Libby Hanssen
CONTRIBUTOROriginally from Indiana, Libby Hanssen is a freelance writer in Kansas City. She is the author of States of Swing: The History of the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, 2003-2023. Along with degrees in trombone performance, Libby was a Fellow for the NEA Arts Journalism Institute at Columbia University. Learn more at Proust Eats a Sandwich.
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From its origins as a trail stop, a Native American reservation, a farming community, and a growing commercial hub, there’s a lot of history — and a growing restaurant scene — in this Johnson County suburb.
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Grab your popcorn and head to the...concert hall? From 'Harry Potter' to 'Coco,' explore the ways you can enjoy movies with live soundtracks in Kansas City this upcoming season.
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Whether you are shopping for that next birthday party, adding to your personal collection, or curious about toy history, the Kansas City area is filled with unique, locally-owned businesses — including a marble maker, a doll hospital, and a Japanese blind box store.
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Whether you're a student, parent, or a lifelong learner, Kansas City-area libraries have a wide range of resources to check out for back to school season and beyond.
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816 Day — held on August 16 — is an annual city-wide celebration of all things Kansas City, Missouri, inspired by the local area code. There are events on multiple days, including concerts, work out sessions, block parties and $8.16 deals at local businesses.
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During the late 20th century, a new genre of music appeared: video game music. As the style gained sophistication and garnered millions of fans, live performances emerged, bringing together multi-generational audiences. Here's your guide to upcoming events in Kansas City where you can hear video game and anime music live.
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The southeast corner of Kansas has a lot to offer the curious adventurer. Centered at Pittsburg, Kansas, explore the area's mining history, academic prowess and culinary culture.
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Prairies used to stretch across all of the central United States. Only a portion of that ecosystem still exists, but there are still some impressive sites in Kansas and Missouri as well as ongoing efforts to restore the native landscape.
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Tucked into the hills above the Missouri River, this picturesque Missouri town carries a complex history. It's one of the fastest growing communities in the region, yet honors its 19th century roots.
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The cultural phenomenon of Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games has a strong following in the Kansas City community. Whether you're looking to roll your first d20 or just searching for a new campaign to join, here's how you can get started.