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