Fireworks, parades, and the best barbecue in the Midwest! Kansas City surely knows how to celebrate July 4th. Every suburban town in KC metro area offers a community celebration with music, 5k runs, delicious food, and dazzling pyrotechnic displays. In other words, there's fun for every age!
Stars and Stripes Picnic (July 4, 2024)
Stars and Stripes Picnic is the annual celebration at the National World War I Museum and Memorial in the heart of Kansas City. Held on the south side of the Museum, the Stars and Stripes Picnic features delicious food, vendors, live music, and fireworks. About 30 local vendors and food trucks offer delicious treats and various merchandise. The picnic usually runs from 3pm (as soon as Museum doors open) to 6:30 pm, followed by an entertainment program at 6:30 pm and ending with 20-minute gorgeous fireworks spectacle rocking the skies at 10 pm. There's nothing like fireworks over the Memorial! The event will take place no matter the weather, and it's completely free to the public!
Overland Park Star-Spangled Spectacular (July 4, 2024)
The city of Overland Park, located south of KC, offers a family-friendly celebration and fireworks display at Corporate Woods Founders’ Park on 109th Street on July 4th. All festivities take place from 5 pm to 10:30 pm, the fireworks being scheduled at 10 pm. In case it rains, the fireworks are postponed until the next day. Chairs and blankets are welcome, but not pop-up tents.
Celebrating 4th at the Farm (July, 2024, TBA)
The Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead in Overland Park is a great attraction on any day, but it becomes extra special on America's birthday. Children love old-fashioned games, fun activities, and a bike parade. Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead features farm animals, birds of prey, show gardens, butterfly gardens, a nature trail, a Kanza Native American display, and lots more! Celebrating 4th at the Farm lasts from 9 am until noon. A regular admission fee applies.
KC River Fest (July 2024, TBA)
KC River Fest is the most popular Independence Day celebration in Kansas City. Its main highlight is the massive fireworks show that attracts thousands of spectators. Held in Richard L. Berkley Riverfront Park, Kansas City River Fest is all about family-friendly entertainment. In addition, there will be food vendors and refreshing beverages. Fireworks over Kansas City Riverfront start at 10 pm. The festival is organized by Friends of the River - Kansas City (FOR-KC), a non-profit, focused on history, education, and conservation,
