Mexican Freedom Party

On any other day of the year, KKHK 1250 (La Super X) and the local Univision affiliate compete for Latino consumers. But to celebrate Mexican Independence Day this weekend, the two media outlets are combining forces to put on a blow-out festival at the Rainbow Center (6220 Kansas Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas). Len Randazzo, general manager for KUKC Channel 48 Univision, says the two-day event, which commemorates the 1810 uprising in Mexico against oppressive Spanish colonizers, will feature the traditional food and folklore vendors, plus a classic-car show, a beauty contest and a drawing for two front-row tickets to the hottest Latino show in Kansas City this fall: Luis Miguel. Once they’ve filled their stomachs, Randazzo adds, partygoers will have plenty of motivation to kick up their heels when live bands take the stage long past midnight. The free event runs from 5 p.m. until 2 a.m. and resumes from noon until 2 a.m. on Saturday.

Fri., Sept. 12, 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat., Sept. 13, noon-2 a.m., 2008