A bit of Thailand comes to downtown Kansas City at a party called the New Beginning and the New Year. The festivities at the Clubhouse on Baltimore (1228 Baltimore) mark the birthday of the king of Thailand, feature different aspects of Thai culture, and celebrate the American new year. "It's been a couple of decades since there's been a Thai function in Kansas City," says Noom Drowns, the event's organizer. To commemorate a "new beginning" of the Thai community, Drowns decided to put together the party to showcase his culture and raise money to build a Buddhist temple in KC. The party starts at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails, followed by dinner catered by Thai Place. Afterward, there's a short ceremony to honor the king, a fashion show and a demonstration of Muay Thai boxing, plus karaoke and dancing to a Thai band (playingAmerican music, too). Dress is semiformal; tickets cost $35 and include two drinks. For more information, contact Drowns at 816-739-5626.
Fri., Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m., 2008
