As the weather warms up, Kansas City comes alive with a vibrant lineup of festivals celebrating art, culture, food, and community. Whether you’re looking for family fun, live music, or unique local experiences, May has something for everyone.
Brookside Art Annual
May 1-3, Brookside District, 63rd & Wornall, Kansas City, Mo.
This iconic outdoor art show draws over 70,000 visitors each year, making it the first major art event of the season. Explore local and regional artists in this eclectic neighborhood, just minutes from downtown, the Plaza, and the southern suburbs. BrooksideKC.org
Harry’s Hay Days
May 1-2, Grandview, Mo.
Celebrate President Harry S. Truman’s birthday and legacy at his childhood home, now a National Park Service site. Enjoy family-friendly activities including booths, a carnival, and more. GrandviewHarrysHayDays.com
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
May 1-2, Guadalupe Center, 1015 Avenida Cesar E. Chavez, Kansas City, Mo.
Join the 100th anniversary celebration of this vibrant festival. Families can enjoy kids’ activities, a petting zoo, local food, entertainment, contests, raffles, and more. GuadalupeCenters.org
Lenexa Art Fair
May 9, Lenexa Civic Campus, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, Kan.
This one-day, juried outdoor art fair showcases more than 50 fine artists from the region. Enjoy live jazz, sidewalk chalk art, children’s art activities, food trucks, wine, and craft beer. Lenexa.com
Miami County Spring Farm Tour
May 9-10, Miami County, Kan.
Take a self-guided tour of local farms, featuring crops, animals, and more. This free event is a great way to spend Mother’s Day weekend with family. MiamiCountyKs.org
Stems: A Garden Soirée
May 16, Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park, Kan.
Enjoy a sophisticated evening surrounded by spring blooms with tastings from local restaurants, drinks, live music, art experiences, and more. ArtsAndRec-OP.org
Turkey Creek Festival
May 16, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Rd., Merriam, Kan.
This annual tradition offers a full day of family entertainment, including free kids’ activities, live music, arts and crafts, a 5K walk/run, and food trucks. Merriam.org
Kansas City Symphony’s Bank of America Celebration at the Station
May 24, Union Station, 30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, Mo.
Celebrate Memorial Day with a patriotic concert by the Kansas City Symphony, followed by the city’s largest fireworks display. Enjoy pre-concert music, family-friendly activities, and more. UnionStation.org