NFL Draft-themed events extend beyond the stage, all over Kansas City. Here’s a list
The stage is built in front of Union Station, the banners are hanging on lightposts all across Kansas City and the city is ready to host the NFL Draft.
The main area for entertainment happens at the official NFL Draft Experience and NFL Draft Theater. Here is where fans from all 32 teams will congregate to enjoy the festivities and watch their favorite teams select promising new players.
Local bars, coffee shops and restaurants are also preparing for the influx of visitors. A few of them are hosting watch parties to celebrate the momentous event.
Crown Center Playbook
The shopping center right by the NFL Draft Experience has a variety of events to celebrate the NFL Draft.
Visitors can check out their football field, toss a football and take some pictures on Crown Center Square.
Also on the Crown Center Square is The Parade of Hearts’ “Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Present” heart by artist Doug Bennett. The heart features Chiefs Hall of Famers Len Dawson and Hank Stram on one side, with current members Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid on the other side.
At the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, you can see LEGO replicas of Kansas City’s landmarks, such as GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Tickets cost between $20-25 and you can buy tickets for this event here.
Coca-Cola Fan Zone in Power and Light District
The Power and Light District turns into an NFL Draft party all weekend long.
Performances from country artist Lainey Wilson and local artist Tech N9ne, opportunities to meet former Chiefs and more are on the schedule at the KC Live! Block. Every day is free to attend.
The KC Live! Block opens at 5 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Check out the full schedule here.
Under the Bridge Draft Watch Party
The Hispanic Economic Development Corporation is hosting a free event underneath the I-35 Bridge and right across from the old HEDC building on 2130 Jefferson St. A large projector will show the draft and food trucks, vendors and live music will add to the party.
The event starts at noon Thursday and runs through Saturday.
City Market Red Zone
The free and all-ages show and market will be at Kansas City’s City Market on Friday from 5-10 p.m., featuring performances from local musicians and a makers fair curated by Art Garden KC.
Music starts at 7 p.m., with Kemet Coleman, Flare Tha Rebel with Woodland Ave, DJ Skeme and Kadesh Flow, and vendors will be set up for the whole evening.
NFL Draft Watch Party at PH Coffee
This free watch party happens from 5-11 p.m. on Thursday at PH Coffee with a tasting from Union Horse Distillery and a large projector screen to watch the action.
2023 Kansas City NFL Draft Experience at Ale House
Ale House in Westport is kicking off the NFL Draft with a special celebration. Current NFL athletes, sports agents and more will be in attendance.
Tickets cost $10 and you can buy yours here. The event starts at 6 p.m. Thursday.
Legends Outlet Pre-Draft Party
The outlet in Kansas City, Kansas, near Kansas Speedway hosts pre-draft festivities on Friday from 3-7 p.m. You can get free samples from Jack Stack Barbecue, play tailgate games on the lawn right outside Yard House and watch all the action from the NFL Draft on the big screen.
KC Draft Fest at City Barrel
City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen is hosting a party before the second round of the NFL Draft on Friday. From 1-6 p.m., you can enjoy live music, food trucks from local establishments and drinks from local breweries.
Tickets cost between $12.50-25 to enter.
More than Friends Draft Party Edition at The Ship
Dance the NFL Draft away with local sounds by Dom Chronicles and Casio McCombs at The Ship. The event starts at 9 p.m. Friday, and tickets cost between $10-15.
KC Draft Fashion Show with Operation Breakthrough
Kansas City Fashion is teaming up with Operation Breakthrough for a night featuring models, designers and performers to support the nonprofit organization. Some of the kids with Operation Breakthrough will be walking the runway.
The fashion show starts at 6 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets start at $25 and you can get yours here.
Black Business Market: NFL Draft edition
Kansas City G.I.F.T.’s monthly Black Business Market falls on Saturday, the last day of the NFL Draft. You can meet local vendors, shop for their products and enjoy food from local businesses.
The market is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 5008 Prospect Ave. It’s free for anyone to browse, but the costs of anything you buy vary.
Tell us what events we should add to this list at kcq@kcstar.com.
