Things to do in Lawrence, Kansas, all through the year!
I recently enjoyed a virtual presentation on Unmistakably Lawrence, Kansas, where I got to know the area a little better. Let me just say the town is rocking! Here are fun things to do in Lawrence, Kansas, today, this weekend, and all year through. Lawrence, KS is now taking reservations for visits and vacations!
Did you know Lawrence, KS, is only 40 minutes west of Kansas City? It’s a perfect day trip to tack on a Kansas City trip! Also, Lawrence is the 6th largest city in Kansas and is home to two universities: the University of Kansas (KU) and Haskell Indian Nations University.
Related: Multigenerational Road Trip Through South Central Kansas
You’ll never get bored in Lawrence. Look at the fun things going on!
FINAL FRIDAYS ART WALK
On the last Friday of every month (all year long!), from 5-9 PM, the streets of Downtown Lawrence and the Warehouse Arts District erupt. Storefronts convert into flash spaces and performances and exhibits spills in and out of galleries and businesses. Final Fridays Art Walk includes activities for kids, exhibitions designed to challenge adults, music, dance, and theater for all ages.
LAWRENCE BUSKER FESTIVAL
A once-a-year-get-weird weekend where you find unusual entertainment all over downtown Lawrence. 2019 will be the World’s First All-Female Busker Festival, and it will be full of awesome acts from around the world. Annually in May.
CIVIL WAR ON THE WESTERN FRONTIER
Historical agencies throughout Douglas County will present programs that explore Quantrill’s Raid and highlight our area’s territorial and Civil War history for Civil War on the Western Frontier. Events include walking and bus tours, historical re-enactments, memorial service for Quantrill’s Raid victims, and more. Annual in August.
HASKELL INDIAN ART MARKET
Shoppers swarm Haskell Indian Nations University to browse the jewelry, pottery, carving, paintings, and other artwork at the annual Haskell Indian Art Market. The event showcases original, handmade items made by Native American artists from across the country. Traditional Native American food will be served, and Native American dance will entertain. Happens the second weekend in September.
FREE STATE FESTIVAL
From social justice documentaries to cutting-edge comedians, the Free State Festival celebrates film, music, art, and ideas in the vibrant college town of Lawrence, Kansas. Music performances, art installations, and engaging discussions enhance a dynamic film lineup bringing the community and visitors together for a week of entertainment and inspiration. Find this event happening in September each year.
KAW VALLEY FARM TOUR
The Kaw Valley Farm Tour provides a fun and interactive farm experience to support local farms and introduces individuals of all ages to the many faces of agriculture in the Kaw Valley. Have breakfast on a farm, and discover unique artisans, nurseries and greenhouses, pumpkin patches, and wines produced at local vineyards.
OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS PARADE
As the only exclusively horse-drawn parade in the Midwest, the Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade kicks off the holiday season with exclusively authentic horse-drawn carriages parading down Massachusetts Street. Cozy up with hot cocoa and blankets, and feel the true holiday spirit while watching dozens of beautiful horses and wagons adorned in garland and bells.
Fun Fact About Lawrence, Kansas You’ll Want To Know
- The Best College Town in the Midwest
- 25 coolest towns in America
- 30 Most Affordable Last-Minute Summer Vacation Ideas
- The 25 Best Places to Retire in 2019
- Best places to live in America that you can afford
- America’s Best Burger Joints, According to Foursquare
- 5 Greatest College Basketball Stadiums in the Nation
- Absolute Best Pizza Joint in Every Midwestern State
Today Lawrence hosts a vibrant art scene and is known for its live music venues. You’ll find unique shops and art galleries, locally-owned restaurants, breweries, coffee houses, and, of course, music downtown.
Make plans to visit Lawrence, KS, real soon!!