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January 01.2026
2 Minutes Read

Discover the Best Things to Do in Kansas City This January

Traditional fan dance performance among the best things to do in Kansas City.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Nelson-Atkins

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is ready to embrace the upcoming Lunar New Year with a vibrant festival that promises to be bigger and better than ever. On January 25, join the celebration marking 30 years of this beloved event, which showcases not only the culture but also the connections that bind our community together. With engaging performances, delicious Asian-inspired dishes, and thrilling dragon and lion dances, attendees can look forward to a day filled with joy and connection. The museum promises a unique opportunity to learn about the traditions behind the New Year while enjoying a festive atmosphere.

Discover Kansas City’s Culinary Delights

From January 9 to 18, indulge your taste buds during Kansas City Restaurant Week, where over 100 local restaurants will present prix fixe menus celebrating the rich culinary scene in the Kansas City area. Not only is this an excellent chance to try the best restaurants in Kansas City, but it's also a fantastic way to support local businesses. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample everything from traditional BBQ to innovative new dishes right in your neighborhood!

Experience Unique Local Events

After you’ve satisfied your appetite, head to the Cowtown Vintage & Art Exchange happening on January 15. This grassroots market brings together local vendors, live music, and an eclectic mix of vintage finds and handcrafted goods. It captures the essence of Kansas City’s vibrant arts scene dedicated to fostering local artisans and creators.

Music and Performance Events to Catch

Molly Healey’s String Project on January 10 and the Minería Symphony Orchestra on January 19 are not to be missed. Healey, known for her unique looping style and multi-instrumental performances, will showcase her impressive talent at recordBar. The Minería Symphony Orchestra promises an unforgettable evening featuring Latin American music, adding a global flair to Kansas City’s local arts scene.

Engaging the Community

These events showcase the diversity that Kansas City has to offer and encourage residents to partake in something special every month. Not only do these opportunities help unite the community, but they allow everyone to partake in celebrating different aspects of our culture—from music and food to art and heritage. This is the perfect time to engage with your community, discover local gems, and explore new experiences.

Join in and Share Your Story!

If you have a tale to share or want to contact us for more details about local events and happenings, please reach out at team@kansascitythrive.com. Here’s to a fun and enriching January filled with unforgettable experiences right in Kansas City!

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01.01.2026

Get the Most Out of Kansas City: Explore These Weekend Activities

Update Experience a Weekend Full of Fun: KC's January 1-4 Highlights Kansas City, often referred to fondly as KC, is brimming with activities this weekend from January 1 to 4, 2026. If you're looking for ways to enjoy your time, or perhaps want to discover some hidden gems in our charming city, you're in the right place. From thrilling sports matches to mesmerizing art exhibitions and festive celebrations, this list covers seven must-see happenings that could turn your weekend into an adventure! The Sparkling Festival of Lights Kicking off our weekend recommendations, the Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens is a magical experience that embodies the holiday spirit. Running until January 3, the garden showcases a stunning display of winter lights among beautiful winter plants and local artwork. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; you can also enjoy workshops on holiday decor making and delightful musical performances. Do not miss out on this enchanting experience! Hockey Fever: Kansas City Mavericks vs. Fort Wayne Komets For sports enthusiasts, the Kansas City Mavericks are back on home ice! This weekend, they will face off against the Fort Wayne Komets for two exciting matches—January 2 at 7:05 pm and January 3 at 6:05 pm. After narrowly beating them in a previous match, the Mavs are ready to thrill their fans again at Cable Dahmer Arena. Make sure to cheer for our team! New Year Musical Tradition with Kinnor Philharmonic On January 1, the Kinnor Philharmonic will take the stage at the White Theatre for their annual New Year’s concert. A tradition for 13 years, this performance will celebrate the golden era of Hollywood through a delightful selection of music from iconic films like *Gone With The Wind* and *The Wizard of Oz*. The show starts at 2 pm, making it a wonderful family-friendly event for music lovers. Folk Music at Songbird Sessions From the stage to the audience’s hearts, the Songbird Sessions this Sunday night spotlights emerging KC folk artists Georgia Lee Bruders and Maya Bledsoe. Hosted by the non-profit Manor Records, this concert series invites you to enjoy the talents of local musicians in a cozy atmosphere on January 4 at 6 pm at Arts KC. Gather your friends and experience genuine local talent! Winter Thrills at Snow Creek Got a taste for winter sports? Head to Snow Creek, located just outside Weston, for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. With stunning views of the Missouri River, this resort is ready to deliver a thrilling experience from December 26 through March. No need to venture to the mountains—get your winter fix right here in KC! Holiday Reflections at Union Station Transform your weekend plans into a holiday wonderland by visiting the Holiday Reflections exhibition at Union Station. With interactive displays featuring singing reindeer, animated shop windows, and a historic ride-on train, this magical event promises to captivate visitors of all ages. You can experience the joy of the season until January 4! Raven Halfmoon at the Kemper Museum Lastly, art lovers should make their way to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art for a solo exhibition by artist Raven Halfmoon. Known for her monumental ceramic sculptures, Halfmoon explores various cultural histories through her work. This exhibition runs from November 14 through April 19, 2026, encouraging attendees to delve into the dialogues of heritage and identity. Join the Weekend Fun! This weekend in Kansas City offers a vibrant blend of activities that reflects our unique culture and community spirit. Whether you're interested in art, music, sports, or family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone. Remember to check local listings for more events! If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

12.31.2025

Kansas City Bids Farewell to Iconic Restaurants: What This Means for Food Lovers

Update A Farewell to Beloved Bites in Kansas City Every restaurant tells a story, and in 2025, Kansas City turned the final page on six well-loved favorites. As we reflect on the culinary contributions of these establishments, we celebrate the flavors and friendships they served to the community. The Heartfelt Closure of Chingu Chingu, a Korean bar and restaurant located in the vibrant Westport area, closed its doors this May after a three-year run. Renowned for chef Keeyoung Kim’s unique take on Korean cuisine, Chingu was a cherished spot where locals enjoyed traditional flavors infused with modern flair. While Chingu may be gone, its legacy continues through Chingu Coffee and online offerings from Sura Eats, ensuring fans can still enjoy a taste of their beloved dishes. Bite-Sized Memories at Sauced October 4 marked the end of an era for Sauced, an urban burger counter in the Crossroads known for its mouthwatering burgers and secret Sassy Sauce. Owner Steven Blakely is now channeling his culinary creativity into a new endeavor, Triune, which promises to do justice to the community spirit and flavorful offerings that Sauced was known for. Dumpling Delights Disappear: Rakar Dumpling After serving over 1.5 million dumplings, Rakar Dumpling in Leawood closed in December, much to the dismay of dumpling lovers everywhere. Owner Jim Zhang, who spent countless hours delighting patrons with his handmade dumplings, has decided to retire, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and flavor that will linger in the hearts of those who visited. Corvino's Culinary Climax The beloved Corvino Supper Club and Tasting Room bid farewell on New Year’s Eve after nine glorious years, where upscale small plates met exquisite libations. With multiple James Beard nominations and numerous local accolades, the owners, Michael and Christa Corvino, ended on a high note, leaving a monumental impact on the Kansas City dining scene. A Thai Favorite Stays Silent Waldo Thai, a James Beard semifinalist known for its creative craft cocktails and vibrant dishes such as moo dang and curry, closed its doors after failing to reopen post-closure in 2020. This absence leaves a palpable gap in the culinary tapestry of Kansas City, showcasing how fleeting restaurant success can be. A Community Institution: Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout Happy Gillis, a beloved corner cafe known for its cozy atmosphere and eclectic coffee mug collection, closed down in July after three ownership changes since 2008. However, there’s a silver lining: The Town Company's award-winning chefs, Helen Jo and Johnny Leach, plan to breathe new life into the space with a fresh concept named Dear Donna. Locals eagerly anticipate a revival of the cherished comfort food that made Happy Gillis a local staple. Reflections on Change in Kansas City's Culinary Landscape Each of these closures tells a story of culinary creativity mingling with the inevitable tides of change. Kansas City's restaurants have always been more than just places to eat; they fostered community connections and crafted lasting memories. As these six establishments closed their doors, they left behind not only flavors but stories that enriched the lives of many. Looking Ahead: The Future of Kansas City's Dining Scene While we mourn these losses, new opportunities are on the horizon in Kansas City's vibrant culinary landscape. With innovative chefs and new dining concepts emerging, the community can look forward to fresh flavors and experiences that add to the rich dining tapestry. If you have a story to share about your favorite gone but not forgotten eatery or want to discuss the future of dining in Kansas City, reach out to us. Together, let's celebrate the spirit of Kansas City's eateries!

12.30.2025

Celebrate New Year's Day with Brunch: Top Kansas City Restaurants Open

Update Kick Off the New Year with Delicious Brunch in Kansas City As the clock strikes midnight and the new year begins, the next exciting event on everyone's calendar is the beloved New Year's Day brunch. With a wide array of vibrant options featuring locally sourced ingredients, Kansas City offers some of the best restaurants where you can indulge in delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Whether you celebrate the New Year with friends or a quiet moment of reflection, exploring the delightful brunch scene is a must. Bountiful Breakfasts with a Twist Room 39 is a standout this January 1, boasting a brunch menu featuring local, farm-fresh ingredients. Famous for its hearty and wholesome offerings, making a reservation is recommended as seating is limited. Their lobster benedict special is a perfect way to start the year on a flavorful note. For those craving classic comfort food, both The Farmhouse and Westside Local deliver with their signature brunch staples. Expect mouth-watering fried potatoes, eggs, and the restorative hair of the dog in form of delicious Bloody Marys and mimosa towers. It’s the kind of brunch that ensures you kick off your resolutions, or at least enjoy them fully! Spicy Southern Comfort Options If you're a fan of Southern cuisine, look no further than Tupelo Honey and Lula Southern Cookhouse. Both establishments have curated menus that highlight Cajun-inspired dishes such as chicken and waffles, and biscuits and gravy. These comforting meals packed with flavor will help you embrace the holiday spirit while fulfilling your cravings. The addition of chicken and waffles is a delightful twist that people will remember well into the year. Reflect and Recharge with Community Favorites HomeGrown restaurants in Kansas City have made a name for themselves by sourcing local ingredients to create delightful brunch options. With locations throughout the metro, including in Power & Light and Brookside, you can enjoy fresh takes on classic dishes alongside a coffee strong enough to power through a brisk walk on a New Year’s afternoon. Moreover, if you aim to balance indulgence with your New Year's resolutions, Hemma Hemma is an inviting spot with a warm atmosphere. Guests can pick up at-home brunch necessities from their takeaway store, ensuring everyone can enjoy a fulfilling meal without the fuss. Sunshine and Bites: An Ideal Start to 2026 Those who love to bask in the sunlight should not miss Billie’s Grocery, where bright spaces meet satisfying dishes sure to uplift your spirit for the year ahead. The combination of delicious food with a vibrant atmosphere makes it a go-to location for January 1 brunch. The promise of delicious meals along with Vitamin D from the sun is an appealing thought as we transition from holiday lights to the new year's beginnings. Final Thoughts and Community Connection This New Year's Day, embrace the opportunity to enjoy a delightful brunch with friends and family at one of Kansas City’s many exceptional eateries. The restaurants open on this special day offer a wide variety of dishes, set in warm, inviting atmospheres filled with friendly service. Explore the diverse flavors and join your community in celebrating not just the start of the year but also the vibrant local food scene. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

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