See Easter bunnies, artwork and more at April’s First Friday events across Kansas City
The sun is shining, and spring is here in full force.
You can take advantage of the light this First Friday by visiting the Historic West Bottoms and Crossroads.
HISTORIC WEST BOTTOMS
Easter is here, and the bunnies hop back into the West Bottoms this weekend. “Bunnies in the Bottoms,” is April’s theme, and if you’re lucky enough to spot the bunnies bouncing around, make sure to take a picture with them.
“We’re thrilled to be hosting the return of the ‘Bunnies in the Bottoms’ event during the First Friday weekend,” Amber Arnett-Bequeaith, spokesperson for the Historic West Bottoms District, said. “People can spring into the season and take in the unique charm and character of the West Bottoms while also enjoying some fun Easter-themed activities.”
Photo booths, themed decor, food trucks and the West Bottoms’ many stores are ready for an influx of visitors as it finally feels like spring outside.
The stores will be open on Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. including:
Bella Patina
Bottoms Up
Java Garage with coffee, various hot and cold drinks and homemade treats
Chef J’s BBQ
Robin’s Nest,
Serendipity KC
Treasures on 13th
Learn more about the West Bottoms shops here.
WHEN TO GO
First Friday weekend runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
WHERE TO PARK
Free street parking in the West Bottoms is typically extremely limited during First Friday weekends. City parking lots cost $10 for the day and may require a short walk. Here’s a map of the neighborhood parking lots.
CROSSROADS
Casual Animal Brewing Co. is sending $2 to the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault for every purchase of its signature Strawberry Wheat for First Friday.
Local, national and international artists will be featured throughout the entertainment district.
Check out these exhibits:
The Bunker Center for Arts at 1014 E. 19th Street has select sculpture works from artist Butch Murphy.
An opening reception for “HEARTLAND 5,” an exhibition featuring some of the Midwest’s finest glass artists, takes place from 6-8 p.m. at the Belger Crane Yard Studios at 2011 Tracy Ave.
Syracuse-based artist Sharif Bey’s exhibit “Ancestral Vestiges” opens up from 6-8 p.m. at the Belger Crane Yard Gallery at 2011 Tracy Ave.
The art goes on, and you can find more exhibits here.
If art isn’t your thing, a free comedy show also takes place from 7-9 p.m. at The Bird Comedy Theater on 103 W. 19th St.
WHEN TO SHOW UP
Events in the Crossroads start as early as 10 a.m. on Friday, and many events are happening on Saturday and Sunday as well. Here’s where you can see all the events, including what time they start.
WHERE TO PARK
Parking will likely be tight on a First Friday. People who show up early will have the best chance at on-street parking, according to the Crossroads website.
You can use public transit like the Kansas City Streetcar to avoid any parking nightmares. The 16th Street and the 19th Street stops will put you right in the heart of the Crossroads.
Have questions about other things to do in Kansas City, or small businesses or artists to support? Let us know at kcq@kcstar.com.
