Celebrate America 250 Events Around Kansas City

On July 4th, 1776, the founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, a document that turned a cluster of colonies into a real nation. Now, 250 years later, cities all over that nation are celebrating a milestone anniversary. The Kansas City metro is joining in the festivities with many engaging activities for all ages. Keep reading to find the event that’s right for you!

Parades

Leawood

On July 4th, the city of Leawood, KS is hosting an Independence Day Parade along Tomahawk Creek Parkway. The event will feature live music and will be Emcee’d by John Holt from Fox 4.

Raymore

The city of Raymore, MO has many activities planned for the celebration. One is the “As American as Apple Pie” Parade on Independence Day. The parade’s theme is “classic Americana,” reminiscent of small towns, hot dogs, baseball, and kids in little red wagons.

Lee’s Summit

The Missouri Town Living History Museum in Lee’s Summit, known for its interactive and immersive history presentations, will take visitors back to the 19th-century to celebrate the nation’s milestone birthday. Alongside the parade, this year’s event also includes historical crafts, live demonstrations, and 19th-century games.

READ: Why are fewer cities observing the 250th celebration?

Festivals/Parties

Leawood

Another Leawood America 250 event is its Celebration in the Park on the 4th of July. The event is full of things to do, including a carnival, live music, food trucks, and more. To end off the night, visitors can watch a fireworks display light up the sky.

Worlds of Fun

Every Saturday (and Friday, July 3rd) from June 18th to July 25th, celebrate the nation’s anniversary at this KC amusement park. Enjoy live music, a food festival, and fireworks every Star-Spangled Night.

Raymore

The city of Raymore has even more exciting events to enjoy. Starting on June 25th, there will be a Bricks and Block Party, unveiling a brick to honor veterans and accompanied by food trucks, vendors, and music. Raymore follows that up with Rock the Ridge on the 26th, with a bubble zone for kids, live music, and more vendors.

Finally, guests can attend a Spirit of America/Matchday Watch Party. The event will feature food trucks, performances, inflatables, and a watch party of a World Cup match on a large screen—all followed by fireworks at dusk.

History

Leawood

Since March, the Leawood Historic Commission has been hosting historical presentations about the birth of the United States on the final Saturday of each month. While most of the presentations have already happened, visitors can still catch the final two on June 27th and July 25th.

Independence

Throughout 2026, the Truman Library in Independence is featuring a variety of speakers, programs, and experiences to educate guests about the country’s origins and development. Until October 24th, visitors can explore “The Story of US,” an exhibition that connects the past to the present.

Bonner Springs

Kansas Citians wanting to learn more about the role of Native Americans in the development of the nation can visit the Wyandotte County Historical Society and Museum, featuring an exhibition called Americans. The exhibition is based on one by the same name at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian.

Runs/Races

Raymore

Another Raymore event is the 2.50 Fun Run on July 2nd, a two-and-a-half mile run, walk, or jog through Hawk Ridge Park. The event is free and untimed, so participants can be as fast or leisurely as they want.

Ward Parkway

Pro and casual runners alike can also participate in Four on the 4th along Ward Parkway. Options include a 4 mile run, a 4K, or the Little Firecracker Fun Run for kids.

Other

For a fun, city-wide adventure, guests can take part in Raymore’s America 250-themed scavenger hunt. From June 22nd when clues are released until July 7th, participants can search the city, visiting popular locations, then turn in the completed scavenger hunt to win Raymore swag.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Whether you’re single or have children, whether you’re a runner or a crafter, whether the history fascinates you or you’re just here for the fun—there’s something for everyone.

–Lyra Thompson | Metro Voice

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