15 Best Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies in Kansas City
As you start planning your holiday festivities, you're likely considering the best Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in Kansas City to attend. With numerous events taking place throughout the city, choosing the most magical ones can be a challenge. From the iconic Plaza Lights at Country Club Plaza to the family-friendly Overland Park Mayor's Holiday Festival, the options are endless. But which events truly offer an unforgettable experience? To find out, let's take a closer look at the top 15 Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in Kansas City and discover what makes each one special.
Key Takeaways
- The Plaza Lights at Country Club Plaza celebrates 95 years of tradition with over 280,000 lights and a grand lighting ceremony.
- The Mayor's Christmas Tree at Crown Center stands 100 feet tall, adorned with 7,200 lights, and has a lighting ceremony on November 29.
- The Legendary Tree Lighting Ceremony features a 45-foot tree with synchronized LED lights and family-friendly activities on November 16.
- The Overland Park Mayor's Holiday Festival includes a holiday tree lighting ceremony, live music, and shopping on November 15.
- The Zona Rosa Holiday Lighting Celebration showcases a new Grand Christmas Tree with historic holiday crowns on November 23.
Briarcliff Holiday Lighting Celebration
Kicking off the holiday season in Kansas City, the Briarcliff Holiday Lighting Celebration is a must-attend event that brings the community together.
You'll experience a spectacular Fireworks Display and a variety of activities that create a joyful atmosphere.
This annual tradition promotes local engagement and brings residents together to kick off the holiday season in a festive and fun way.
Legendary Tree Lighting Ceremony
As the holiday season descends upon Kansas City, you're invited to join in the festive fun at the Legendary Tree Lighting Ceremony, taking place on November 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Civic Courtyard Fountain.
Enjoy a stunning 45-foot tree with a synchronized LED light show.
Face painting and balloon art add to the family-friendly celebration.
Overland Park Mayor's Holiday Festival
As you explore the best Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in Kansas City, consider heading to Downtown Overland Park on November 15, 2023, for the Mayor's Holiday Festival.
This event is a prime example of a Downtown Overland Park event that combines holiday cheer with community spirit.
The festival's highlight is a festive holiday tree lighting ceremony, set to take place at 6 p.m.
Downtown Overland Park Events
Downtown Overland Park transforms into a winter wonderland on November 15, 2023, as the Overland Park Mayor's Holiday Festival takes center stage. You'll enjoy live music, holiday shopping, and special appearances, including a Taylor Swift impersonator.
| Event Details | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Live Music | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Downtown Overland Park |
| Holiday Shopping | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Downtown Overland Park |
| Special Appearances | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Downtown Overland Park |
| Community Event | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Downtown Overland Park |
| Festive Atmosphere | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Downtown Overland Park |
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Overland Park Mayor's Holiday Festival culminates in a magical tree lighting ceremony, conducted by the Mayor at 6 p.m. on November 15.
You'll witness the official start of the holiday season at this free community event.
Enjoy live music and holiday shopping, knowing you're part of a festive atmosphere that fosters local engagement and community connection.
Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival
As you explore the Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival, you'll discover that the excitement extends beyond Crown Center Square.
After taking in the sights and sounds of the festival, you can head to nearby Downtown KCK Celebration, where a festive atmosphere awaits.
From there, you can also check out Memorial Hall Events and various Family Activities, all part of the broader holiday celebrations in Kansas City.
Downtown KCK Celebration
Memorial Hall in KCK transforms into a winter wonderland on November 15, 2024, when you join the Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival, a highly anticipated event that marks the beginning of the holiday season.
You'll be immersed in holiday cheer, thanks to the Mayor's Christmas Tree Fund.
- Free live entertainment for all ages
- Hot chocolate to warm up the evening
- Games and activities for kids and families
- Food trucks offering a variety of treats
Memorial Hall Events
On November 15, join the Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival at Memorial Hall in Downtown KCK, where you'll experience the magic of the holiday season in a winter wonderland setting.
This festive celebration features live entertainment, hot chocolate, and a tree lighting ceremony marking the official start of the holiday season in the community.
Family Activities
Picture strolling into Crown Center Square with your family, surrounded by the excitement and magic of the holiday season.
The Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival offers a variety of family activities to enjoy together.
Here are a few highlights:
- Countdown to the lighting of the 100-foot Christmas tree
- New light show and fireworks display
- Meet special guests, including Mayor Quinton Lucas and Hallmark Stars
- Learn about the tree lighting ceremony's 50-year history
Zona Rosa Holiday Lighting Celebration
This year, hundreds will gather at the Zona Rosa Holiday Lighting Celebration on November 23, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., to kick off the holiday season in style.
You'll be dazzled by the new Grand Christmas Tree, historic holiday crowns, and photo opportunities with iconic characters like The Grinch and Cindy Lou-Who, highlighting Zona Rosa's festive holiday lighting.
Plaza Lights at Country Club Plaza
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Plaza Lights at Country Club Plaza, a 95-year-old Kansas City tradition that transforms the historic shopping district into a winter wonderland.
This spectacular display features over 280,000 lights and a grand lighting ceremony.
- Catch the 95th Annual Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony on Thanksgiving, November 28, 2024, from 5 to 8 p.m.
- Watch Kansas City Chiefs Chairman Clark Hunt flip the switch.
- Enjoy the lights daily from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. through January 12, 2025.
- Find the best viewing spots at Plaza 211 parking garage rooftop, McCormick & Schmicks, or the InterContinental Hotel.
Mayor's Christmas Tree at Crown Center
As you explore the Mayor's Christmas Tree at Crown Center, you'll be struck by its towering height and dazzling design – standing 100 feet tall and adorned with 7,200 twinkling lights.
You'll want to plan your visit around the lighting ceremony on November 29, 2024, at 6:30 PM.
The tree will remain on display throughout the holiday season, offering a festive backdrop for your holiday photos and shopping trips.
Height and Design
Standing 100 feet tall, the Mayor's Christmas Tree at Crown Center is an awe-inspiring sight that instantly grabs your attention.
As one of the largest Christmas trees in the United States, its design emphasizes traditional holiday aesthetics.
Here's what makes it special:
- Majestic Height: 100 feet tall, making it a prominent landmark.
- Stunning Display: 7,200 twinkling white lights create a breathtaking visual effect.
- Sustainable Ornaments: Made from wood repurposed from the tree itself.
- Timeless Design: Traditional holiday aesthetics foster a festive atmosphere.
Lighting Ceremony Schedule
The Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Crown Center is Kansas City's most anticipated holiday event, and this year's festivities kick off on November 29, 2024, at 6:30 PM.
Following the initial ceremony, you can catch the nightly tree lightings on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM, 8:30 PM, or 9:30 PM through January 5, 2025.
Tree Display Duration
From late November to early January, you can marvel at the majestic Mayor's Christmas Tree at Crown Center, its towering presence illuminating the city's holiday spirit.
The tree's display duration is a highlight of the season, offering multiple chances to experience its magic. Here are some key details to keep in mind:
- November 29 – January 5: The tree will be illuminated nightly.
- Fridays and Saturdays: Showtimes are at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:30 PM.
- Sundays: Showtime is at 5:30 PM.
- Post-holiday: The tree's wood will be repurposed into commemorative ornaments.
Magic Tree in Lees Summit
In the heart of Lees Summit lies a beacon of holiday magic, illuminated by over 12,000 rainbow-colored LED lights that transform the city into a winter wonderland.
| Event Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Lighting Ceremony | Nov 27, 2024, 6:00-10:00 p.m. |
| Display Duration | Nov 27, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025 |
| Location | Downtown Lees Summit |
| Charity Event | Operation Toy Soldier |
| Toy Donation | New, unwrapped toys welcome |
Union Station Holiday Reflections
You'll experience the ultimate holiday celebration at Union Station's Holiday Reflections, where Kansas City's largest indoor display shines bright with a stunning 30-foot crystal Christmas tree.
As you stroll through the festivities, you'll discover the charming Petticoat Lane, a nostalgic shopping street reminiscent of the 1920s.
With its unique blend of nostalgic charm and family-friendly activities, Union Station Holiday Reflections is a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
Petticoat Lane Highlights
Petticoat Lane is the crowning jewel of Union Station's Holiday Reflections, transporting you to a bygone era of holiday magic.
Experience the enchanting 1920s shopping street atmosphere with a stunning 30-foot crystal Christmas tree adorned with 1,500 ornaments.
Some highlights to look out for:
- *Immersive decorations*
- *Themed displays*
- *Nostalgic charm*
- *Enchanting Christmas tree*
Kansas City's Largest Display
While the Petticoat Lane shopping street offers a charming holiday experience, Union Station's Holiday Reflections features Kansas City's largest indoor display, boasting a stunning 30-foot crystal Christmas tree adorned with 1,500 ornaments that will leave you mesmerized.
You can enjoy this breathtaking Kansas City Christmas tree display for free, from November 22 to January 1, at Union Station.
Nostalgic Shopping Experience
As you step into Union Station's Holiday Reflections, the nostalgia of a bygone era envelops you. This nostalgic shopping experience is reminiscent of a 1920s shopping street known as Petticoat Lane.
- Browse holiday displays, including a stunning 30-foot crystal Christmas tree.
- Support the Mayors Christmas Tree Fund with your purchases.
- Explore themed decorations and festive displays throughout the venue.
- Enjoy holiday activities, making Union Station a must-visit destination.
Christmas in the Park Lees Summit
Experience the magic of over 1 million twinkling lights and 200 animated displays when you visit Christmas in the Park in Lee's Summit. You'll enjoy a festive drive-through experience at Longview Lake Park.
| Event Details | Dates | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas Tree at Crown | Late Nov – Dec | Free |
| Light Shows | Daily | Donations accepted |
| Family Fun | Ongoing | Suitable for all ages |
Winter Magic Drive-Through Lights
At the Kansas City Zoo, Winter Magic Drive-Through Lights transforms the evening with over one million lights, arranged in festive displays that set the mood for a fun holiday outing.
This drive-through holiday light experience is a must-visit for families.
Here are 4 things you can expect:
- Animal-themed light displays that enhance the festive atmosphere.
- Over one million lights arranged in unique and creative festive displays.
- Holiday-themed activities and entertainment options for families.
- A safe and enjoyable way to celebrate the holiday season in your vehicle.
Enchant Christmas Light Maze
Step into the enchanting world of Enchant Christmas Light Maze, where millions of lights transform the venue into a magical winter wonderland.
You'll experience an interactive light maze, ice skating, and vibrant atmosphere with synchronized light shows.
From late November to early January, Enchant Christmas offers a family-friendly attraction that's perfect for the holiday season, making it a must-visit in Kansas City.
Park Place Holiday Season Premiere
Kansas City's Park Place community kicks off the holiday season with its highly anticipated Holiday Season Premiere, a festive tree lighting ceremony that brings residents and visitors together.
You'll enjoy live entertainment, holiday activities, and a magical atmosphere for families and visitors.
*1. Festive tree lighting ceremony
*2. Live entertainment for all ages
*3. Seasonal treats and local vendors
*4. Spectacular light display
Excelsior Springs Lighted Christmas Parade
What better way to get into the holiday spirit than by witnessing a dazzling display of illuminated floats and community participation?
Head to Excelsior Springs on December 7 for the Lighted Christmas Parade. This festive event features local businesses and organizations showcasing their holiday spirit, with decorated floats and entertaining activities throughout the downtown area.
Magic Tree Holiday Pop-Up Bar
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Magic Tree Holiday Pop-Up Bar at Paragon Star, where the magic of the holiday season comes alive.
This popular spot features themed drinks and snacks, supporting local charities and offering a unique holiday experience.
- Themed drinks and snacks
- Winter wonderland venue design
- Supports local charities
- Perfect spot for holiday gatherings
Final Thoughts
You've got your holiday calendar marked with the top Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in Kansas City. From the Legendary Tree Lighting to the Magic Tree Holiday Pop-Up Bar, there's something for every age and interest. With festive fun, live music, and shopping, you'll find the perfect event to kick off your holiday season. Make some magical memories with friends and family at these enchanting celebrations across the city.
