The first weekend of June is bringing loads of family fun to the Kansas City area, including the annual boxing match between local first responders, family-friendly festivals and a free fishing weekend in Kansas.
Small price for a big purpose!
Kansas City Guns N’ Hoses 2026
The “finest” first responders from the Kansas City metro will compete in a red vs. blue boxing match on Saturday, June 6, to benefit the Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission, KCMCC, and its SAFE program, which stands for Surviving Spouse and Family Endowment.
Even though they’ll be fighting each other in sport, firefighters, EMTs and police officers come together during Guns N’ Hoses to raise money for the families of first responders who lost their lives or suffered a catastrophic injury while on duty.
The program has become one of the largest fundraisers for the KCMCC’s SAFE Program, which financially supports families in 13 counties within 24 to 48 hours of the tragic loss of a loved one. The fundraiser began in 2005 with $3,000 to give to families, but that number has grown to its current $40,000.
The doors for the boxing match will open at 5:30 p.m. and the opening ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m. General admission tickets cost $25 and can be picked up at the Municipal Box Office window at 301 W 13th St, Kansas City, Missouri, or bought from Ticketmaster for $30.75. VIP tables and ringside seats are also available, and more information on them can be learned by calling 816-960-6800.
Free family fun!
Kansas Free Fishing Days weekend
Kansas will be hosting its Free Fishing Days this weekend on June 6 and June 7. Anglers can enjoy Kansas’ reservoirs, lakes and ponds to fish for various fish like crappie, channel catfish, bass and more without a state fishing license.
Length limits on specific species such as bass and walleye are still in effect as well as creel limits – the maximum number of certain types of fish you can catch in one day.
“Whether introducing a child to fishing for the first time, spending time with family at the lake, or simply enjoying a weekend outdoors, Free Fishing Days offer an opportunity to experience fishing across the state at no cost,” the event’s press release states.
Lee’s Summit Downtown Days
Lee’s Summit will be celebrating its Downtown Days festival June 5 to June 7. The festival, taking place roughly 30 minutes southeast of Kansas City, will feature family-fun activities such as live music, carnival rides, handmade goods, food and drink options, and more. The event is free to the public, but there are optional costs for food, rides and souvenirs.
The festival requires over 200 volunteers and residents interested in volunteering for event set up, serving at the info booth and more can sign up on the event’s website.
The festival’s hours are:
- June 5: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- June 6: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- June 7: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Old Shawnee Days
Shawnee, Kansas, less than 20 minutes southeast of Kansas City, will kick off summer with its Old Shawnee Days. The town has been celebrating the festival since 1968 and will run from June 4 to June 7 this year.
Old Shawnee Days is free to the public and will offer live music, entertainment, vendors and several kids’ activities. During specific times, attendees can purchase all-you-can-ride wristbands for $30 to enjoy unlimited carnival rides, and the festival parade will make its way through town June 6 at 10 a.m.
The festival’s hours are:
- June 4: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
- June 5: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
- June 6: parade at 10 a.m., regular hours 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- June 7: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
(Photo credit: The Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission (modified))
