DEK: Happy Birthday, America!
Intro: The July 4th weekend is right around the corner. This year’s Independence Day celebration is even more special as we mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. If you’re looking for ways to participate in the festivity, here are 7 ways to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary in Kansas & Missouri.
PS: If you’re looking for things to do for the weekend specifically, KCUR, our local NPR station, also has a list of activities ready for you.
1. Head to Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun
Looking to scream off some steam or cool off in the tidal pool? Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun are hosting special programs for the celebration. Every Saturday from Jul. 2 to 25 is now Star-Spangled Nights with fireworks displays, plus a special Independence Day display on Friday, Jul. 3. Besides regular rides, live music and additional programming will also be added as the month unfolds.
2. Join the Declaration 1776 Tour
This month, Nicodemus National Historic Site is hosting “Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy,” a traveling exhibition from The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Featuring historic documents, photographs, and community-led programs, the exhibition is a valuable educational experience suitable for the entire family. Can’t make it yet? Check the tour schedule for the next opportunity to learn about the history of the Declaration.
3. Explore the Tall Grass Prairie
The Tall Grass Prairie National Preserve near Cottonwood Falls, KS, is beautiful this time of the year. Featuring over 11,000 acres of undisturbed prairie, the preserve is home to many indigenous flowers, grasses, and animals, including bison! This year, the conservatory has also launched a unique 250th stamp to mark this special occasion. Take a hike through the windmill pastures, and stamp your favorite journal to mark the experience.
4. Red, White, & Grandview: America 250 Watch Party
WHEN: Thursday, Jul. 2 at 5:30 PM
Come celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at The Grandview Amphitheater for some Red, White, & Blue fun! FREE entrance. Doors open at 5:30 PM. Bring your chairs and blankets, and catch the LIVE broadcast of the global soccer game! Drinks, food, games, and a fireworks show at the end of the night!
5. Join the Independence Day Craft Beer Crawl in Liberty, MO
WHEN: Saturday, Jul. 18 at 1:00 p.m.
Celebrate America’s 250 in Kansas City like the cool adult you are! Head north to the Independence Day Craft Beer Crawl in Liberty, MO on Jul. 18. This special edition of Liberty’s beloved annual craft beer crawl will guide you through the beautiful historic downtown with a tasting note map to aid in your beer connoisseur experience. While this year’s beer and snacks lineup hasn’t been announced, you can check out the 2025 crawl map to get a hint on what to expect.
6. Visit the Flags 4 Freedom in Merriam, KS
Each year, Downtown Merriam and the surrounding area transforms into perfect rows of patriotic pride as Flags 4 Freedom volunteers place United States flags at the Merriam Marketplace and along Merriam and Johnson Drive. Everyone is invited to stop by during the week to view an astonishing display that honors our nation.
7. Visit the Missouri Town Living History Museum.
Travel back to the 19th century and experience our ancestors’ ways of living at Missouri Town 1855. If you can make it out on Jul. 4, the town will be having its annual Independence Day parade with historic crafts, village tours, hearth cooking demonstrations, and tons of photo opportunities.
0 Comments