A Kansas City tradition. The 2023 Plaza Art Fair is right around the corner and we’re diving into everything you need to know before heading to one of Kansas City’s longest-standing annual events.
Need to know
When: Friday, Sept. 22-Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Country Club Plaza
Who: 240 artists
Cost: Free admission
Parking: Free garages
History
The Plaza Art Fair began in 1932 with the intention to draw shoppers to the Plaza and life spirit. The fair was held on an empty lot on the southwest corner of Nichols Road and Central Street, where Tiffany & Co. is now. At the time, around 90 artists displayed paintings for sale — the prices ranged from $1 to $10.
Now, it is a top-ranked, national art event with three live music stages and 20+ featured restaurant booths. The event pulls in 250,000+ attendees each year and serves as Kansas City’s unofficial welcome to fall.
Eat, drink, and get involved
The artists are the main attraction, but there are many other ways to enjoy the fair.
Grab a bite to eat + a drink to sip from restaurants like:
- The Granfalloon Restaurant & Bar
- McCormick & Schmick’s
- Bo Ling’s
- Gram & Dun
- Rye
Find your way to the music at:
- Polsinelli Main Stage on the Wornall Bridge
- Local Music Stage at the intersection of Ward Parkway and Pennsylvania Avenue
- Acoustic Stage at the intersection of Nichols Road and Central Street
Looking to take your Plaza Art Fair experience one step further? Sign up for a volunteer slot and look through the exclusive, behind-the-scenes lens throughout the weekend.