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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'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 during October in Old Town.

Community Days Parade

The Community Days Parade is an annual tradition that draws thousands to Old Town to celebrate Independence Day.

Freedom Run

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

Great Lenexa BBQ Battle

Watch cooks battle their BBQ brisket, pork, chicken, sausage and more for the annual Kansas State Championship in late June.

Lenexa Art Fair

This outdoor juried art fair in May 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 in September is packed with food, music, entertainment, hands-on activities and craft vendors.

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

This tournament takes place on the 18-hole course in April at Black Hoof Park. It includes doubles and singles play at all levels.

Candy Cane Hunt

This December holiday event 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.

Community Orchestra

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

Cupid's Gems Artisan Jewelry Show

Browse a variety of original jewelry items handcrafted by local artisans in early February at historic Thompson Barn.

Enchanted Forest

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

Food Truck Frenzy

Sample what the metro's best food trucks have to offer at these foodie events twice a year.

Moonlight Bike Ride

Enjoy a closed-course nighttime bike ride from Old Town Lenexa through the Meritex caves in July.

Movies in the Park

Pack your lawn chairs and blankets and bring your family to enjoy a movie under the stars on May 31 or Sept 20.

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 Ad Astra Pool at this annual event in August.

Sar-Ko Aglow Lighting Ceremony

Meet up with family and friends Dec. 6 at our traditional holiday lighting celebration at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park.

Swingin' for a Scholarship Pickleball Tournament

Adult players of all skill levels go paddle to paddle in this two-day tournament at Lenexa's outdoor pickleball complex during September.

Tiny Tot Triathlon

Kids bike, get wet, run and go down an inflatable slide on their way to the finish line during this triathlon in August.

Youth Fishing Derby

This catch-and-release youth fishing derby is held in June at Rose's Pond in Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park.

Event status

To find out whether a festival or special event is canceled or delayed, check our notification line below or call 913.477.7170.

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