The Californer - Lots of Tails Waggin' in Kansas City's West Bottoms First Friday Weekend

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Leashed Dogs Welcome around the Historic District at Barks in the Bottoms August 6-8

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Californer -- The dog days of summer have arrived, but there are still summer fun times left. The West Bottoms announces their 4^th Annual Barks in the Bottoms, First Friday Weekend event August 6-8. Visitors are encouraged to bring their leashed furry friends to the district, where many stores will offer water and treats to the four-legged tail-waggers. West Bottoms' organizers will also have drop-off spots where they will be accepting unopened cans and bags of dog and cat food to be collected to donate to Great Plains SPCA to care for dogs and cats in need. Each donation will be allowed an entry for a chance to win four tickets to the Beast Haunted House opening night, September 10.

A dog-ready retreat space will be available inside participating stores and at the "puppy lounge" under the historic 12^th Street Bridge to offer shade and a place for pets and their people to mingle. The bridge is adjacent to the food trucks, outdoor bar offerings, and the thirty-plus stores on each side throughout the thirteen blocks surrounding it. The West Bottoms is known for vintage, antiques, and upcycled vintage items that offer function, style, and a story. Other treasures in the district include new apparel for back-to-school or work and contemporary furnishings, dinnerware, and garden items. While the historic nature of the community fits the eclectic options and charm, the district also hosts the Full Moon Escape Rooms and several cafes, coffee shops, and restaurants.

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"For many of us, our dogs have been our partners through the pandemic," said Amber Arnett-Bequeaith, West Bottoms spokesperson for the district. "Bringing the dogs to the Bottoms is not only fun for dogs, but it brings people together. We'll be accepting donations of dog and cat food to give to Great Plains SPCA."

First Fridays' Festival of the Full Moon is a daytime event that gleans inspiration from the month's moon. And just like August's Blue Moon – Barks in the Bottoms only happens once a year.

About the West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District:

The West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District, located just off the 12th Street Bridge, has 22 warehouses in a thirteen-block area with approximately 600 vendors and more than thirty stores and restaurants. Many of its large, multi-story buildings have histories starting over 120 years ago. These repurposed, vast spaces form the largest, year-round, indoor vintage entertainment district. The West Bottoms is the destination for interior decorators and designers, collectors, and consumers seeking stylish décor and gift options with history and patina that cannot be replicated. The new Full Moon Escape Rooms add another adventure option in the area. westbottoms.com

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