Imagine wandering through Crossroads on a First Friday or shopping the West Bottoms with a frosty brew from a local taproom in hand...
Cities across the country are turning to social districts to do just that. If you’re unfamiliar, these spaces allow you to carry open alcoholic beverages (purchased from permitted businesses) within a designated boundary. While not officially labeled as one, Kansas City’s Power & Light District already has a similar open-carry exemption — as long as your drink is in a plastic cup.
Where it’s working
We asked our colleagues across the country how their cities are sipping and strolling:
ATXtoday | Living Streets temporarily closes blocks to traffic so neighborhoods can throw walkable parties.
TBAYtoday | Buy a drink in a branded cup from a participating bar along the Riverwalk and take it for a scenic stroll.
NOOGAtoday | Visitors can roam with drinks in hand on Station Street, hopping between restaurants, bars, and dance clubs.
AVLtoday | City officials are exploring a social district that would activate during special events.
Are you in favor of activating social districts/streets around the city?
A. Yes, cheers to more sip + stroll spots B. Maybe, if it’s well-regulated and event-based C. Only in already bustling areas like the Crossroads D. Nope, not a fan
Live Music Tuesdays | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | Sail Away Wine, NKC | Free entry | No cover to catch local artist Jillian Riscoe, just bring your wine passport and a few friends.
Wednesday, July 30
“Happy Gilmore 2" Watch Party | 7-9 p.m. | Craft Putt, Overland Park, KS | Free | This sequel screening has mini golf and beer, but is BYOS (bring your own Subway).
Thursday, July 31
Storytelling Night | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, Overland Park, KS | Free, RSVP | Kansas City poet and local legend, Glenn North, guides a night of sharing personal stories of lessons learned.
Friday, Aug. 1
Where’s Waldo Party | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Monarch Books & Gifts, Overland Park, KS | Free | This Where’s Waldo-inspired, store-wide scavenger hunt features a BOGO book deal — perfect for teachers stocking up on the latest reads and classroom needs.
Saturday, Aug. 2
KCPSFest 25 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | East High School | Free, RSVP | This drive-thru offers Kansas City Public School families a chance to snag free backpacks, school supplies, and on-site health services (including sports physicals + vaccines).
Kansas City Taco Festival | Saturday, Aug. 2-Sunday, Aug. 3 | 2-8 p.m. | KC Live! | $10+ | Get ready for an action-packed weekend filled with a large variety of tacos, margaritas, games, and taco-themed fun all while being entertained by live bands on stage and authentic Mariachi music.
Plan Ahead
A Beautiful Disruption: Impressions of Light & Sound | Multiple dates | 6-7 p.m. | Nelson- Atkins Museum of Art | $10 | Snag your ticket for this immersive, multi-sensory experience transporting you into the worlds of Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, like Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Cézanne.
Johnson County is thinking big... 3,000+ acres big. The newly announced Greater Kill Creek Area Park will be JoCo Parks + Rec’s largest yet, combining trails, historic sites, and environmental restoration across the existing Kill Creek Park and Streamway, plus part of the old Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant. Preview the plan at a public event on Saturday, Aug. 2. (KSHB-41)
Announced
We’ve dished on KCK’s Taco Trail, now it’s time to dine out on the new and improved Kansas City BBQ Experience. Eat your way through 100+ local spots and rack up points for saucy prizes — all while exploring KC’s most iconic eats. Sign up for free and start tracking.
Trending
Seen those bold red “Bonk!” signs around town? The eye-catching onomatopoeia is actually a local streetwear brand, Bonk Supply, which just opened a flagship in the East Crossroads. Browse its collection of playful pieces with “Midwestern sensibility” — a venture that began with a hunt for luxury checkered sweatsuits. (Startland News)
Civic
It’s been years in the making, but Crossroads property owners have finally established a neighborhood Community Improvement District. The CID is a 10-year designation that will spearhead initiatives like tree planting and graffiti removal, as well as oversee uniformed security and neighborhood ambassadors (think downtown’s “yellow jackets”). (KCBJ)
Watch
ICYMI, star members from the cast of “Ted Lasso” made a surprise appearance at Azura Amphitheater’s sold-out Mumford & Sons show last week. Peep the performance here.
Eat
Fairway’s former Houlihan’s will become upscale concept American Fire, featuring a renovated patio space — all spearheaded by restaurant group W. VinZant Restaurants of Gram & Dun and Louie’s Wine Dive. Can’t wait to satisfy your cravings? The Star has the dish on a weekday special at Third Street Social that boasts burgers, fries, and craft beers for two for under $25. (Kansas City Magazine)
Closed
Manor Records has closed its Troost storefront, but the nonprofit label isn’t skipping a beat on its mission to uplift local musicians. Another local closure to note: NKC’s The Big Rip Brewing Company is no more, though the space is set to reopen as a new brewery in a matter of weeks. (Kansas City Star)
Try This
Good news, KC: The “A Match Made in Heaven” exhibition featuring contemporary artist Katherine Bernhardt and American fashion designer Jeremy Scott has been extended at the Nerman Museum through Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025. Haven’t had a chance to check it out yet? Consider this your sign.*
Older Adults
Did you know about these senior discounts? Aside from basics like bulk shopping and retirement accounts, here are 20 savings hacks older adults should know about to continue saving and building wealth at age 50+.*
Trending
Amazon Essentials just launched a new activewear collection (read: soft, comfortable gym clothes for less). We’re loving these high-waist leggings and these colorful capri-length leggings.*
Learn
AI won’t take over the world — people who know how to use AI will. Learn AI skills in three minutes a day with Superhuman AI newsletter. Subscribe for free.*
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