by KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Labor Day weekend in Kansas City offers an exciting mix of festivals, concerts, sports, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a fan of music, culture, or sports, or simply want to enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere, the metro has something for everyone.
KC Irish Fest
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend is the Kansas City Irish Fest 2025, returning to Crown Center. This three-day celebration immerses visitors in Irish culture with:
- 150+ live performances of traditional and modern Irish music
- Irish step dancing and cultural workshops
- Authentic food and drinks
- Family-friendly entertainment and kids’ activities
When: Friday through Sunday
Where: Crown Center
With local and international performers, KC Irish Fest remains one of the city’s most anticipated holiday traditions.
Linkin Park Concert
For music lovers, Linkin Park will perform in Kansas City as part of their “From Zero” World Tour. Fans can expect a mix of nostalgic hits and new music in an electrifying show.
When: Sunday at 7:30 p.m.
Where: T-Mobile Center
Tickets start around $83, prices vary by platform and seat location.
SantaCaliGon Days Festival
A Kansas City-area favorite, the SantaCaliGon Days Festival celebrates the pioneer spirit with:
- Live entertainment
- Food trucks and local vendors
- Arts and crafts exhibits
- A historic frontier life showcase
When: Friday through Monday
Where: Independence Square
Mutts & Movies
Pet lovers can head to the Boulevard Drive-In Theatre for the first-ever “Mutts & Movies” event hosted by the Pet Resource Center of Kansas City.
Highlights include:
- Double-feature screening of The Secret Life of Pets and The Secret Life of Pets 2
- An Animal Wellness Festival with games, prizes, pet treat decorating, and a dunk tank
When: Friday, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: 1051 Merriam Ln, Kansas City, KS 66103
Read Also: Top Things to Do on Labor Day in Florida: Beaches, Festivals, and Family Fun
KU vs. Wagner
College football season kicks off as the Kansas Jayhawks face the Wagner Seahawks at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Kansas is heavily favored in this matchup.
When: Friday at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Lawrence, Kansas
Royals vs. Tigers
Baseball fans can catch the Kansas City Royals battling the Detroit Tigers in a three-game series at Kauffman Stadium.
When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Where: Kauffman Stadium
Sporting KC vs. Colorado Rapids
Soccer fans can cheer on Sporting Kansas City as they take on the Colorado Rapids at Children’s Mercy Park. Sporting KC is hoping to rebound after a tough loss against Seattle Sounders.
When: Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Children’s Mercy Park
KC Current vs. North Carolina Courage
The Kansas City Current will host the North Carolina Courage in an NWSL regular-season match at CPKC Stadium. Earlier this season, the Current suffered their first defeat against the Courage and are looking for redemption.
When: Saturday at 6:30 p.m.
Where: CPKC Stadium
KC Chalk & Walk Festival
For a creative and free weekend activity, visit the KC Chalk and Walk Festival at the Historic City Market. Local and regional artists will transform the streets into stunning works of chalk art.
When: Saturday and Sunday
Where: Kansas City River Market
Kansas City Renaissance Festival
Step back into the 16th century at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival in Bonner Springs. With jousting, live performances, artisan markets, and medieval food, the event offers a whimsical start to the fall season.
When: Saturday, Sunday, and Monday
Where: Kansas City Renaissance Festival fairgrounds
Final Thoughts
Kansas City’s Labor Day weekend is packed with festivals, live concerts, sports showdowns, and family fun. From the cultural vibes of the Irish Fest to the nostalgia of chalk art and the energy of professional sports, the city offers something memorable for every age group.
What are your plans for this Labor Day weekend in Kansas City? Share your thoughts in the comments on ibwhsmag.com and let us know which event you’re most excited about!
