With the World Cup on the way — and plenty of festivals, art walks, and block parties in between — we’re curious: Should Kansas City lean into social districts?
If you’re new to the term, social districts allow you to carry open alcoholic beverages (from permitted businesses) within a designated boundary. KC’s Power & Light District already has a similar setup: drinks are fair game in public spaces, as long as they’re served in plastic cups.
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 block 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 events like street fairs and art walks.
- CLTtoday | This metro boasts four such sites — Plaza Midwood, Downtown Concord, Gastonia, Kannapolis — where drinks can be purchased in a branded cup from participating businesses.
Imagine wandering through Crossroads on a First Friday or shopping the West Bottoms with a frosty brew from a local taproom in hand. Could it work in Brookside during a local art fair? Or in River Market for weekend brunch crowds?
Supporters say social districts boost small businesses, encourage walkability, and build community energy at events. On the flip side, concerns around litter, noise, and enforcement mean these districts need clear boundaries, signage, and thoughtful planning.
What about you — are you for or again seeing more spaces like these this in Kansas City? Let us know.
