Top 11 Things to Do in Kansas City During the Holidays
The holiday season is quickly approaching, and you know what that means – it’s time for fun holiday activities with those you love. I have to admit, this time of the year is my favorite time to experience Kansas City. The air seems to fill with love and positivity, and your heart grows bigger, even if you’re a Grinch. And if you’re anything like me, you love to partake in the festivities and excitement that come with spending the holiday season in KC. I’ve taken the legwork out of the planning for you and gathered together the top things to do in Kansas City during the holidays.
Walk Thru Village at Union Station
Explore the magic of the holidays at the Union Station’s Holiday Reflections. Starting November 21st, the Union Station will be transformed into a festive masterpiece. Towering trees, festive decorations, and classic seasonal films will mesmerize you as you stroll through one of Kansas City’s most historic spaces. For added fun, you can send your kiddos on a trip through Rudy’s Wonderland on the Mini Holiday Express Ride-On Train. This is one holiday stop you won’t want to miss!
A Christmas Carol
The Kansas City Repertory Theatre is back to perform A Christmas Carol from November 18th through December 24th. Delight in the season as you join Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of holiday discovery. This Charles Dickens classic has touched the hearts of many. Don’t miss out on this production!
Holiday Lights Tour
Of all of the things to do during the holidays, the Kansas City Holiday Lights Tour is my favorite. Picture this: you and your closest family and friends come together for an evening of holiday magic. Cuddled up with cozy blankets and your favorite holiday beverages and settle in for a private tour of the very best holiday lights in Kansas City. With so many areas to see, you’ll wonder how you were able to pack it all into one night of excitement. But the tour leaders know the ins and outs of the best Christmas light viewing areas around town, and they are able to easily navigate the glittering city. With your favorite Christmas movie playing on the mini coach TV, your favorite people gathered around you, and the thousands of festive lights, you’ll want to make this an annual holiday tradition. Better book your tour quickly though; they fill up fast!
Ice Skating
Get ready to lace up your skates and enjoy the picturesque backdrop of the Crown Center Ice Terrace. Holiday ice skating is back for the 50th season starting on November 4th. Skating will last until sometime in March. There’s a reason this skating rink has been recognized by USA Today as one of America’s top ice-skating rinks. Don’t miss out on this fun!
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be making a stop in Kansas City this holiday season! Keep the holiday feeling alive and attend their show The Ghosts of Christmas Eve on December 26th at T-Mobile Center.
Soul of Santa at 18th & Vine
The Soul of Santa is bringing a full lineup of Christmas cheer to 18th & Vine. This holiday season they will host a variety of festive events – a Holiday Benefit concert, Christmas tree lighting, Community Breakfast, and Toy Giveaway. Be sure to check out their holiday fun!
Nutcracker Ballet
A favorite tradition for many is attending a performance of The Nutcracker Ballet during the holidays. This season the Kansas City Ballet will be performing this holiday favorite at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts from December 7th – 24th. You’ll want to get your tickets quickly because they are expected to sell out.
Cirque Holidaze
Cirque Dreams: Holidaze is coming to Kansas City from November 25th – 27th. This holiday-themed Cirque show combines holiday music with a magnificent circus-like performance. It’s definitely going to amaze you and your family!
Sugar Plum Fairy Children’s Ball
On December 10th, the Kansas City Ballet is hosting the Sugar Plum Fairy Children’s Ball at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. You’ll definitely want to add this to your list of things to do in Kansas City during the holidays. It may be called a children’s ball, but this one-of-a-kind holiday celebration is perfect for the entire family. Children can get their photos taken with the Sugar Plum Fairy, have their faces painted, and enjoy the magic of the event. Parents will love shopping at the Nutcracker Marketplace and the fabulous silent auction. And everyone is in for a treat while they enjoy a delicious three-course luncheon and watch a performance by the Kansas City Youth Ballet. Hurry and get your tickets now so that you don’t miss this enchanting experience!
A Spectacular Christmas Show
Music Theatre Heritage’s A Spectacular Christmas Show has become a holiday tradition for many in Kansas City. Featuring Holiday tunes from musical theatre, innovative arrangements of holiday classics, and more, your family and friends will love this show. From December 8th through the 23rd, MTH is ready to dazzle you with this wonderful holiday extravaganza.
Merry Market
Don’t forget to visit the Merry Market this holiday season! Every weekend from Thanksgiving through Christmas, The City Market will be transformed into the Merry Market. Enjoy festive food and drinks that will warm your heart. Then find unique gifts from more than 90 artisan shops. If you’re lucky, you may catch an appearance by The Kansas City Museum’s Fairy Princess!
I hope this list of things to do in Kansas City during the holidays helps you to have a merry holiday season! Do you need help planning a company holiday party? Looking for Holiday Lights Tour tickets? Want transportation for your loved ones during the holidays? Then give us a call! We are happy to help make your season bright.