Kansas City knows how to celebrate December in style. When the temperature drops and the calendar flips to the final month of the year, this Midwestern city transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive markets, and community gatherings that bring people together. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the holiday traditions here run deep, and the celebrations run wide.
The Plaza Lights: A 96-Year Tradition
This year, members of the Kansas City Current will flip the switch, continuing a decades-long tradition of community leaders kicking off the festivities. The ceremony features live performances from local dance companies and a cappella groups, as well as a preview of KC Repertory Theatre’s iconic show. It takes a crew of electricians more than two months to string up the lights, starting right after Labor Day. Once illuminated, the Plaza Lights shine daily from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. through January 11, 2026.
The best part? It’s completely free to attend and enjoy throughout the season.
Ice Skating Under the Stars
Nothing says December like lacing up skates and gliding across the ice. The Crown Center Ice Terrace opened November 7 for its 53rd season, making it Kansas City’s original outdoor public skating rink. The rink offers skating seven days a week, with admission at $10 for adults and children four and older. Skate rentals are just $6, or bring your own.
Want to learn? Group lessons are available for $140, including seven weekly sessions, free skate rental, and seven free skating passes. The Ice Terrace stays open through early March, giving families plenty of time to perfect their spins and stops.
Markets That Make the Season
Kansas City’s holiday markets bring local artisans, makers, and small businesses together for a shopping experience that beats the big box stores every time. The City Market’s Merry Market runs every Saturday and Sunday from November 29 through December 21, featuring more than 100 local vendors selling pottery, jewelry, fine art, and handcrafted gifts. Family-friendly activities include live painting, face art, balloons, and caricatures.
The Strawberry Swing’s 15th Annual Holiday Swing takes place over two weekends at different locations. Weekend one happens at the Alexander Majors Barn, while weekend two moves to The Guild KC in the Crossroads. This European-style market offers local makers, festive drinks, and live entertainment.
For those who love supporting small businesses, the Westport Christmas Market combines shopping, live music, and the Westport Santa Dash. The event also features the 12 Bars of Charity tent, where every specialty drink purchased supports local charitable efforts.
Giving Back During the Giving Season
Kansas City’s spirit of generosity shines brightest in December. Christmas in the Park at Longview Lake Campground offers a drive-through light display with more than 500,000 lights and 200 animated displays. While admission is free, donations are encouraged and benefit 36 local charities.
Red Bags KC works with social service agencies to provide foster children and low-income families with big red bags filled with clothing, gifts, and everyday necessities. In 2024 alone, the organization helped 1,932 children and 62 families. The program relies entirely on volunteer sponsors from faith communities, businesses, and schools, with 100% of monetary donations going directly toward purchasing gifts.
The Soul of Santa brings holiday cheer to the 18th & Vine District and the Shops on Blue Parkway with a tree lighting, community breakfast, toy giveaway, and a benefit concert at the Gem Theater.
Light Displays That Dazzle
Beyond the Plaza, Kansas City offers spectacular light shows throughout the metro area. Winter Magic at Platte Purchase Park in the Northland features a choreographed drive-through display with music broadcast on your car radio. Tickets are $20 per carload, and proceeds benefit KC Parks improvement projects.
KC Winter Wonderland at KC Pumpkin Patch runs on select weekends from November 28 through December 21. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., featuring photo opportunities with Santa, festival foods, drinks, and light displays. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Veterans Community Project.
For an indoor experience, Union Station’s Holiday Reflections offers a walk-through village with festive lights, larger-than-life holiday displays, and towering trees. The miniature holiday train display has become a family favorite year after year.
Make Your December Plans Now
Kansas City’s December celebrations offer something for everyone, from traditional tree lightings to modern light shows, from ice skating to holiday markets. These community events bring neighbors together, support local businesses and charities, and create memories that last long after the decorations come down.
Ready to experience Kansas City’s holiday magic? Visit Visit KC to plan your trip, find event times, and discover even more seasonal celebrations happening throughout the metro area. Whether you’re staying for a day or the entire season, Kansas City’s December festivities will fill your calendar with joy, light, and community spirit.
Sources: fox4kc.com, visitkc.com
Header Image Source: Laszlo Biro on Unsplash
