Feel the Love . . .

1. New Art Tour

Explore Merriam's vibrant art scene through the new Merriam Art Tour on the free Otocast app. Discover local murals, sculptures, and art installations that enrich our community's cultural landscape. Listen to insider insights on the artists vision and the significance of each piece. Download the Otocast app for Android or iOS to have your guide to public art across Merriam!

2. Hearts Across Merriam

Celebrate Merriam’s 75th birthday with Hearts Across Merriam! Each month, stunning glass-blown hearts by local artist Dierk Van Keppel are hidden around town. Keep your eyes open, spread the love, and enjoy the hunt! Follow @ExploreMerriam on Facebook or Instagram for hints on where you can find a heart each month. If you find one, it's yours to keep! Be sure to snap a photo, tag us and Explore Merriam and #HeartsAcrossMerriam in your post! We love seeing all the fun heart finds each month.

3. Women's History Month 

In celebration of Women's History Month, we proudly recognize the 77 women-owned businesses that enrich the Merriam community. Together, these women-led companies employ nearly 500 people. Their resilience and innovation drive success and inspire future generations to achieve and lead. Learn more about the impact of women-owned businesses. 

4. Spring Events

Enjoy Brunch with the Bunny, celebrate the opening of the Merriam Farmers' Market, don your cape for Superhero Day, or head over to Turkey Creek Festival for our biggest annual event in May! Parks & Rec events are full of variety! 

5. Urban Hikes 

These guided hikes blend city life, art, and nature while uncovering the rich history of our community. Walk the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, and explore fossils at Knapp’s Hole. Learn about the South Park School court case of 1948, the school named after Madam C.J. Walker, and more. Stunning views and incredible stories await! Learn more about Urban Hikes KC.

1. Fun, Family Events

Experience the joy of community and family fun at Merriam's events this summer! From the sweet indulgence of the Merriam Community Center’s 4th Birthday Party (We Scream FOUR Ice-Cream) to the live tunes thumping at Concert in The Courtyard, there's something for everyone. Dive into Family Fun Fridays at local parks and rev your engines at Cruise Night! Join us for unforgettable moments and cherished memories in the heart of Merriam! Visit merriam.org/events for all the details!

2. Sweet Treats

Indulge your sweet tooth with an array of delectable treats. Cool off with creamy scoops of ice cream and frozen delights from beloved local stops like Russell Stover, Sonic, and Freddy's, or anticipate the opening of Betty Rae's in Merriam Town Center for more tantalizing options. Savor the nostalgia with Merriam's Valomilk Candy Cups, a delicious chocolate and marshmallow delight. For a taste of tradition, head to Merriam's Strawberry Hill Bakery for their renowned Povitica or decadent cheesecakes. 

3. Survey Says! We love Merriam, and YOU DO, TOO!

According to the 2024 Community Survey, our Merriam residents love their hometown. From public safety to parks, amenities, communications, and more, your recent ratings about the City of Merriam’s services warm our Just Right hearts! We cherish your feedback and are grateful for the opportunity to continue serving our community. Take a moment to explore the results and feel the love that unites us all in Merriam.

4. Nurturing Nature

In Merriam, there’s ample opportunity to embrace the great outdoors. We’ve got buzzing pollinator gardens, the serene Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, colorful hanging flower baskets on every corner, and abundant parks and green spaces with plentiful amenities. Each natural setting invites residents and guests to connect with the beauty around them. Learn more about all the ways you can explore nature in Merriam at merriam.org/parks.

5. Downtown Merriam

Downtown Merriam buzzes with energy and excitement, boasting a charming historic district packed with activities, events, and cultural offerings. Explore events, including a visit to Flags 4 Freedom from June 29 to July 6. Indulge your taste buds at Strip’s Chicken, where mouthwatering chicken and a selection of beers await. Need a unique souvenir? Stop by Sunflower Market for a custom-made t-shirt while you browse. For a quick bite, grab some delicious tamales to-go from Anita's or El Pulgarcito. And, for a moment of relaxation, immerse yourself in the rejuvenating atmosphere of the Salt Spa in Gemini. With so much to see and do, downtown Merriam promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

5 Things We Love for Summer in Merriam(PDF, 550KB)

1. Fall in Love with Parks

Embrace the beauty of autumn with our "Fall in Love with Parks" campaign. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll or a family picnic, our parks offer the perfect backdrop for your fall adventures. Visit each of Merriam's 10 scenic parks and trails, find the Fall in Love with Parks sign, and scan the QR code to enter to win a $100 Visa gift card. Visit merriam.org/fallinlovewithparks for all the details!

2. Merriam Drive Live

Experience the heartbeat of our "Just Right" city at Merriam Drive Live on Oct. 5, in downtown Merriam. Enjoy this showcase of music with a classic rock lineup that includes tribute bands Surfin USA, The Original Silver Bullet, Revelation (A Tribute to Journey), and Four Fried Chickens and a Coke. Food trucks will keep your taste buds happy, the cornhole tournament will take your game to the next level, and don't miss the free whiskey tasting with Sounds and Spirits! 

3. Shop Merriam

Support local businesses and save a little cash with our Shop Merriam program. Find a wellness coach, get a haircut, tune up your car, or find your new favorite shirts. The Shop Merriam program connects you to charming boutiques, home and auto services, lodging, dining, and more. Discover the warmth and hospitality of Merriam's local merchants!

4. Campbellton Founder's Day (1864)

Discover Merriam's journey from the small township of Campbellton to the thriving city it is today. Commemorating our founding as Campbellton in 1864 (named after founder David Gee Campbell), Founder’s Day honors our heritage. The railroad played a major role in the settlement of the community, and the town name was changed to Merriam during the 1880s in honor of Charles Merriam, the railroad secretary. Explore our history and visit the signs at Merriam Historic Plaza or via the Merriam Historic Tour on the free Otocast app. Celebrate with us by purchasing a limited-edition historic train t-shirt at the Merriam Community Center for $15 while supplies last. 

5. Pumpkin Spice 

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with the mouthwatering pumpkin spice povitica at Strawberry Hill Povitica. Order online or stop by the bakery at 7226 W. Frontage Road to sample all the flavors. Craving more pumpkin spice? Stop by one of the newest businesses to open in Merriam - Starbucks, located at 8719 Shawnee Mission Parkway - for a pumpkin spice latte! 

1. Homes A Glow, Holiday Lighting Contest

Make the season shine and sparkle in your neighborhood by joining Merriam’s Holiday Lights Contest! Whether showcasing your own winter wonderland or simply taking in the festive lights across town, this event is perfect for families and friends. Submit your house for the contest by Dec. 18, or vote for your favorites as you view the most dazzling displays in Merriam. Learn more at facebook.com/MerriamKansas.

2. Winter Events

Celebrate the magic of winter with Merriam’s lineup of family-friendly events! Send letters to Santa, enjoy breakfast with the jolly man himself, and experience the festive charm of Christmas in the Courtyard. Don’t forget to ring in 2025 a little early with our Noon Year’s Eve party for all ages. These festive events are sure to bring holiday cheer and make Merriam memories!

3. Merriam Community Center Indoor Pool

Dive into winter fun at the Merriam Community Center’s indoor pool! With warm waters, exciting water features, and a relaxing whirlpool, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a splash of summer even during the cold months. Whether you’re looking to swim some laps or simply unwind in the lazy river, the indoor pool offers a refreshing retreat all season long.

4. Hot Chocolate Pop-up

Warm up this winter and celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day with us! Join our special Hot Chocolate Pop-up on Friday, Jan. 31 at the Merriam Community Center, from 1-4 p.m. This cozy event features classic hot cocoa with plenty of toppings to personalize your cup. Come share some warm smiles and treats one delicious sip at a time.

5. Snowplow Crew Appreciation 

A big shoutout to Merriam’s Public Works crews and our beloved snowplows! Keeping our roads clear and safe through winter storms is no easy task. So, to have fun, we’re naming our snowplows! Last year, you met Catch My Drift, and this year we’re asking for your vote on naming our newest plow! Cast your vote starting Dec. 23 on Facebook. Thank you, Public Works, for helping us travel safely through the winter season!