Westport is one of the most historic districts in Kansas City. In fact, it is one of the two areas that competed to be the location of downtown. It was Westport versus the Town of Kansas. The Town of Kansas won. We now call that area the River Market, and downtown blossomed right next to it.
Westport remained undeterred in its desire to be a hallmark of Kansas City. Today, it is one of the most well-known districts, full of entertainment and food. Throughout the year, there are several Westport events worth checking out.
This guide to events in Westport will set you up with the information you need about the events and where to eat when you’re there. First, let’s cover the Westport events then, we’ll get to the restaurants.
Westport Kansas City Events
St. Patrick’s Day
Westport loves to celebrate the Irish heritage and culture that helped shape Kansas City. This is the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration anywhere in KC. There’s a parade, run, street fair and more. Vendors set up food and art booths along the closed-down heart of Westport. You can grab a drink at Westport’s oldest Irish pub, Kelly’s Westport Inn, or from any of the vendors set up in the area. Cap off your day with a Guinness from a Westport bar like Harry’s to really embrace the Irish spirit.
Art Westport
Any Kansas Citian who appreciates our unique culture should make it to Art Westport. Events like this showcase local, original art from the brilliant creators who call Kansas City home. Art Westport takes place over the course of three days in September. The streets are shut down and lined with booths showcasing paintings, jewelry, sculpture and more. This event in Westport has been going for more than 42 years.
KC Restaurant Week
There are so many amazing restaurants around Kansas City. Look north, south, east or west and you’ll find innovative kitchens preparing delicious dishes. KC Restaurant Week is a city-wide celebration of what’s cooking in Kansas City, and a portion of the proceeds from all participating restaurants support a local organization like the Boys and Girls Club. Westport is the perfect place to celebrate KC Restaurant Week at one of the many amazing restaurants in this district.
Opening Day and Chiefs’ Season
Kansas City is a sports town, and our team traditions are as much Westport events as anything else. Opening day for the Royals and every Sunday for the Chiefs is a party in Westport. Local bars like Tin Roof will offer all-day packages for opening day, as well as weekly specials to cheer on Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs in front of their big screen TVs.
Where to Eat and Drink at Westport Events
Most of the Westport Kansas City events include beer and food. But, while you’re in the area you should also try some of the great restaurants in Westport. You can always check out our complete guide to Westport restaurants. But in the meantime, here are some places to try when you’re at an event in Westport.
- Guy’s Deli & Pizza: Two words: sandwiches and slices. Guy’s — formally Joe’s Pizza Buy the Slice — is a hidden gem in Westport. You can walk into the small storefront off Pennsylvania Ave, or walk through Kelly’s Westport Inn to order at the window. Have your chose with anyway you like your ‘za or your sammies with the “Build-Your-Own” options.
- Char Bar: It’s difficult to break into the KC barbecue scene, but Char Bar managed to muscle its way in thanks to its delicious menu. Char Bar is great for large parties, and there’s an outdoor area with yard games to keep everyone entertained.
- Julep: How about a nightcap to finish things off? The best way to wind down after one of these Westport events is Julep — a top-shelf cocktail lounge. The interior design is stunning, and the drinks live up to the vibes. Julep specializes in whiskey-based drinks and specifically, you guessed it, juleps.
We hope you are able to attend one or more events in Westport. There’s a lot to do and plenty of good food and drinks to go with it.
Here’s an interactive map to help you locate these Westport favorites: