A proud patron partner of this year’s Parade of Hearts, Sporting Kansas City and The Victory Project recently unveiled "Soccer United" by local art teacher Dennis Stanton at Sporting Park.
Located at the corner of Sporting Way and Village West Parkway in Kansas City, Kansas, the heart design celebrates the FIFA World Cup coming to North America this summer with the flags of the three host nations displayed on one side and a player on the pitch on the opposite side.
Parade of Hearts is a unique public art initiative that launched in 2021 to celebrate Kansas City's creativity, culture and compassion through the symbol of the heart. The civic art project has evolved into a region-wide experience that encourages exploration, tourism and community pride while raising funds for nonprofit organizations through the auction of each sculpture.
“These hearts embody artistic excellence and the breadth of the artistic talent from the Kansas City region,” said Jenn Nussbeck, Executive Director for Parade Of Hearts. “The designs show extraordinary diversity, and each unique creation reflects how open our hearts are to one another and to all who visit our region. They are powerful symbols of unity and belonging that showcase the spirit and pride of our region to the world. Locals and visitors alike will not just see art; they will feel the heart of a community.”
A total of 150 hearts are spread throughout the Kansas City region with this year's collection featuring the largest geographic footprint yet as well as a newly redesigned sculpture with a circular shape to symbolize unity and a signature keyhole at the center to represent the openness and welcoming spirit of the region. The monuments will be displayed from April until August.
About Parade of Hearts
Parade of Hearts continues its mission to unite the Kansas City region through a free, first-of-its-kind public art experience featuring unique heart sculptures created by local artists and designers. Embracing Kansas City’s identity as the Heart of America, the initiative strengthens communities through art by invigorating local economies, promoting tourism, fostering community pride, enhancing cultural awareness, inspiring creativity, and beautifying public spaces. In 2026, Parade of Hearts will connect more than 50 cities, multiple counties, two states, and one Heartland through a shared vision of unity, expression, and belonging. For more information, visit theparadeofhearts.com and follow @theparadeofhearts on social media.
