Labor Day in Kansas City: 5 Things to Do

Looking for something fun to do on the upcoming Labor Day in the Kansas City area? Well, there is plenty to choose from. Here is a list of seven great options including family-friendly, pet-friendly, and more adult choices.

1. KC Renaissance Festival Opening Weekend

Saturday, August 31st is the opening day for the famous KC Renaissance Festival! You won’t want to miss out on the magic of this event. Labor Day weekend will host a costume contest, candy corn relay, hula hoop contest, balloon toss, and other fun games and spectacles. The festival also has shopping at merchant booths to offer. 

When: August 31’st to Columbus Day, 10 am to 7 pm

Where: 633 N 130th Street, Bonner Springs, KS 66012

Admission: Adult $21.95; Child $12.95; Senior/Student $19.50; Kids 5 and under are free.

Other: Free parking

2. SantaCaliGon Days Festival

The first SantaCaliGon Days Festival was held in 1940 to celebrate the unique heritage of the City of Independence as the starting point of the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails. A second celebration was held after World War II in 1947. The Festival was not held again until 1973. This year, the 47th annual festival will be held on Labor Day weekend. The event will include unique vendors, food, live music, and a plethora of carnival activities for the family. 

When: September 3rd – September 6th (check website for times)

Where: Independence Square

Admission: FREE, but expect to pay for food and carnival activities

3. KC Irish Fest

The Kansas City Irish Fest is a Labor Day weekend tradition in the Kansas City area. Come join in the fun with music, entertainment, and traditional Irish dance to celebrate Irish Celtic culture. The Fest includes live bands, different workshops, some comedy, and a large children’s area to keep the kids occupied. 

When: September 3rd – September 5th; Open 5 pm Friday, 11 am on Saturday and Sunday, open until 11 pm each night.

Where: Crown Center Plaza

Admission: Adult Early Bird $12; Child Early Bird $8; Check website for weekend pass and other all-inclusive ticket options.

4. DeSoto Days Festival

The 57th annual DeSoto Days will be kicking off on the Thursday before Labor Day this year! DeSoto Days takes place at Miller Memorial Park and has the goal of bringing the community of DeSoto together to support business and create some family fun. The event includes carnival activities, a car show, a beer garden, and much more. Check the website for more details.

When: September 2nd – September 4th

Where: Miller Memorial Park

Admission: Free

5. Missouri Wines Sampling Series at the City Market

Make a visit to the City Market to taste a variety of wines produced in Missouri. Learn about local wineries, different grape varieties, and taste award-winning wines. If you find one you love, buy a bottle directly from the vendor! Must be 21 to enter this event. 

When: September 5th, 9 am

Where: City Market, downtown Kansas City

Admission: Free