This weekend, Kansas City is playing the hits: entertainment, drinks, and barbecue. Here’s a sampling of what’s coming up.
Sunset Music Fest
June 20
Take in a little country and yacht rock (for free) at the Sunset Music Fest in Leawood’s Town Center Plaza this Thursday. Food trucks, brews, and fun for the kids start at 6 p.m. Country artist Casi Joy will kick off the live music at 7, and yacht rock tribute act Summer Breeze will take it home.
Heart of America Shakespeare Festival
June 18-23
Head to Southmoreland Park for an arresting rendition of Julius Caesar. Gates open at 6 p.m., and local vendors (Ragusa’s Italian Crepe Cafe, Butterfluff Popcorn, and Touring Taps) line the path to the stage. Catch parody shows by youth troupe Team Shakespeare at 6:30 and 7:15, a scholarly “show talk” at 7, and the main show at 8 p.m. Admission is free, but donations or food purchases are encouraged.
If you can’t make it this weekend, don’t fret: Heart of America Shakespeare Festival runs Tuesday through Sunday until June 30.
Q BBQ Fest
June 21-22
All-you-can-eat barbecue between Kauffman and Arrowhead. That isn’t a dream you had while someone whispered “Kansas City” in your ear all night—it’s a real thing happening this weekend. Unlike previous years, you have to buy a ticket, but it gets you free parking and “unlimited BBQ from world-class pitmasters,” according to the event’s website. Buy tickets today, and head to Lot M at Founders Plaza this weekend.
Drink Your History – Buds and Suds
June 22
The John Wornall House Museum—the historic brick home with the enviable yard at 6115 Wornall Road—continues its Drink Your History series with Buds and Suds. From 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, you can enjoy beer from six local breweries, including City Barrel and Torn Label. While you drink, learn beer history from author Pete Dulin and listen to live music. Tickets are $40.
Stems: A Garden Soirée
June 22
Who doesn’t want to go to a soirée? On Saturday, the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park will host a garden party at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, site of some of the most dazzling views in the metro. KC favorites and hidden gems alike provide the drinks, music, and bites. Admission starts at $175, and the party runs from 7 to 10 p.m. Don’t miss the fireworks show before you head home.