Make Music Day returns to Kansas City for its fifth year

A grassroots celebration that began in Paris in 1982, aimed at bringing live music to public spaces like parks and city sidewalks, has blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon.

Now, 1,000 municipalities across the globe participate in Fête de la Musique—also known as Make Music Day—on the longest day of the year: June 21. Kansas City is among the participating cities, and this year marks the city’s fifth year.

Organized by Kansas City Parks and Recreation, the all-day affair stretches across the entire metro. Last year’s solstice celebration included a total of 99 performers and 55 host venues. This year is the first time in KC the day has landed on a Saturday, and KC Parks and Rec anticipates it will be even more popular than before.

Although many area businesses register to host performers, KC Parks and Rec also uses its own spaces, including Brookside Court Park, downtown’s Garment District Park and Swope Park’s Lakeside Nature Center.

The lineup spans an array of skill levels, from musician hobbyists and emerging acts to seasoned professionals. The range of musical styles is also broad, with this year’s highlights including R&B singer Jass, internationally touring singer-songwriter and guitarist David Luther, family ensemble Barton Street Band and steel pan player Chill Phil.

“We never quite know what to expect,” says Heidi Markle, communications and events manager for KC Parks and Rec.

But according to Markle, the event also serves as an opportunity for the public to get involved. “It’s not just about watching people perform,” Markle says.

Make Music Day includes hands-on workshops, such as Musication Station—an instrument petting zoo hosted by Union Station—as well as clinics on harmonica and bucket drumming.

A full schedule will be available on June 17 at makemusicday.org/kcmo and on the Grandstand Events and Guides app.