Last updated on August 21st, 2023 at 11:09 am.
If you live in Kansas City or are planning a trip to Kansas City this August, don’t miss out on the top events taking place this month.
Beat the heat of this time of year by getting out and enjoying all that the Kansas City Metro area has to offer. In addition to sporting events like Royals games and Sporting KC games, lots of big-name musicians will be making a trip to Kansas City to perform.
With multiple events available to experience performing arts, music and culture of all kinds, there is truly something for people of all ages to enjoy this August in the Kansas City area.
We also have lists for the best things to do in St. Louis in August and the most fun things to do throughout the state of Missouri in August.
Most Popular Tours in Kansas City This August
- Kansas City Segway Art and Glide Tour: Experience Kansas City in a whole new way on this 1.5-hour Segway tour of the iconic Country Club Plaza area. Glide through the streets on a Segway while your guide shares captivating stories and fascinating history about the city’s important landmarks and points of interest.
- Crossroads Art District and Westside Urban Hike: Embark on a 5-mile early morning adventure through Kansas City’s Westside neighborhood. Starting with an incredible overlook at Liberty Memorial, you’ll trek down past Union Station to visit a local Mexican shop for refreshing fruit juice. Along the way, explore the diverse architecture and culture of the area, learn about the historical West Bottoms, the Pendergast era, and discover hidden gems and Instagram-worthy street art in alleyways.
- Kansas City Craft Brewery Tour: An exclusive 4-hour guided tour of Kansas City’s best craft brew hotspots! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process while enjoying complimentary snacks and drinks and of course beer. Meet the passionate people behind the beer scene in KC.
Top Things to do in Kansas City in August
Below is a list of some of the best ways to have fun with family and friends and also celebrate the end of summer. Whether you are looking for things to do in Kansas City today or for next weekend, we hope you check back often, because we update this guide on a regular basis.
1. Professional Bull Riding | August 3-5, 2023
August 3-5th PBR Outlaw Days will take place at the T-Mobile Center featuring professional bull riding and related events! Some of the best bull riders in the world will be attempting to conquer the rankest bulls of the PBR for another year. This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Kansas City in August!
Location: T-Mobile Center. 1407 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64108
2. Innovation Festival | August 3-5, 2023
Innovation Festival connects students, postdocs, and early career professionals from across the country with companies and academic institutions seeking individuals with technical training for job opportunities and training programs.
The event combines music and innovation, featuring headlining national touring and breakout alternative rock artists. Be part of the movement, seize the moment, and embrace the never-ending summer vibes.
Every year, Innovation Festival provides significant financial support to students and postdocs. By completing a travel award application, you can gain access to groundbreaking science, career prospects, and a valuable network of peers and professionals.
The night market, showcasing incredibly talented artisans from the region, is open to the public free of charge. Indulge in excellent food and art at our street pavilion throughout the day.
Location: Crown Center; 2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, Missouri
3. First Weekends at urban mining | Aug 3-6, 2023
Urban Mining is a unique once-monthly vintage venue featuring authentic vintage furniture, art, decor, lighting, antiques, traditional and mid-century, industrial era, and maker-crafted treasures.
Each month you’ll find fresh inventory from more than 40 entrepreneurs who mine the entire urban area and beyond for exceptional authentic vintage treasures.​ On Sunday all remaining inventory is 10% off.
Thursday 5-8pm, Friday11am-7pm, Saturday 10am-6pm & Sunday 12-5pm
Address: 3111 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64109
4. First Fridays at the Crossroads Art District | August 4, 2023
Every first Friday of every month the KC Crossroads fill with galleries and exhibits of artists of all kinds! This experience offers an immersive view at the art of local, national and even international artists! Enjoy local restaurant, breweries, food trucks and shops.
This is one of our favorite free things to do in Kansas City in August. Parking can be a challenge due to road closings for the event, so consider taking the complimentary KC Streetcar that runs through the area.
Location: Crossroads Art District, Downtown Kansas City, MO
5. First Weekends in the West Bottoms | August 4-5, 2023
The West Bottoms transform into a treasure-hunting paradise during the first weekend of each month. Antique and vintage stores open their doors for those in search of furniture, home decor and the occasional have-to-have statement piece.
Warehouse Weekend themes range from Brews in the Bottoms to Barks in the Bottoms and change every month. This is a great opportunity to scout out some fun end of summer finds.
During the weekend of festivities, the eclectic nature of the West Bottoms is on display from street entertainers, escape rooms, food trucks and more!
Fri August 4th 9:00am – Sun 5th 5:00pm
Location: West Bottoms, 12th Street Bridge Entertainment District, Kansas City, MO 64102
6. Heart of America Hot Dog Festival | August 5, 2023
The 2023 Heart of America Hot Dog Festival, presented by Hy-Vee, returns for a day of GRILLIN’ & GROOVIN’. The festival takes place on Saturday, August 5th from 3 pm to 11 pm in the Historic 18th and Vine Jazz District. It offers live entertainment, delicious food, and various activities.
Initiated by the NLBM in 2013, the Hot Dog Festival commemorates the historical link between our national pastime, baseball, and the beloved ballpark food: hotdogs. The festival also serves as a fundraiser for the NLBM, with proceeds contributing to their cause.
Attendees can look forward to an impressive concert lineup featuring renowned artists such as DRU HILL, CON FUNK SHUN, THE SOS BAND, QUEENS OF SOUL JAZZ (Jeanette Harris & Althea Rene), and more! The festival gates open at 3 pm, and live band performances kick off at 3:30 pm.
Location: Historic 18th and Vine District Paseo Blvd Kansas City, MO 64108
7. Culture Club at Starlight Theater | August 8, 2023
80’s band, the Culture Club, is coming to Kansas City! The British New Wave band will perform their 1980’s chart toppers, including “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?,” “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya,” and “Karma Chameleon.” Special guests Howard Jones and BERLIN open the concert.
Location: Starlight Theater. 4600 Starlight Road. Kansas City, MO 64132
8. BBQ showdown | August 12, 2023
Loews Kansas City Hotel’s executive chef and culinary team are hosting a BBQ showdown on August 12. They will be joined by the culinary staff from Live! by Loews St. Louis. The showdown will take place while the St. Louis Cardinals play against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium.
Both guests and locals are invited to enjoy a full lunch buffet that includes salads, desserts, and, of course, BBQ. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite BBQ in Missouri. Will it be the slow smoked meats from the Heart of America or the grilled meats from Mound City?
All votes will be entered into a raffle, and the winner will receive a two-night stay at Live! By Loews St. Louis, which includes complimentary parking and breakfast. Tickets for the event are priced at $25++ per adult and $15++ for children aged 12 and under.
Location: Horsefeather Social at Loews Kansas City Hotel; 1515 Wyandotte Street, 7th Floor Kansas City, MO 64108
9. Feastival Pop-Up | August 18-19, 2023
Feastival isn’t just a ticket to a popular food and drink pop-up in town. It’s an opportunity to make a positive impact. Hunger is a significant issue for many people in KC on a daily basis, and by attending Feastival, you contribute to addressing this problem. This weekend event at Union Station brings together the finest restaurants and chefs in KC to offer you a delightful experience while simultaneously helping others in need.
Location: Union Station; 30 West Pershing Road Kansas City, MO 64108
10. 44th Annual Ethnic Enrichment Festival | August 18-20, 2023
The Ethnic Enrichment Commission of Kansas City is organizing a significant gathering that celebrates multiculturalism. This event highlights the traditional cultures present in Kansas City and the surrounding metro area.
Different cultures and ethnicities are represented through food, dance, and music. Enjoy three days of amazing entertainment, delicious food, and great shopping! The festivities begin each night at 6 pm with the movie beginning at 9 pm. This free event offers a great way to get together and have a little fun as a community.
General admission to the event is $5 at the gate, while children aged 12 and younger can attend for free. Additionally, parking for the event is free of charge.
Location: Swope Park Pavilion Road at the corner of E. Meyer Boulevard & Swope Parkway
11. HistoriKC Fest Kansas City | August 17-20, 2023
HistoriKC Fest offers an experience for history fanatics to enjoy wargames and other historical board games over a 3-day game convention! Some returning favorites from last year include Next War Con, ASL Summer Sizzler and Last Hundred Yards. Get ready to use your mind and strategy to win games against other attendees!
Location: Holiday Inn and Suites. 8787 Reeder St. Overland Park, KS 66214
12. Wine Walk for Wildlife at the Zoo | August 26, 2023
Wine lovers and animal lovers unite at the Kansas City Zoo for Wine Walk for Wildlife! Guests will stroll through the topside of the Zoo, sip and savor more than 20 different types of wine, enjoy a variety of musicians, food trucks, and even hear special animal chats led by experts. Custom wine bottles featuring their conservation projects will be available for purchase.
Location: Kansas City Zoo. 6800 Zoo Drive. Kansas City, MO 64132
We hope this list things to do in Kansas City, Missouri helps fill your August calendar with fun events!
We also have our favorite things to do in Kansas City for every month. Just click on the month you want to plan your next KCMO adventure! January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Still wondering what to do in August? Check out our list of top things to do throughout Missouri in August!
