Festivals

Join us to celebrate Lunar New Year, a tradition enjoyed in China and in several East and Southeast Asian countries. Explore the art of Asian cultures, and connect with demonstrations dances, and music, as well as activities featuring the New Year’s zodiac animal.

For inquiries about festivals please contact festivals@nelson-atkins.org

Celebrate and honor the art, dance, and music of Native Americans from across the country. Experience a variety of longstanding traditions revealed in today’s artistic expressions.

For inquiries about festivals please contact festivals@nelson-atkins.org

Enjoy Bollywood and Classical dances by several local groups, a colorful fashion show, art activities, and learning in the South and Southeast Asian art galleries.

For inquiries about festivals please contact festivals@nelson-atkins.org

As part of city-wide observances and in partnership with JuneteenthKC, the annual Juneteenth Celebration features dance and music performances, art activities, and demonstrations celebrating the enduring contributions of African Americans.

Learn more about Juneteenth and the schedule of activities here.

For inquiries about festivals please contact festivals@nelson-atkins.org

KC comes together for a fun-filled evening for all ages! In celebration of the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park and National Parks and Recreation Month, the museum teams up with Kansas City Parks and Rec to create a GIANT lawn party full of activities, music, food, and more.

For inquiries about festivals please contact festivals@nelson-atkins.org

Visit our Deaf Cultural Festival—a festival honoring the rich history of Deaf and hard of hearing art, identity, and empowerment. Encounter and learn about American Sign Language through hands-on art activities and entertainment from distinctly Deaf perspectives.

For inquiries about festivals please contact festivals@nelson-atkins.org

A fall tradition for many Kansas City families is our Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration—a commemoration of the rich and beautiful Mexican culture, including an innovative altar installation created in collaboration with local artists, Mattie Rhodes Center, and community and school groups. Leave a tribute to a loved one who has passed away, and enjoy art activities, entertainment, and Mexican food.

For inquiries about festivals please contact festivals@nelson-atkins.org