The holidays are a special time in Kansas City. From the city’s dazzling light displays to its rich tradition of holiday entertainment, it’s no wonder that Kansas City has earned a reputation for its seasonal charm.

And if one thing makes this time of year even more irresistible in KC, it’s experiencing it with the ones you love. Kansas City has all the makings for a perfect holiday getaway — affordable shopping, unique entertainment, one-of-a-kind winter attractions … and plenty of memories to go around.

Plaza Season of Lights
The Country Club Plaza spends seven weeks each winter dressed up in jewel-colored lights—a tradition for nearly eight decades. More than 80 miles of holiday lights outline every shop, dome and tower of the Spanish-inspired shopping and entertainment district. Lavishly decorated store windows, horse-drawn carriages and Victorian carolers add to the already-perfect holiday scene. (Thanksgiving-Jan. 11)

Holiday Shopping
Find everything on their wish list and more at one of the metro’s many shopping areas. In addition to the Plaza, shop in style at Zona Rosa beneath beautiful lighted crowns or among the oversized ornaments at The Legends at Village West. These lifestyle centers feature big names to appease even the most seasoned of shoppers. For fun and funky gifts, browse the trendy boutiques in the Crossroads Arts District, charming shops in Brookside or the local favorites at Briarcliff Village.

Family Fun at Crown Center
Hallmark’s Crown Center pulls out all the stops each holiday season. Children love exploring Crayola Christmas Land, featuring larger-than-life Crayola products to climb and play on. Outside, visitors can take a spin on the Ice Terrace or snap a family photo next to the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, one of the nation’s tallest.

Holiday Performances Aplenty
Kansas City’s stages come alive each winter with seasonal classics and new family favorites. What would the holidays be without A Christmas Carol? Even Scrooge would love the Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s production, which has entertained local audiences for 29 years. Families flock to Kansas City Ballet’s millon-dollar presentation of The Nutcracker, the largest in an eight-state region. For something new, head to Sprint Center for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. The five-show run features the world-famous Rockettes and their signature high kicks.

What’s New
Chances are Kansas City has changed since your last visit. Take a break from your holiday shopping to visit some of Kansas City’s brand new attractions, like the College Basketball Experience or CoCo Key Water Resort, Missouri’s largest indoor waterpark. For nightlife, venture to the Kansas City Power & Light District. Lined with nightclubs and restaurants, this eight-block entertainment hub is a perfect place for a holiday toast with friends and family.

Around the Metro
From the quaint shops in Parkville to the downtown traditions of Lawrence, the entire metro area gets in full holiday swing. Take the short drive to Independence and celebrate the Spirit of Christmas Past. Tour the city’s historic homes or stop by the shops in Independence Square. Finally, don’t miss Leavenworth’s popular night parade. People come from miles around to see the glowing caravan of lighted floats.