Events at Kanbe’s Markets
Kanbe’s Upcoming Events
From Ugly Dinners to givebacks and hands on classes, our events bring people together around food, creativity, and access to fresh produce.
A ticketed dinner series spotlighting local chefs, rescued ingredients, and conversation around food access.
Hands-on classes led by Kanbe’s and partners—
from jam-making to food preservation and more!
Partner-hosted events where a percentage of sales support Kanbe’s Markets and fresh food access.
Upcoming Featured Event:
2026 Ugly Dinner Series
For four years now we have partnered with the best KC restaurants and most talented local chefs. Inspired by our mission, they have opened their kitchen, to create heartfelt, intimate, and memorable dishes. We have grown a community of foodies that flourished through these dinners, and it has been our honor to share these meals with you all.
More spectacular dinners are just around the corner!
All dinners and ticket links are first announced through our email list, so make sure to stay subscribed, and tell your friends as well!
Kanbe’s Classes & Workshop
Hands-on classes led by Kanbe’s and partners—from jam-making to food preservation.
Kanbe’s Givebacks
Every decision we make is shaped by a clear sense of purpose. Our journey has been anything but ordinary. Through every step, we've focused on staying true to our values and making space for thoughtful, lasting work.
more events coming soon!
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more events coming soon! 〰️
Grassroots Growers Members Page
Are you a member?
You can check out all the special events, updates, and behind-the-scenes content right here! This page is password protected.
Don’t have the password?
Contact Risa at Risa@kanbesmarkets.org to get access.
2025 Ugly Happy Hour Series Presents: KC Taco Company
Sip, snack, and support! Join Kanbe’s Markets and KC Taco for a special Hunger Action Month happy hour. Your $20 ticket includes one signature Cocktails for a Cause drink made with Kanbe’s rescued produce and one KC Taco bite. Proceeds help expand fresh, affordable food access across Kansas City.
Plate & Pallet – A New Dining Experience with Kanbe’s Markets *SOLD OUT*
Join us for a high-end dinner placed purposefully in an everyday space. Because when the community gathers, generosity grows—and access follows. Expect thoughtful pairings, warm conversation, and the kind of hospitality that turns strangers into a table of friends. Arrive ready to savor, and shape the future, because every seat sets the table for someone else in our community.
Afterschool Giveback at Wylde Thyme
Join us at Wylde Thyme (formerly Billie’s Grocery / UnJuicery) on September 12 from 12–5 PM for a Hunger Action Month giveback event. 20% of all sales benefit Kanbe’s Markets, supporting fresh food access in Kansas City. Snap a pic of the Hunger Action Month billboard and raise a glass to community impact!
Cocktails for a Cause!
Cocktails For A Cause
Presented by Rose Productions, Toki Suntory Whiskey & Kanbe’s Markets
From September 8–30, enjoy specialty cocktails around Kansas City made with rescued plums from Kanbe’s Markets—plums that were intercepted before reaching landfills. These imperfect but delicious fruits are transformed into fresh or syrup-based cocktails by participating bars and restaurants.
Give Back:
$1 from every Kanbe’s plum cocktail sold supports the creation of Fresh Food Access Points, connecting communities with fresh, affordable produce.
Hunger Action Month: Sunrise Sort
Join us at Kanbe’s Warehouse for a connected, family-friendly morning as we launch Hunger Action Month!
Begin the day with pastries, coffee, and fresh fruit, followed by an opportunity to lend a hand to our sorting efforts and mission!
Whether you're a longtime supporter or new to Kanbe’s Markets, this is the perfect way to get to know us even better and join the new food system we’re building right here in KC.
Limited spots available - registration required!
Kanbe's Community Carnival
Kanbe’s Community Carnival!
Come by for a free produce giveaway, free food, free entertainment & games!
Cocktails for a Cause!
Drink up! Using Kanbe’s rescued apples, participating venues will be whipping up delicious Maker’s Mark cocktail. $1 of every drink will support Kanbe’s Markets efforts to fight hunger in our city.
Participating bars and restaurants include: The Campground, Voltaire, Golden Ox, Stockyards,The Belfry, The W, Pierpont’s, Goat & Rabbit, Lula Southern Cookhouse and Muni.
Thelma's Kitchen Ugly Dinner
Chef Bailey and team will make a beautiful meal from Kanbe’s Markets rescued produce. Proceeds of the dinner with be split evenly between both food justice organizations.
Cliff's Give Back Thursdays
Every Thursday, 10% of your tab when you dine at Cliff’s helps Kanbe’s Markets combat food insecurity
Mildreds X Kanbe's Round Up!
Round up to the nearest dollar with any purchase at Mildred’s, and your change will help Kanbe’s Markets transform food loss into food access.
This February, treat yourself at Bad Cat Beauty and support fresh food access in Kansas City. Add the $5 Nourish + Restore giveback to any Bad Cat Beauty service, with proceeds supporting Kanbe’s Markets and affordable access to fresh fruits and vegetables in local neighborhoods.
STARTS FEB 1!
Check out the services here »
Giveback applies to appointments booked between 2/1/26–2/28/26.