We’re starting a new blog here to highlight some of the community events in our area, from the perspective of a local. With KU Football kicking into full gear, there are plenty of other ways to explore and enjoy the Lawrence scene! Here’s a list of events we’ve compiled to get you ready to welcome cooler weather and enjoy community hangouts.
Honoring Truth
September 12 | Haskell Auditorium
By now, you’ve probably heard the buzz around town about the “Americans” exhibit at the Watkins Museum. The traveling Smithsonian exhibit dives into Native American history and stories that infuse history and life.
As part of the stunning exhibition, the Watkins will be hosting a special panel alongside Haskell University this month. “Honoring Truth: Indigenous Representation in Media, Education, and Public Discourse in the Era of ‘Americans’” will run from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. on September 12. This will be an in-depth discussion that puts indigenous voices in the spotlight and highlights the journey toward truth and representation.
LBC Block Party with Natalie Prauser / Lorna Kay, and Laurelle Lovelle and the Midnight Spliffs
September 12 | Lawrence Beer Co
If you like your music on the twangier side, but are sick of male-dominated lineups, this is the show for you. These three acts have been making waves in the local Americana scene thanks to their charismatic stage presence and knack for covering classic country favorites. This is a free event for all ages, so strap on your dancing boots and bring the little buckaroos along for the fun. It’s a great little getaway from the craziness of downtown, and a great way to kick off the new season.
Lawrence Art in the Park
September 12-13 | South Park
This is one of the most highly-favored events of the year for Lawrence and the surrounding area. Over the course of two days, more than 100 artists will showcase their work at the Lawrence Art Guild’s annual “Art in the Park” event. This event draws in tons of people, so don’t be surprised if you’re just scooching along slowly between the booths. You’ll want to take your time anyway, as this event features artists from various backgrounds.
There’s also a kids’ corner to keep the little ones entertained, as well as live music.
If you can’t wait, there’s a sneak peek preview show at Phoenix Gallery for Final Fridays on August 29th. You can learn more, including how to become an Art Guild member, at https://lawrenceartguild.org/.
Monarch Watch Open House
Foley Hall (KU West Campus) | September 13
The Monarch Watch is a hidden gem in community events. While a lot of folks might be aware of the big monarch tagging event later on in the month, this is a buildup to the monarch butterfly migration season.
This outdoor event celebrates the arrival of monarch butterflies coming from the North. The experts will be on hand to talk about all things waystations and pollinator gardens. We’re told that on a good day, more than 20 species of butterfly might visit the garden.
Live on Mass with the Dead Bettys / The Band That Saved the World / River City Brass Band
Downtown Lawrence (in front of the Granada) | September 13
Lovingly dubbed “Brass on Mass,” the night features a bounty of brass instruments. While the locals are generally familiar with the very long-running The Band That Saved the World, as well as popular ska newcomers The Dead Bettys, we don’t often see stage shows from River City Brass Band. This is the group that helps lead the Mardi Gras parade downtown every year, so we expect some street antics before they head up to the stage.
This is a MUST-attend dance party for the family.
La Yarda Public Mural Unveiling
September 20 | Van Go
This red ribbon celebration promises to be a stunning celebration of culture and heritage. The night will feature a red ribbon dedication of mural panels created by artist Javy Ortiz at the corner of the Lawrence Loop at 8th and Delaware. Bring your walking shoes, because mariachi musicians will be leading everyone down the trail to Van Go (at 7th and New Jersey), with more live music and refreshments to follow. This is part of the La Yarda Public Art Project from the Lawrence Arts Center, which encourages communities to engage with history through art.
This event will also feature music from locals Maria the Mexican, fronted by two sisters who descend from local mariachi royalty.
Rev It Up! Hot Rod Street Fest
September 27 | South Park
This is one of those can’t-miss community events for Lawrence. We mean that metaphorically, but also literally as well, since a hoard of classic and unique vehicles will be spotted all over the city in the lead-up to the big weekend.
This is a car-lover’s paradise. The street lining South Park will be shut down, and a slew of cars will crowd in and line up all over the park. This is a great way to get to know your regional car clubs and make some friends, or just admire the beauty of solid auto engineering. In addition to a kids’ corner, this event features live music on a stage in the park (we’re fond of the rockabilly bands that get booked on this every year).
This is the 17th year for the event, which helps raise money for at-risk youth. You can also donate nonperishable items to the food pantry. Come for the food vendors, stay for the really cool, unique trophies that are crafted for the event.
Other Hometown Happenings:
Black Lawrence Open Mic
September 5 | Lawrence Arts Center
Banff Mountain Film Festival
September 5 and September 6 | Liberty Hall
KU School of Music Presents: Collage 2025
September 12 | The Lied Center
#IMOMSOHARD: The Flashback Tour
September 13 | The Lied Center
Serving PRIDE: A Queer Tennis Clinic
September 20 | Jayhawk Tennis Center
Fieldwork Fun with K-Pop
September 21 | KU Natural History Museum
Plan your day of Unmistakably Lawrence, Kansas fun with our online events calendar and discover great events, fairs, festivals, activities and things to do!
