One of Kansas City’s most beloved fall traditions is back for its third, fiery year. WaterFire Kansas City—the moving, multi-sensory spectacle of music, fire and water—will return to Brush Creek this fall for one night only: Saturday, Oct. 24. The free event begins at dusk and runs until midnight.

Stretching from Pennsylvania Avenue to J.C. Nichols Parkway, the award-winning art installation features 55 floating bonfires that crackle and burn on the creek’s surface, creating an enchanting firelight that illuminates the surrounding landscape of the Country Club Plaza. Sidewalk performers, fire dancers and continuous music add to the alluring atmosphere.

“It’s difficult to describe the effect that WaterFire can have on you,” said Karen Holland, volunteer chair of the WaterFire Steering Committee. “It’s truly an experience for the senses. The evening’s powerful sights, sounds and scents combine beautifully to stir something deep inside you.”

WaterFire was originally created by artist Barnaby Evans in 1994 on the three rivers of downtown Providence, R.I. The living fire sculpture became a moving symbol of the city’s urban renaissance, attracting millions of visitors while drawing praise from the likes of The New York Times and The Washington Post. In 2007, Evans brought the international phenomenon to Kansas City, where it has since become a popular autumn tradition.

WaterFire begins with a series of torch-lit vessels that travel along the creek, floating their way through darkness. One by one, fire-tenders ignite each brazier until all 55 pieces have sprung to life. The result is an unusual but beautiful sight—55 fires dancing on water. This powerful image is reinforced by the fragrant scent of the burning embers, the flickering firelight that outlines the creek’s anchored bridges, the silhouettes of the fire-tenders and the rousing international music.

This year’s presentation features performances by Vesuvius Fire Tribe, Quixotic Performance Fusion and some of the area’s most talented vocalists. Food will be available for purchase from four Plaza restaurants—Brio Tuscan Grille, The Capital Grille, Houston’s and Plaza III, The Steakhouse.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7. For more information about WaterFire Kansas City, go to VisitKC.com/WaterFire or call 816-221-5242. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Gil Brenis at gbrenis@evenergy.com.

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Photo Credit:  Photos Courtesy of the Kansas City Convention & Visitors Association

	WaterFire Kansas City, Brush Creek Caption: WaterFire is a unique, multi-sensory experience of music, fire and water. The 2008 presentation takes place on Oct. 25. This image is not available for download. Download:  Click here to request image.
	WaterFire Kansas City, sidewalk performer Caption: WaterFire is a moving public art installation supported by international music and sidewalk performers. This image is not available for download. Download:  Click here to request image.