Festival in the park

The Out in Westport Festival kicks off its 14th year with a new mission, a new location and a new outlook. In keeping with this year’s theme, “A New Leaf,” event organizer and chairman Chuck Brackett says change is for the better. “Traditionally, Out in Westport has been a street fair near the heart of Westport. Due to the growth of the event, we’ve decided to move to Hyde Park this year. The new location gives us a chance to spread out and enjoy a lush park setting while still being in the Westport area.” Presented by the Lesbian and Gay Community Center of Greater Kansas City, the festival continues to foster a fun, social environment while promoting gay-friendly businesses and raising funds for other local services. “We’re proud to offer a diverse group of vendors and exhibitors as well as local artists, entertainers and an expanded children’s area to continue this proud tradition,” Brackett says. The action begins at 11 a.m. and lasts until 5 p.m. at the north end of Hyde Park (37th Street and Gillham). For details, see lgcc-kc.org.

Sun., Oct. 5, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 2008