The West Bottoms in Kansas City is brewing up a cauldron full of fun for its annual First Friday Weekend, taking place from September 7-9. As Halloween season approaches, this historic district is transforming into a spooky wonderland with a blend of frightful attractions, live music, shopping opportunities, and a whole lot of good vibes.
This year marks a special milestone – the 50th anniversary of the iconic Edge of Hell Haunted Attraction. This attraction, recognized as the nation’s longest-running haunted house, is considered among the best by experts and will be opening its doors on Friday, September 13th, alongside the legendary Beast Haunted Attraction. Later in the month, the Macabre Cinema Haunted Attraction will join the festivities, adding even more scares to the lineup.
But fear not, the First Friday Weekend offers a diverse range of activities for all tastes. While the nights are reserved for spine-tingling scares, the days are filled with family-friendly entertainment.
Visitors can expect a witch’s brew of entertainment, from spellbinding selfie stations with cackling witches to enchanting tunes that get everyone dancing. Shops will be brimming with haunted house décor, creating a spooky-fun atmosphere, with items available for purchase to decorate homes and businesses. Even the four-legged fiends from Lucky 13 Rescue will be on hand, showcasing adorable pups ready for adoption.
Of course, no Halloween celebration is complete without a touch of spooky magic. The Full Moon Bar, located at the corner of the Beast by Chef J BBQ, offers unique Witches Brew libations, along with a variety of food trucks and on-site vendors.
For those seeking even more thrills, the Escape Games are open throughout the weekend, offering new games and challenges.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, timed ticketing has been introduced for the haunted attractions. Visitors can select their preferred date and time, guaranteeing a seamless entry and avoiding long lines.
If you’re passionate about Halloween and have a knack for acting, or simply enjoy the thrill of a haunted house, consider applying for a job at the Beast. Applications are being accepted Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with auditions taking place at the Beast on September 4th starting at 6 p.m. Applicants must be 16 years or older, have a valid ID, and pass a background check.
Here’s a breakdown of the weekend’s schedule:
SEPTEMBER’S BREWS IN THE BOTTOMS WEEKEND PLANNER
West Bottoms’ Shopping:
Embrace the Festival of the Full Moon Weekends theme with Brews in the Bottoms from September 7-9. Shops will be open Friday through Sunday, with most opening at 9 AM, closing around 6 PM on Friday and Saturday, and Sunday from 12-4 PM.
Live Music:
Enjoy the tunes of Anthony Perkins performing on a baby grand piano outside at 13th and Hickory from 12-3 PM on Friday and Saturday.
Lucky 13 Rescue:
On Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM, visit Lucky 13 Rescue to view and potentially adopt dogs in need of their forever homes.
Food & Drink:
Witches Brew libations are available at the Full Moon Bar, located at the corner of the Beast by Chef J BBQ. Satisfy your cravings with food trucks and various on-site vendors, including the Full Moon Street Bar, Chef J BBQ, Java Garage, Bella Patina’s 3rd Floor Painted Rooster Café, and West Bottoms Whiskey.
Haunted Attractions:
Edge of Hell Haunted Attraction’s 50th season opens on Friday, September 13, at 7:30 PM, and the legendary Beast Haunted Attraction opens on the same day at 7:30 PM. Macabre Cinema Haunted Attraction opens on September 27 at 8 PM.
Full Moon Escape:
The Escape Games have slots available and new games. Open Friday, 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM; Saturday, 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM; Sunday, 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM.
Prepare to be spellbound by the West Bottoms’ First Friday Weekend, where the magic of Halloween comes alive in a truly unforgettable way.
