Happy birthday, Browne’s Irish Marketplace. The oldest Irish business in the world outside of Ireland is turning 135, and owners are planning to celebrate with Kansas Citians in a big way.
There’s lots to know about this weekend’s céilí (that’s Irish for “party”) — but first, a recap.
Browne’s, abridged
Browne’s Irish Market spans five generations. Kerry Browne runs the shop today — she’s a descendant of the Flavian-Browne family that opened in the front room of their Kansas City home in 1887.
The business today is a KC staple. Inside, you’ll find a mix of imported Irish retail (including apparel, whiskey, and real Irish candies) + a deli famous for its Reuben sandwich. Crane Brewing Company even created a Browne’s brown ale, which is available at the store (Editor Travis is a big fan).
Browne’s is so integral to KC that leaders plan to honor the family with a special proclamation at the City Council meeting today.
“This is such an honor for us! Proud of the generations who came before to get us here now,” Kerry wrote.
Let’s “craic” on
That’s the all-encompassing Irish term for a fun time.
Browne’s celebration will be “a day of music, pints, food, whiskey and games,” according to the event. Expect three Irish bands, Irish dancing, bites from the deli + food trucks, beer, whiskey, and a whole lot of green.
Where: 3300 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, MO
When: Sat, Oct. 8, 1-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door
A portion of proceeds benefit local prosthetic foundation Steps of Faith.
Entertainment
- Eddie Delahunt
- Chance The Arm
- Jump 2-3 Band (sample their music)
- Bagpipes
- O'Riada-Manning Academy of Irish Dance
- The Driscoll School of Irish Dance
Food + drink
- Guinness
- Smithwicks
- Magners
- Jameson Irish Whiskey
- Five Farms Irish Cream
- Browne’s food
- Food trucks
More craic
- Yard games
- Whiskey sampling
- Jameson photo booth
- Giveaways
- Sales