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5 notable moments from Trump's State of the Union

Trump's remarks focused on the stark contrast between the GOP and Democratic opposition.

Politics & Policy

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="bbc00b33-ac0c-44ab-be9c-4fe4bd3d1b39" data-vars-headline="5 notable moments from Trump&#x27;s State of the Union" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a>&#x27;s remarks during Tuesday&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="State of the Union address" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/trump-state-of-the-union-length-record" data-vars-content-id="bbc00b33-ac0c-44ab-be9c-4fe4bd3d1b39" data-vars-headline="5 notable moments from Trump&#x27;s State of the Union" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/trump-state-of-the-union-length-record" target="_self">State of the Union address</a> focused on the stark contrast between the GOP and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democratic opposition" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/20/democrats-stage-trump-counterrallies-state-of-the-union" data-vars-content-id="bbc00b33-ac0c-44ab-be9c-4fe4bd3d1b39" data-vars-headline="5 notable moments from Trump&#x27;s State of the Union" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/20/democrats-stage-trump-counterrallies-state-of-the-union" target="_self">Democratic opposition</a>, underscoring culture-war flashpoints and carefully <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="acknowledging guests" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/25/2026-state-of-the-union-trump-hockey-team-usa-hellebuyck" data-vars-content-id="bbc00b33-ac0c-44ab-be9c-4fe4bd3d1b39" data-vars-headline="5 notable moments from Trump&#x27;s State of the Union" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/25/2026-state-of-the-union-trump-hockey-team-usa-hellebuyck" target="_self">acknowledging guests</a> to reflect his political messaging.The big picture: The speech took place with quite a few members of Congress missing — though that didn&#x27;t stop several Democrats from shouting their objections or heckling the president during his <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="108-minute-long" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/trump-state-of-the-union-length-record" data-vars-content-id="bbc00b33-ac0c-44ab-be9c-4fe4bd3d1b39" data-vars-headline="5 notable moments from Trump&#x27;s State of the Union" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/trump-state-of-the-union-length-record" target="_self">108-minute-long</a> speech.

Trump says he prefers diplomacy, but lays the case for war with Iran

His SOTU speech marked the first time he detailed the reasons that led him to consider launching a military campaign.

President Trump said in his State of the Union speech on Tuesday that he prefers a diplomatic solution to the crisis with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="9aad0d07-1ac1-457b-a23f-11cad25acf22" data-vars-headline="Trump says he prefers diplomacy, but lays the case for war with Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a>, but at the same time laid out a case for a potential war against the Islamic Republic. Why it matters: Trump&#x27;s remarks about Iran were relatively short and were not the center part of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="his speech" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/trump-state-of-the-union-length-record" data-vars-content-id="9aad0d07-1ac1-457b-a23f-11cad25acf22" data-vars-headline="Trump says he prefers diplomacy, but lays the case for war with Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/24/trump-state-of-the-union-length-record" target="_self">his speech</a>, but it was the first time he detailed the reasons that led him to consider <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="launching a military campaign" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/23/iran-strike-trump-gen-dan-caine-vance-rubio" data-vars-content-id="9aad0d07-1ac1-457b-a23f-11cad25acf22" data-vars-headline="Trump says he prefers diplomacy, but lays the case for war with Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/23/iran-strike-trump-gen-dan-caine-vance-rubio" target="_self">launching a military campaign</a>.

Trump sets new record for SOTU speech length

Trump had warned Monday that he would give "a long speech because we have so much to talk about."

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="08608a2d-caff-4f4a-a857-eec64a266394" data-vars-headline="Trump sets new record for SOTU speech length" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a>&#x27;s State of the Union speech set a new record Tuesday for the longest address to Congress, at 108 minutes — eight longer than his 100 minute speech in 2025. The big picture: The annual speech has stretched to ever longer lengths in recent years, not just because of the address but from frequent interruptions — applause, heckling — from spectators.

Trump promised to replace taxes with tariffs. Here's what it would cost

In the last fiscal year, tax collections were about 13 times larger than tariff revenue.

Economy

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="4dee6c2a-4fb9-4cae-a0ba-1cbf46c140de" data-vars-headline="Trump promised to replace taxes with tariffs. Here&#x27;s what it would cost" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">President Trump</a> said on Tuesday he believes tariff revenues could one day &quot;replace&quot; U.S. income tax, the government&#x27;s primary revenue source. Why it matters: Customs duties fall well short of the trillions of dollars that Americans pay in taxes each year — income taxes generated roughly 13 times more revenue than tariffs did in the latest fiscal year.

Dems defy own leaders by relentlessly disrupting SOTU

"How are those Epstein files? Release them," Rep. Rashida Tlaib yelled at the president.

Almost from the moment Trump entered the House chamber Tuesday night to deliver his <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="State of the Union" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/25/democrats-boycott-skip-trump-state-of-the-union" data-vars-content-id="52c2532c-e846-40b5-aa2e-9095f8a8aae9" data-vars-headline="Dems defy own leaders by relentlessly disrupting SOTU" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/25/democrats-boycott-skip-trump-state-of-the-union" target="_self">State of the Union</a> address, Democrats began to disrupt. It only deteriorated from there.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the new normal for presidential speeches to Congress, with Republicans heckling Democratic presidents and vice versa.

KC puts $1M toward new homelessness strategy

City leaders say the flexible fund will help move people experiencing homelessness indoors faster.

News

Kansas City leaders are launching a $1 million <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Housing Gateway Program" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kcmo.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2898/1746" data-vars-content-id="5360b410-406a-4697-bf7a-1ec7b006171d" data-vars-headline="KC puts $1M toward new homelessness strategy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kcmo.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2898/1746" target="_blank">Housing Gateway Program</a> to move people indoors more quickly as homelessness rises.Why it matters: The effort relies on flexible local dollars that aren&#x27;t tied to federal restrictions, giving the city more control over how quickly and where the money is deployed.

Olympic fever packs the ice at KC Curling Club

Nearly 600 people signed up to try curling during the Winter Olympics surge.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Kansas City Curling Club" data-vars-click-url="https://kccurling.com/" data-vars-content-id="8651eaec-21c1-41d4-9a2f-e88329246674" data-vars-headline="Olympic fever packs the ice at KC Curling Club" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kccurling.com/" target="_blank">The Kansas City Curling Club</a> has signed up hundreds of new people to try curling since the Winter Olympics began, flooding its facility with first-timers eager to slide a stone.Why it matters: The club is the only dedicated curling facility within 350 miles of KC, and Olympic buzz is boosting interest in the niche winter sport.

Health coverage hits harder in Kansas than in Missouri

Kansas families spend nearly 10% of income on employer coverage, slightly more than Missouri households.

Health

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Employer health coverage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/11/charted-health-insurance-coverage-family-income" data-vars-content-id="c429a5f5-7d49-4bd8-aca6-42b912e2a71e" data-vars-headline="Health coverage hits harder in Kansas than in Missouri" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/11/charted-health-insurance-coverage-family-income" target="_self">Employer health coverage</a> eats up nearly one-tenth of a typical family&#x27;s income in both Kansas and Missouri, with Kansas households facing a slightly heavier burden, a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Commonwealth Fund study" data-vars-click-url="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2026/is-employer-coverage-affordable-how-states-stack-up" data-vars-content-id="c429a5f5-7d49-4bd8-aca6-42b912e2a71e" data-vars-headline="Health coverage hits harder in Kansas than in Missouri" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2026/is-employer-coverage-affordable-how-states-stack-up" target="_blank">Commonwealth Fund study</a> shows.

Fed World Cup funding to pay for officers, drone defense in KC

Kansas City is getting more than $79 million from the federal government.

Kansas City is getting more than $79 million from the federal government for public safety ahead of the World Cup, leaders announced Thursday.Why it matters: Organizers and public officials want to be ready for anything ahead of the city&#x27;s massive fan influx this summer, although leaders say there are no specific threats at this time.

Red envelopes tease new Asian Glow Fest

The City Market is marking the Lunar New Year next Saturday.

Culture

The City Market is marking the start of the Lunar New Year with traditional red envelopes next Saturday — and teasing a new Asian street festival coming to Kansas City next month.The big picture: The envelopes kick off the countdown to the first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Asian Glow Fest KC" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/events/1257934742949273/1257934749615939" data-vars-content-id="c36c405b-e28d-4a9f-b3d4-aa7f11867b9d" data-vars-headline="Red envelopes tease new Asian Glow Fest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1257934742949273/1257934749615939" target="_blank">Asian Glow Fest KC</a>, an event in March that will gather Kansas Citians in celebration of South Asian culture with food, art, and shopping.

Google confirms $10B Project Mica in KC

The $10B campus will cover its own energy costs under a deal with Evergy.

Google confirmed Thursday it will build its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="massive Project Mica data center campus" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/07/29/port-kc-google-data-center" data-vars-content-id="d270a40b-1697-4b47-a904-e47e92e32b4e" data-vars-headline="Google confirms $10B Project Mica in KC" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/07/29/port-kc-google-data-center" target="_self">massive Project Mica data center campus</a> in Kansas City — and it will cover the full energy costs under an agreement with Evergy.Why it matters: The confirmation of the project in the Northland cements one of the largest development packages in the city&#x27;s history.

KC warehouse owners won't sell to the federal government

ICE's presence at the site prompted backlash from local leaders and the public.

The owners of a warehouse in south Kansas City will not sell it to the federal government, the company said in a statement Thursday.Why it matters: Federal immigration officials <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="toured the site" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2026/01/15/ice-detention-expansion-kansas-city" data-vars-content-id="1d9f7cb6-dfd9-4022-a2fc-90c5d24dcbf4" data-vars-headline="KC warehouse owners won&#x27;t sell to the federal government" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2026/01/15/ice-detention-expansion-kansas-city" target="_self">toured the site</a> as ICE said it seeks to expand its detention capacity, prompting backlash from local leaders and the public.

Exclusive: Sports ticket prices soar as teams chase premium clientele

Ticket prices rose significantly more than inflation across leagues over the past 10 years.

Sports ticket prices rose significantly more than inflation across leagues over the past 10 years, with premium seats skyrocketing, according to data that ticketing platform Gametime shared with Axios.Why it matters: Going to a game is becoming increasingly unaffordable for some fans, even as demand continues to drive premium pricing.

KC's World Cup Fan Fest: Dates and themes

Fan Fest won't be open every day during the World Cup.

World Cup organizers have unveiled Fan Fest dates and themes and are asking those planning a visit to register in advance.Why it matters: Outside the stadium, Fan Fest will be Kansas City&#x27;s largest World Cup gathering, designed to hold up to 25,000 people at once.

KC's first pro softball team launches ticket sales

The KC Diamond's home opener is at Legends Field on June 17.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kansas City Diamonds" data-vars-click-url="https://thekcdiamonds.com/" data-vars-content-id="1671c7f2-7daa-4ef7-8b6d-8e4bc66d2b03" data-vars-headline="KC&#x27;s first pro softball team launches ticket sales" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://thekcdiamonds.com/" target="_blank">Kansas City Diamonds</a>, KC&#x27;s new pro softball team, opened general ticket sales today for its inaugural season as part of the Professional Softball League (PSL).Why it matters: Women&#x27;s sports are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="surging in popularity" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/08/22/kansas-city-womens-sports-capital" data-vars-content-id="1671c7f2-7daa-4ef7-8b6d-8e4bc66d2b03" data-vars-headline="KC&#x27;s first pro softball team launches ticket sales" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/08/22/kansas-city-womens-sports-capital" target="_self">surging in popularity</a>, and the KC Diamonds are building on that momentum after a successful 2025 invitational <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="helped launch the team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/06/12/kc-softball-powerhouse-events" data-vars-content-id="1671c7f2-7daa-4ef7-8b6d-8e4bc66d2b03" data-vars-headline="KC&#x27;s first pro softball team launches ticket sales" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/06/12/kc-softball-powerhouse-events" target="_self">helped launch the team</a>.

Rental demand soars in KC for the World Cup

Kansas City is one of the most in-demand World Cup host cities.

Kansas City is one of the most in-demand World Cup host cities right now, with the city leading in occupancy rates and new listings, according to AirDNA, a short-term rental data company.The big picture: With four months left until the tournament, fans are booking rooms before it&#x27;s too late, which is squeezing the market and driving up prices.

Team Netherlands will make its home base in KC

We got another one. The Netherlands and the KC Current announced Thursday that the Dutch national team will make its base camp in Kansas City for the World Cup this summer.Why it matters: That makes three top-10 teams coming to the smallest host city, setting KC up for a summer of soccer pandemonium.

KC Current opens Riverside stadium, training complex

The new campus expands youth development and will host the Netherlands in 2026.

Sports

<figure><img alt="Group of people in business attire cutting a teal ribbon at a ceremony with a microphone and audience visible, indicating an official opening event." height="720" id="9e1a3037-8ee1-45c2-995e-9ffc8ecfb3dc" src="https://images.axios.com/XUi1vDAaKkES3W4Z9EF7tTkhN-4=/2026/02/24/1771971363224.gif" width="1280"/><figcaption>Riverside Stadium &amp; Performance Center unveiling. GIF: Abbey Higginbotham/Axios</figcaption></figure>The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kansas City Current" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/11/26/womens-sports-kansas-city-ranking" data-vars-content-id="51e9f77e-c7b7-4bbf-8b77-617bcb013a5f" data-vars-headline="KC Current opens Riverside stadium, training complex" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/11/26/womens-sports-kansas-city-ranking" target="_self">Kansas City Current</a> opened a 2,000-seat stadium and new training complex in Riverside on Tuesday, completing a $52 million expansion of its player facilities.The big picture: With the Riverside campus now open, the Current has a dedicated development home separate from CPKC Stadium, where the club plays its NWSL matches on the riverfront.<ul><li>The campus will serve as a year-round base for the club&#x27;s second team and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="youth development programs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kansascitycurrent.com/news/kansas-city-current-introduces-teal-rising-alliance" data-vars-content-id="51e9f77e-c7b7-4bbf-8b77-617bcb013a5f" data-vars-headline="KC Current opens Riverside stadium, training complex" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kansascitycurrent.com/news/kansas-city-current-introduces-teal-rising-alliance" target="_blank">youth development programs</a>.</li></ul>

Ping-pong balls fly at new Ricochet game bar

Trying to catch your errant ping-pong ball is part of the experience.

Business

A new bar in the Crossroads will send you running across the room chasing your ping-pong ball, but that&#x27;s all part of the experience.The big picture: It&#x27;s one of the many games at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ricochet" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ricochetsocial.com/locations/kc" data-vars-content-id="55a0092a-06ef-4863-94f0-396dbb1d9e8a" data-vars-headline="Ping-pong balls fly at new Ricochet game bar" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ricochetsocial.com/locations/kc" target="_blank">Ricochet</a>, a social lounge hosting its grand opening Tuesday at 1720 McGee St.

How ICE enforcement stress affects kids — and what parents can do

As federal immigration enforcement ramps up, Kansas City therapists report rising anxiety among children. Here's what parents should watch for and how to help.

As the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="d0c3670a-7ce3-4159-a68f-c0e8a3893184" data-vars-headline="How ICE enforcement stress affects kids — and what parents can do" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> administration ramps up federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="immigration enforcement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/15/twin-cities-occupied-by-federal-agents-turmoil" data-vars-content-id="d0c3670a-7ce3-4159-a68f-c0e8a3893184" data-vars-headline="How ICE enforcement stress affects kids — and what parents can do" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/15/twin-cities-occupied-by-federal-agents-turmoil" target="_self">immigration enforcement</a>, experts say <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="children across the country" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/30/ice-trump-children-mental-health-parents-immigration" data-vars-content-id="d0c3670a-7ce3-4159-a68f-c0e8a3893184" data-vars-headline="How ICE enforcement stress affects kids — and what parents can do" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/30/ice-trump-children-mental-health-parents-immigration" target="_self">children across the country</a> may be absorbing the fear and uncertainty of ICE operations.Why it matters: Experiencing traumatic events in childhood can create lasting physical and mental health challenges that extend into adulthood, Sita Patel, a clinical psychology professor at Palo Alto University, tells Axios.

How to navigate Johnson County's new express lanes

The $572 million project wraps up roughly three years of construction.

Johnson County drivers will see new express lanes on U.S. 69 open this Saturday as part of an effort to reduce congestion.Why it matters: The $572 million project wraps up roughly three years of construction and is intended to address an increasing number of cars on one of the busiest highways in the metro, per the Kansas Department of Transportation

Court ruling looms over Missouri's congressional map

A judge will decide whether Missouri's new map splitting Kansas City can stand for 2026 elections.

A judge will decide whether <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Missouri&#x27;s 2025 congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://budplan.oa.mo.gov/redistricting-office/2025-us-congressional-house-maps" data-vars-content-id="9128d60c-e3db-41a5-93de-315c828a5a33" data-vars-headline="Court ruling looms over Missouri&#x27;s congressional map" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://budplan.oa.mo.gov/redistricting-office/2025-us-congressional-house-maps" target="_blank">Missouri&#x27;s 2025 congressional map</a>, which splits Kansas City into three districts, violates the state constitution.Why it matters: The map will shape Missouri&#x27;s 2026 midterm elections and could affect the partisan balance of the state&#x27;s congressional delegation.

Parisi company launches new era with downtown HQ

Paris Brothers' seven-year lease plants a flag in KC's busiest neighborhood.

Kansas City&#x27;s largest family-owned coffee brand and its sister logistics company are planting their flags downtown this spring.Why it matters: The move by Paris Brothers establishes a seven-year lease at a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="long vacant" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bizjournals.com/kansascity/news/2025/12/16/mythical-games-kc-live-lease-lawsuit-judgment.html" data-vars-content-id="5a777ea9-3bcd-40a1-a0dd-6e64a68a63cc" data-vars-headline="Parisi company launches new era with downtown HQ" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bizjournals.com/kansascity/news/2025/12/16/mythical-games-kc-live-lease-lawsuit-judgment.html" target="_blank">long vacant</a> space in the Power &amp; Light District, one of KC&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="busiest neighborhoods" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/08/14/power-light-district-kc" data-vars-content-id="5a777ea9-3bcd-40a1-a0dd-6e64a68a63cc" data-vars-headline="Parisi company launches new era with downtown HQ" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2025/08/14/power-light-district-kc" target="_self">busiest neighborhoods</a>.

What to do this weekend in KC

KCRep, Reel Black Film Fest and Brew Fest top this weekend's local lineup.

<figure><img alt="Illustration of a cassette tape with the tape unspooling to spell weekend. " height="720" id="051904f6-624c-4a0e-aee7-a8a23815b64c" src="https://images.axios.com/GLRqKQredoUT2gYQDT2Jjw3oMtY=/2025/03/05/1741218472258.gif" width="1280"/><figcaption>Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios</figcaption></figure>There&#x27;s plenty to do in Kansas City this weekend, but we whittled down three that scream local.

The least romantic places to take a date in KC

From a windy Liberty Memorial to Trader Joe's chaos, KC dates get real.

Things to Do

👋🏼Abbey here. Kansas City has enough rooftop restaurants, steakhouses and cocktail bars with low lighting to convince anyone they&#x27;re in love. Try taking them somewhere mildly miserable instead to see if the love is real!

🫶🏼 Your Galentine's Day game plan

From smash rooms to pottery, KC venues host friendship-first events.

The day before <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Valentine&#x27;s Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2025/02/11/five-last-minute-ideas-valentines-day" data-vars-content-id="a55cb470-ad2c-4552-85bc-4a21be1444a9" data-vars-headline="🫶🏼 Your Galentine&#x27;s Day game plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2025/02/11/five-last-minute-ideas-valentines-day" target="_self">Valentine&#x27;s Day</a> has evolved into its own celebration of platonic love, known as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Galentine&#x27;s Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/3IGnf5Rg-Ws" data-vars-content-id="a55cb470-ad2c-4552-85bc-4a21be1444a9" data-vars-headline="🫶🏼 Your Galentine&#x27;s Day game plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/3IGnf5Rg-Ws" target="_blank">Galentine&#x27;s Day</a> or Palentine&#x27;s Day, and Kansas City venues are marking it with friendship-first events across town.Why it matters: The holiday helps make love feel less exclusive and reminds us of the importance of platonic relationships, according to Marisa G. Franco, a psychologist and author of &quot;Platonic,&quot; a research-backed book about how to make and keep friends.

Where to dance salsa like Bad Bunny in Kansas City

The Super Bowl halftime performance included a viral salsa moment with Lady Gaga.

Bad Bunny is in the spotlight even more than usual thanks to a high-energy, dance-heavy <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Super Bowl" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2026/02/09/super-bowl-lx-takeaways" data-vars-content-id="61797a90-699c-4092-9c9b-956e7133d6e1" data-vars-headline="Where to dance salsa like Bad Bunny in Kansas City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2026/02/09/super-bowl-lx-takeaways" target="_self">Super Bowl</a> halftime performance that included a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="viral salsa moment" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/reels/DUhNeMNAD0d/" data-vars-content-id="61797a90-699c-4092-9c9b-956e7133d6e1" data-vars-headline="Where to dance salsa like Bad Bunny in Kansas City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/reels/DUhNeMNAD0d/" target="_blank">viral salsa moment</a> with Lady Gaga.The big picture: The NFL&#x27;s choice of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bad Bunny sparked controversy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2026/02/09/bad-bunny-super-bowl-halftime-latino-san-francisco-mission" data-vars-content-id="61797a90-699c-4092-9c9b-956e7133d6e1" data-vars-headline="Where to dance salsa like Bad Bunny in Kansas City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2026/02/09/bad-bunny-super-bowl-halftime-latino-san-francisco-mission" target="_self">Bad Bunny sparked controversy</a>, but the performance leaned into unity — with a live wedding and stars like Pedro Pascal and Jessica Alba <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="dancing to salsa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.salsavida.com/news/bad-bunnys-super-bowl-lx-halftime-show-puts-salsa-on-the-biggest-stage-in-america/" data-vars-content-id="61797a90-699c-4092-9c9b-956e7133d6e1" data-vars-headline="Where to dance salsa like Bad Bunny in Kansas City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.salsavida.com/news/bad-bunnys-super-bowl-lx-halftime-show-puts-salsa-on-the-biggest-stage-in-america/" target="_blank">dancing to salsa</a> music.

Good Karma's shelves tell the story

The KC coffee shop curates products with culture and consistency at the center.

Food and Drink

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Good Karma" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/goodkarmacoffee_/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="816984c0-d926-48e2-b638-30e03bdc2deb" data-vars-headline="Good Karma&#x27;s shelves tell the story" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/goodkarmacoffee_/?hl=en" target="_blank">Good Karma</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Black Pantry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/theblackpantry/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="816984c0-d926-48e2-b638-30e03bdc2deb" data-vars-headline="Good Karma&#x27;s shelves tell the story" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/theblackpantry/?hl=en" target="_blank">The Black Pantry</a> are two businesses under one roof in KC that sell coffee and support Black creators by being intentional about what they stock on the shelves.Why it matters: We&#x27;re continuing Axios KC&#x27;s February spotlight on Black-owned businesses with a look at Good Karma, a coffee and retail shop carving out space in a crowded market by leaning into culture, consistency and community.

Mortality and coffee: Inside KC's Death Cafe

A monthly Death Cafe in Kansas City offers a welcoming space to talk about dying without fear.

A monthly meetup at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Waldo Crows Coffee" data-vars-click-url="https://crowscoffee.com/waldo/" data-vars-content-id="45230823-25d2-4703-8a2c-774f382ff7c4" data-vars-headline="Mortality and coffee: Inside KC&#x27;s Death Cafe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://crowscoffee.com/waldo/" target="_blank">Waldo Crows Coffee</a> is a judgment-free place to talk about our shared inevitability: We are going to die.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Death Cafes" data-vars-click-url="https://deathcafe.com/" data-vars-content-id="45230823-25d2-4703-8a2c-774f382ff7c4" data-vars-headline="Mortality and coffee: Inside KC&#x27;s Death Cafe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://deathcafe.com/" target="_blank">Death Cafes</a> have grown worldwide as more people look for informal spaces to talk about dying and loss outside of hospitals, funerals and crisis moments.

Ruby Jean's "north star" is longevity through juice

The local operation has expanded its distribution from Hawaii to D.C.

What began as a healthy alternative to soul food in Kansas City&#x27;s East Side has become a hub for community building and longevity.Why it matters: We&#x27;re continuing our February spotlight on Black-owned businesses with a look at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ruby Jean&#x27;s Juicery" data-vars-click-url="https://www.rubyjeansjuicery.com/" data-vars-content-id="c07638eb-cd65-47c5-866d-37448ad96f2c" data-vars-headline="Ruby Jean&#x27;s &quot;north star&quot; is longevity through juice" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.rubyjeansjuicery.com/" target="_blank">Ruby Jean&#x27;s Juicery</a>, a local cold-pressed juice company with nationwide reach.

Black-owned kitchen blends Caribbean and Ethiopian flavors

From braised goat to Ethiopian tibs, Midtown restaurant delivers bold, spice-driven dishes.

Goat, oxtail, whole snapper and salmon share the menu at a Midtown restaurant that blends Caribbean and Ethiopian cooking.Why it matters: We&#x27;re starting Axios KC&#x27;s February spotlight on Black-owned businesses at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Black Garlic" data-vars-click-url="https://blackgarlicrestaurant.com/" data-vars-content-id="be10f3c6-9f89-4547-af14-395b9a9a0b28" data-vars-headline="Black-owned kitchen blends Caribbean and Ethiopian flavors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://blackgarlicrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Black Garlic</a>, a restaurant that stands out for the sheer range of what comes out of its kitchen, from Haitian staples to Ethiopian tibs.

Joe's makes Yelp's top 100 list for 2026

Joe's Bar-B-Que is one of the highest-reviewed restaurants in the country.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Joe&#x27;s Kansas City Bar-B-Que" data-vars-click-url="https://www.joeskc.com/" data-vars-content-id="4c5f6ba0-8458-4e30-9cd0-56545821c8e0" data-vars-headline="Joe&#x27;s makes Yelp&#x27;s top 100 list for 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.joeskc.com/" target="_blank">Joe&#x27;s Kansas City Bar-B-Que</a> is one of the highest-reviewed restaurants in the country, according to Yelp&#x27;s list of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="top U.S. restaurants for 2026" data-vars-click-url="https://www.yelp.com/article/top-100-us-restaurants-2026" data-vars-content-id="4c5f6ba0-8458-4e30-9cd0-56545821c8e0" data-vars-headline="Joe&#x27;s makes Yelp&#x27;s top 100 list for 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.yelp.com/article/top-100-us-restaurants-2026" target="_blank">top U.S. restaurants for 2026</a>. The big picture: This comes as no surprise for Kansas Citians and barbecue aficionados. In a town known for its meat pits, this gas station restaurant is consistently ranked among the top.

Take Care debuts new Crossroads breakfast program

The menu is built around a popular biscuit with a ravenous following.

There&#x27;s a new breakfast option in the Crossroads that&#x27;s producing a biscuit sandwich in high demand and coffee sourced from individual farms.The big picture: Take Care by Oleo (419 E. 18th St. in KCMO) officially launched its expanded food program Wednesday.

Enter Leawood's newest speakeasy: The Blacklist

The Blacklist offers cocktails, community vibes and a twist on exclusivity.

<figure><img alt="Two hands holding cocktails in elegant glasses, one garnished with a lemon slice, the other with two raspberries on a cocktail pick, against a dimly lit bar table background." height="720" id="d8f61ca8-cb72-49c6-9dcb-d5419e71ba31" src="https://images.axios.com/NsHCrVjjwqyTDSVUsi1LcxWmUq4=/2026/01/20/1768941411264.gif" width="1280"/><figcaption>Cheers! GIF: Abbey Higginbotham/Axios</figcaption></figure><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Blacklist" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/theblacklistkansascity/" data-vars-content-id="435e97b9-572e-471f-8423-0e9df2944cdd" data-vars-headline="Enter Leawood&#x27;s newest speakeasy: The Blacklist" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/theblacklistkansascity/" target="_blank">The Blacklist</a>, a Victorian-style wine bar with a members-only speakeasy twist, opened in Leawood last weekend.The big picture: As Leawood&#x27;s bar scene grows, The Blacklist is aiming for a smaller, more personal experience that rewards regulars.

This historic restaurant remains one of KC's best

The Savoy sets the standard with its Restaurant Week menu.

The Savoy&#x27;s three-course <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Restaurant Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2026/01/08/restaurant-week-kansas-city-2026" data-vars-content-id="1fc5fe90-d89a-4ee1-b7bf-4ea6202d0c1e" data-vars-headline="This historic restaurant remains one of KC&#x27;s best" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2026/01/08/restaurant-week-kansas-city-2026" target="_self">Restaurant Week</a> menu combines elevated dining with down-home flavors in a tradition more than a century old.Why it matters: This award-winning downtown Kansas City staple sets the standard, from delectable classic dishes to an expertly crafted atmosphere.

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