Independence Day holiday hours and closures

Most City facilities are closed for Independence Day on Friday, July 4. Lenexa Public Market and outdoor pools are open with adjusted hours.

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Festivals & Special Events

Known as the “City of Festivals,” we host many festivals and special events each year. They provide fun family entertainment for residents and attract visitors from the wider region.

Festivals

Lenexa Parks & Recreation's major festivals bring in crowds of more than 7,000 people during each event.

Chili Challenge

Nearly 200 teams compete in Lenexa's annual Chili Challenge Oct. 10–11, 2025, in Old Town.

Community Days Parade

The Community Days Parade is an annual tradition that draws thousands to Old Town to celebrate Independence Day on July 4, 2025.

Freedom Run

Start Independence Day with a 5K or 10K at Lenexa's annual Freedom Run on July 4, 2025. We welcome runners, walkers and strollers.

Great Lenexa BBQ Battle

The official Kansas State Championship BBQ competition takes place June 27–28, 2025.

Lenexa Art Fair

This outdoor juried art fair on May 10, 2025, features fine artists; jazz music; children's art activities; food trucks; and a wine, craft beer and spirits tasting.

Spinach Festival

This family-oriented event festival on Sept. 6, 2025, is packed with food, music, entertainment, hands-on activities and craft vendors.

Annual special events and series

Check out our upcoming special events and series. From live music and theatrical performances to activities for kids and families, Lenexa offers something for all ages and interests.

Black Hoof Open Disc Golf Tournament

Tee off at three disc golf tournaments on our 9-hole and 18-hole courses April 12, 2025, at Black Hoof Park.

This holiday event on Dec. 12, 2025, is ideal for kids age 6 and younger. Hunt for candy canes on the lawn. Then come inside for milk and cookies, festive crafts, story time and a musical performance.

City Center Live

City Center Live is a free performing arts series featuring a variety of musical and small theatrical acts monthly from October–March.

Community Orchestra

The Lenexa Community Orchestra is composed of volunteer musicians and performs three free concerts each summer.

Cupid's Gems Artisan Jewelry Show

Browse a variety of original jewelry items handcrafted by local artisans Feb. 1, 2025, at historic Thompson Barn.

Enchanted Forest

For one magical night on Oct. 30, 2025, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park is transformed into the Enchanted Forest, where there is something to delight even the smallest Halloween revelers.

Fire Department Open House

Join us for a day of free family fun Sept. 13, 2025. Visit Lenexa Fire Station No. 3 to interact with Lenexa firefighters and learn what equipment they use to fight fires and how they keep our community safe.

Food Truck Frenzy

Sample what the metro's best food trucks have to offer at these foodie events on July 19 and Sept. 20, 2025.

Friday Night Sound Bites

Join us at the Lenexa Public Market for free, live music and flavorful food options from merchants and food trucks every Friday night (May 23–Oct. 31, 2025).

Kansas Day Celebration

Celebrate Kansas’ birthday with fellow residents on Jan. 25, 2025. Activities include a movie, painting class, educational booths, sunflower collection talk.

Manhattan Short Film Festival

View the top 10 finalists in the Manhattan Short Film Festival with us. Vote on your favorite entries for Best Film and Best Actor. Event date is TBD for 2025.

Moonlight Bike Ride

Enjoy a closed-course nighttime bike ride from Old Town Lenexa through the Meritex caves on July 19, 2025.

Movie in the Park: The BFG

Pack your lawn chairs and blankets and bring your family to enjoy a movie under the stars on May 30, 2025.

Movie in the Pool: Luca

Take a splash under the stars on July 25, 2025. Join us for Movie in the Pool at Sar-Ko-Par Aquatic Center.

National Night Out

Celebrate National Night Out Oct. 7, 2025, with Lenexa police officers and professional staff at the Lenexa Justice Center. This fun, family-friendly event includes demonstrations, vehicle displays, food and more.

Naughty or Nice Games

Enjoy a family-friendly evening of fun at the Lenexa Rec Center Dec. 12, 2025, featuring a special grumpy guest. Registration required.

Outdoor Concert Series

Enjoy this free concert series at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park in May, June and September.

Paws in the Pool

Bring your furry, four-legged friends for a plunge in Flat Rock Creek Pool on Aug. 9, 2025.

Sar-Ko Aglow Lighting Ceremony

Meet up with family and friends Dec. 5, 2025, at our traditional holiday lighting celebration at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park.

Skate Jam

Lenexa’s first Skate Jam at the popular Rolling Magic Skate Park is sure to be a hit on Sept. 20, 2025. Enjoy live beats from our DJ while you show off your skills.