Holiday cheer is here, Overland Park! Discover all the top festive happenings with our guide. Whether you're a familiar face or a new visitor, this guide ensures you experience the holiday charm in Overland Park.
One of the highlights is the Kansas City Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, where twinkling lights herald the start of the season. Glide across the ice at the beloved Crown Center Ice Terrace, which offers a perfect holiday skating experience. And Christmas in the Park is something you definitely don't want to miss with its enchanting lights and festive displays. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Overland Park
See these and even more events listed below!Overland Park Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Luminary Walk
What to Expect:
Candlelit trails through botanical gardens
Description:
The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens takes on an ethereal glow during the Holiday Luminary Walk. Candlelit paths wind through the gardens, illuminating winter-hardy plants and artistic displays. The event, which began in 1999, has become a cherished local tradition. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour, discovering hidden vignettes and light installations along the way. The soft glow of thousands of candles creates a serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful respite from the usual holiday hustle. Local musicians perform throughout the gardens, adding gentle melodies to the tranquil ambiance.
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Nearby Events
Kansas City Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Massive 100-foot tree illuminated with over 10,000 lights
Description:
Kansas City's holiday season ignites with the illumination of a towering 100-foot tree adorned with over 10,000 twinkling lights. This grand spectacle transforms the city skyline, drawing thousands of spectators. Visitors can join in caroling led by local choirs, a tradition dating back to the 1930s. The ceremony showcases Kansas City's community spirit, uniting residents and visitors alike in a shared moment of joy. As the switch is flipped, the crowd's collective gasp echoes through the crisp winter air, marking the official start of the festive season.
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Kansas City Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Crown Center Ice Terrace (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating rink with cityscape views
Description:
Crown Center Ice Terrace offers a unique outdoor skating experience against the backdrop of Kansas City's urban skyline. Glide across the smooth ice surface, feeling the cool breeze on your face as you take in panoramic views of the city. The rink has been a Kansas City staple since 1973, evolving into a beloved winter tradition. Skaters of all skill levels can participate, with rental skates available on-site. The Ice Terrace's central location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring other nearby holiday attractions, creating a full day of winter fun in the heart of the city.
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Christmas in the Park (Lee's Summit)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display with animated scenes
Description:
Lee's Summit's Christmas in the Park transforms Longview Lake Park into a dazzling drive-through light extravaganza. Spanning a mile-long route, visitors encounter over 500,000 lights and 175 animated displays from the comfort of their vehicles. The event, which began in 1987, has grown into one of the largest holiday light displays in the Midwest. As you cruise through the park, you'll spot whimsical scenes depicting everything from Santa's workshop to winter wildlife. The display's creative use of technology and artistry brings holiday stories to life in a unique, immersive experience.
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WinterFest at Worlds of Fun (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Amusement park transformed into winter wonderland with rides and shows
Description:
Worlds of Fun sheds its summer persona and embraces the chill of winter, transforming into a frosty paradise. The park's familiar attractions take on a new life, draped in thousands of lights and holiday decor. Thrill-seekers can brave select rides in the brisk winter air, adding an extra rush to their favorite coasters. Live shows featuring ice skaters and singers pepper the park with entertainment. You can warm up with a cup of hot cocoa while strolling through themed areas like the North Pole Village. This seasonal makeover offers a fresh perspective on the park many have visited countless times in warmer months.
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The Kansas City Repertory Theatre's "A Christmas Carol" (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Innovative staging and special effects in a classic production
Description:
The Kansas City Repertory Theatre breathes new life into Dickens' timeless tale with its innovative production of "A Christmas Carol." This adaptation employs cutting-edge staging techniques and special effects to transport audiences to Victorian London. The theatre, founded in 1964, has made this show an annual tradition, continually refining and reimagining the performance. Spectators can marvel at the seamless set transitions and immersive sound design that bring Scrooge's journey to vivid life. The production balances respect for the original text with modern theatrical magic, creating a fresh experience even for those familiar with the story.
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The Kansas City Repertory Theatre's "A Christmas Carol"
Kansas City Ballet's "The Nutcracker" (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Lavish production with live orchestra and intricate set designs
Description:
The Kansas City Ballet's rendition of "The Nutcracker" elevates the classic holiday ballet with opulent costumes and intricate set designs. Accompanied by the Kansas City Symphony, the performance fills the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts with Tchaikovsky's iconic score. The production, which premiered in 2015, features a cast of over 200 dancers, including students from the Kansas City Ballet School. Audiences can lose themselves in the elaborate staging, which includes a growing Christmas tree and a snowfall on stage. This grand spectacle showcases the city's artistic prowess and commitment to world-class cultural experiences.
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Kansas City Ballet's "The Nutcracker"
Union Station Holiday Reflections (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Historic train station transformed with indoor light displays and activities
Description:
Union Station, a Kansas City landmark since 1914, transforms into a holiday hub during Holiday Reflections. The grand hall sparkles with indoor light displays, creating a cozy retreat from winter weather. Visitors can explore miniature train displays, a nod to the station's railway heritage. The event features a 40-foot tall tree adorned with thousands of ornaments, serving as a centerpiece for holiday photos. Children can engage in craft activities, creating personalized ornaments to take home. This indoor celebration offers a unique blend of historical architecture and modern holiday cheer, making it a standout among Kansas City's seasonal offerings.
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Union Station Holiday Reflections
Plaza Lights (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Spanish-inspired architecture illuminated with millions of lights
Description:
The Country Club Plaza, known for its distinctive Spanish-inspired architecture, becomes a luminous spectacle during the Plaza Lights event. Over 80 miles of lights outline every dome, tower, and window, creating a breathtaking display visible for miles. This tradition, dating back to 1925, has evolved into one of the nation's longest-running holiday lighting displays. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the glowing streets, experiencing the lights from a unique vantage point. The event seamlessly blends Kansas City's architectural heritage with holiday splendor, creating a one-of-a-kind urban light show.
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Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens (Kingsville)
What to Expect:
Botanical garden light display with nature-inspired themes
Description:
Powell Gardens' Festival of Lights transforms the botanical sanctuary into a luminous celebration of nature and light. Unlike typical holiday displays, this event focuses on botanical-themed light installations that complement the garden's natural beauty. Visitors can stroll through illuminated pathways, encountering glowing flowers, trees, and insects crafted from thousands of lights. The festival, which began in 2017, has quickly become a regional favorite. You can warm up in the conservatory, where tropical plants provide a stark contrast to the winter chill outside. This unique blend of horticulture and artistry offers a fresh take on holiday light displays.
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Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens
Mayor's Holiday Tree Lighting (Prairie Village)
What to Expect:
Community-focused event with local performances and charity drive
Description:
Prairie Village's Mayor's Holiday Tree Lighting brings together residents for a night of community celebration and giving. The event kicks off with performances by local school choirs and bands, showcasing the town's young talent. As the mayor illuminates the tree, attendees are encouraged to donate to the Mayor's Holiday Tree Fund, supporting local families in need. This tradition, spanning several decades, embodies the spirit of neighborly care that defines Prairie Village. Visitors can enjoy complimentary hot cider while mingling with fellow community members, fostering a sense of small-town charm in the heart of the Kansas City metro area.
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Village West WineFest Holiday Edition (Kansas City)
What to Expect:
Wine tasting event with holiday-themed pairings and decor
Description:
Village West WineFest Holiday Edition offers a sophisticated twist on seasonal celebrations. This curated event features a selection of wines paired with holiday-inspired appetizers, creating a unique tasting experience. Attendees can sample vintages from local and international wineries, each complemented by festive flavors. The venue is adorned with elegant holiday decor, providing a stylish backdrop for the evening. Wine experts are on hand to guide you through the tasting notes and seasonal pairings. This event, which began in recent years, has quickly become a favorite among Kansas City's wine enthusiasts, offering a refined alternative to traditional holiday gatherings.
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Village West WineFest Holiday Edition