Cinco de Mayo Fiesta (May 3-5) – This three-day celebration hosted by Guadalupe Centers will showcase local and national entertainment. Families can also enjoy local food, vendors, kids’ activities and more.
Worlds of Fun opening day (May 4) – KC’s popular amusement park opens for the summer with some of the region’s most thrilling rides. This season, Worlds of Fun is adding two new weekend festivals.
NASCAR at Kansas Speedway (May 4-5) – Head to Kansas Speedway for fast-paced NASCAR action. Three races in one weekend means plenty of high-octane fun.
Water Lantern Festival (May 10) Food, music and yes – even design your own lantern at this family friendly event. Gates open at 5:30-9:30 pm at Frank A Theis Park at 47th & Oak St in KCMO
“MJ” at the Music Hall (May 7-12) – One of the greatest entertainers of all time, Michael Jackson’s story comes to the stage as “MJ,” a Tony Award-winning musical. This new show is stopping in Kansas City on its first national tour.
Final Spike Anniversary Steam Tour (May 18) – At this free event, CPKC celebrates the anniversary of the final spike that connected Canada, the U.S. and Mexico by rail. The Empress 2816 Steam Train will be on display at Union Station as guests learn more about CPKC and North American rail history.
Free Outdoor Concert Series opens its concert series (May 18th). The band Grand Marquis will highlight the night with their KC blues, Memphis soul, and a spirit of New Orleans. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway & Greenway Lane in Lenexa
Turkey Creek Festival (May 18) – This all-day event in Merriam, Kansas, includes everything from a pancake breakfast and a 5K to live music and a Kid Zone at the picturesque Antioch Park.
Kelce Jam (May 18) – Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce is hosting his second annual Kelce Jam at Azura Amphitheater. Rappers Lil Wayne, Diplo and 2Chainz are this year’s headliners.
Kansas City Triathlon (May 19) — KC’s premier triathlon event kicks off the summer season at Longview Lake. Options include Olympic, Sprint and Relay distance options as well as a duathlon.
“Disney100” (May 24 through Nov. 30) – Walt Disney began his animation career right in the heart of Kansas City. This summer, Disney’s history and impact will come to Kansas City again as “Disney100: The Exhibition” takes over Union Station. Kansas City is one of the first three cities to host the historic North American tour.
Oceans of Fun opening day (May 25) – The largest outdoor water park in the Midwest begins its summer season, stretching the fun until Labor Day.
Celebration at the Station (May 25) – Enjoy the official start of summer with the largest free Memorial Day weekend event in the Midwest. Against the majestic backdrop of Union Station, the Kansas City Symphony performs patriotic favorites, followed by fireworks.
Festa Italiana (May 31 through June 3) – Eat and drink your way through Italy—no passport required! Italian culture takes center stage in this event at Zona Rosa, which includes food, a beer garden, a car show and novelty