🎉 23rd Year of Irish Fest, 🌆 Skyline Glow, 🏟 FIFA 2026 Volunteers


Hey Kansas City Enthusiasts,

From festival weekends and skyline updates to massive development news and big wins for local families, Kansas City is brimming with momentum. Whether you’re heading to Crown Center for Irish Fest, following plans for a new immersive art experience, or eyeing volunteer spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there’s no shortage of energy shaping the city’s future.

In this edition, we’re highlighting:

▪️ Irish Fest marks its 23rd year as KC’s biggest Labor Day celebration

▪️ A familiar glow is set to return to the Kansas City skyline

▪️ Reconnecting the Westside with new parks, housing, and public spaces

▪️ Missouri eliminates sales tax on diapers, feminine products, and breast pumps

▪️... and more!

Scroll down to explore the top stories shaping Kansas City this week ⬇️


IRISH FEST 2025

This is not just another weekend in Kansas City. It is Irish Fest’s 23rd year and the city’s biggest Labor Day celebration.

From Bingo Loco (part rave, part bingo, all wild craic) to more than 75 bands and performers. Crown Center will be alive with fiddles, pipes, pints, and festival fun.

(photos)

Here’s what you will love:

  • Friday Night: Elias Alexander and Bingo Loco with confetti, DJs, and prizes flying
  • Saturday and Sunday: Gaelic Storm, The High Kings, The Elders, Trad Bands, Food, Whiskey Tastings, and Shopping Galore.
  • Student Tickets: Just $20 with code COLLEGE25 (student ID required)

Do not wait until you are standing at the gate. Prices increase on site. Grab tickets now and be Irish for the Weekend.


👀 Around KC

🗼

Kansas City’s skyline is about to get a familiar glow back.

🏘️

Kansas City plans to reconnect the Westside with parks, housing, and public spaces.

✈️

Missouri ends sales tax on diapers, feminine products, and breast pumps.

🏈

FIFA world cup 2026 volunteer applications now open.

🏢

Port KC approves $100B in bonds for Northland Data Center Project.

🎭

Kansas City is about to get its own immersive art playground.

🏆 Most clicked stories OF this week 🏆

🏢 DEVELOPMENT SCENE

Wally’s Plans Massive Travel Center in Independence, Moving Ahead to City Council

A nearly 54,000-square-foot Wally’s Travel Center is moving forward in Independence after the Planning Commission approved plans for the site of the former Venture/Kmart near I-70 and Noland Road. The project, set to be the company’s largest location, will include 42 gas islands with 84 fueling stations, 12 EV chargers, and more than 300 parking spaces. Inside, travelers will find a jerky bar, barbecue station, café with 60 drink flavors, and an array of food, drinks, and souvenirs. Wally’s purchased the property outright, covered back taxes, and reimbursed demolition costs before starting talks with city officials.

To accommodate the surge in traffic, the company will invest $5–$7 million in roadway upgrades, including new turn lanes from I-70 and improvements to Lincourt Drive. The development is expected to create 200 jobs and open in 2026, bringing a Buc-ee’s-style experience to the Kansas City metro on a slightly smaller scale. With Planning Commission approval in hand, the proposal now advances to the City Council, where a first reading is scheduled for September 15, followed by a vote in October.

Let me know what you think of this redevelopment ➡️

📌 Friday, August 29

  • Multiple Artists @ KC Irish Fest | INFO
  • Oceano @ Warehouse on Broadway | INFO
  • Nowhere, Displacer, Horseboy, Kariah @ Farewell | INFO
  • Family Dog, Hockey Smile, Figure 8s @ Howdy | INFO
  • Niontay @ The Bottleneck | INFO
  • Cowardly Lions @ KC Live at P & L | INFO
  • M80s, Bryant Carter Band @ Knuckleheads | INFO
  • Mitzi McGee and the Precious Cargo @ Lemonade Park | INFO
  • 50 Years of Slimm, Men of Men @ RecordBar | INFO
  • Boy Jr, Kopps @ MiniBar | INFO
  • Yacht Rockers @ Serv | INFO

📌 Saturday, August 30

  • Multiple Artists @ KC Irish Fest | INFO
  • The Outtakes @ KC Live Stage P & L | INFO
  • Cupcake @ Warehouse on Broadway | INFO
  • Doobie nm, Blue Tongue, Khaos Light @ The Rino | INFO
  • Blanke, Dancefestopia Preparty @ Aura | INFO
  • Honeybee, Silvee, Willoh @ Lemonade Park | INFO
  • Casketlottery, Appleseed cast @ RecordBar | INFO
  • Green Shoe Box Band @ The Levee | INFO

📌 Sunday, August 31

  • Bowline Brothers @ Tin Roof | INFO
  • Linkin Park @ T Mobile Center | INFO
  • Nace Brothers, Texas Headhunters, Fastjohnny @ Knuckleheads | INFO
  • Multiple Artists @ KC Irish Fest | INFO
  • KC Bones @ RecordBar | INFO
  • Gannon Freman @ Encore Room at Uptown Theater | INFO

📌 Monday, September 1

  • Headhunters @ The Ship | INFO

📌 Tuesday, September 2

  • Locals Only, The Fling @ Tin Roof | INFO
  • Kimmi Bitter @ The Ship | INFO

📌 Wednesday, September 3

  • Weedeater @ Warehouse on Broadway | INFO
  • Barnaby Bright @ Hammers Dueling Pianos | INFO

📌 Thursday, September 4

  • Turnpike Troubadours @ Uptown Theater | INFO
  • The Cleverlys @ Knuckleheads | INFO
  • John Mark McMillan, Citizens @ RecordBar | INFO
  • Bombs Away with DJ Requiem @ Tin Roof | INFO

🏐 SPORTS SCENE

Chiefs Join KC Current in Going Reusable

Starting with their September 14, 2025 home opener, the Kansas City Chiefs will become the first NFL team to eliminate single-use beverage cups across GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, replacing them with more than 42,000 reusable cups in partnership with Bold Reuse, Levy, Aramark Sports + Entertainment, and supported by a MARC grant.

The nearly 54,000-seat venue will now operate a closed-loop system where cups are collected, sanitized, and reused for future events, drastically cutting plastic waste while enhancing the fan experience with higher-quality drinkware and easier waste management. Part of the Chiefs’ Extra Yard for the Environment program, the initiative not only reduces environmental impact but also cements Kansas City’s reputation as a leader in sustainable sports operations, with officials calling it a model for other teams nationwide.

🏐 SPORTS SCENE 2.0

(Does this count as sports?)

Save the Date: KC’s Favorite English Teacher + Gym Teacher Tie the Knot

Unless you’ve been living under a rock (or maybe in SubTropolis), you’ve heard the news: Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are officially engaged. KC’s already making fridge space for the Save the Date — and decoding Taylor’s hints about the wedding theme.

Our best guess? It’s giving English teacher marries gym teacher energy.

Picture this:

📚 English Teacher Vibes (Taylor)

Think wedding programs filled with hidden lyrics, table numbers that double as chapter titles from her discography, and vows written like poetry only Swift could pen. Expect subtle nods only diehard Swifties will decode.

🏈 Gym Teacher Energy (Travis)

Picture a reception with plays drawn up like a Chiefs game plan, Gatorade toasts swapped for champagne, and Travis hyping up the crowd like it’s the 4th quarter at Arrowhead. The dance floor? Less prom, more end-zone celebration.

🔥 Together = TNT

One’s got a library of love songs, the other’s got a playbook of touchdowns — and when they combine, it’s pure fireworks.

KC knows how to throw a party, and if this one lands here, it’ll be bigger than a Super Bowl parade. Until the real details drop, keep your guesses coming — and yes, keep that fridge space open… just in case.

Why the 2026 World Cup Could Change Kansas City Forever

Discover how hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup could reshape Kansas City—from tourism and business growth to lasting changes in sports, culture, and the city’s global reputation.

🎯 REAL ESTATE SCENE

SPONSORED BY MOVING TO KC

Mid-Century Modern Ranch in Overland Park

Welcome to 5615 W 91st St — a sprawling 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom mid-century modern ranch in the heart of Overland Park. Priced at $595,000, this 2,859-square-foot home sits on a spacious 0.41-acre corner lot and blends timeless architecture with modern updates.

Natural wood, stacked stone accents, vaulted ceilings, and walls of windows create an open, airy atmosphere throughout. The kitchen is the true centerpiece, featuring sleek cabinetry, a stainless apron-front sink, designer tile backsplash, and a stunning 12-foot reclaimed walnut island with seating for eight. Multiple sliding doors open seamlessly to the outdoors, where a wraparound deck and covered terrace provide the perfect setting for entertaining or enjoying a quiet evening breeze.

Three fireplaces anchor the multiple living spaces, while the main floor includes three bedrooms, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet, dressing area, and spa-like shower. The thoughtfully renovated guest bath brings a touch of retro charm with terrazzo floors, a refinished vintage tub, and a mid-century vanity. Downstairs, the finished basement offers stained concrete floors, a gym area, office or flex spaces, and an additional half bath.

Outside, the circle drive, large grandfather tree, and fenced yard add both curb appeal and a sense of retreat. With new wood-stained garage doors, fresh updates, and a prime location near Meadowbrook Park, top-rated schools, and local dining, this property is more than a home—it’s a lifestyle.

🏡 Property Overview

Price: $595,000

Address: 5615 W 91st St, Overland Park, KS 66207

Year Built: 1964

Lot Size: 0.41 Acres

Living Area: 2,859 sq ft

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 4 (3 full, 1 half)

📞 Ready to see it in person?
Take a closer look at the details, and let’s get your tour scheduled!

Listing Provided by: Jennifer Stevens with RE/MAX Heritage


At Loans in KC, we understand that every financial situation is unique. That’s why we offer personalized loan solutions designed to meet your specific needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with fast and reliable service.

Mortgage rates change constantly, much like the weather, and they vary depending on your unique circumstances. Just like finding the right tool for a job, getting the right mortgage rate is crucial. Let us help you discover the perfect match with a FREE customized quote today! You’re not just another number to us; you’re part of the family.

🌆 This Weekend in Kansas City!

2025 Kansas City Irish Fest

Celebrate Irish culture this Labor Day weekend at Crown Center with live music, Celtic food and drinks, and cultural performances at the 23rd annual Kansas City Irish Fest.

KC Chalk & Walk Festival

Head to City Market Aug. 30–31 for the KC Chalk & Walk Festival, featuring 60+ chalk artists, 3D masterpieces, selfie murals, and hands-on chalk fun for all ages.

Swiftie Engagement Celebration

Celebrate Taylor and Travis at Johnnie’s Jazz Bar & Grille Liberty on Aug. 30 with Taylor Music Bingo, a dance party, and plenty of Swiftie fun.

Run Club + Cold Plunge + Wellness Fun at Power & Light

Kick off your morning Aug. 30 at Power & Light with a run/walk, cold plunge, wellness vendors, and live music for the ultimate fitness and community vibe.

Sunset Sessions with the KC All Stars

Enjoy free live music with the KC All Stars this Saturday from 7–10 PM at SERV in Overland Park.

The Cherry Bomb Makers Fair

Shop 20+ local vendors, enjoy food trucks, drinks, and DJ vibes at the Cherry Bomb Makers Fair in Lee’s Summit, Aug. 30–31 from 12–6 PM.

Want to be highlighted in our guide? Email us at partnerships@thekcscene.com


That’s it for today! Wishing you an amazing week.

Looking to buy, sell or relocate? ​
Schedule a call with me!​

Thank you for being a part of the KC Scene community!

— Kyle Talbot

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KC Scene

KC Scene is your go-to, unbiased resource for everything Kansas City—where to live, what to do, and how to make this city feel like home. Whether you're moving in or moving up, we’ve got you covered with real estate, development, lifestyle, and local gems.

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