From ‘Alligator on a Stick’ to KC Barbecue, KCRiverFest Has the Good Stuff

April 15, 2009 - PRLog -- Hungry visitors will have a large menu featuring the traditional and unusual at this year’s KCRiverFest. Corn dogs, falafel, good old fashioned barbecue, ice cream and even alligator on a stick are just a few of the tasty items on sale at the July 3 and 4 event.

“KCRiverFest has options to suit every palate,” said Mark Laverentz, KCRiverFest co-chair. “We have fantastic food representing the very best culinary options Kansas City has to offer.”

Presented by KCTV/myKSMO, the acclaimed festival returns to Kansas City’s Richard Berkley Riverfront Park with a fireworks spectacular by internationally-renowned Zambelli Fireworks. Last year, the 18-minute extravaganza thrilled thousands as the fireworks reflected on the waters of the Missouri River accompanied by exciting music.

Food purveyors at this year’s festival include the return of the popular Jerusalem Café, offering gyro sandwiches, curried chicken wraps, beef or chicken skewers and falafel with hummus. Other returning vendors include local favorites Minsky’s pizza and Blue Bunny ice cream.

Taste of New Orleans will live up to its name serving jambalaya, Louisiana lobster puffs, crawfish specialties and the exotically delicious alligator on a stick.

Visitors will enjoy the aroma of freshly smoked meats, including barbecued turkey, beef brisket, pulled pork, smoked sausages, ribs, turkey legs and pulled chicken.

Scimecas brings their ever-popular Italian flavor to the festival, serving Italian sausages and hot dogs grilled to order with a variety of toppings.

Other foods on sale at the festival will include giant tenderloin sandwiches, hamburgers, nachos, curly fries, funnel cakes and kettle corn. Beverages will include fresh fruit smoothies, flavored frozen lemonades and tropical ice flavored sno cones. Other drinks include coffee, cappuccino and even frozen hot chocolate. Water, soft drinks, gourmet iced tea and a variety of beers will also be on sale.

“Your biggest challenge will be deciding what to eat first,” Laverentz said.

Recognized by Special Event Magazine as a 2008 finalist for Best Fair/Festival, KCRiverFest is in its fifth year of celebrating America’s Independence, Kansas City style. Last year’s event attracted 35,000 attendees and thousands more watched a special televised broadcast of the fireworks show on presenting sponsor KCTV/myKSMO.

Besides Zambelli Fireworks other returning favorites include the United States Air Force Band, the Radio Disney Rockin’ Road Crew and personalities from KCTV and Cumulus Radio.

“There are still some great marketing and sponsorship opportunities for companies and organizations who want to show their support for this unique community event,” Laverentz added.

More information on sponsorships as well as exhibitor and volunteer applications are at www.KCRiverFest.com or by calling 816.960.3400.

A special package deal will be offered by the Downtown Marriott, also. This includes a room with a panoramic view of the fireworks and tickets to the festival. Details of the special hotel package for KCRiverFest visitors as well as schedule updates, attraction and entertainment descriptions and much more will be announced on www.KCRiverFest.com with continuous updates through July.

Sponsors for this year’s event include KCTV/myKSMO, Cumulus Radio (101 the Fox, 105.21 Jack FM, 95.7 The Vibe, 94.9 KCMO, KCMO 710 AND Magic 107.3), the Port Authority of Kansas City, Wilks Broadcasting (Q104, KFKF 94.1), Kansas City Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund, Burns & McDonnell, Time Warner Cable, Radio Disney (KPHN AM 1190), DST Systems, Urban Times magazine, TranSystems, Shook, Hardy & Bacon LLP, Paseo Corridor Constructors and EventPros, Inc.

Festival admission is $6 for adults, children 5 and under free.

KCRiverFest is produced by EventPros, Inc., Kansas City’s creative meeting, event and communications resource. Visit EventPros on the web at www.EventProsInc.com.

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EventPros creates and manages comprehensive meeting, event and trade show solutions. EventPros Communications offers more than 20 years experience in public and media relations services. Visit us at www.eventprosinc.com.