Everything You Need to Know About the Fourth of July in Kansas City
Please note, this page is not updated in real time. Event times are subject to change due to inclement weather.
Although some events won’t be taking place as usual this Independence Day, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate in Kansas City—whether you’re looking for a dazzling fireworks display or a full weekend of family-friendly fun.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Fourth of July in Kansas City this year.
Festivals and Festivities
Updated 6/30/2020: In order to avoid an increased public health risk, Overland Park's Star Spangled Spectacular has been canceled this year. The event will return to Corporate Woods Founders' Park in 2021.
In Olathe, the fireworks show begins at approximately 9:45 p.m. on July 4 at the College Boulevard Activity Center. Concession areas will not be available during the event.
Weston’s Fourth of July celebration features a full day of events, including live music and entertainment, a parade and a fireworks show scheduled for 9:45 p.m.
If you're looking to celebrate from a distance, four local institutions have planned a spectacular Independence Day celebration for viewers at home. Stream the event live on Facebook as Union Station, Crown Center, the Westin Kansas City at Crown Center and the National WWI Museum and Memorial present an online Fourth of July concert featuring Nashville recording artist and KC native Casi Joy.
Weekend Adventures
Round out your holiday weekend at some of KC’s favorite spots. Indulge your wild side at the Kansas City Zoo, now open and accepting limited reservations. Don’t miss the renovated elephant exhibit featuring a brand new pool and waterfall for the animals.
Stunning skyline views and in-depth historical displays are both readily available at the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Explore global perspectives on the Vietnam War in an exhibit offering wide-ranging insights 40 years after the event's conclusion, on display through July 26.
Spend time browsing Crown Center’s shops or sit down at one of many family-friendly restaurants, all under one roof. Right across the street at Union Station, step into an interactive paradise for kids of all ages at Science City or simply take in the historic building’s impressive architecture.
Get Out and Play
The Kansas City metro is full of lush, well-maintained green space, perfect for everything from hiking and walking the dog to games of catch and picnics with family and friends.
Better yet, visitors and locals need not travel far. Urban parks like Swope Park, Loose Park and Berkley Riverfront—also home to pooch paradise Bar K—offer a little something for everyone.
Holiday Hangouts
On a sun-soaked patio or at an outdoor market filled with fresh produce, complete your celebration with a few new discoveries in some of Kansas City’s favorite neighborhoods.
- River Market: Home to stellar skyline views and The City Market’s weekly farmers market, the cozy hub lends itself to an ideal weekend morning.
- Power & Light District: With options for upscale dining and renowned KC cuisine, plus newly added outdoor seating options, there’s something for everyone in the buzzy Downtown district.
- Crossroads Arts District: Inventive microbreweries and an ever-growing selection of murals make it easy to fill an afternoon exploring the streets of the Crossroads.
- 18th & Vine: Dig into local and national history at two of KC’s most iconic institutions—the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.
Additional Resources
Find more information on what’s currently open in KC and attractions that may be available during Fourth of July weekend.