First Friday in the Crossroads has been Kansas City's monthly gallery and food walk since 2001, with galleries open late, food trucks rolling out and restaurants busy.
Tip: Free outdoor event; the busiest months are May, June and September. Park along Grand and walk.
Address: Crossroads Arts District, Kansas City, MO 64108
The world's largest barbecue competition in Kansas City brings 500-plus teams to the Kansas Speedway across the last weekend of September into early October. Burnt ends and brisket lead, with KCBS judging the canon.
Tip: BBQ Garden Saturday-only ticket includes samples plus games from KC pitmasters. Day passes for the Open Contest Sunday are the public-friendly entry.
Kansas City Restaurant Week runs each January with over 250 restaurants offering $20, $40, $50 and $65 prix-fixe menus. Charities receive 10 percent of menu sales.
Tip: Reservations on OpenTable and Resy open in late December. Tasting menus at fine-dining rooms book first.
Plaza Art Fair on Kansas City's Country Club Plaza runs the last weekend of September with 240 artists, three music stages and 20 featured restaurants serving across 9 blocks.
Tip: Free entry, free parking in Plaza garages. Friday 17:00 to 21:00, Saturday 10:00 to 21:00, Sunday 11:00 to 17:00.
