The Plaza Lights
The plaza lights are perhaps the most recognizable Christmas tradition in Kansas City. They were turned on after Thanksgiving, but will remain on until mid-January. Make a trip down to see the 80 miles of multi-colored bulbs while doing some Christmas shopping on the Plaza
When: Now until mid-January
Admission: Free
Location: The Country Club Plaza, 4750 Broadway Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64112
More Info: www.countryclubplaza.com
Whoville Holidays!
Whoville Holidays is open Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on November 24, December 1, 8, 15 and 22. The Grinch will be present for photos between the hours of 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and Noon- 1:00 p.m. Whoville Holidays will be located at 400 Grand, Suite 428 at the Northeast corner of the City Market. Whos of all ages are encouraged to bring their camera to get a picture with the Grinch in the warmth of Cindy Lou Who’s home. Little Who’s will enjoy the Whoville Holiday children’s activity area where they can make Whoville themed tree ornaments, a Grinch mask and more!
When: December 8,15, and 22
Admission: Free
Location: The City Market: 400 Grand Suite 428 Kansas City, MO
More Info: www.thecitymarket.org/events/overview
Santa’s Gingerbread Village
Three locomotives travel through a Santa’s gingerbread village in the North Pole, all created by the chefs at The Westin Crown Center hotel. See the reindeer stable, Santa’s sleigh garage, the elves’ dorm, a doll, rocking horse, and ball factory, and even Mr. & Mrs. Claus’ home.
When: Now through December 31st M-W: 10am-6pm, Th-F: noon-5pm, Sat: 10am-9pm
Admission: Free
Location: Crown Center: 2450 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64108
More Info: www.crowncenter.com
Classics Uncorked: “The Holly and the Ivy”
Join the Kansas City Symphony on Thursday evenings at Helzberg Hall for our new Classics Uncorked Series to jump-start your weekend. Tickets are $25 each and include a glass of champagne or wine after the concert. Musicians will perform Vivaldi’s “Winter” from The Four Seasons, Vaughn Williams’ Fantasia on Greensleeves, Bizet’s “Farandole” and many other spirited holiday selections.
When: December 6th
Admission: $25
Location: Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64108
More Info: www.kcsymphony.org
Kansas City Ballet -“The Nutcracker”
Todd Bolender’s The Nutcracker is the heart of Kansas City’s holiday season! As soon as the lights dim, you’ll be transported to a magical place. From the magnificent sets and costumes to the acclaimed Kansas City Symphony playing Tchaikovsky’s wondrous music, you’ll witness some of the most glorious dancing on earth.
When: December 1-23rd
Admission: $29-$119
Location: Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64108
More Info: www.kcballet.org
Parkville’s Christmas on the River
Parkville’s famous, family-style celebration greets the season with live entertainment, special activities, Santa’s arrival and a spectacular firework display!
When: December 7th 5-10pm
Admission: FREE
Location: Main Street and Hwy 9 Parkville, MO 64152
More Info: www.parkvillemo.org
“A Christmas Carol”
The new turntable set, special effects and audience interaction all return this year, along with a cast of Kansas City’s favorite veteran and up-and-coming actors, led by everyone’s favorite Scrooge, Gary Neal Johnson.
When: Now through December 26th
Location: Kansas City Repertory Theatre, 4949 Cherry Street Kansas City, MO 64110
More Info: www.kcrep.org
Free Holiday Classic Movies
Every Sunday from December 2nd through December 23, get in the holiday spirit with free classic holiday movies offered at Legends Outlets Kansas City’s Legends 14 Theater. Limited seating is available and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call The Legends 14 Theater at 913-428-2979. The free holiday movie schedule at The Legends 14 is: Sunday, December 2 – A Christmas Story Sunday, December 9 – Polar Express Sunday, December 16 – It’s A Wonderful Life Sunday, December 23 – Miracle on 34th Street
When: December 2nd-23rd
Admission: FREE
Location: The Legends Outlets: 1843 Village West Parkway Suite C-127 Kansas City, KS 66111
More Info: www.legendsshopping.com
Christmas Card Lane
Christmas Card Lane in Olathe, Kansas is an entire subdivision of homes with extravagant Christmas decorations & lights, tied together thematically by giant Christmas cards with greetings from each family. Nearly 200 homes are decorated with Christmas lights and luminaries. Two of the displays include quiet music coordinated to flashing lights.
When: Nightly from Thanksgiving until New Year
Admission: FREE
Location: Ridgeview and north of 151st Street Olathe, KS 66062
More Info: www.kansastravel.org/olathe/christmascardlane.htm
*Some information from www.visitkc.com. Go to visitkc.com for even more fun things to do around the holidays!
