Make Kansas City your official Labor Day destination and kick off fall with a bang. Between barbecue competitions and time-traveling festivals, visitors and locals alike can spend their extra day off by celebrating in style at one of the many iconic events in the metro.
Crown ‘cue champs at The American Royal World Series of Barbecue, a Kansas City favorite sure to keep your taste buds salivating all weekend long. The event takes place at Kansas Speedway, so whether you’re competing or spending all day at the festival, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. AUG. 31–SEPT. 2
Whether your ancestors hail from the Emerald Isle or not, the Kansas City Irish Fest is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the city’s Celtic heritage with three days of live music, special performances, locally provided libations and plenty more. SEPT. 1–3
Commemorate Kansas City’s trailblazing past in Independence during Santa-Cali-Gon Days 2017, a four-day festival that pays tribute to the pioneers whose Westward journeys shoved off right in the heartland. Expect arts, crafts, food, entertainment and more at this all-ages event. Also be sure to check out Main Street 1849, an all-new attraction that allows visitors to experience pioneer life with unique, hands-on activities. SEPT. 1–4
All good things must come to an end, and so too does the summer season at Oceans of Fun and Schlitterbahn. But not to fret! Spend your final weekend cruising on lazy rivers and splashing in wave pools—a perfect sendoff to warm temps and sun-filled days. SEPT. 1–4
A KC tradition like no other, travel back in time to experience 16th Century life at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival. Now in its 40th year, the family-friendly event features thrilling jousts, delicious feasts, non-stop entertainment and more, all kicking off Labor Day Weekend. SEPT. 2–OCT. 15
Make your way to the Power & Light District for Fiesta Kansas City, an annual celebration that pays tribute to KC's Latino culture and community with live performances, delicious food, local vendors and more. SEPT. 3
Here's our list of the top events happening in Kansas City over the Labor Day Weekend.
If you're in search of events by interest, consult the following categories to plan your ultimate Labor Day celebration in Kansas City:
