⚽ World Cup Fever Is Coming: Kansas City Gears Up for the Biggest Show on Earth

Community

⚽ World Cup Fever Is Coming:

Kansas City Gears Up for the Biggest Show on Earth

By: NATALIE BOWER/ 4 February 2026

Big news, Kansas City. The world is coming to our backyard. From June 11 to July 19, 2026, the FIFA World Cup, the biggest and most-watched sporting event on the planet, will take over cities across North America. Six matches will be played right here in KC.

That’s right. The global game known as “football” (not the one with the brown pigskin and helmets we watch on Sundays) is officially making a huge splash in our city. Just to be clear: this “football” is the kind where the ball is round, kicked a lot, and never thrown in a spiral. That’s soccer to us - but to the rest of the world, it’s serious business!

🌍 A Global Party Across the Continent

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will rewrite history:

• The 2026 World Cup is breaking records:

  • 🗓️ June 11 – July 19, 2026

  • ⚽ 48 countries will compete — more than ever before

  • 🏟️ Matches played across 11 U.S. cities, including Kansas City!

And for the first time, 11 U.S. cities — including Kansas City — will host games alongside cities like Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, LA, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, Seattle, and the San Francisco Bay Area.

🏆 Kansas City: A World Stage in the Heart of America

Kansas City won’t just be along for the ride — it’s set to host SIX electrifying World Cup matches at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. 🇦🇷⚽ Teams confirmed to play here include soccer powerhouses and international favorites like Argentina, Netherlands, Ecuador, Tunisia, Algeria, and Austria.

Imagine the roar of the crowd as Lionel Messi (yes, that Lionel Messi) leads Argentina onto the pitch under the summer sky — all right here in the Heart of America! Kansas City will transform into a global soccer celebration, complete with fan zones, cultural events, music, and endless street‑party energy.

🗓️ Match Dates: 2026 FIFA World Cup in Kansas City

June 16 | Tuesday | 8:00 PM | Match 19
FIFA World Cup 26 – Argentina vs. Algeria

June 20 | Saturday | 7:00 PM | Match 34
FIFA World Cup 26 – Ecuador vs. Curaçao

June 25 | Thursday | 6:00 PM | Match 58
FIFA World Cup 26 – Tunisia vs. Netherlands

June 27 | Saturday | 9:00 PM | Match 69
FIFA World Cup 26 – Algeria vs. Austria

July 3 | Friday | 8:30 PM | Match 87
FIFA World Cup 26 – Round of 32

July 11 | Saturday | 8:00 PM | Match 100
FIFA World Cup 26 – Quarterfinals

🏙️ Will Kansas City Be Ready?

That's the big question - and the answer is: We're getting there!

Kansas City is preparing in a major way:

• 🛣️ Transportation upgrades are in the works to handle the crowd.

• 🏨 New hotels and hospitality plans are expanding to welcome international guests.

• 👮 Security and city services are being boosted to keep everyone safe and organized.

• 🎉 Fan events and cultural festivals are already being planned around town.

City leaders, businesses, and community organizations are all working together to ensure Kansas City not only hosts the matches — but truly shines while doing it.

And for locals? This means:

• More traffic - yes.

• Bigger crowds - definitely.

• But also: More opportunities to show off our city, support local businesses, volunteer and maybe even rent out that spare room to a traveling fan or journalist.

🎉 Why This Matters

This World Cup is more than a sports event. It’s a once-in-a-generation celebration that will bring the world to our doorstep. It’s a chance to:

• Show off Kansas City’s culture, BBQ, and hospitality

• Welcome new visitors - and maybe future residents

• Inspire young athletes and fans across the city

• Be part of a global moment that starts right here at home

So whether you're a lifelong soccer fan, a curious newbie, or just excited about the buzz — Kansas City is on the world’s stage in 2026. Let’s get ready to cheer, host, and show the world how we do right here in the Heart of America! 🌎 ⚽

Metro North Is Coming Back To Life

Community

Metro North Is Coming Back To Life

By: GAYLA HIATT / 13 January 2026

A familiar Northland landmark is entering a new chapter and the momentum is building.

If you remember the balloons at Metro North Mall, you’re not alone. For many Northlanders, this space holds memories of first jobs, weekend errands, and time spent with family and friends. My first job at Steve’s Shoes was here!

Now, Metro North Crossing is stepping into a new chapter. One that brings fresh energy, new experiences, and a renewed sense of purpose to a place that has long been part of our community.

A Major Addition: NRG Adventure Park

One of the most exciting developments on the way is NRG Adventure Park, a high-energy, family-friendly destination designed for all ages. This interactive experience brings movement, color, and connection back into the space and signals that Metro North Crossing is becoming a place to gather again, not just pass through.

NRG Adventure Park is more than entertainment. It represents a shift toward experiences that create memories, exactly what this location has always done best.

More Than One New Thing Taking Shape

NRG Adventure Park is just one piece of what’s happening at Metro North Crossing. The area is building momentum with a thoughtful mix of dining, entertainment, and lifestyle businesses that make it easy to spend time here.

Some local favorites and new additions include:

• Third Street Social, a go-to spot for elevated comfort food and gathering with friends

• KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, an interactive dining experience perfect for groups

• Thai Orchid, a longtime favorite known for bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere is now in the Northland

• T-Shotz, combining golf, games, and entertainment in one energetic space

• Bloom Nails & Spa, offering a polished stop for self-care and relaxation, a fun date night!

• Hull House Coffee, Specialty Artisan Coffee - Roasted in House

Together, these businesses create balance. Food, fun, and everyday experiences all in one location.

Why This Matters for the Northland

Seeing Metro North Crossing evolve is about more than new storefronts. It’s about reinvesting in a space that has always mattered to this community and giving it new life for the next generation.

This revitalization brings energy back to the area, creates places to connect, and reminds us that familiar spaces can grow without losing their roots.

Metro North Crossing is just getting started and this new chapter is one worth watching.

👉 Follow us on Instagram: @GaylaHiattHomeGroup

🏡 Just Listed: 10229 N. Avalon Avenue, Kansas City, MO

Real Estate

10229 N. AVALON AVENUE, KANSAS CITY, MO 64154 | A Rare Find in the Hawksbury Subdivision

By: GAYLA HIATT / 12 January 2026

🏡 Just Listed: 10229 N. Avalon Avenue | A Rare Find in the Hawksbury Subdivision

If you're looking for a home that checks every box—space, style, and location—this beautifully maintained two-story in the highly sought-after Hawksbury subdivision is the one. Built by McFarland Custom Homes, this is one of the most coveted custom two-story floor plans in the neighborhood—offering craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and lasting value.

🛏 4 Bedrooms | 🛁 4.5 Bathrooms | 🚗 3-Car Garage

Located in the top-rated Platte County R-III School District, this spacious residence offers a functional layout perfect for families and entertainers alike. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be impressed by the elegant features and well-planned flow.

🌟 Key Features:

• Gourmet Eat-In Kitchen with granite countertops, walk-in pantry plus a second pantry for ultimate storage

• Formal Dining Room ideal for holidays and hosting

• Enclosed Sun Porch – your new favorite morning coffee spot

• Primary Suite Retreat featuring a soaker tub, dual vanities, and large walk-in closet

• Finished Lower Level with wet bar, surround sound speakers, office/bonus room, and extra storage

List Price: $550,000  4 Bedrooms 4.5 bathrooms  3,964 SQ FT

Outside, enjoy a spacious deck, in-ground sprinkler system, and motion-activated security lighting.

📍 Perfectly Located

You're just a quick golf cart ride to Tiffany Greens Golf Course and minutes from shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

🎯 Selling in January? Why It’s Smart.

Thinking about selling your current home? According to our latest insights, January and February are among the most strategic months to list. If you’d like to see what your home could be worth or talk through a smart strategy for the year ahead, click the link HERE to get started.

🗝️ Make This Home Yours

10229 N. Avalon Avenue offers the perfect combination of charm, functionality, and location. Whether you're upsizing or relocating, don’t miss this opportunity to own in one of the Northland’s most desirable neighborhoods.

📞 Contact us today at 816-320-6255 to schedule your private showing or to learn more.

👉 Click here for more details on 10229 N. Avalon Avenue

An Insider's Guide to Kansas City Restaurant Week

Real Estate

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO KANSAS CITY RESTAURANT WEEK

By: GAYLA HIATT / 8 January 2026

This Friday marks the start of Kansas City’s 2026 Annual Restaurant Week! It’s one of our favorite times of the year where the community comes together to celebrate the flavors that make Kansas City a food lover’s paradise.

We created this guide to help you make the most of this week — whether you’re dining out with family, planning a foodie date night, or discovering a new favorite restaurant.

Browse the pages below for insider tips, local favorites, how Restaurant Week works, and details on the featured charity we’re proud to support.

Enjoy everything this city has to offer!

Download Your Guide Below:

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOUR GUIDE

The Power of Selling Early

Real Estate

Why January and February May Be the Most Strategic Time to Sell Your Home

By: GAYLA HIATT / 1 January 2026

A quiet market shift is happening - and prepared sellers are in the best position to win.

If you’re reading this in January, here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: January and February are often the most strategic months to list a home.

We’re coming off the third consecutive .25% rate cut from the Federal Reserve, and while that number may sound small, its impact is already being felt. This is the kind of shift that brings momentum back into the market quietly before the headlines catch up.

Behind the scenes, buyers are paying attention.

Buyers who paused in the fall are back to running the numbers. Many are already pre-approved, motivated, and watching closely. At the same time, inventory remains low. Fewer homes on the market means the right listings are getting more attention.

That combination creates opportunity especially for sellers who act early.

A .25% rate drop may not feel dramatic at first glance, but over the life of a loan, it adds up quickly.

On a $300,000 home, buyers can save $15,000 or more over a 30-year mortgage. On higher-priced homes, especially those closer to the million-dollar range, savings can climb closer to $50,000 to $60,000.

That kind of long-term savings builds confidence. And confident buyers make decisions. When buyers get excited again, sellers who are ready are the ones who benefit most.

Homes that hit the market in January and February benefit from rising buyer demand paired with limited competition. While many homeowners are waiting for spring, early sellers are already positioned front and center.

Homes that are:
• Well-prepped
• Well-priced
• Professionally marketed

stand out immediately and often sell before spring inventory floods the market.

Once March and April arrive, sellers face more competition and more noise. Early-year sellers often negotiate from a stronger position because their homes aren’t competing against a flood of new listings.

January and February reward sellers who plan ahead, price correctly, and launch with intention.

Whether you’re considering selling now or later this year, these early months are the right time to start the conversation. Even if your goal is a spring or summer move, planning now gives you more control, better timing, and stronger results.

If you’d like to see what your home could be worth or talk through a smart strategy for the year ahead, click the link HERE to get started.