First Friday in the snow? Check out what’s happening in the West Bottoms and Crossroads
It’s almost the First Friday of the month. Snow will still be on the ground, and it’s expected to be a cold one this weekend, so if you decide to travel to the Crossroads and the Historic West Bottoms, dress warm and enjoy one of the city’s favorite weekends.
Here’s what you need to know for February’s First Friday.
CROSSROADS
For those willing to venture out Friday, you’ll find local, regional, national and international artists displaying their work in concert with local arts organizations, galleries, studios and area businesses in the Crossroads this February. The snow might make for a more intimate setting as you venture through the art.
You’ll find John Balisteri’s “Linkage” at Sherry Leedy Contemporary Art studio. The flatwork and sculptures were made pre-pandemic and focus on how social media and other digital spaces affect society.
Mark Westervelt lets his feelings show at his exhibit “Smalls” at the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center. His work uses a variety of materials, such as paper, paint, inks, markers, pencils and paint chips. The venue is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Get some laughs in from 7 to 9 p.m. at The Bird Comedy Theater. Proof of vaccination is required to enter, and it’s free for everyone.
Crossroad favorites such as Casual Animal Brewing Company, Pirate’s Bone Burgers. and more will be open to satisfy your food and beverage needs.
WHEN TO GO
Most exhibits are open from 5 to 9 p.m., while some will open and close early. You can find each gallery’s hours here. The food, drink and entertainment options will vary per location. Check here to find out when businesses open.
WHERE TO PARK
If you’re looking for free street parking, arriving early is your best chance. While there are many parking free and metered parking options in the Crossroads and downtown Kansas City, First Fridays are busy.
Using public transit like the Kansas City Streetcar is encouraged. The 16th Street and the 19th Street stops will put you right in the middle of the Crossroads.
HISTORIC WEST BOTTOMS
“The Bubbles in the Bottoms” takes place at the Historic West Bottoms in February. Love will be in the air as visitors can expect to find that special something for their special someone.
The entertainment district will launch bubbles in the air, and stores will offer a little bit of the bubbly for patrons over 21 to enjoy as they browse through the shops.
Bella Patina, Serendipity, Sincerely, Ellis, Treasures on 13th and more will have plenty of goods that’ll fill the Valentine’s Day surprise. From vintage antiques to timeless pieces of clothing, you’re bound to find the perfect gift.
“Cupid has struck, bubbles are in the air and the district is in love with all the new merchandise,” Amber-Arnett Bequeaith, West Bottoms district spokesperson, said in a statement. “Each month, we are seeing more visitors than the last, but the annual Bubbles in the Bottom event continues to be a crowd favorite for photos and atmosphere.”
In addition to that, the Historic West Bottoms offers street entertainment, escape games, food trucks and wine from Fountain City Winery.
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.
Have questions about other things to do in Kansas City, or small businesses or artists to support? Let us know at kcq@kcstar.com.
This story was originally published February 3, 2022 at 5:00 AM.
