The Midwest's barbeque mecca, Kansas City, is also famous for its elaborate Christmas decorations. The Plaza, Crown Center, and Union Station are especially impressive when adorned with millions of twinkling lights. There is no better place for holiday shopping and dining out. Or take a stroll in Longview Lake Park to enjoy the Christmas magic and surrounding nature.
Christmas at Union Station (November 20, 2023–January 1, 2024)
Historic Union Station is a real KC landmark and undoubtedly the number one destination in the city during the holidays. The Grand Hall features the largest indoor Christmas tree in Kansas City as well as the walk-through Holiday Reflections village. In addition to that, kids can explore the massive model-train display, Dinosaur Road Trip, and Rudy’s Wonderland. The hall features dozens of smaller decorated trees, giant mirrored ornaments, and eight photo stations for family memories. On Saturdays and Sundays, gifts are available from Holiday Swing outdoor craft market.
Plaza Lights (November 23, 2023–January 14, 2024)
Plaza Lights is one of the oldest Christmas traditions in KC that goes back to the 1930s. The beautiful display with millions of lights encompasses 15-blocks of the Country Club Plaza shopping district. Jewel-colored lights set aglow every dome and tower. The Lighting of the Plaza ceremony gathers large crowds every year due to celebrity appearances, musical acts, and performances. The lights can be seen daily from 5 pm to 3 am.
Crown Center Christmas (November 24-December 31, 2023)
One of the tallest Christmas trees in America, the 100-ft-tall Mayor's Tree, is the main highlight of Crown Center in downtown Kansas City. The huge tree is adorned with 10,600 sparkling lights. The annual lighting ceremony usually features carolers, hayrides, and visits from Santa. There is also an outdoor skating rink at the Crown Center Ice Terrace. Other downtown buildings also boast spectacular displays. In particular, it's worth stopping by the Marriott Kansas City Downtown, decorated with 30,000 bulbs.
Christmas in the Park (November 22–December 31, 2023)
Located in South Kansas City, Longview Lake Park boasts one of the largest drive-through light displays in the area, featuring more than 500,000 lights. A mile-long trail includes about 200 animated figures. The beautiful Christmas in the Park display has brought holiday spirit to KC families for over 25 years. Visiting the park is free of charge.
