Grab your calendar (and maybe your sunscreen) and get ready for an action-packed August! From free outdoor concerts and festivals to foodie fairs and cultural celebrations, we've rounded up fun and unique events happening around the KC area, including Lee's Summit, Blue Springs, and Raymore. Here's your guide to August fun:
Recurring Weekly Events
Downtown Lee's Summit Farmers Market
Start the day with farm-fresh goodness at the downtown open-air farmers market, where you'll find local produce, eggs, meats, fresh-cut flowers, homemade baked treats, and more!
Date & Time: Every Wednesday & Saturday, 8:00 am–12:00 pm
Location: Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street - 101 SE Douglas Street
Cost: Entry is free; just bring some cash or cards to shop!
Insider Info: The early bird gets the ripest tomato, so make sure to arrive early for the best picks! Parking is available in nearby public lots, and be sure to bring reusable bags. The market is generally dog-friendly, provided your pup is well-behaved and on a leash!
Website: Downtown LS Farmer's Market
Fourth Fridays Art Walk & Music in the Park
The final Fourth Friday of summer brings an evening of free arts and tunes! Stroll the streets of downtown Lee's Summit to browse local artist pop-up exhibits inside shops, enjoy street performers, and take advantage of extended store hours. In the evening, grab a spot on the lawn for "Music in the Park," a free live concert featuring local talent. All ages are welcome, and the genre always varies, making for a fun surprise!
Date & Time: Friday, Aug 22nd, 5:00–8:00 pm (Art Walk); 6:30–8:00 pm (Concert)
Location: Downtown Lee's Summit & Howard Station Park (220 SE Main)
Cost: Free
Insider Info: Parking on Main Street can fill up quickly, so consider arriving a bit early or using the free public parking garage. Celebrate this last Fourth Friday by making a night of it: grab dinner or ice cream from a downtown eatery and find the perfect spot to set out your lawn chairs or blanket to enjoy the show.
Website: Downtown LS "Music in the Park"
Special Events & Highlights
"Remembering Lee's Summit" Storytelling Series
Hosted by the Lee's Summit History Museum, step back in time at this charming event as local historians and longtime residents share personal stories about growing up in Lee's Summit, including tales of old schools, family farms, downtown "back in the day," the old airport, and more. This intimate, hour-long session is perfect for those who enjoy history, nostalgia, or simply want to know more about the city they love!
Date & Time: Thursday, Aug 14th, 6:30–7:30 pm
Location: Lee's Summit History Museum - 220 SW Main St. (inside Bridge Space)
Cost: Free
Insider Info: Doors open around 6:00, and seating is limited, so arrive a few minutes early to snag a good spot. This is a casual affair, so feel free to listen and enjoy the anecdotes, ask questions, or hey, you might even meet a local "legend", since past storytellers have included notable longtime residents!
Website: Remembering Lee's Summit or Lee's Summit History Museum (816-287-4477)
All-4-One Live in Concert
Throwback alert! The Grammy-winning R&B group "All-4-One," known as the guys behind the '90s mega-hit "I Swear," is performing an outdoor show in Lee's Summit. Get ready for an evening of sweet harmonies and nostalgia under the stars. All ages can appreciate these iconic songs!
Date & Time: Saturday, Aug 9th, 7:00 pm (gates open around 6:00 pm)
Location: Legacy Park Amphitheater - 1201 NE Legacy Park Drive
Cost: Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 on the day of the show. You can purchase online via the Lee's Summit Parks & Rec website or at the gate (if available).
Insider Info: All seating is general admission lawn seating, so bring a blanket or lawn chairs for comfort. Outside food isn't allowed, but you can bring sealed water bottles, and concessions such as food trucks, beer, and wine will be available on-site. Parking at Legacy Park is free, but plan for a short walk from the parking lot to the amphitheater.
Website: Arts KC Go and Facebook Event Page
"Landslide" – Fleetwood Mac Tribute Concert
Do you love classic rock? You don't want to miss "Landslide: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac" jamming out to popular hits from Dreams to Go Your Own Way. This concert spans musical generations, making it perfect for a late-summer night out with loved ones.
Date & Time: Saturday, Aug 23rd, 7:00 pm
Location: Legacy Park Amphitheater
Cost: Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 on the day of the event.
Insider Info: Parking is free and on-site; bring chairs or a blanket for lawn seating. They'll have snacks and drinks for sale (and maybe a Fleetwood Mac sing-along or two)!
Website: Facebook Event Page
Recurring Weekly Events
Blue Springs Farmers Market
Wake up and smell the produce! The Blue Springs Farmers Market offers a vast selection of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, baked goods, plants, and crafts every Saturday morning. It runs rain or shine through early October, so grab a coffee from a nearby café and wander the stalls. It's a perfect Saturday outing for meal prep, exploring new produce, or meeting locals!
Date & Time: Every Saturday, 7:00 am–12:00 pm
Location: Downtown Blue Springs - City Hall parking lot at 11th & Main
Cost: Free admission, all ages. Many vendors accept cards, but it's a good idea to bring some cash just in case.
Insider Info: You can easily park along Main Street or in nearby lots, but we recommend arriving earlier, as this popular market tends to fill up quickly. Vendors start packing up (or selling out) by noon, so don't wait! Friendly dogs on leashes are typically welcome (you'll often see wagging tails begging for a bite of that dog treat vendor's snacks).
Website: Missouri Grown USA or Blue Springs Downtown Association (816-228-2300)
"Music in the Park" Summer Concert Series
End your weekend on a chill note with free live concerts at Rotary Park's gazebo stage. Each Sunday features a different band, playing a diverse range of music that includes blues, classic rock, and country favorites. All ages are welcome, and kids often dance on the grass or play on the nearby playground.
Date & Time: Every Sunday evening, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Location: Rotary Park - 600 NW Vesper Street
Cost: Free (no tickets needed)
Insider Info: Bring a lawn chair or blanket to spread out on the lawn, feel free to pack a picnic dinner or snacks, and restrooms are on-site for convenience. Picnic tables are available, but they tend to get claimed quickly. In the event of rain, concerts may be canceled, so check Blue Springs Parks & Recreation's social media for updates.
Website: Blue Springs "Music in the Park" or Blue Springs Parks & Rec (816-228-0137)
Downtown Car Cruise Nights
Car lovers, this one's for you! On the second Saturday of each month, downtown Blue Springs turns into a retro Car Cruise with classic muscle cars, hot rods, and beautifully restored vintage rides lining Main Street. Stroll, take photos, and chat with the proud owners of these vehicles about engines and paint jobs! It's a relaxed community hangout with a nostalgic flair (and yes, you may hear "Little Deuce Coupe" or some Elvis on the speakers).
Date & Time: Saturday, Aug 9th (and second Saturdays through September), 5:00–8:00 pm
Location: Main Street, Downtown Blue Springs
Cost: Free
Insider Info: Have a classic car or bike of your own? Feel free to cruise in and park, as no registration is required to participate. Downtown restaurants and bars often offer specials during Cruise Night (e.g., check out Brewske's or East Forty Brewing for a bite or a beer). Parking for spectators is available on side streets, but make sure to avoid Main Street, which is reserved for the show cars.
Website: Downtown Blue Springs "Car Cruise"
Third Thursday Downtown Block Party
One night a month, downtown Blue Springs hosts a mini street festival that's essentially a large block party for the community. Expect live music, food trucks galore, local artisan vendors, and fun activities spilling into the streets as shops stay open late with deals and discounts, and the whole downtown comes alive! It's free admission and great fun for all ages.
Date & Time: Thursday, Aug 21st, 5:00–9:00 pm
Location: Downtown Blue Springs - Main & 12th area
Cost: Free
Insider Info: Third Thursdays are super popular, so plan for crowds. You can park in public lots or on side streets a few blocks away. While most venues and food trucks accept cards, it's always a good idea to bring some cash for treats or boutique finds. Dogs are welcome on leash; you might even find a vendor selling homemade dog treats!
Website: Downtown Blue Springs "Third Thursdays"
"Bite of Blue Springs" Food Truck Night
Come hungry! On the fourth Saturday of the month, "Blue Springs Downtown Alive!" hosts a food truck festival known as Bite of Blue Springs. Dozens of food trucks and local eateries gather in one place, offering a diverse range of options, from tacos and BBQ to ice cream and funnel cakes. There's often live music or a DJ, plus picnic tables to sit and eat, creating a fun, casual block-party atmosphere.
Date & Time: Saturday, Aug 23rd, 4:30–8:00 pm
Location: Downtown Blue Springs - Main St. & 15th
Cost: Entry is free; just bring a little cash for food vendors!
Insider Info: Many vendors offer samples or smaller "bites," allowing you to graze and try a bit of everything. Don't forget to swing by the downtown boutique booths or brewery taps that may also be open. Park in public lots a block or two away; the immediate area will be blocked off.
Website: "Bite of Blue Springs"
Special Events & Highlights
Dog Days of Summer at East Forty Brewing
Pup lovers, rejoice! East Forty Brewing is hosting its annual "Dog Days of Summer" party, dedicating an afternoon to our furry friends. They'll have doggy wading pools for pups to splash in and cool off, as well as vendors selling dog treats, toys, and accessories, while humans can enjoy East Forty's special brews, including limited-edition mango and mango-habanero infusions. Local trainers and pet sitters will be on hand to offer tips and information, and on-site dogs will be available for adoption. You might meet your new best friend!
Date & Time: Saturday, Aug 2nd, 1:00–5:00 pm
Location: East Forty Brewing - 101 SW 12th St, Blue Springs, MO 64015
Cost: Free to attend; beer and food for purchase.
Insider Info: Feel free to bring a towel for your pup (for drying off after the splash pools) and plastic bags for potty clean-up. Parking is available in the brewery's lot, as well as nearby street parking. Even if you don't have a dog, you're welcome to come and enjoy the friendly vibes (and maybe a cold beer)!
Website: "Dog Days of Summer" Event Page
Recurring Weekly Events
Raymore Farmers Market
Raymore has a farmers market too, a weekday evening option for you mid-week produce refuel. Every Tuesday through Sept 30th, expect fresh fruits and veggies, local honey, baked goods, jams, handmade crafts, and more. It's a smaller, hometown market but growing every year!
Date & Time: Tuesdays, 4:00–7:00 pm
Location: T.B. Hanna Station Park
Cost: Free to browse, but supporting local farmers by making a purchase is highly encouraged!
Insider Info: This is an excellent stop on your way home from work. Since it's later in the day, you can grab ingredients for dinner and might even find vendors running end-of-day specials. Park in the lot right at T.B. Hanna Station or find nearby street parking. Bonus: Sometimes they feature live acoustic music or a food truck, making it a mini-farmers' market festival.
Website: Raymore Farmers Market
Summer Concert: Kynfolk at Hawk Ridge Amphitheater
Raymore's free Summer Concert Series continues on the second Friday of August with "Kynfolk," a popular Kansas City-area band known for Southern rock and classic rock jams. Music lovers of all ages are welcome to head to Hawk Ridge Park and enjoy a summer night concert under the sky at Hawk Ridge's new amphitheater—a lovely outdoor venue overlooking the lake. Get ready to tap your toes at this low-key community hangout!
Date & Time: Friday, Aug 8th, 7:00–9:00 pm
Location: Hawk Ridge Park Amphitheater - 701 Johnston Pkwy, Raymore
Cost: Free
Insider Info: Bring your own lawn chairs, blankets, and pack a cooler with soft drinks or a picnic (beer and wine are typically allowed in moderation for 21+). While some concessions or food trucks are a possibility, they are not guaranteed. The parking lot can get quite dark at night, so we recommend bringing a flashlight for the walk back to your car.
Website: Facebook Event Page or Raymore Events Website
Special Events & Highlights
Station Stop Art Party
The Raymore Arts Commission is throwing a completely free, hands-on arts festival for kids! Geared primarily toward children aged 3–10 (though all children are welcome with an adult), the Station Stop Art Party offers a morning filled with creative activities. Little ones can do t-shirt painting, bracelet making, chalk art, drawing stations, and even interactive drumming sessions with "Drum Safari." It's essentially an arts and crafts paradise for kids. There will also be sweet frozen treats for sale from Shiver's Ice House, perfect for a late morning cool-down snack!
Date & Time: Saturday, Aug 2nd, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: T.B. Hanna Station Park - 214 S. Washington St., Raymore
Cost: Free—supplies are provided at no charge!
Insider Info: Dress the kids in play clothes that can get messy (hello, tie-dye and chalk dust) and bring a tote bag to carry home all their art projects. The park features a playground and a splash pad/sprayground, so consider packing a swimsuit or a change of clothes to let the kids splash after the art party wraps up.
Website: Station Stop Art Party
"Rugged Raymore" Kids Obstacle Course
If your kids love mud, water, and general mayhem, the Rugged Raymore obstacle course will be the highlight of their summer! Designed for kiddos ages 4–12, this mini "mud run" is all about getting messy and having a blast, featuring a fun-filled course with muddy pits, climbing obstacles, and water splashes along the way. The course is open for two hours, and participants can run through as many times as they want until closing time. Get ready for muddy high-fives at the finish line!
Date & Time: Friday, Aug 15th, 5:30–7:30 pm
Location: Hawk Ridge Park (south side near soccer fields)
Cost: Registration is required: $25 early bird (by Jul 14th), $35 regular (by Aug 14th), or $40 day-of tickets
Insider Info: Make sure to dress your child in clothes (and shoes) that can get muddy from head to toe. It's a good idea to bring a towel, a plastic bag for muddy clothes, and a complete change of clothes for the ride home. There will be food trucks on-site for post-race snacks, as well as for siblings and parents who want to hang out and watch.
Website: "Rugged Raymore" Kids Obstacle Course
Major Nearby Events & Festivals in August 2025
While these events aren't in our three spotlight cities, they're huge draws just a short drive away and definitely worth checking out if you're looking for something extra special!
Missouri State Fair
About an hour's drive from Lee's Summit, the Missouri 122nd Annual State Fair is 11 days of classic fair fun: carnival rides, fried foods on sticks, livestock exhibits, prize-winning giant pumpkins, concerts, tractor pulls, shopping pavilions, and more! From the petting zoo and midway for kiddos to beer tents and live music for adults, there's something for everyone at this Midwest tradition.
Date & Time: August 7–17, 2025
Location: Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia, MO
Cost: General admission to the fair itself is budget-friendly (usually around $10 for adults, less for kids/seniors, and some days have specials or free entry times). Each day has different headliner concerts at the grandstand, many of which require separate tickets.
Insider Info: Sedalia is about 75 miles from KC, so plan your trip carefully. Weekdays are less crowded, and a stroller or wagon for little ones is a lifesaver. Wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and stay hydrated: August in Missouri can be scorching! Check the fair schedule for themed days, such as Family Day and Military Appreciation Day, which offer discounts.
Website: Missouri State Fair Website
Kansas City Ethnic Enrichment Festival
Travel the world in a weekend; no passport required! The Ethnic Enrichment Festival is one of KC's largest multicultural celebrations, hosting over 60 countries and ethnic organizations to set up booths and offer authentic foods, crafts, and cultural displays. Three stages feature non-stop music and dance performances from around the globe, including Irish step-dancing, West African drumming, and Filipino bamboo dances, all in one afternoon. Don't miss this vibrant experience that truly showcases KC's diversity!
Date & Time: Aug 15–17, 2025, Friday 6–10 pm, Saturday 12–10 pm, Sunday 12–6 pm
Location: Swope Park (Meyer Blvd & Swope Pkwy area), Kansas City
Cost: Kids 12 and under are usually free; adult admission is typically just a few bucks at the gate, around $5–$10. Make sure to bring extra cash to try popular cuisine such as kebabs, samosas, lumpia, and gelato.
Insider Info: Parking is free at Swope Park for the festival, but please note that you may need to walk a bit, so wear comfortable shoes. Most booths are cash-only for food and crafts (and you WILL want to snack on several cuisines!). A large covered pavilion features tables near the main stage, but it fills up quickly. Consider bringing a folding chair or picnic blanket to set up on the lawn for performance-watching and dining.
Website: KC Ethnic Enrichment Festival
Kansas City Irish Fest
The luck of the Irish isn't just seen in March! Each year, on Labor Day weekend, KC hosts a massive celebration of Irish heritage featuring over 300 musicians, dancers, and entertainers on seven stages. There are Irish rock bands, traditional folk music, bagpipers, and high-energy céilí dancing. Beyond music, enjoy Irish comedy shows, whiskey tasting sessions, an Irish marketplace, and plenty of fish & chips. Tens of thousands attend this fantastic festival; you don't want to miss it! Sláinte!
Date & Time: Labor Day Weekend: Friday, Aug 30th – Sunday, Aug 31st, Friday 5–11 pm, Saturday 11 am – 11 pm, Sunday 11 am – 11 pm
Location: Crown Center Square, Kansas City
Cost: A one-day adult admission typically costs around $30, but can be cheaper when purchased in advance online. Kids 12 and under are often free with a paid adult. This festival also offers weekend passes, allowing you to experience the full Irish experience.
Insider Info: Parking at Crown Center garages is available for a set event fee, or you can take the KC Streetcar to the Union Station stop and walk over. You'll receive a festival wristband, allowing you to come and go on the day of your attendance. Wear green to get in the spirit!
Website: https://www.kcirishfest.com/
