I drove through the River Market yesterday around 6 and immediately remembered why I avoid driving through the River Market around 6.

Anyway. It's Thursday, which means you've got exactly one day left to pretend you'll "see where the weekend takes you" before you inevitably commit to three different plans by Friday afternoon.

One of those should be Kristin Key at The Truman on September 27. If your TikTok algorithm has ever served you one of her clips, you already know she's dangerously funny. We're sending one lucky winner and their +1 for free. Go throw your name in the hat. 

JUST ANNOUNCED

• Dustbowl Revival has been turning folk, funk, soul, and brass into one big dance party for years. And Knuckleheads feels like the perfect home for this one. Catch them on September 25.

• The Kansas City Arts Community Celebration marks KCAC's 50th Anniversary with a free day of local art, performances, and community on August 22. Come support the people who make KC's arts scene what it is.

• If Petey Pablo comes to town and nobody yells "North Carolina, c'mon and raise up," I don't want to be there. He hits Voodoo Lounge with Ashton Martin on January 15.

• Whiskey people are a different breed. If you're the type who likes comparing tasting notes more than reading cocktail menus, the Kansas City Whiskey Festival returns to Rumely Historic Event Space on September 12.

• Plus other just announced shows from Kenny G, Desperate Electric and more!

5 HIDDEN-GEM FREE EVENTS THIS WEEKEND

If someone in your group chat says "there's nothing going on this weekend," feel free to send them this. Five free events. Problem solved.

• Friday Night Sound Bites at Lenexa Public Market - Live music is objectively better when you're eating tacos outside.

• KC Pop-Up Market at Zona Rosa - Shop local, pet a few dogs, accidentally spend $18 on handmade hot sauce.

• Heat Index Jazz Fusion Band - Skip the cover charge and go watch musicians who are way better than they have any business being.

• Cruisers & Coffee - Coffee, classic cars, and at least one person explaining horsepower to anyone within earshot.

• Art on Walnut - Local artists, downtown wandering, and another reminder that First Fridays aren't the only time the Crossroads shows off.

THIS WEEKEND

LOCALS ONLY

• Procrastinated your back-to-school shopping? Honestly, same. Missouri's Tax-Free Weekend starts Friday, so you can stock up on clothes, school supplies, and more without paying sales tax.

• Football season is basically here. Chiefs Training Camp rolls on this weekend at Missouri Western, with Family Fun Day on Saturday if you're looking for an easy excuse to wear red a little early. 

FEATURED