Everything You Need to Know About Memorial Day in Kansas City

As the sun fades and the city's skyline begins to glow, majestic melodies swell across one of the city's favorite lawns. Warm days and favorite local traditions lie ahead. It’s Memorial Day Weekend in KC, a time to reflect, celebrate and usher in the summer season.

Here’s everything you need to know about Memorial Day in Kansas City: 


Celebration at the Station Returns

Celebration at the Station - Kansas City Symphony

One of Kansas City's favorite traditions returns for Memorial Day Weekend. On Sunday, May 28, Celebration at the Station fills the grounds of Union Station and the National WWI Museum and Memorial with a patriotic performance from the Kansas City Symphony, plus food trucks and additional live entertainment throughout the evening. 

The event site opens at 5 p.m. with vendors and booths on display, as well as pre-concert entertainment on stage from Drive On and the Back Alley Brass Band. The Symphony's performance begins at 8 p.m., in concert with rock band The Resilient. The evening concludes with Kansas City's largest fireworks display.

Mark the Occasion

WWI Museum Entrance

All weekend long, the National WWI Museum and Memorial has a lineup of events and activities to recognize Memorial Day.

Veterans and active duty military personnel receive free admission to the Museum. For the general public, admission is half price all weekend. May 26-29

Free to the public, Remembering Our Fallen is a photographic war memorial that honors U.S. military fallen from the Global War on Terrorism. May 25-29

A public program on Memorial Day features remarks from dignitaries and a keynote from Lt. General (Ret.) John "J.T." Thomson. May 29, 10 a.m.

Memorial Day Weekend also offers the chance to experience the largest renovation at the National WWI Museum and Memorial since its opening in 2006. The new Lower Level features 190 feet of window cases, placing objects and artifacts on display to Museum guests that would otherwise be unavailable for public viewing. Opens May 19

Additional events taking place at the National WWI Museum and Memorial over Memorial Day Weekend and throughout the month of May include: 

 

  • Flags of Forgotten Soldiers Display, May 15-29
  • Vietnam Era Bell UH-1 Iroquois "Huey" Helicopter Display, May 26-29
  • Vintage Military Vehicle Display, May 27-28
  • Memorial Day Bell Tolling Ceremony, May 29, noon
  • Walk of Honor Dedication, May 29, 2 p.m.

Say Hello to Summer

Spinning Dragons at Worlds of Fun

Usher in the sunny season with the return of several signature events and outdoor expeditions. Worlds of Fun is open for the season, with the highly-anticipated return of the Zambezi Zinger taking place for Season Passholders on May 25 and all park guests on May 26. Oceans of Fun opens for the season on May 27, with Riptide Raceway—the park's newest addition and the world's longest mat-racing water slide—ready to make a splash.

At Union Station, explore a brand new take on a famous figure as Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing - The Exhibition opens on May 26. Brought to you by Disney and Marvel Entertainment, the in-depth exhibit explores the history and impact of the iconic hero throughout the years. More fantastic adventure for all can be found inside Science City. The family-friendly wonderland features hands-on spaces to explore everything from engineering and physics to food science and the arts.

 

Sluggerrr

There's also no shortage of sporting events to enjoy throughout the holiday weekend. The Kansas City Royals take on the Washington Nationals, May 26-28, with a Family 4-Pack offer on Sunday making it simple for everyone to attend. Plus, immerse yourself in KC's diehard soccer fandom as the KC Current faces the Houston Dash on May 26 and Sporting Kansas City takes on the Portland Timbers on May 28, both at Children's Mercy Park.

 

Family at the Kansas City Zoo

Keep an eye on the Kansas City Zoo as well. The perennial favorite always has something fun afoot, from Elephant Expedition to Stingray Bay.

Live Music Revelry

From small, close-up shows to huge, sold-out concerts, live music is part of Kansas City culture. 

 

Try Green Lady Lounge for the city's distinct jazz sound or Crossroads KC at Grinders for open-air entertainment—or keep an eye on the schedule of performances in the Power & Light District.