Pack a blanket, claim a patch of grass beside the Nelson-Atkins’ iconic shuttlecock sculptures, and settle in for this free bash in KC’s backyard.
A partnership between the Nelson-Atkins and Kansas City Parks and Recreation, Kansas City’s Lawn Party stretches from the museum grounds to the neighboring Frank A. Theis Park. Now in its 12th year, the event began as a 25th anniversary celebration for Donald J. Hall Sculpture Garden and has since grown into a summer staple.
With lawn games, local bands, mini golf and more, there’s no shortage of ways to spend the evening. Headlined by Back Alley Brass Band, the entertainment lineup also includes Big Luke and the Soul Disciples, a drumline from Sumner Academy and rockabilly group Miss Major and her Minor Mood Swings. More than a dozen food trucks will line Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard, though attendees are welcome to bring their own picnic fare.
A new addition to this year’s Lawn Party includes KC Parks & Rec pop-up Book Beats. Held under a shady grove of trees, marketing and events manager Heidi Markle says the program offers partygoers a chance to take a break from the bustling festival (aside from cooling off in the museum). “It’s a laid-back, quiet area with lo-fi music playing from a DJ,” she says. “People can sit back, relax and socialize—or bring a book. It’s soft socializing.”
But for Markle, the live painting contest remains one of her favorite traditions. Approximately 50 artists compete each summer, given two and a half hours to complete an original work. “I’m always impressed by the quality of artists we have here in Kansas City and what they can produce in just a short period of time,” she says.
GO: Kansas City’s Lawn Party. July 19. 4 pm. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Frank A. Theis Park.
