The fifth annual Sly’s Rock the Block celebration is set for Saturday, August 13 from 3 p.m.-7:30 p.m. The event will offer a variety of entertainment and family-friendly activities to mark another year of successful summer programs.
“Our Club KC and Mayor’s Nights give young people a way to socialize, dance, play sports, explore art and technology and just have fun in a safe environment,” said Mayor James. “Those programs focus on our youth, but Saturday’s event is for the entire community; we hope to see youth and their families enjoying the live entertainment, great food and fun activities.”
Thousands are expected to attend the free event, coordinated with the Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department. The first 1,500 attendees will receive tickets for free hot dogs, chips and drinks. Several food trucks will also be on the premises offering various food items for sale.
Live entertainment will begin at approximately 3 p.m. featuring the Mary L. Kelly Dancers; Mr. Stinky Feet; Black Repertory Theatre; The Hearts of Darkness; The Buhs; and Thr3dcard. Mayor Sly James and Parks and Recreation Director Mark McHenry will welcome guests and speak briefly at approximately 4:30 p.m. during the entertainment lineup.
The celebration will offer families a variety of fun activities throughout the afternoon including: Arts Tech (caricatures, face painting, giant Jenga); Zoo Mobile; Discovery Center; Sister Act Face Painting; Imagination Playground; Stone Lion Puppets; video games; college basketball experience pop-a-shot; Girl Scouts (crafts); and several inflatables. Participants will also have the opportunity to register to vote and visit with a number of community organizations, nonprofits and city departments including TMC Healthy Harvest Mobile Market, The Public Library and Science City.
“Nearly 7,000 youth and young adults participated in our Club KC and Mayor’s Nights programs this summer,” said Mayor James. “Through the years, we’ve added activities to appeal to the diverse interests of teens and the steady participation shows it is working well for our city.”