These are some of our favorite local Santa sightings. Santa and his elves are celebrating the holidays with special events all season long! You'll also find events with other Christmas characters on our list: Elf, Fairy Princess, and more!
TIP: Santa also appears at Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies. Read our KC Holiday Lighting Ceremonies Guide here.
If you have an addition to this list, please submit it to our KC Parent Calendar for consideration.
Kansas City Santa (and friends) Sightings and Letters to Santa:
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www.HolidayLightandMagic.com
Nov 17, 2022 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Holiday Light & Magic
Holiday Light and Magic near Legends Shopping Center
Welcome to Holiday Light and Magic! Though these are the same elves that bring you 𝘞𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 in downtown, it’s a WHOLE DIFFERENT type of drive-thru Christmas Lights experience.
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2
Nov 19, 2022 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Christmas at the Johnson County Museum
Light up your holiday season with Christmas decorations at the Johnson County Museum's All-Electric House! Get a glimpse into a mid-century Christmas and see the Santa chair from Metcalf South Shopping Center.
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Jill DiMartino
Nov 25, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Santa's Arrival at Crown Center
Santa Claus arrives in a horse-drawn carriage to kick off the holiday season. Join Santa as he makes his way to Santa's Gingerbread Station, where he resides through December 24.
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Dec 10, 2022
Kansas City Northern Miniature Railroad Christmas Train
Kansas City Northern Railroad invites you to join 🎅🏻Santa, and enjoy ☕ cocoa and 🍪 cookies for a 🎄 Christmas train ride for ONLY $0.75/ride! 🚂
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Crown Center
Nov 25, 2022 - Dec 24, 2022
Santa's Gingerbread Station
Crown Center Shops, Level 1 Showplace. All aboard for a favorite holiday tradition at Crown Center! Kids and families can meet and have their photo taken with Santa Claus. A professional photographer is available to capture this magical holiday m...
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Nov 15, 2022
A Charlie Brown Christmas
The animated classic will come to life on The Coterie stage - and a *live jazz trio* will play the original Vince Guaraldi arrangements! Join Charlie Brown on a memorable journey as he tries to direct the school Christmas pageant.
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Dec 4, 2022
Breakfast with Santa: Ceramic Cafe
Come meet Santa, enjoy a breakfast and make some memories and gifts.
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Zona Rosa
Nov 25, 2022 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Santa Arrives at Zona Rosa this Holiday Season
Whether you have been naughty or nice, put on your best holiday sweater, bring your wish list, and head to The Grove because Santa Claus is coming to town. Visit Santa in his winter wonderland from November 25th through December 24th. Visits wit...
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Big Balloon Build
Dec 2, 2022
Enchanted Journey to Toytown - Big Balloon Build KC!
Gregg / Klice Community Center
From the UK to the USA, the Big Balloon Build is on its way (to KC!) "Enchanted Journey to Toytown" is a international balloon artist collaboration that uses 125,000 balloons to create an immersive dreamscape of whimsical winter scenes and pla...
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Zona Rosa
Dec 4, 2022 11:00 a.m. - noon
Sensory-Friendly Visits with Santa
Zona Rosa will be offering sensory-friendly Santa Photos on two dates this holiday season. Children with sensory sensitivities can visit Santa in a calm, quiet setting one hour before the set opens to the general public. Happy Holidays to all!
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Zona Rosa
Nov 25, 2022 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Pet Photos with Santa
If you're a furry Mom, we know that Christmas just isn't Christmas without a photo with Santa and your furry friend. Snap-on that bow and come see Santa this year at Zona Rosa. Reservations are available and encouraged. Dates: November 28, Dece...
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Union Station KC
Nov 21, 2022
Holiday Reflections
Showing thru 1/2/2023, Union Station expands and adds to its magical “Holiday Reflections” walk-thru holiday village. This spectacular themed experience fills Union Station’s massive Grand Plaza and features sky-reaching lights and more.
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Dec 3, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Santa Visits Family Tree Nursery Liberty
Santa is making his way back to our three retail locations this December and invites children to have their photos taken with him. Each store will make a beautiful backdrop that is the perfect opportunity for a memorable Christmas photo. We hope you'
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Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Santa Visits Family Tree Nursery Overland Park
Family Tree Nursery Overland Park
Santa is making his way back to our three retail locations this December and invites children to have their photos taken with him. Each store will make a beautiful backdrop that is the perfect opportunity for a memorable Christmas photo. We hope you'
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Dec 11, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Santa Visits Family Tree Nursery Shawnee
Santa is making his way back to our three retail locations this December and invites children to have their photos taken with him. Each store will make a beautiful backdrop that is the perfect opportunity for a memorable Christmas photo. We hope you'
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Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - noon
Brunch with Santa: Chicken N Pickle OPKS
Chicken N Pickle: Overland Park
Santa is coming!! Come on out and enjoy some yummy brunch classics, get a photo opportunity with Santa and write him a letter.
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Dec 3, 2022 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Meet Santa at the Zoo
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special stop at the Zoo. Kids can write letters to Santa and then meet the jolly ol' guy in person. Be sure to bring your camera to capture those candid moments with Santa and Mrs. Claus. You can also catch o...
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Jeff Evrard Photography
Dec 8, 2022 - Dec 11, 2022
The Fairy Princess
This year, the Kansas City Museum is proud to announce that the Fairy Princess event will be held in the museum’s new Betty Milbank Waldrop Salon, the beautiful Louis XVI French Salon. Corinthian Hall, home of the Kansas City Museum, is now updat...
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Dec 3, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Christmas Open House: Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm
Enjoy the Heritage Center decorations, make an ornament and visit the historic Mahaffie House! Activities may include: Live music from Shady Grove in the Heritage Center from 10 a.m. to noon Visit Santa in the Heritage Center from 1 to 3 p.m.
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Dec 17, 2022 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Santa Day at Louisburg Cider Mill
Santa Claus will visit the Louisburg Cider Mill Country Store on Saturday, December 17th, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Come visit Jolly Ole St. Nick and tell him your Christmas wishes.
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Dec 6, 2022 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Cookies with Santa: Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm
During Cookies with Santa you and your group can enjoy, cookies, cocoa, and of course a meeting with Santa himself!
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22
Dec 23, 2022 noon - 7:00 p.m.
Skate with Santa a Chicken N Pickle: OPKS
Chicken N Pickle: Overland Park
Come skate with Santa on our Ice Rink! Santa will be skating from 12-1pm & 6-7pm!
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Nov 26, 2022
Sea of Lights
HO-HO-H20! 'Tis the season to celebrate the season with thousands of lights under the sea! Stroll through Peppermint Harbor Explore Gingerbread Bay And enjoy our 10+ interactive zones decked in holiday decor
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Nov 26, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Holiday Bricktacular
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Kansas City during our Holiday Bricktacular event! There's LEGO® holiday-themed creations for the entire family to enjoy.
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Mark Stuecheli
Nov 25, 2022 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Luminary Walk
Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Kick off your holiday season with a festive family walk through the lights! The 23rd Annual Luminary Walk is proudly presented by FNBO, Westlake Ace Hardware, and Sarin Energy Solutions. Experience the magical Gnome and Fairy Villages, serene win...
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Jill DiMartino
Nov 25, 2022 - Dec 31, 2022
EBT Santa's Countdown to Christmas
Crown Center Shops, Level 1 Atrium. Don’t miss one of Kansas City’s favorite pieces of Christmas nostalgia. EBT Laughing Santa, who first appeared at KC's Emery, Bird, Thayer department store in the early 1900s, has been providing memories for n...
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Santa Dash
Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Kansas City Santa Dash in Westport
The best way to spread Christmas Cheer is by singing loud for all to hear. The next best way is to dress up like Santa and run a 5K as part of the Westport Santa Dash on Saturday, Dec. 10. Every participant receives a Santa Suit or long sleeve th...
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Zona Rosa
Dec 2, 2022 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
PJ Party with Santa
The fun starts at 5:30pm so don’t be late! Dress in your best pajamas and enjoy free milk, cookies & a holiday children’s book (one per family). • Snag a photo with Santa, snap photos by the Christmas tree, and grab a selfie with Willard, our ...
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Dec 10, 2022 noon - 4:00 p.m.
Skate Santa
YOU can be on Santa's Nice List! Sign up now to get fast pass access to entry, skate rental and SANTA! As well as get updates leading up to Santa Skate on December 10th!
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St. Joseph Museums
Dec 10, 2022 noon - 2:00 p.m.
Santa at the Mansion
You are invited to come visit Santa and enjoy FREE admission to see the beautiful holiday decor at the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion, 1100 Charles Street, in St. Joseph, Missouri. This FREE family event will be held on December 10th from Noon – 2PM (or u...
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SUSAN PFANNMULLER Special to the Star
Dec 17, 2022 10:00 a.m. - noon
The Great Candy Cane Hunt: Olathe
Bring your flashlights and help us find the Candy Canes Santa dropped on Stagecoach Park. Special Candy Canes can be redeemed for great prizes. The night will kick off with crafts and activities.
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Dec 10, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Christmas on Main: Blue Springs
Visit historic downtown Blue Springs! Stores and streets will be stocked with the holiday season's best gifts. Special guest artists and makers will offer one-of-a-kind gifts. Merchants will feature great deals and special in-store events.
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City of Lenexa
Dec 16, 2022 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Candy Cane Hunt
Dress warm and hunt for candy canes! After our hunt, we’ll head to the gym for milk and cookies, fun winter activities, and a performance by family entertainer Mr. Stinky Feet. Depending on his workshop schedule, Santa may stop by to check on all...
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Dec 10, 2022 9:00 a.m. - noon
Donuts with Santa
Santa is coming to the Midwest! Make sure you save the date! December 10th, 2022. 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Free Event!
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Dec 9, 2022 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Candy Cane Quest
Bring a flashlight and bag to search for the lost candy canes...and maybe even some prizes too...(SPR will have limited bags available if you forget)
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Nov 12, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Holiday Lighting Ceremony: The Village at Briarcliff
Lights will turn on at 6:00 p.m. But don't worry, there's plenty of other fun activities! Balloon animals, face painting, inflatable games, fireworks, and Santa!
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Nov 19, 2022 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Mayor's Tree Lighting and Parade: Downtown Tonganoxie
Please join us for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade. The event will take place at the Library this year. The Christmas parade will travel down 4th St. Santa is looking forward to seeing everyone!
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A Very Merry Christmas at the Majors Barn
Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - noon
A Very Merry Christmas at the Majors Barn
Join us for a morning of Christmas fun for all ages! Enjoy holiday themed games and crafts for both children and adults, museum tours, a Christmas treat, and photo opportunities with Santa’s sleigh. Ticket price includes a $1 off coupon for any h...
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Dec 15, 2022 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt
Join us on December 15 at 5:30 p.m. for the yummiest game of hide and seek! Grab your flashlight and help us search for candy canes hidden by Santa throughout Cornerstone Park, 215 N. Center St. This event is for kids 2 – 12 years old.
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Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum
Dec 10, 2022 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Holiday Nights
Experience the magic of the holidays at the historic Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum. A free night of holiday cheer for the entire family, this event includes live holiday music and carolers, holiday crafts for adults and kids alike, a vintage toy...
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Julie Newport, Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum Volunteer
Dec 10, 2022 noon - 3:00 p.m.
Photos and Cookies with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Families will enjoy cider, cookies, and the opportunity to purchase a digital photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus for $10.00 in the traditionally decorated farmhouse. Printed copies may be purchased for an additional $5.00
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Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
The Kansas City Santa Dash 2022!
Fill the streets with holiday cheer as hundreds of Santas run through the streets of Kansas City!
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Nov 18, 2022 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Overland Park Mayor’s Holiday Festival
Kick off the holiday season in Downtown Overland Park at this FREE community event! Join the Mayor, along with FOX4 reporter Abby Eden, as they light the tree in Thompson Park at 6 p.m.
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Dec 2, 2022
Christmas on the River: Parkville
Celebrate the holidays at Parkville Christmas on the River!
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Merriam Community Center
Dec 3, 2022
Breakfast With Santa: Leawood
"Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells" Come spend a morning with Santa and enjoy an all-you-can-eat pancake, sausage, juice and coffee breakfast provided by the Leawood Lions Club.
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Dec 17, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Candy Cane Hunt: Grain Valley
Santa's elves have been busy hiding hundreds of candy canes in Armstrong Park! Make sure to dress warm for this fantastic outdoor event! Special prizes will be awarded for finding the "special" candy canes! W
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Dec 1, 2022 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting: Grain Valley
Join Mayor Todd at the annual Mayor's Christmas tree lighting! This is a FREE event with fun for all including a visit with Santa Claus, hot chocolate and cookies, Christmas caroling by middle school choirs!!
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Dec 3, 2022 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Photos with Santa!: Gardner
Santa Claus is coming to town! More specifically, he’s coming to Cornerstone Park to take a photo with your children. In an effort to keep Santa and your family safe, families will be required to register for a time.
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Dec 10, 2022 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast with Santa: Gardner
Spend a morning with your family at the North Pole! Parents and children will enjoy All You Can Eat Pancakes, Sausage Links and Juice from Chris Cakes. Kids can make a craft and take a professional picture with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
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Mid-Continent Public Library
Dec 3, 2022 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Mid-Continent Public Library - Red Bridge Branch
Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special trip from the North Pole to read a holiday story. After the story, children may sit on Santa's lap for photos.
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Dec 10, 2022 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Kearney's Magical Night with Lighted Christmas Parade
Kearney Firehouse Community Center
Join us for our third annual Lighted Christmas Parade! Followed by Kearney's favorite Christmas event, A Magical Night! We are excited that you are going to join us for our annual Kearney's Magical Night!
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Dec 4, 2022 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Holiday Magic on Broadway
Santa Claus will visit the good girls and boys of Louisburg during Holiday Magic on Broadway.
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Dec 1, 2022 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
A Riverside Christmas
Riverside Area Chamber of Commerce
Join us at the Riverside Welcome Plaza for the Mayor’s tree lighting, Christmas scene photo sets, Visit and free photos with Santa, Hot chocolate and cookies, and a hot dog stand! Event Free for all!
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Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - noon
Brunch with Santa: Chicken N Pickle North KC
Santa is coming!! Come on out and enjoy some yummy brunch classics, get a photo opportunity with Santa and write him a letter.
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Unknown
Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m.
Candy Cane Hunt
Excelsior Springs Community Center
Search for Candy Canes, win prizes and meet Santa! Free for ages 1-12. Bring own bag for Candy Canes. Sponsored by Excelsior Springs Parks and Recreation.
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Nov 19, 2022 - Dec 14, 2022
Letter's From Santa
Excelsior Springs Historical Museum
Receive an OFFICIAL LETTER FROM SANTA’S NORTH POLE EXPRESS! Follow the rules and have your kiddos drop their letters to Santa in the North Pole Mailbox located outside of the Excelsior Springs Museum & Archives and they will receive a personaliz...
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Dec 14, 2022
Kansas City Southern's Holiday Express
The festive, six-car holiday train with intricate displays inside and out will bring Santa Claus and his elves to visit children and families in 20 communities in eight states.
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DEP
Nov 19, 2022 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Elf Factory
Excelsior Springs Community Center
Join us for this year’s Elf Factory! These four hours consist of holiday arts and crafts for children of all ages! Participants choose crafts ranging in price from 50 cents to $6.00. Come enjoy the holiday with us while your little ones make craf...
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Kansas City Zoo
Dec 17, 2022 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Santa Delivers
Santa is back one last time before the big day and this time he is visiting some extra special animals! All weekend long guests can catch a glimpse of Santa as he is delivering gifts to some of our animals that have made the top of the nice list ...
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Grandview Parks and Recreation
Dec 17, 2022 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Breakfast With Santa
Come spend the morning with Santa! Enjoy breakfast from Chris Cakes in your PJ's, make a craft, and get a picture with the big man in red! Pre-registration is $8 per person, $10 cash only at the door. Registration opens November 1!
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Photo Credits: AKMA
Dec 3, 2022 9:00 a.m. - noon
Breakfast with Santa and Gingerbread Workshop
Ring in December with Santa Claus at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art! Santa’s pancakes are served hot off the griddle with sausage, juice, coffee, and a special treat for the kids. After dining with Jolly Old Saint Nick, participate in a specia...
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Merriam Community Center
Dec 3, 2022 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Breakfast with Santa
This morning is full of holiday fun and activities, including a holiday craft, games, pancake breakfast, and best of all, Santa! Register by Friday, November 25th $5 per person. One child FREE with paying adult, adults must be in attendance....
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63
Dec 10, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Lanesfield School Christmas Concert
Lanesfield School Historic Site
Experience a traditional 1904 old-fashioned Christmas! Write to Santa with pen and ink and visit the gift shop for stocking stuffers. The Edgerton Rainbow Connection Children’s Choir will perform at 1:30 pm. Santa visits from 1:45-3:30! Crafts an...
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Brian Paulette Photography Upon a Dream Princess Parties, LLC
Dec 11, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Ring in the Season: A Holiday Ball
Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center
Come ring in the holidays with your favorite Princess friends! Each ticket admits one individual. Infants 18 months and under do not require tickets. Admission includes desserts, custom coffee & other hot beverages.
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Mainstreet PAC
Dec 17, 2022 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Pancakes with the Grinch and Friends
Main Street Performing Arts Center: Belton
Christmas just wouldn’t be complete without the Grinch! Main Street Performing Arts Center on Downtown Belton Main Street along with Chris Cakes will be serving up green pancakes and all your favorite Grinch characters will be there! 💚💚💚💚💚💚💚
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Cross Points Church
Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Santa Community Event
You and your children are invited to experience wonder and delight in meeting Buddy and Jovie from Elf, your little ones will love riding the train Polar Express. They will thrill at the opportunity to share their secret Christmas wish with Sant...
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Olathe's Best
Dec 10, 2022 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Olathe's Best Santa's Workshop
Olathe's Best After School & Summer Camp
Take Free pics with Santa, kids shop w/ a personal elf shopper, parents relax with coffee/snacks, all items under $15, free gift wrapping! Save your Spot: https://bit.ly/3TSo07h Website: https://olatheafterschool.com/
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Stefanie Bridges
Dec 3, 2022 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Breakfast with Santa
Come enjoy a Free pancake breakfast, and pictures with Santa, and kids can shop for Christmas presents in our Elf Shelf Store for their loved ones. RSVP here: https://forms.gle/9wFMsQsHmUEqSdoQ6
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Urban Air Adventure Park
Dec 15, 2022 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Cookies with Santa 2022
Urban Air Trampoline Park Lenexa
Come see us during our Thursday Jumperoo time and enjoy a cookie along with the opportunity to have your photo taken with Santa!
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Urban Air Adventure Park
Dec 16, 2022 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Cookies with Santa 2022
Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park
Come see us during our Friday Jumperoo time and enjoy a cookie along with the opportunity to have your photo taken with Santa!
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Dec 10, 2022 10:00 a.m. - noon
Toys for Tots Drive and Meet the Grinch
Toys for Tots Drive and Meet the Grinch
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Dec 17, 2022 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Milk & Cookies with Santa
Santa is coming to your local Cosentino's Price Chopper!
