About the EEC
The Ethnic Enrichment Commission (EEC) of Kansas City is a dynamic organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich cultural tapestry of our communities. Through education, outreach, and engaging programs, the commission fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse ethnic traditions, languages, customs, that define our communities. By promoting unity through diversity, the EEC creates opportunities for individuals to connect, learn, and grow and preserve cultural heritage.
Our Impact
50
EEC will be celebrating its 50 year anniversary in 2026
265k
In 2025, we reached over 265k people through our events —each connection a testament to the growing impact of our work and a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with every individual inspired.
70
Our commissions represent over 70 countries
Our Mission
The Ethnic Enrichment Commission aspires to foster understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, to preserve Ethnic heritage, to encourage Ethnic identity.
Creating Connections, Celebrating Cultures
The Ethnic Enrichment Commission of Kansas City was founded with the vision of fostering cultural understanding, celebrating diversity, and promoting inclusivity within communities.
Over the years, it has grown into a vital organization dedicated to enriching public awareness of ethnic traditions, histories, and contributions. Through various programs, festivals, and initiatives, the Commission has created a platform for individuals of all backgrounds to connect, learn, and contribute to a more harmonious and culturally rich society.
Our Events
Ethnic Enrichment Festival
The annual Ethnic Enrichment Festival is a vibrant celebration of the city’s rich multicultural tapestry. This beloved festival continues its legacy as one of the region’s premier festivals, uniting Kansas City through global cuisine, music, dance, and community spirit. Come for the food, come for festivities, come for the fun; just come!
Don’t miss out on the 2026 festival – Join us at Swope Park, KC on August 21st – 23rd to experience a vibrant celebration of cultures, flavors, and traditions that bring our community beautifully together!
2025 Highlights
- Over 39,000 attendees
-
Diverted 7,100 lbs (3.55 tons) of food waste away from the landfill
- Diverted 3,000 lbs (1.5 tons) of mixed recyclables away from the landfill
- Diverted 910 lbs of glass away from the landfill
-
Over 315 volunteer hours invested
Diplomatic Ball
The Diplomatic Ball is a celebration of global heritage, uniting cultures through captivating performances, international cuisine, and meaningful community engagement. This event offers a rich and immersive experience that honors the beauty and diversity of worldwide traditions.
Save the date for the 2026 Diplomatic Ball on Saturday, April 18th hosted by Malaysia, Philippines, and Republic of China/Taiwan.
Northland Ethnic Festival
The Northland Ethnic Festival celebrates culture and heritage with global food, vibrant exhibitions, and performances, offering an enriching experience that brings together diverse communities in Kansas City for a day of entertainment.
Outreach Events
Outreach programs are the cornerstone of our mission, fostering ethnic identity, preserving cultural heritage, and celebrating the rich mosaic of Kansas City’s communities through vibrant traditions, languages, cuisine, and artistic expression at events year round.
Benefits
Who We Serve
Fostering Connections Across Kansas City
Through partnering with our community members, we are able to participate/create community centric programs throughout Kansas City focused on:
- Celebrating Diversity
- Promoting Cultural Awareness
- Preserving Heritage
- Encouraging Inclusivity
- Strengthening Community Bonds
- Promoting Global Understanding
The Heart of Our Work
Commitment to Unity Through Diversity
We prioritize fostering connections between different ethnic communities, ensuring that every culture is celebrated, respected, and valued within the fabric of our community.
Educational Opportunities for Cultural Engagement
Through educational programs and events, we offer individuals and families the chance to learn about and engage with diverse cultural traditions, promoting deeper understanding and appreciation.
Empowering Communities to Share Their Heritage
We empower local communities to share their unique cultures and histories, helping preserve their traditions while fostering a richer, more inclusive society.
Get Involved
Join us in celebrating cultural diversity and enriching our community by getting involved with the Ethnic Enrichment Commission.
Snapshots of Community, Culture, and Connection
Immerse yourself in this vibrant celebration of culture and heritage through our captivating photo gallery. Each image tells a story, capturing the rich diversity and timeless traditions of our events. Come, celebrate with us.
A message from our Chairperson
For nearly fifty years, the Ethnic Enrichment Commission has served as a vibrant mosaic of cultures from around the world, each finding a voice and a home in Kansas City. As chairperson, I take great pride in this milestone and in reaffirming our dedication to fostering cultural understanding and appreciation….
A message from our Chairperson
For nearly fifty years, the Ethnic Enrichment Commission has served as a vibrant mosaic of cultures from around the world, each finding a voice and a home in Kansas City. As chairperson, I take great pride in this milestone and in reaffirming our dedication to fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. Representing over 70 member commissions, our organization acts as a crucial bridge, promoting dialogue and celebrating the region’s ethnic rich diversity. We believe that embracing different cultures is essential for creating a stronger, more inclusive community. Through year-round outreach programs, we actively connect and celebrate the diverse communities that make Kansas City unique.
As we look to the future, our mission remains steadfast: to honor, share and celebrate the diverse cultures & communities that will enrich our city for generations to come.
Our Partners/Sponsors
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🐻 It was a busy morning in the Teddy Bear Health Clinic at KC Parks and Rec’s Teddy Bear Picnic! We had so much fun doing wellness checks and repairing all the bears.
See us next Sunday at Kansas City’s Lawn Party at Theis Park from 4-8 PM selling beer and seltzers!
#eeckc #ethnickc #teddybearhospital #teddybearpicnic #kansascity
Thanks to everyone who celebrated World Refugee Day with us this past Saturday! It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our community partners.
#ethnickc #eeckc #worldrefugeeday #kansascity
Save the date for our 47th Annual Ethnic Enrichment Festival on August 21-23 in Swope Park!
Embark on a journey tasting rich flavors from around the world, feel the rhythm of captivating performances, and uncover unique crafts from distant lands.
Tickets: $5 Adults, Kids under 12 are Free
Purchase tickets at the event or online through the link in our bio starting July 21
Free Parking!
Swope Park, KCMO
4177 Pavilion Rd., Kansas City, MO 64130
Festival Hours
Friday, August 21 | 6-10 PM
Saturday, August 22 | 12-10 PM
Sunday, August 23 | 12-6 PM
Sorry, no pets allowed.
Questions?
Contact: 816-513-7553 or info@eeckc.org
Video by @crystaldaisyproductions
#ethnickc #eeckc #ethnicfestival #thingstodoinkansascity #foodfest
🌎Join us this Saturday from 11 AM-3 PM at Garrison Community Center to celebrate World Refugee Day!
Enjoy cultural entertainment, learn about the organizations who support them, and celebrate the strength and contributions refugees bring to our city.
#ethnickc #eeckc #worldrefugeeday #thingstodokansascity #kansascity
Come check us out tomorrow at @nkcartsinthepark! We’ll be performing and serving food all day. #ethnickc #eeckc #thingstodoinkansascity
Photos from our 2026 Diplomatic Ball “Sailing the East Asian Sea”! See more photos on our Facebook.
Thanks again to our host countries of Malaysia, Philippines, and Republic of China/Taiwan for the fantastic entertainment! 🇲🇾🇵🇭🇹🇼
📷: @s.k.slaughter
#eeckc #ethnickc
Thank you to everyone who came to our 2026 Diplomatic Ball “Sailing the East Asian Sea” this past weekend! It was a lovely evening celebrating the commission and the host countries Malaysia, Philippines, and Republic of China/Taiwan! 🇲🇾🇵🇭🇹🇼
Stay tuned for more pictures on our Facebook. Tag us in your pictures from the event!
#eeckc #ethnickc #diplomaticball #kansascity
