KC Sipps: Beer Fest and Brunch Bounce happening this weekend, plus an upcoming BOGO latte day

KC Sipps logo by Theodore Rosen

Life in KC is pretty delicious. In fact, there is often so much going on that it can be hard to decide where to go and what to try.

That’s where I come in. 

I’ve curated this weekly list of events, openings, deals, and celebrations to keep you in-the-know. Cheers!

Something New

News Bites: Hillsiders and Vintage ‘78 Wine Bar are closing for a short break. From July 1 – 9, Vintage ‘78 will be closed for staff holiday, and Hillsiders in KCK will be closed now through Friday for a wedding celebration. 

Are you on the Love Island USA bandwagon? This season, I am. John’s Big Deck, Patio 816, and Laney’s Get Down all host watch parties. It’s no Fiji, but you never know what soul ties may come from a group hang.

We like big(ger) tips and we cannot lie. Axios KC recently reported on KC’s tipping habits, which come in slightly higher than the national average. 

Friction Beer Co in downtown Shawnee is celebrating two years of business with a weekend full of food trucks, special tasting events, live music, and more. Congrats on being an integral part of the vibrant downtown Shawnee district!

June 27

River Market Liquor: Boulevard will be popping up at River Market Liquor for a free tasting event from 4 – 6 p.m. I don’t love all things Boulevard, but this summer has brought some of my favorite launches in recent history–each of which can be sampled here: Easy Orange, Boulevard Light, and Whitman’s More S’mores stout are my picks.

Nostalgia Room: The zero-proof cocktail bar in Lawrence, KS may be temporarily closed while relocating, but you can get a preview of the new space from 5 – 8  p.m. Baked goods from Drippy will also be available, and I’m proud to say that I’ve had dozens of Steph’s creative creations and they’re fantastic. 

Parked: What has 19 food trucks, live music, and ends with fireworks? Parked, the seventh-annual celebration at Shawnee’s Stump Park to kick off National Parks and Recreation Month. The free and family-friendly event starts at 5:30 p.m., with a fireworks display at 9:30.

Strang Hall: The fifth annual Beer Fest at Strang Hall in Overland Park returns for another year of unlimited sips and samples. Over 20 breweries are bringing 40+ unique beers and drink options, plus attendees can enjoy live music and discounted eats from the food hall. Tickets are around $50, with discounted options for designated drivers.

June 28

Westport: Brunch your way around Westport and support Big Brothers Big Sisters KC while you’re at it. The Westport Brunch Bounce kicks off at 11 a.m. and includes brunchy bites and drink tastings at Beer Kitchen, Char Bar, Frost Frozen Bar, Guy’s Deli, Kelly’s Westport Inn, Laney’s Get Down, Taco Naco, and more. Tickets are $37.23 after taxes and fees.

Baba’s Pantry: KC’s Palestinian American restaurant and bakery, Baba’s Pantry, is hosting a benefit cookout for the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. Baba’s Industry Cookout Fundraiser includes Disco Burger, Fortunati Pizza, Kanbe’s Markets, DJs, and more. This 21+ event does not require a ticket, and runs from 5 – 10 p.m.

June 29

Rieger & Co.: From 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., J. Rieger’s Electric park will have its first ever drag show! Werk the Park is free and no ticket is required, but bring cash to tip the performers. The Electric Park food truck will be operating, and bars will serve up brunch-inspired cocktails. If you see the caffè colada on the menu, take my word for it and let it brighten your day while it cools you off.

June 30

McLain’s Bakery: It’s BOGO day at McLain’s! All locations, all day. Iced lattes are buy one, get one free, excluding matcha. Surprise your sister, cheer up your neighbor, earn brownie points with your coworker, or double-treat yo’self.