Celebrate Roeland Park's
75th Birthday
For 75 years, Roeland Park has been shaped by neighbors who cared deeply about where they lived and who made intentional choices to protect, grow, and strengthen their community. From its earliest gathering places to today’s vibrant neighborhoods and business district, Roeland Park’s story is one of thoughtful progress, civic pride, and strong local roots.
Roe Fest Through the Years
Join us for RoeFest, Roeland Park’s 75th birthday celebration and carnival! Enjoy rides, games, food trucks, drinks, and live music as we come together to mark this milestone and celebrate our community.
October 3, 2026
1-6pm
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Join Us in Supporting
Interested in being a sponsor at RoeFest?
Birthday Celebration Series!
Fun for All Ages
75 Years of Roeland Park
Fun Facts
Roeland Park's Growth
Roeland Park’s growth was not rushed. Schools, churches and businesses expanded as the population grew, with community input guiding where and how that growth happened.
Business District
Beginning in the late 1940s, the Vawter shopping center was intentionally built to serve residents & brought grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, restaurants, and services into a central, walkable area that became a community hub.
First School
One of the first schools in Roeland Park was Skyline School, which has now been transformed into the Community Center.
Naming of Skyline School
The name of Skyline School was named by students. They named it after the views of the KC skyline visible from the school.
Major Fire
A major fire in 1968 damaged ten businesses in the main shopping center, but the district was rebuilt and continued serving residents soon after.
Churches
Early congregations met in rail stations, homes, and school classrooms before building permanent churches.
Roseland School
Roesland School has served students since opening as a one-room schoolhouse in 1873.
Number of Residents
1951
1000
2026
5800
Number of Homes
1951
0
2026
2300
Median Home Value
1951
$
1
k
2026
$
200
k
Number of Trees
1951
0
2026
2700