Culture

At Kansas City Irish Fest, Irish culture isn’t just part of what we do—it’s at the very heart of our mission. Every Labor Day weekend, we bring the sights, sounds, and spirit of Ireland to the heart of Kansas City, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the traditions, stories, and hospitality of the Emerald Isle. From music and dance to history, language, and art, our festival is a living bridge between Kansas City and Ireland, inviting all to share in the joy, pride, and warmth of Irish heritage.

Culture Stage

At the Kansas City Irish Fest Culture Stage, we invite you to dive deep into the heart of Ireland’s rich traditions and vibrant heritage. From captivating presentations on Irish history and travel to lively Irish language lessons and dazzling Irish dance demonstrations, our workshops and performances bring the spirit of Ireland to life. Whether you’re discovering ancient stories, planning your dream trip, picking up a few cúpla focal (a few words) in Irish, or tapping your feet to world-class dance, you’ll find inspiration, knowledge, and plenty of craic (fun) at every turn.

See the Culture Stage Schedule

Culture Cafe

Relax and unwind in the Culture Cafe! Grab a drink and chat with the staff and volunteers of the Kansas City Irish Center, and learn more about Irish activities in our region all year long.

Bring the family to play games, color, and visit with our region’s Irish Consulate, who represent Irelandfor the Irish and Irish-Americans living in our area.

Stop by for a pub quiz to win some fabulous prizes and show off your trivia skills, or drop in on one of the Cafe’s meetups to chat Irish travel, genealogy, or the Irish language. You might even get to hang out a bit with your favorite artist!

See the Culture Cafe Schedule

Stop by Patty’s An Teach Beag (“The Little House”) for a wee taste of Ireland’s warm heart and rich traditions. This charming nook is a slice of Irish culture — where every moment is steeped in music, craft, and story.

Here, the magic happens up close: join in rollicking Irish Sessions, tap your toes to the tunes of talented buskers, or pick up a pair of needles for a bit of friendly knitting. Sing your heart out in a crowd-pleasing sing-along, then settle in for spellbinding storytelling that will whisk you across the Atlantic.

See the Cottage Schedule Here

Travel Area

Always wanted to go to Ireland, but don’t know where to start? The Travel Area is the place to visit to talk with travel agents and tour operators to discover and plan your very own trip to the Emerald Isle, based on your interests, budget and schedule.

We will have travel company staff onsite at Irish Fest so you can ask them questions in person. And if you are a travel company or Irish destination, we’d love to add you to this list. After all, 20% of attendees to Kansas City Irish Fest plan to travel to Ireland in the near future.