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Essential October Events in Kansas City

September 26, 2017


An ongoing series, we’re highlighting some of the most important events, exhibits and can’t-miss activities each month of the year.

Fall is in full swing with timeless festivals and plenty of haunting good times.


Spooktacular Festivities

Haunted House Scares

Combined with KC’s pioneering use of the “open format,” which allows visitors to wander without a predestined path, the city has earned the moniker of “The Haunted House Capital of the World.” Spend your weekends exploring this spooky scene.

Citywide, Weekends in October

Prime Time Action

Kareem Hunt, Alex Smith and the rest of the high-powered Chiefs welcome Washington to Arrowhead to put their undefeated record on the line in what’s sure to be a spectacular Monday Night Football showdown.

Arrowhead Stadium, October 2, 7:30 p.m.

On the Road Again

Living legend Willie Nelson takes the outdoor stage at Starlight Theatre for an unforgettable performance featuring all-time great tunes and two very special guests.

Starlight Theatre, October 4, 6:30 p.m.

Fearful Festivities

Ghosts, ghouls and other creatures of the night roam freely through Worlds of Fun during Halloween Haunt, which showcases the scarier side of the amusement park. Can’t get enough heart-pumping action? Tour 13 extreme haunts or see spooky nighttime shows designed for maximum thrills, all while dodging zombies, monsters and more.

Worlds of Fun, October 6–7, 13–14, 20–21, 27–28

Light Up The Night

Live music and incredible performance art accompany a breathtaking fire lighting along Brush Creek, regularly considered one of the most moving artistic events in the city.

Country Club Plaza, October 7, 7–11 p.m.

Autumn Celebration

Count on apples of all kinds to keep your appetite company during this beloved tradition just north of Downtown Kansas City. With a hometown parade, art and craft booths, activities and more, it’s simply one of the best fall events in the region. 

Weston, MO, October 7–8 

Prize-Winning Drama

KC Rep takes on the 1987 Pulitzer Prize winner for Drama and Tony Award for Best Play with this gripping production that tells the story of an African-American father and his family in the 1950s.

Kansas City Repertory Theatre, October 13–November 12

Pop Icon

The iconic entertainer brings her award-winning pop music to the Sprint Center for an evening of classic hits. 

Sprint Center, October 19, 8 p.m.

Tricks and Treats at the Library

Young ones can get head start on Halloween with this weekend kickoff party featuring a haunted house, face painting, trick-or-treating and more.

Plaza Branch, October 27, 6:30 p.m.

Own the Night

The pop superstar brings her Witness: The Tour to the fourth busiest arena in the country. Expect smash-hit songs and inspiring anthems in a one-of-a-kind talent showcase.

Sprint Center, October 27, 7:30 p.m.

Not-So-Spooky Animal Fun

Don your wildest Halloween costume and head to the Zoo for a family-friendly All Hallows’ Eve featuring exotic animals, tasty treats and not a single trick in sight. 

Kansas City Zoo, October 28–29