When you register for KansasFest, almost your entire experience is paid for, from when you check in Tuesday afternoon to when you check out on Sunday. When it comes to dining, the only exceptions are dinner on Tuesday and Saturday nights. These two evenings are opportunities for attendees to explore the many fine dining options of Kansas City. There have been many traditions and venues over the years, and in 2011, we’ll again be trying something new.

On Tuesday, the first night of the event, KFesters will carpool and caravan to the freight house location of Jack Stack Barbecue, a restaurant that specializes in the BBQ that is a Kansas City hallmark. Jack Stack was the site of our Saturday night dinner in 2009, and our attendees’ accolades have us going back, but on a night that will be more accommodating to a party of our size. Departure from Rockhurst will begin around 5:30 PM CDT, so if you are arriving that day, please plan accordingly.

Lidia’s, an Italian restaurant that also hosted us in 2010. A variety of dishes, a flexible staff, and an elegant atmosphere will ensure the perfect finalé to a week of KansasFest.

It can be challenging to find just the right restaurants that will accommodate a large group of geeks and a diverse palette. We’re confident that this year’s combination, which was a popular choice in last year’s KansasFest alumni survey, will host the Apple II community to its satisfaction — and if not, we’ll listen to your feedback and adjust accordingly for 2012.

As KansasFest attendee Dean Nichols commented on our mailing list, “[It doesn’t matter to me] where we go to eat; it is the opportunity to break bread with friends that I value.” Regardless of the menu, you won’t find fellow diners like this anywhere else!