KCRiverFest

KCRiverFest is Kansas City's leading 4th of July weekend Celebration. It is an opportunity for the community to come together for a fun, family celebration. The festival features live bands, children's entertainment, food and of course fireworks. KCRiverFest has become "Kansas City's Riverfront Tradition." Since 2005, it's been the only place in downtown Kansas City to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and family entertainment. The festival is located at Richard L Berkley Riverfront Park.

RiverFest is organized by Friends of the River (FOR-KC), a non-profit organization created to promote awareness and use of the Downtown Riverfront, EventPros provides professional assistance to FOR-KC. The Port Authority donates the site and works hand in hand with the entire event crew. The Port Authority is dedicated to the preservation, enhancement and protection of the Kansas City Riverfront. The festival promotes community spirit and environmental awareness.

In 2009, approximately 50,000 people were in attendance at Berkley Riverfront Park for the two day celebration. The festival produced reportedly the largest fireworks displays in the region; six minutes of high altitude fireworks on July 3rd for a sneak preview and 18 minutes of fireworks on July 4th.

The main stage has featured pop, folk, country and rock music by local bands including Julia Othmer, Walkenhorst & Porter, The Blue Oyster Culture Club, VANDELSNOOK, Lance Combs, Bayley Kate and Dan Coyle. The U.S. Air Force Shades of Blue Jazz Band also performed on July 4th prior to the fireworks show.

Other attractions were a large installation by the U.S. Army; the "Strength and Action Zone." The zone featured flight simulators, Guitar Hero Stage, physical fitness challenges and more. Car-sized kites from the Kansas City Kite Club, model trails from the Kansas City Garden Railroad Society and acoustical guitar performances were also featured throughout the site.

Children's entertainment was consisted of a stage featuring the Radio Disney Rockin' Road Crew, 5 Star Jazz Band, games, crafts, prizes and more. Children also have had the opportunity to take carnival rides, play on inflatables, bungee jump and climb a rock wall.

Great activities are planned for 2010 and beyond. Join in with such past sponsors as KCTV5, MY KSMO TV and Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund. So, for more information about being a KCRiverFest exhibitor or sponsor or for general information please visit www.kcriverfest.com.