Juneteenth, Stadium Drama, and Summer Solstice: Key Events in Kansas City
Over the coming week, Kansas City will witness a series of notable events. From the celebration of America’s newest federal holiday, Juneteenth, a day set aside to remember the end of slavery, to discussion over potential relocations for the city’s major sports franchises, the city is abuzz with activity. The week will also mark the official start of summer with the June solstice, known to be the day with the longest daylight of the year.
Juneteenth and the Summer Solstice in Kansas City
On Wednesday, Kansas City joins the nation in observing Juneteenth, the recently recognized federal holiday. The day will see most banks and government buildings closed and mail deliveries on hold. Later in the week, the city will herald the start of the summer season with the June solstice – the day of the year with the longest daylight duration.
Kansas City’s Stadium Drama: Possible Teams Relocation
The sunflower state is abuzz with the potential relocation of two major sports teams, the Royals and Chiefs. The Kansas lawmakers are deliberating a $1 billion bond proposal aimed to attract these teams to relocated bases in Kansas – a decision that has instigated a sense of competition between Missouri and Kansas. This proposal emerges as one of the key issues in the special session called by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. However, team owners remain noncommitted on the matter pending more defined details.
Missouri’s Robust Response
Missouri officials, led by Gov. Mike Parson, have expressed firm commitment to ensuring the teams’ retention within the state. The details of this counteroffer remain under wraps, but it highlights a bid to compete with Kansas’s aggressive strategy. Meanwhile, Jackson County lawmakers are considering a new tax question specifically for stadium upkeep, indicating substantial stakes in the future of Kansas City sports.
Buck O’Neil Bridge Demolition and Other Highlights
The week also witnesses the final stage of the demolition of the old Buck O’Neil Bridge, a nearly 70-year-old structure due to be replaced later this year. The state department of transportation will be using a controlled explosion strategy to execute this process.
A notable event on the Kansas City art scene will be the final concerts of Michael Stern, the long-serving Kansas City Symphony conductor and music director. Stern will take his curtain call with three back-to-back concerts, marking a significant moment for the city’s art culture.
Art House Returns: Barbecue Border War
The week culminates in a savory contest – the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle. This long-standing event initiated over 40 years ago attracts national attention, with BBQ teams across the country participating. This year, the Battle coincides with the rival Q Kansas City BBQ fest scheduled to take place at Arrowhead Stadium, signaling a culinary border war between Kansas and Missouri.
The week is set to be an exciting period for Kansas City residents, hosting significant cultural, political, and culinary events, shaping the social and political landscape.
