Summer’s not over yet! August is packed with family-friendly festivals across the Kansas City metro. From county fairs and cultural celebrations to butterflies, barbecue, and Irish music—there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready for a month full of fun!
Johnson County Fair Thru Aug. 2, Johnson County Fairgrounds. This fair been celebrating all the best in Johnson County while preserving the agricultural heritage of the community since 1939. The Johnson County Fair is free except for the carnival and nightly arena events. Don’t miss out on the fun! JoCoKansasFair.com
Leavenworth County Fair
Thru Aug. 2, Leavenworth County Fairgrounds. Come and enjoy a classic American experience at the Leavenworth County Fair! You and your family can delight in the fun of games, contests, derbies, food, rides, exhibits and more. LeavenworthCountyFair.com
Festival of Butterflies
Thru Aug. 3, Powell Gardens. Festival of Butterflies invites nature enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate the Midwest’s most whimsical pollinator at Powell Gardens. Spend a day outdoors exploring tropical and native butterflies alongside stunning botanical displays. PowellGardens.org
Missouri State Fair
Aug. 7-17, Missouri State Fairgrounds. Enjoy live music, stage shows, family entertainment, auto races, rodeos, bull riding, agricultural demonstrations, contests and a carnival midway. Don’t miss this beloved annual tradition that celebrates Missouri’s rich heritage and showcases the best of rural life. MoStateFair.com
Heart of America Hot Dog Festival
Aug. 9, Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, in partnership with Hy-Vee, invites hot dog enthusiasts to enjoy samples of ballpark franks, live entertainment, mascots, games, autograph sessions and trivia along with admission to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. NLBM.com
India Fest
Aug. 10, Overland Park Convention Center. India Fest is an all-day event where you can experience the tastes, sounds and sights of India. Enjoy live music, dance, food and entertainment. Admission and parking are completely free. This festival gives the community a glimpse of India through arts, culture, history and people. IAKC.org
BBQ & Fly-In on the River
Aug. 15-16, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Whether you spell it BBQ, barbeque or barbecue, it’s the taste of America. This year, BBQ & Fly-In on the River will be held in the heart of the community and celebrate its 25th year! VisitExcelsior.com
Ethnic Enrichment Festival
Aug. 15-17, Swope Park. The Ethnic Enrichment Commission of Kansas City is proud to present one of the largest gatherings of multiculturalism focusing on the traditional cultures found here in Kansas City and the surrounding metro area. EECKC.org
Parkville Days
Aug. 22-24, Downtown Parkville. One of Downtown Parkville’s largest events, the Parkville Days festival features a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy live music along the Missouri River and on Main Street. ParkvilleMo.org
Kansas City Irish Fest
Aug. 29-31, Crown Center. Celebrate the city’s deep Irish roots at one of the largest Irish festivals in the nation. With seven music stages, heritage displays, shopping, ethnic food and a massive area just for kids, Kansas City Irish Fest has been repeatedly voted “Best Festival in KC.” KCIrishFest.com