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.
Crowds swell as night draws near, heralding the jaw-dropping light shows to come. Grills spark to life amidst neighborhood barbecues and get-togethers, all while the first pitch is tossed before a game at The K. These nostalgic sights, sounds and scents help define Independence Day as the perfect midsummer holiday. Fireworks to 5Ks, festivals to flight shows, celebrating the Fourth of July in Kansas City is a full weekend affair—and then some.
Here’s everything you need to know about July Fourth in Kansas City:
Festivals and Fireworks
Look to the sky for a mesmerizing series of performances at the KC Air Show. Featuring the famed U.S. Navy Blue Angels—celebrating their 75th anniversary in 2021—and more than two dozen additional performers, the show returns to New Century AirCenter on July 3 and 4.
Pack a blanket and gather on the lawn of the National WWI Museum and Memorial on July 3 for the Stars and Stripes Picnic. Visit a local food truck (or bring your own dinner) and browse local goods from Strawberry Swing's selection of KC vendors before the fireworks show, slated to begin after dusk.
Head to Berkley Riverfront Park on Independence Day for KC RiverFest, offering one of the city's biggest and brightest fireworks displays each year. An all-day celebration, food trucks and live music fill the park in anticipation of the main event after the sun sets.
In Overland Park, settle in for a show on the Fourth of July during the Star Spangled Spectacular at Corporate Woods Founders' Park. To maintain a safe environment, this year's event will not feature food trucks or entertainment prior to the fireworks show.
For another Sunflower State show, head to Olathe for the city's Fourth of July fireworks.
Enjoy an all-day Fourth of July celebration in Parkville, featuring a pancake breakfast, parade and more festivities before the evening's fireworks show. For even more dazzling sights, head to Weston for an illuminating display of fireworks in a charming small-town setting during the city's Fourth of July commemoration.
Two favorite traditions—Kansas City jazz and Fourth of July fireworks—combine on July 3 at 18th & Vine. The evening begins with the annual induction ceremony at the American Jazz Walk of Fame, then continues with a free concert and fireworks show.
Favorite Family Activities
Nothing says Independence Day quite like baseball. Thankfully, visitors and locals are in luck, because the Kansas City Royals will host a three-game series with the Minnesota Twins, July 2-4. Don't miss the Friday night fireworks spectacular for a special seasonal celebration.
Making its debut July 2, step into the updated Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum after a $29 million renovation, offering a modern and interactive look at the life and legacy of America’s 33rd president.
Stop by the Kansas City Zoo for a full day of patriotic animal enrichment activities during Red, White and Zoo.
