Festivals and Events
In Lenexa, we love to gather with our community and show off our hometown pride. Our festivals are ideal for families, foodies, and art lovers alike!
Visit the City of Lenexa’s Festival and Event page for more information on these and many other great things to do in Lenexa!
THE GREAT LENEXA BBQ BATTLE
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th St. Pkwy. & Lackman Rd.
Started in 1982 with just 12 contestants and 12 judges, the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle is now the official Kansas State BBQ Championship. Every June, nearly 200 teams compete for the coveted Grand Champion title. The two-day event features live music, food, and activities throughout the park.
LENEXA SPINACH FESTIVAL
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th St. Pkwy. & Lackman Rd.
Lenexa was hailed as the “Spinach Capital of the World” during the 1930s thanks to the excellent crops grown in the area. The Spinach Festival rolls all the history surrounding Lenexa into a fun, family-friendly event including arts and craft booths and children’s activities.
LENEXA CHILI CHALLENGE
Old Town Lenexa, Santa Fe Trail Dr. & Pflumm Rd.
Every October, Lenexa gets hot, hot, hot. Over 200 teams compete in chili, hot wings, and salsa contests hoping to take home the grand champion prize. Come out to this free event to enjoy live music, free samples, and kids’ activities, all while supporting the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.
LENEXA FREEDOM RUN
Old Town Lenexa, Santa Fe Trail Dr. & Pflumm Rd.
Celebrate Independence Day by joining more than 1,500 runners and walkers in a 5K or 10k course. Afterwards, enjoy a good, old-fashioned Community Days Parade through Old Town Lenexa.
SAR-KO AGLOW
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park
87th St. Pkwy. & Lackman Rd.
One of the region’s best holiday light displays, Sar-Ko Aglow features miles of light strands and thousands of colorful bulbs that brighten this favorite park each winter. Take a nighttime stroll during December and January to view the stunning spectacle. Free admission.
COMMUNITY DAYS PARADE
Old Town Lenexa
Santa Fe Trail Dr. & Pflumm Rd.
The Community Days Parade is an annual hometown tradition that draws thousands to Old Town to celebrate Independence Day.
LENEXA ART FAIR
Lenexa Civic Campus
17201 W. 87th St. PkwY
In May, celebrate all things artisan at Lenexa’s one-day, outdoor juried art fair featuring fine artists around the region. The family-friendly event features live music, food trucks, and entertainment.
