Welcome to our annual holiday in Kansas City episode – our most popular of the year! Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition or add something special to your holiday plans, this episode is packed with ideas from across Kansas City. Let’s dive into the holiday magic!
Favorite Places to Get Gifts
- Experience gifts like mom-and-me pedicures.
- Local memberships: KidScape, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, Union Station, Wonderscope, and The Kansas City Zoo
- Gift cards to neighborhood spots like Golden Scoop, Panera, or QuikTrip.
- KC-themed apparel for kids.
- Travel-related gifts: luggage, Disney gift cards for upcoming trips
- Tickets to local shows (Coterie, Broadway series)
Best Spots for Holiday Lights
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KCMC Neighborhood Light Guides curated and vetted by KC moms (organized by geographic area).
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Deanna Rose parking lot lights: wear your PJs!
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Overland Park Arboretum’s Luminary Walk
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Winter Magic (Northland drive-thru)
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Holiday Reflections at Union Station: indoor, interactive, and a new annual favorite.
Favorite Ways to Give Back
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Check out our family friendly volunteer guide.
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Children’s Mercy Happy Kits that families can assemble.
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Harvesters offers Family Day volunteer shifts for kids 8 and older.
Visiting Santa
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KCMC’s Morning at the North Pole event featuring an awesome Santa, crafts, hot chocolate and more.
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Junior League’s Santa: booked in 10-minute increments with professional photos and no lines-worth the cost!
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The Plaza is bringing Santa back this year!
Favorite Live Music and Theater
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Elf, The Musical at the Coterie.
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Nutcracker at the Kauffman Center
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Kansas City Symphony’s Christmas Festival
Favorite Adult Holiday Activities
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Tons of pop-up holiday bars, fun but require early reservations.
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Overland Park Arboretum’s Luminary Walk adults only nights
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The Hallmark Holiday Experience, check out our guide!
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Holiday markets are great for girlfriend outings and local gift shopping
Best Places to Take Out-of-Town Visitors
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Holiday Reflections at Union Station. Consider brunch or lunch at Harvey’s before hand.
Children’s Mercy Kansas City is built for kids. That’s why we have been taking care of the kids in the community for more than 125 years. Learn more.
Connect with Megan and Sarah
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