The Fourth of July is approaching. It’s a holiday filled with patriotic displays, family fun, and summer entertainment. However, your calendar may be depressingly empty.
Are you a senior in Mission, KS, looking for something to do around the Fourth? Luckily, the Kansas City metropolitan area has plenty to offer at the beginning of July.
Read on to learn all about the Fourth of July activities available in the Mission, KS area.
Overland Park Star Spangled Spectacular
For the ultimate celebration of patriotism, nothing is better than the Overland Park Star Spangled Spectacular. The event runs from late afternoon to late at night, packed with plenty of patriotic events and summer fun.
The event features numerous food and drink options, including:
- Barbecue
- Nachos
- Tacos
- Crepes
- Hotdogs
- Shaved ice
- Brazilian sandwiches
- Funnel cakes
The Star Spangled Spectacular is held at Corporate Woods Founders’ Park and begins at 5:00 PM when the food trucks open, continuing until 10:00 PM.
The schedule includes a variety of musical acts, until the fireworks, which are the final display of the night. Listen to a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem before the fireworks show finishes off the Fourth of July holiday.
For ultimate comfort, bring essentials such as:
- Snacks
- Water
- Coolers
- Lawn chairs
- Blankets and towels
You can also bring your furry friends to join in on the festivities. Dogs are allowed, as long as they are leashed. Additionally, refrain from drinking alcohol or using pop-up tents during the event.
Stars and Stripes Picnic
Scheduled on Independence Day, the Stars and Stripes Picnic is considered Kansas City’s official Fourth of July celebration. The national WWI Museum and Memorial hosts the annual event. Prepare for a day filled with family, food, and fun.
The Stars and Stripes Picnic is free to the public, making it a great option for families on a budget. The grounds open at 3:00 PM.
The event has a schedule full of diverse musical acts, from a DJ at the opening to the fireworks show at 9:40 PM. Dogs are allowed on leashes, but it’s important to ensure they aren’t scared of the fireworks.
Many dining options are available, with both food and alcohol from a variety of local vendors. The event organizers recommend parking further away and taking the KC streetcar to the community gatherings.
Red, White, and Blue Springs
For some pre-Fourth fun, consider the Red, White, and Blue Springs on July 3. The celebration is located at Blue Springs South High School and Young Park. The doors open at 5:00 PM, and a fireworks display begins at 9:30 PM.
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities to check out, including:
- Live music
- Balloon artist
- A magician
- Inflatables
In addition to fun for all ages, there are activities exclusive to adults. The Adult Zone, for ages 21 and up, features:
- Yard games
- A beer garden
- Live music
Best of all, the event is free, making it a cost-effective way to celebrate Independence Day for seniors.
Visit the Farmstead
If you have young children or prefer to celebrate the Fourth early, the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead may be the perfect choice. The events at the Farmstead occur from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, so you’ll have the rest of your day open for other Mission senior events.
The entertainment offerings at the Farmstead include:
- A cake walk
- Face painting
- Pig calling contest
- Bike parade
Although the event isn’t free, it is included in the regular Farmstead admission. The Farmsterad is located in Overland Park.
Parkville Fourth of July Celebration
If you live in Parkville, consider attending the Parkville Fourth of July Celebration. This traditional event is in historic downtown Parkville and features entertainment and activities such as:
- Pancake breakfast
- Parade
- Food
- Kids’ activities
- Skydiving demonstration
- Fireworks show
The fireworks show begins at 9:30 PM and can be viewed from many different locations around downtown Parkville. It is recommended that families bring essentials such as blankets and lawn chairs to comfortably watch the fireworks.
Mahaffies’ Independence Day Celebration
Looking for something fun to do after the Fourth? For an entertaining Saturday, consider the Manhaffies’ Independence Day Celebration, scheduled from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Unique events during the celebration include:
- A reading of the Declaration of Independence with cannon fire
- Vintage baseball
- Demonstrations of cookstove usage
- Appearances by Uncle Sam and Lady Columbia
- Ice cream and root beer for separate purchase
Although the event isn’t free, admission is affordable:
- Adults: $9
- Children ages five to 11: $7
- Children four and under: Free admission
Additionally, if you are a resident of Olathe, Kansas, you can receive a $2 discount on your admission fees.
Prairie Village VillageFest
If you want to start your Fourth of July celebrations early, Prairie Village VillageFest may be the perfect option. The event is on the Fourth of July, beginning at 7:30 AM and ending at 1:00 PM.
Some of the key events occurring during the VillageFest are:
- Pie baking contest
- Community spirit awards
- Mayor’s welcome
- Children’s entertainment
Parking is free and available at several nearby locations. A variety of food options will also be available for purchase throughout the event, such as:
- Cakes
- Hot dogs
- Brats
- Chick-fil-A
Want to take a refreshing dip to cool off during the Fourth of July festivities? There is a free swim at the Prairie Village Pool from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, a perfect way to beat the heat during the hottest time of year.
Consider These Fourth of July Activities in Mission, KS
If you live in Mission, KS, your Independence Day calendar shouldn’t be empty. With these and many other options, you can celebrate the holiday with Fourth of July activities that are fun for the whole family.
At The Welstone at Mission Crossing, we make every holiday special. With amenities such as Celebrations activities and events, we ensure our residents have a full roster of activities, classes, and outings to cultivate engaging lives.
Are you interested in making the transition to independent senior living? Contact us today to learn more about our beautiful campus in Mission, KS, as well as our exclusive programs. Or, visit us in person by scheduling a tour.
We can’t wait to meet you!
