Looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend? Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit and the surrounding Kansas City area have a full lineup of festivals, outdoor activities, live theater and special events happening Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Whether your family loves carnival rides, superheroes, farmers markets, dragons or simply spending time outdoors, there is something nearby to help everyone get out of the house and enjoy time together.
Here are some of the best family-friendly events happening around Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit this weekend.
Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival
When: September 18–20, 2026
Where: Downtown Blue Springs, Missouri
Admission: Free; food, rides and merchandise cost extra
The 57th Annual Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival is the biggest local event happening this weekend. Downtown Blue Springs will be filled with more than 200 vendors, carnival rides, food, live music and activities for the whole family.
Festival attractions include:
- A parade at 10 a.m. Saturday
- Carnival rides
- Live music and entertainment
- Food vendors
- A classic car show
- A youth market
- A dog-friendly garden
- Shopping from local makers and businesses
Saturday’s festival hours are 10 a.m.–9 p.m., and Sunday’s hours are 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The festival organizers have confirmed that the celebration will continue as scheduled despite construction in the downtown area.
View the Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival schedule and visitor information
Downtown Lee’s Summit Farmers Market
When: Saturday, September 19, from 8 a.m.–noon
Where: Downtown Lee’s Summit, Missouri
Start Saturday morning with a walk through the Downtown Lee’s Summit Farmers Market. Families can shop for locally grown produce, baked goods, flowers and handmade products while enjoying the downtown atmosphere.
The market can also be a calmer morning option for children who may not enjoy the noise or crowds of a larger festival.
See upcoming Downtown Lee’s Summit events
Dragons and Fantastic Beasts at Powell Gardens
When: Saturday, September 19, from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Powell Gardens, Kingsville, Missouri
Admission: Regular garden admission applies
Take a walk through Powell Gardens and search for life-sized dragons and other fantastic creatures hidden throughout the landscape. Dragons and Fantastic Beasts combines imaginative play, outdoor exploration and a little bit of magic.
Families can also visit the Children’s Garden, explore the trails and enjoy the beginning of the fall season. This is an especially good choice for children who need space to move and may feel more comfortable outdoors than in a crowded indoor setting.
Plan your visit to Powell Gardens
A Midsummer Night’s Dream in Blue Springs
When: Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Theatre in the Park at Rotary Park, 600 NW Vesper Street, Blue Springs
Tickets: $15 per person
Blue Springs City Theatre is presenting Shakespeare’s whimsical comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream outdoors at Rotary Park. The story features mischievous fairies, magical mix-ups, young love and plenty of humor.
This may be a particularly good outing for older children, teenagers and adults. Families with younger children may want to consider how comfortable their child will be sitting through an evening performance.
View performance information and purchase tickets
Rhea Lana’s of Lee’s Summit Children’s Consignment Sale
When: Begins Saturday, September 19, at 10 a.m. and continues through September 26
Where: Lee’s Summit area
Rhea Lana’s of Lee’s Summit is opening a large children’s consignment sale featuring gently used clothing, shoes, toys, books, baby equipment and maternity items from hundreds of local families.
This could be a helpful stop for parents looking for fall clothing, holiday outfits, toys or children’s equipment without paying full retail prices.
Find current sale details from Rhea Lana’s of Lee’s Summit
Wilma the Box Turtle’s Birthday Party
When: Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Lakeside Nature Center, Kansas City, Missouri
Admission: Free
Help Lakeside Nature Center celebrate Wilma the box turtle’s 87th birthday! Children can learn about native reptiles, participate in arts and crafts and discover ways to protect Missouri wildlife.
This is an affordable, educational option for younger children who love turtles, animals and nature.
Visit the Lakeside Nature Center website
Kansas City Renaissance Festival: Celtic Celebration
When: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Where: 628 North 126th Street, Bonner Springs, Kansas
Admission: Ticketed event
Travel back in time during the Kansas City Renaissance Festival’s Celtic Celebration weekend. Families can see costumed performers, jousting, musicians and artisans while exploring the festival grounds.
This is a larger day trip from Blue Springs or Lee’s Summit, so wear comfortable shoes and review the festival map before arriving.
See ticket prices, schedules and festival information
Hanging With Heroes at Zona Rosa
When: Saturday, September 19, from 9–11 a.m.
Where: Central Park at Zona Rosa, Kansas City, Missouri
Admission: Free
Children can meet superheroes and real-life community heroes during this free family event. Planned activities include superhero photo opportunities, a DJ, children’s activities and visits with members of the Kansas City Police and Fire Departments. Children will also have opportunities to see emergency vehicles up close.
Get Hanging With Heroes event details
Run for the Hornbills at the Kansas City Zoo
When: Saturday, September 19, from 7:30 a.m.–noon
Where: Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
The annual Run for the Hornbills includes a four-mile run and a one-mile walk supporting the zoo’s conservation work. Families who are not participating should expect the zoo to be busier than usual Saturday morning.
Visit the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium event calendar
GloWild: Hidden Treasure
When: Sunday, September 20, beginning at 6 p.m.
Where: Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Admission: Advance tickets recommended
GloWild returns with a Hidden Treasure theme and colorful illuminated displays throughout the zoo. It can be a memorable Sunday-night outing for families who want something different from a traditional daytime event.
Learn more about GloWild and purchase tickets
Our Top Weekend Picks for Families
If you want to stay close to home, begin with the Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival. Arriving near the start of the day may make parking and crowds more manageable.
For a full weekend plan, consider:
- Saturday morning: Watch the Fall Fun Festival parade and enjoy the rides and vendors in Downtown Blue Springs.
- Sunday afternoon: Explore Dragons and Fantastic Beasts at Powell Gardens.
- Sunday evening: Attend GloWild if everyone still has the energy for one more adventure.
Families who prefer smaller crowds may enjoy the Lee’s Summit Farmers Market, Lakeside Nature Center or Powell Gardens more than the larger festivals.
Family Activities Can Support Mental Wellness
Family outings do not have to be elaborate to be meaningful. Time outside the house can give children opportunities to practice flexibility, communication, patience and coping with new experiences. Shared activities can also help adults and children reconnect after a stressful week.
If crowded events are difficult for your child or family member, consider creating a simple plan before leaving:
- Explain where you are going and what to expect.
- Bring water, snacks and any sensory-support items that help.
- Identify a quiet place where you can take a break.
- Give everyone permission to leave earlier than planned.
- Focus on connection rather than creating a “perfect” family day.
At Middle Path Counseling, we understand that everyday family life can include stress, anxiety, emotional overwhelm and unexpected challenges. Our therapists provide mental-health support in Blue Springs, Missouri, and Overland Park, Kansas, as well as virtual therapy for clients located throughout Missouri and Kansas.
Learn more about Middle Path Counseling and request an appointment
Event schedules, admission prices and availability can change. Please check each event’s official website before leaving home.
We love being a part of the community and in times like these its a great reminder in how to be connected to those around us. Relationships help us be able to use our DBT Skills and grow toward a life worth living!
Text or call for an appointment anytime: 816.500.2070