Don’t stay inside all winter! Brave the cold and check
out one of these Kansas City events that will be well worth dressing in the
extra layers.
1.
Winterfest
Every winter Worlds of Fun is
transformed to bring holiday cheer. Thousands of sparkling lights decorate the
park and guests are encouraged to walk around while enjoying live shows, riding
select park attractions, and joining in other holiday activities like ice
skating and cookie decorating. Visit their website for a full list of activities
and attractions as well as to purchase tickets.
2.
Mayor’s
Christmas Tree
Crown Center is one of the best
places to go to celebrate the holiday season. They have tons of events and attractions
all throughout the winter months (ice rink, anyone?), but possibly the biggest,
and definitely the brightest, attraction is the Mayor’s Christmas Tree. The annual
lighting ceremony kicks off the holiday season as the 100+ foot tall tree is illuminated.
After the holidays the tree is then turned into ornaments that will be sold to
benefit Kansas City’s less fortunate.
3.
Chiefs Games
Don’t let the cold keep you away
from cheering on the Chiefs! Bundle up and head over to Arrowhead Stadium this
winter to see Kansas City’s team finish up the season. Tailgate to pregame before
heading in, or even get tickets to tour the stadium (gameday tours are
available as well).
4.
Festival
of Lights
One of the more unique light
displays in Kansas City, the Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens is curated by
the Powell Gardens Horticulture staff and weaves through six of the seven
themed gardens. The mile-long walking path showcases botanically-themed
lighting displays starting from the garden entrance and they have free children’s
activities every evening as well.
5.
Kansas
City Zoo
Not only can you watch the
regularly scheduled King and Gentoo Penguin March, but this winter you can see
other cold-climate animals in their natural habitat at the Kansas City Zoo. The
zoo also puts on events throughout the winter months like Zoo Years Eve, a
family friendly event during the day of New Year’s Eve, and Kiss & Tail, a
fun way to learn more about animal courtship during Valentine’s season.
6.
Jackson
County Parks & Rec
Not afraid to brave the chill
and enjoy nature this winter? The Jackson County Parks and Recreation
department would love for you to visit one of the many parks and historic
sights in the area. There are holiday-themed events such as Christmas in the
Park, or just do your own thing and check out Missouri Town 1855 or Fort Osage
with the added beauty of winter. Check out their website for hours of operation
and for details on events and activities.
7.
Downtown
Dazzle
Started in 2013, Downtown Dazzle
is, as their website will tell you, “a Kansas City Holiday Experience”. Made
for Kansas City locals and visitors alike, the event offers more than a full
month of holiday fun with various activities and events each year. Celebrate the
season with special experiences and events with dining and shopping exclusives
throughout the month. You can check out their website for a full calendar of
events and for more details.
8.
Kauffman
Center
Want to add a little art and
culture to your winter? Check out the calendar events and plan a trip to the
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Voted one of the world’s 15 most
beautiful concert halls, the Kauffman Center hosts music, opera, theater,
dance, and other performing arts experiences. There’s bound to be an event or
showing for anyone to enjoy.
9.
NYE
Live
Running for over a decade, NYE
Live is by far the biggest New Year’s Eve party in Kansas City. With exclusive
access to nearly a dozen bars and nightclubs as well as all-inclusive packages,
world class entertainment, party favors and other New Year’s Eve staples like
confetti cannons, Champagne toasts, and a ball drop, this is one party you won’t
want to miss. You can get more information and purchase tickets on their
website.
10.
KC
Restaurant Week
Foodies rejoice! Check out
numerous local restaurants during Kansas City Restaurant Week, usually held in
January every year. Participating restaurants offer curated ulti-course lunch
and dinner menus for only $15 and $33, respectively. If there are any KC
restaurants you’ve been dying to try, or a cuisine you’re interested in but
haven’t had the guts to try, this is the perfect opportunity! For a full list
of participating restaurants and their menus you can go to their website.