enjoy local favorites such as BBQ near you. Whether you’re craving family-friendly restaurants or trying to find the best burnt ends in Kansas City, head out to nearby eateries for a true taste of the city. Coupled with a lively community atmosphere this weekend, dining out could be the cherry on top of your weekend plans! Join the Festivities! As you navigate Kansas City’s vibrant weekend, remember that these events are about bringing the community together. Don’t hesitate to drop by local spots and enjoy the amazing food experiences that our city has to offer. From art to theater, music to culinary trails, Kansas City's rich culture shines brightly through its events. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

10.29.2025

Discover How Lavender Hill Farm is Battling Sex Trafficking in Kansas City

Update Turning Passion into Purpose: Lavender Hill Farm In 2018, a spark was lit for Jenny Steineger as she engaged in crafting lavender-filled eye pillows with women who had survived the harrowing experience of sex trafficking. This moment, while volunteering at the nonprofit Veronica’s Voice, ignited her desire to create something meaningful. "I want to be a lavender farmer," she told her husband Joe, and thus began the story of Lavender Hill Farm, an oasis of hope in Kansas City, Kansas (KCK). A Blossoming Family Business From the humble beginnings of planting 1,000 lavender plants in 2019 on a hillside near Joe's childhood home, Lavender Hill Farm has grown to include around 1,500 plants. With the help of their youngest son, Ben Steineger, the couple cultivates and harvests lavender, producing organic products sold at farmers markets across the city. Despite the challenges they face, such as the Midwest's unpredictable weather, this family business thrives on their love for each other and for their community. Community Connections Rooted in Compassion What sets Lavender Hill apart is its strong commitment to community awareness and support for victims of sex trafficking. Every Saturday at the City Market, part of their proceeds are donated to Veronica’s Voice, an organization dedicated to providing transitional housing and programs for survivors. The Steinegers highlight their journey by saying, "Joining the effort to shine light on this crisis was the core reason Lavender Hill Farm was born." Lessons in Rebirth: The Healing Power of Lavender Lavender, as described by Ben—a budding herbalist—represents tranquility and rebirth. These themes resonate strongly with the individuals who work on the farm, many of whom come from recovery backgrounds. Through working the land, they are offered a healing journey, nestled in the fragrances and beauty of lavender fields. "Spiritually, that plant is really good for people in recovery… it’s interesting when you think about the healing ties between lavender and the farm’s mission of serving those recovering from trauma," Ben notes. Expanding Horizons: The Next Generation of Farmers Ben’s involvement in the farm doesn't only reflect family devotion but also represents a personal journey of recovery and growth. He has even established his own herbalism business, Cicada Creek Herbs, inspired by the lavender farm’s mission. Witnessing Ben's transition from struggle to success has been a source of immense pride for both Joe and Jenny. They often reflect on the miracle of life and redemption they see unfolding in their son. Continuing the Fight Against Sex Trafficking Their commitment to Veronica’s Voice doesn't stop at donations; the Steinegers actively promote discussions around sex trafficking and advocate for changes to how society treats victims. Kristy Childs, the founder of Veronica’s Voice, emphasizes the importance of focusing on the factors driving trafficking. She persists in advocating for educational outreach, inspiring work that’s part of a larger movement against victimization. Call to Action: Supporting Local Efforts As the Steinegers strive to cultivate hope among local survivors, it’s clear that support from the community is vital. From patronizing their farmer’s market booth to volunteering with nonprofits like Veronica’s Voice, every little bit helps in the fight against sex trafficking in Kansas City. The Steinegers invite us all to get involved in any way possible, creating a ripple effect of kindness and change. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

10.29.2025

Kansas City's Dining Landscape Is Evolving: New Openings and Farewells

Explore the latest openings and closings in Kansas City’s thriving restaurant scene, including seafood spots and award-winning wine bars.

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