Holiday Celebrations in the New Midwest

Trademark TraditionsCheerful lights & other inspiring sights

Plaza Lights

Celebrating its 90th year, this beloved lighting ceremony at the Country Club Plaza signifies the best of the season thanks to festive decorations, gift-getting options galore and candle-lit culinary experiences—all combining to make a one-of-a-kind tradition. NOV. 28–JAN. 12

Mayor’s Christmas Tree

At more than 100 feet high and touting 10,600 bulbs, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree is easily one of the most breathtaking sights of the holiday season. Be sure to attend the lighting ceremony and stick around for incredible shopping, dining and entertainment at the all-in-one Crown Center. NOV. 29–JAN. 5

WinterFest

A high point of the season, Worlds of Fun transforms into a holiday village full of whimsical cheer during WinterFest. Visitors are invited to ice-skate, marvel at a nightly tree lighting, enjoy live shows and partake in plenty of other family-focused activities. NOV. 23–DEC. 31

Merriments at Union Station

Union Station features a never-ending array of festivities in November and December. Highlighted by a visit from the Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Train, guests also can’t help but photograph Union Station’s spectacular Christmas tree and admire its wondrous decorations and beautifully restored halls.

Seasonal SpectaclesCelebrate in style with one-of-a-kind experiences

Ice-skating

Whether on a romantic date, spending time with family or simply enjoying the brisk winter season, the Crown Center Ice Terrace is ideal for making December memories in the heart of Kansas City. Find other popular rinks in Shawnee, Independence and Lee’s Summit.

Christmas in the Park

Youngsters and the young at heart love the dazzling, animated lighting displays in Jackson County’s drive-thru Christmas in the Park. The fun kicks off with the synchronized Christmas in the Sky show in the Sky show (Nov. 27), but bicyclists can sneak a peek by riding through the display during a special bikes-only event (Nov. 24). NOV. 27–DEC. 31

Northern lights

Wintertime is the best time for a little northern exposure. Travel to Zona Rosa to delight in giant illuminated crowns that light your path as you select gifts from favorite national brands in this premier shopping destination. NOV. 23–JAN.

Southern style

Just south of Downtown KC, merrymakers can visit the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for winter magic during the Holiday Luminary Walk (Nov. 29–30, Dec. 6–7, Dec. 13–14). In nearby Olathe, the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm invites time travelers to a pioneer Christmas celebration straight out of the 1860s (Dec. 7).

Winter WonderlandSoaring pigskin passes, perfect presents & more late-year goodness

Seasonal sports

Between home games at Arrowhead spent cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Mavericks hockey matches in Independence and hoops during the College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic at Sprint Center (Nov. 25–26), there’s no shortage of opportunities to show your team spirit during winters in the New Midwest.

Gift shopping

Treat the KC Streetcar as your very own sleigh this season by tracking down locally made presents in the Crossroads Arts District and fan gear and trendy outfits in the Power & Light District. Meanwhile, try Legends Outlets for discounts and deals on hip threads, and make a trip to the Country Club Plaza to shop high-end brands.

J. Rieger & Co. Hospitality Center

Get into the holiday spirit with KC-made spirits. The new J. Rieger & Co. Hospitality Center is an adults-only playground that offers everything from specialty cocktails and distillery tours to private event spaces—and, yes, even a slide. Cheers!

Downtown Dazzle

Don’t miss a moment of Downtown Dazzle this season. Score some of the best discounts of the holidays with the exclusive Dazzling Deals Booklet and celebrate with other favorite events. Find more info at DazzleKC.com. NOV. 22–DEC. 31