Kansas City Prepares for New Year’s Eve Festivities Without DJ

News Summary

Kansas City is set to celebrate New Year’s Eve with its annual NYE Live! festivities at the Power & Light District. However, DJ James Kennedy will not be performing due to recent legal issues. Despite this, the celebration promises a lineup of multiple DJs, live music, and a midnight countdown. Ticket prices range from $80 to $199, with access to at least ten venues. For those looking for alternative celebrations, various other events across the city are also scheduled, ensuring a festive welcome to the new year.

Kansas City Gears Up for NYE Celebration, but Without James Kennedy

As the countdown to New Year’s Eve approaches, Kansas City is buzzing with excitement for the annual festivities at the Power & Light District. While this year’s celebration is set to thrill party-goers, it has been announced that DJ James Kennedy will not be part of the lineup for the much-anticipated event.

Originally tagged as “NYE Live! with James Kennedy,” the festivities will now simply be celebrated as “NYE Live!” following Kennedy’s recent legal troubles. On December 10, the DJ was arrested in Burbank, California, under the suspicion of domestic violence. Reports suggest that he allegedly threw his girlfriend to the ground, leading to various venues pulling the plug on his upcoming DJ gigs, including the one in Kansas City.

The New Year’s Eve Extravaganza Awaits

Despite this setback, the party will go on! Kansas City’s NYE Live! party is still scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. on December 31 at the KC Live! Block. The event promises an array of entertainment featuring multiple DJs, live music, and the crowd favorite – a countdown to midnight complete with a stunning Times Square-style ball drop. Party favors and confetti cannons will also add to the festive atmosphere.

For those interested in attending, tickets range from $80 to $199. Fear not, all tickets include access to at least ten venues, ensuring a night of non-stop fun. The higher-priced ticket options also come equipped with all-inclusive drink packages, making it a real party experience!

Accessible Fun for Everyone

Parking won’t be a problem either, as spots are available in the KC Live! Parking Garage located off 13th Street for just $20. Do remember, entry to the event will be through the entrance on Grand Boulevard only.

A Look at Kansas City’s Other NYE Events

Black Party XX at The Truman – Starting at 8 p.m. ($75-$129.97)
Fire & Ice New Year’s Eve Masquerade at J. Rieger & Co. – Starting at 8 p.m. (Sold Out)
Inception NYE 2025 at the American Jazz Museum – Starting at 8 p.m. ($25)
Kansas City’s New Year’s Eve Party at The View at Briarcliff – Starting at 6:30 p.m. ($200-$250)
New Year’s Eve at the Temple XV at the Scottish Rite Temple – Starting at 8:30 p.m. ($69-$115)
New Year’s Eve at the Uptown Theater – Starting at 8 p.m. ($70-$85)
New Year’s Eve XXV at Crossroads Hotel – Starting at 9 p.m. ($185)
NYE Bolly x Tolly Kansas City Party at El Torreon – Starting at 8 p.m. ($45)
Noon Year’s Eve at Science City, Union Station – From noon to 6:30 p.m. ($16.50, free for Union Station members)
Noon Year’s Eve Pajama Party Countdown at Lenexa Public Market – From 11 a.m. to noon (Free)
Wonder Eve at Wonderscope – From 9 a.m. to noon ($16 for ages 2-15, $12 for ages 16 and over, free for members; tickets available only at the door)
Zoo’s Year Eve at Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium – From 10 a.m. to noon (Free with admission, $9.50-$22)

With so many options available, it promises to be a truly exciting night as Kansas City welcomes the new year in style! So whether you’re hitting up NYE Live! or exploring another fabulous celebration, get ready for a fun-filled evening.