The American Royal 1701 American Royal Court Kansas City, MO 64102 816.221.9800
My son and I recently took part in a 110-year-old Kansas City tradition. This month, you and your family can also be a part of the tradition!
The American Royal began in 1899 as the National Hereford Show. The purpose was for showing and selling purebred cattle. Today, the American Royal includes rodeos, bull riding, horse shows, a parade, and of course, a barbecue.
My son and I were able to get a feel for a bit of the American Royal excitement by visiting the museum which is open by appointment only. Sitting on a saddle, grinding some grain and finding out how many chickens equaled our body weight were all part of the fun.
After stopping in the museum, I was happy to learn from Laura Prince, who works with education at the American Royal, that families and schools will enjoy a special opportunity this month. Beginning Monday, Oct. 19, school groups will be able to participate in school tours. During the week, many exhibits will be set up in the central hall of the American Royal. According to Prince, the exhibits will include a mobile dairy classroom where students will learn how milk gets from the “cow to your grocery store.” Students will also be able to visit the petting zoo and see exotic animals such as a zebra, giraffe and llama. The youth rodeo also will offer matinee shows.
Families get to join in on the fun Saturday, Oct. 24. Admission is $5.00 a person and includes the school tour exhibits and museum. No appointment is necessary.
Our trip to the American Royal made this city girl and her son more aware of the world of agriculture and an important part of Kansas City history. I look forward to taking my children back again soon.
For more information about the many events at the American Royal this month, visit www.AmericanRoyal.com. Elizabeth Welter lives in Olathe with her family and is always up for a Kansas City adventure.