Holiday Light Displays Around Kansas City
A Festive Guide to Holiday Light Displays Around Kansas City 🎄
There’s something magical about the holiday season in the Kansas City region—and one of the best ways to enjoy it is with twinkling lights, family time, and a little seasonal sparkle. Here are some top-notch light displays you’ll want to add to your “must visit” list this year:
1. Winter Magic at Platte Purchase Park
Drive-through and stay warm in your car while you experience more than a mile of synchronized light displays, bridges, tunnels, and music in the Northland of Kansas City. Dates run from early November through early January. Visit the website for tickets and details.
2. Evergy Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens
This walking-style event at Kansas City’s botanical garden sets a stunning scene: lights woven into gardens, architecture, and natural features. Select evenings November through January. Powell Gardens
3. Country Club Plaza Lights
A Kansas City tradition that stretches over the Plaza’s 15-block area, the lights typically begin the holiday season with the lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving night. Learn more about this and other light displays events.
4. Other Local Favorites
Christmas in the Park at Longview Lake – near the KC area, a festive outdoor experience.
Holiday Lights on Farmstead Lane at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead – kid-friendly and full of charm.
Sar‑Ko Aglow at Sar‑Ko Park in Lenexa – a neighborhood favorite.
Luminary Walk at Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens – explore candlelit paths and fairy-village style displays.
Lane of Lights in Excelsior Springs – extending into the suburbs for a quieter, charming evening.
A Few Tips for Visiting
Book early: Tickets for popular shows (especially drive-through ones) can sell out.
Dress for the weather: Even if you’re in a car, if you stop or walk you’ll want layers.
Plan your route: If you hope to visit multiple displays in one evening, pick ones that are geographically convenient (for example, Northland + nearby suburbs).
Bring your camera: These displays are photo-worthy. Consider a tripod if you’ll be shooting at dusk or dark.