It’s the most beautiful time of the year! And with the most wonderful time of the year comes the most wonderful things to do!
The Christmas season is one that many people take very seriously, including us here at the Purple Post.
So, if you’re looking for ways to start celebrating the season, here is your official list of the Top Five Christmas Activities in Kansas City!
#1 Union Stations’ Holiday Reflections
Kansas City’s great train station is home to many big events, including all the Christmas decorations and lights you can imagine.
Located in Downtown Kansas City, Union Station is the perfect Christmas activity to do with family and friends. It would also be a great spot for a date night.
From November 20, 2023, to January 1, 2024, you are welcome to immerse yourself in a walk through the holiday village.
The Christmas theme experience fills Union Station’s massive grand plaza and features sky-reaching lights and hundreds of decorated trees, including the main tree, which stands 40 feet tall!
It also includes “forest friends and giants,” mirrored floating ornaments, and Rudy’s Wonderland for the little kids, which consists of a train ride on the historical Jones Stone train!
Also, there are countless backdrops for the perfect selfie spot.
It is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Sunday, and tickets start at $7, cash only.
#2 Crown Center Ice Terrace
After taking your tour of Union Station, hop over to the Ice Terrace at Crown Center.
It is no secret that the Ice Terrace is a winter fan favorite, and rightfully so!
Also located in Downtown Kansas City and linked to Union Station, this ice terrace captures the ideal vibe and luxury that ice skating can offer.
From November 20, 2023, to March 10, 2024, come down, lace up those skates, and hit the ice.
While gliding around the rink, you can take in the festive scenery of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, surrounded by dozens of other lighted trees.
There are two separate fees to skate. Each skater will pay a $5 rental fee and a $9 admission fee. (Discounts are sometimes available.)
The skating duration is 1-2 hours, with plenty of time to fall again and again, and the hours of the ice terrace may vary.
While there, check out the many unique shops and restaurants inside!
#3 Christmas in the Park!
What better way to celebrate Christmas than with the 36th annual Christmas in the Park Light Show?
For the last 36 years, Jackson County has sponsored this light show and has donated over 1 million dollars to charities.
This year, the voluntary exit donations will benefit over 40 local charities.
This drive-thru light show features over 1 million lights and 200 animated displays designed and built entirely in-house by talented crews.
Your festive drive follows a five-mile path starting at the Frank White Jr softball complex near Longview Lake.
It is recommended that you plan your visit on a weekday early in the season to avoid long lines.
Admission is free, and Christmas in the Park operates from November 22, 2023, to December 31, 2023, 5:30–10:00 pm on weekdays and 11 pm on weekends.
#4 Evergy Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens
This holiday light show will turn the botanical garden into a winter wonderland this year.
Quixotic will transform the conservatory into crystal chambers while the surrounding world sinks softly into a season of hibernation, uncovering a new world beneath the frost.
This activity offers something for everyone. Not only is there a light show, but food is also available for purchase.
This is an outdoor event, so be sure to bundle up!
Admission is free for members, free for children four and under, 5-12 is $8, adult is $16, and 60 and up is $15, and a $10 parking ticket is required for purchase for each vehicle.
This light show is open from November 16–December 30, 2023, Wednesday–Sunday, from 5–10 p.m.
The duration of the show is about an hour long, so buddle up and be ready to be wooed into a winter wonderland!
#5 Kansas City Ballet: The Nutcracker
We have all heard of The Nutcracker, but have we all seen it?
Well, here is your opportunity!
At the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, from December 1-24, you can have the chance to see this performance live.
The classic Victorian-era story by E.T.A. Hoffman, featuring Clara, the Nutcrack Prince, Dr. Drosselmeier, and the sugar plum fairy, is a magical theatrical experience wrapped with exquisite costumes, grand sets, and captivating photography.
Ticket prices start at $56 but can go up to $250, depending on your seat.
The Washington Post has even said, “Kansas City ballet’s tradition, The Nutcracker, continues to awe audiences year after year and is hailed as ‘positively oozing charm.'”
Be sure to come and support our communities’ local ballerinas!
These activities are perfect for family, friends, or a night on the town with a date.
Kansas City has many fun and exciting things to do during Christmas, so head out and get in the Christmas spirit.
