As the August calendar nears the 16th, Kansas City is gearing up for it’s annual 816 Day celebration. The official city holiday where KC toasts itself is bigger than ever this year with a brunch, vendor market, kids’ activities, 14 local Djs, multiple live bands, art, 10 vocalists, a fashion show, a 2-step party, and even an address from Mayor Quinton Lucas.
The celebration, named after the city’s area code, takes place yearly on or near Aug. 16, and gained official status in 2018 when then-Mayor Sly James designated it as an official city holiday.
“816 Day is Kansas City’s official celebration of all things great in Kansas City,” said Brian “Bizzy” Benton, founder of the event. “What started as a simple idea in 2015 has now become one of KC’s largest anticipated annual events.”
The event has grown over the years, starting in a 1200 sq/ft event space, but has became a half mile long block party. Events in past years have been hosted in the 18th & Vine District, but this year the main event is hosted in the Power & Light District.
“We invite residents and visitors alike to join us on August 16th as we come together to honor our past, celebrate our present, and envision an even brighter future for our city,” Benton said.
All of the events are free to attend, and do not require a ticket.
Schedule of Events at Power & Light District:
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.: 816 Day Brunch Bash with DJ Maxx Gruv & DJ Vinyl Richie
10 a.m. – 9 p.m.: 816 Day Vendor Market (On Grand Blvd) with Art Garden KC, KC Night Market and G.I.F.T
11 a.m. – Noon.: “Rep Your District” with Mayor Lucas and City Council Officials
11 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Kids Zone – Face painting, bounce houses, outdoor games, STEM activities, backpack give away, and art projects with ArtsTech KC
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.: Chiefs Jackets/Coats Fashion Show with DJ Daz One
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.: KC Sports Clubs – Welcome and Photo Opps with KC Monarchs, Mavericks, KCrossover, KC Glory, Roller Warriors
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.: Ladies of the 816 DJ set featuring: Dj Aimez, DJ Missy E, Dj Yani Babi, DJ Te Leche, Dj Dawna, Dj Doop, DJ 9Eleven, Sharday Spinzz
5 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Dance Battle with Street Styles Academy
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Back Alley Brass Band
7 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Live Performances with GO Hard Band
8 p.m. – 9 p.m.: Live Block 2 Step Party (with DJ Foots)
8:16 p.m.: TOAST TO 816
Additional Events:
• 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Art in the Loop performances at City Market featuring Danielle Ate The Sandwich, 45 Grandos Flamenco, and Kadesh Flow
The day’s schedule includes a diverse array of activities catering to all ages and interests. Early risers can kick off the celebration with brunch from any of the Power & Light District Restaurants or food trucks as DJ Maxx Gruv & DJ Vinyl Richie spin music in the Live Block.
At 11 a.m., Mayor Quinton Lucas will officially commence the festivities, followed by a “Rep Your District” segment featuring City Council officials. This portion of the program aims to highlight the unique character of Kansas City’s various neighborhoods and foster a sense of unity across the metro area.
Throughout the day, attendees can explore a vendor market featuring local artisans and small businesses. The organizers have partnered with Gift KC, Art Garden KC, and KC Night Market to ensure a diverse representation of the city’s creative talents.
“816 Day provides a platform where creatives and small business owners from the 816-area code can showcase their talent,” Benton said. “Our goal is to create a diverse platform for all people from the 816-area code.”
For those who can’t make it to the Power & Light District, the celebration extends across the city. Many local businesses are offering special $8.16 deals throughout the day, allowing everyone to participate in the festivities.
816 Deals Across the City
(items listed are $8.16)
- The Combine: Meatball Sub w/ Chips, Salad & a Two-topping Slice, Lemon Drop, or Combine Cocktail
- Silver Fox: Bizzy B Drink
- The 6 Lounge: All Ciroc Drinks
- Krave KC: Fish & Fries Basket
- Caldwell’s Burgers: Pretzels and Cheese
- Cargo Cantina: Cheese Quesadilla
- District Biskuits: 816 Chicken Biscuit
- KC Daiquiri Shop: 8 Wings
- Smaxx: Burger & Fries
- Chixen: Mini culture/chief/monarch Sandwich
- Island Spice: Jerk Chicken Meal
- Wing Studio: 5-piece Traditional w/ Fries & Drink
- Breakfast for Dinner: Chorizo Biscuits & Gravy
- MESOB Northland: Jerk Chicken Wings w/ Mac & Chees
- Social Waldo: KC Cheesesteak & Fries or Una Familia Repasado Shot & Cocktail
- Deez Nachos: Lil Monster Nacho
- Homegrown: A Downtown Eatery: Avocado Toast or Biscuits & Gravy
- Iron Grill: Iron Street Classic Burger
- Lula’s Southern Cookhouse: Hurricane Cocktail or 1/2lb Peel & Eat Shrimp
- Mudbug Cajun Po Boys: Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich
- Niecie’s Restaurant: Country Fried Steak or Pork Chop with Two Sides
- Guy Fieri’s Dive & Taco Joint: Specialty Margaritas
- IVP: Curry or Jerk Chicken with Rice & Cabbage
- Third Place Lounge: Espresso Martinis (alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions)
For those looking to explore the city, there’s also an 816 Day Downtown Bingo game. The scavenger hunt-style activity encourages participants to discover new destinations and revisit familiar spots around downtown Kansas City and along the KC Streetcar route. Players can complete their Bingo cards by collecting stickers or scanning QR codes at various locations between now and Aug. 16.
Completed Bingo cards serve as entry tickets for raffle prizes, which will be drawn during the Art in the Loop performance at City Market on August 16.
For more information on 816 Day, check out the city’s tourism website visitkc.com or follow 816 Day on social media.
