Save money this holiday season and enjoy fun across Kansas City! From Santa Sightings to concerts, storytelling events to crafts – we’ve got you covered!
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FREE Living Nativity events in Kansas City
Journey to Judea Nov. 16-18, Nov. 30 ‘ Dec. 2, Countryside Baptist Church, 14150 W. 175th St., Overland Park, KS. Come listen to Moses, David, Isaiah and others foretell the coming of the King. See the busy innkeeper and the young pregnant couple who were denied residence by him. Watch the angels tell good news to shepherds. Witness the empty cross and the open tomb and hear the next chapter of the story.
Journey to Bethlehem Nov. 30, Southminster Presbyterian Church of Prairie Village 6306 Roe Ave, Prairie Village, KS. Experience a walk-through pageant that tells the story of Christ’s birth. Bring your family to this free event which features seven scenes with live animals. experience the story of wonder and hope that is as relevant today as it was more than 2000 years ago. Journeys depart approximately every 20 minutes. Please go to the sanctuary where you can enjoy Christmas readings and music while you wait. The entire production is indoors.
Road to Bethlehem Dec. 1 & 2, from 6-8pm at South Summit Christian Church 1121 SW Hook Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO. From the warmth of your car, drive down the road to Bethlehem and enjoy live scenes that tell the Christmas story. Encounter shepherds and sheep, angels, Wise Men, Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus.
Connection Point Christmas Dec. 6-9, Connection Point Church 10500 East 350 Highway, Raytown, MO. We invite you to Connection Point Christmas, a FREE live music and drama event, to hear six unique yet relatable stories that intertwine to unfold the story of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection.
Road to Bethlehem Dec. 7-9, from 6-8pm at Red Bridge Baptist Church, 4901 E. Red Bridge Rd., Kansas City, MO. Road to Bethlehem is a captivating, walk-through experience, giving viewers a glimpse into the true meaning of Christmas. The birth of Christ was an event unlike any other in history, creating an eternally significant impact on people across time. Through dramatic narrative from the Bible, well-loved characters will draw listeners into the mystery, revealing the greatest story of all time. Tours will be approximately one-hour long and will consist of groups of up to fifteen people. All ages are welcome! Note: tours will consist of a moderate amount of standing and walking and will include a scene outdoors. Tickets are free but must be reserved in advance. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour to allow time for check-in. Walk-ins will be accommodated at the soonest open time slot.
Walk Through Bethlehem Dec. 7-9 from 5-10pm, Church of the Open Door 4800 S. 20th St. Trafficway, Leavenworth, KS. Experience an immersive tour through a 1st century city of Bethlehem. Registration is in person beginning at 4pm each night. This Christmas, step back in history for our FREE live, interactive event, set in the village of Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth. You’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of an ancient city, eventually making your way to the same discovery the shepherds rushed to find-Jesus, the Savior, lying in a manger.
Drive-Through Living Nativity Dec. 8, 5:30-7:30, First Baptist Church of Kansas City, 100 W. Red Bridge Rd., Kansas City, MO.Drive through this Nativity with Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus represented. Live animals are part of the tour. Each family receives a CD to play along the route.
An Extraordinary Night Dec. 9 at 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM, or 6:00 PM at Colonial Presbyterian Church – OPKS Campus (12501 W. 137th Street, Overland Park, KS). An Extraordinary Ordinary Night, is a creative production with a contemporary story woven into the timeless nativity story through music and song. The program culminates with children and adults alike walking to the manger; bringing gifts (toys, socks, hats, gloves, monetary donations) to be distributed to families who are less fortunate than ourselves.
Unto Us Dec. 9 at 9:00 and 11:00 AM at Colonial Presbyterian Church – KCMO Campus (9500 Wornall Rd. Kansas City, MO). An original nativity musical, Unto Us, reminds us that Mary and Joseph were two very human, very faithful people who believed in a miracle against all earthly odds in order to bring a Savior to this world.
Journey to Bethlehem Dec.9, from 4:00-7:30 p.m. at Community Covenant Church, 15700 W 87th St. Pkwy, Lenexa, KS. Travel along with Joseph and Mary as they journey from Nazareth, to Bethlehem and even begin their flight toward Egypt. This interactive story will come to life in front of your eyes as you experience the true meaning of what Christmas is all about and how God’s love is our refuge as we walk through the uncertain times of life. When your tour is complete, children and adults can experience a Jerusalem marketplace filled with crafts to create and snacks to enjoy; all of which is free to our community. Please allow at least 30 minutes to participate in the marketplace at the end of your journey tour. The marketplace will close at 8:30 p.m. Register at 913.631.0215.
Christmas in the Barn Dec. 24 at 4:30pm, Johnson Farms, 17701 Holmes Rd., Belton, MO, freewill donation accepted. Come to the 11th annual Christmas in the Barn and experience a full sensory celebration of our savior’s birth with live animals and music. Pastor Jim Stewart of Calvary Chapel KC will officiate the service with both contemporary and traditional music will be shared. Homemade sweets and hot beverages will be served, and live music will set the mood. A freewill donation will benefit Lord of Love Lutheran Church’s Wednesday night community meal.
Find more Living Natvities in KC here.
FREE Holiday Shows in Kansas City
Nov. 16 in KCP& L District. The 3rd annual Rock The Red Kettle concert will be headlined by Lifehouse! Kick off Salvation Army’s Christmas campaign. This event is a free family event with fantastic prizes and giveaways.
Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 2, 7, 8, & 9 at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, Liberty, MO. Shows are 15 minutes long, and begin every 45 minutes at 6:00pm, 6:45pm, 7:30pm, 8:15pm, 9:00pm. This FREE drive-in Christmas light display will be synchronized with live musicians in the PV parking lot. It’s a family-friendly show that will capture the hearts of many. Audiences will tune their radios to hear live performances of Christmas favorites from the comfort of their own cars. Through a simple narrative the Gospel story will be weaved throughout the show – inviting guests to discover the true reason for the season. Guests can view the 15-minute show from the warmth of their vehicles on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Dickens Carolers at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Get into the Christmas spirit with a performance by these festive singers dressed in beautiful Victorian attire. Registration required.
- Dec. 1 at 2pm at Kearney Branch
- Dec. 5 at 2pm at Smithville
- Dec. 8 at 2pm at Edgerton
- Dec. 9 at 2pm at Boardwalk
- Dec. 10 at 6:30pm at Excelsior Springs
- Dec. 22 at 3:30pm at Parkville
A Christmas Carol with Gerald Dickens, A Special Engagement at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. The great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens is returning to MCPL for a special engagement. Registration required.
- Nov. 11, 2pm at Gamber Community Center in Lee’s Summit
- Nov. 11, 7pm at Woodneath Branch
Simple Strings Dulcimer Concert at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Enjoy Christmas classics played by members of the Simple Strings Dulcimers, and learn the history of the songs and instruments they play. Registration required.
- Dec. 8 at 2pm at Liberty
- Dec. 22 at 2pm at Oak Grove
Mr. Stinky Feet’s Christmas Concert at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Jim Cosgrove presents Mr. Stinky Feet’s Christmas! Celebrate the holidays with singing, dancing, and stinky feet! Fun for the whole family! Registration required.
- Dec. 3 at 6:30pm at Riverside
- Dec. 8 at 2pm at Raytown
- Dec. 15 at 10:30am at Woodneath
- Dec. 16 at 2pm at Blue Springs North
- Dec. 17 at 6:30pm at Parkville
- Dec. 18 at 6:30pm at Blue Springs South
Christmas with the Cool Cats at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Terry Bell and his band, the Cool Cats, squeeze the most out of all those holiday favorites in this fun-loving holiday accordion concert. Registration required.
- Dec. 8 at 2pm at Buckner
- Dec. 15 at 2pm at South Independence
- Dec. 18 at 6:30pm at Excelsior Springs
Ms. Dennise’s Christmas Puppet Theater at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Santa visiting the Library! Join the nationally-renowned LS Puppeteers for two charming and lively tales that star the “jolly old elf” himself! Registration required.
- Dec. 8 at 2pm at Lee’s Summit
Christmas Around the World at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Storyteller Jo Ho celebrates the season of light with festive Christmas stories from around the world – guaranteed to brighten your holidays! Registration required.
- Dec. 8 at 11am at Colbern
- Dec. 15 at 10:30am at Grandview
A Christmas Carol with Gerald Dickens, A Special Engagement at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. The great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens is returning to MCPL for a special engagement. Registration required.
- Nov. 11, 2pm at Gamber Community Center in Lee’s Summit
- Nov. 11, 7pm at Woodneath Branch
Night Before Christmas Carol at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Join Charles Dickens in his study for a very special night. On this evening in 1843, he creates his holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol.” Renowned Dickens scholar, author, playwright, and lecturer, Elliot Engel, has crafted a work that allows David zum Brunnen to portray the 17 “Christmas Carol” characters and Charles Dickens himself. Recommended highly by the Dickens family, MCPL is privileged to offer this performance to continue its Dickens tradition!MCPL for a special engagement. Registration required.
- Nov. 26, 2pm at Raytown Branch
- Nov. 26, 6:30pm at Red Bridge Branch
- Nov. 27, 2:30pm at Parkville Branch
- Nov. 27, 6:30pm at Woodneath Branch
Holiday Choirs November 26-December 21 at Crown Center. Beautiful holiday music fills the halls of Crown Center, as more than 130 area school, church and community choirs perform every day.
Tuba Christmas Dec. 7 at Noon at Municipal Auditorium, 301 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO. The Kansas City Symphony is excited to present the region’s largest Tuba Christmas event EVER. All area tuba and euphonium players are invited to join in the festivities. Early and accurate registration is encouraged. Friends, family and the general public are invited to attend the lunch hour concert to listen to the sounds of the season, tuba-style! Tickets are free, however advanced registration is required for concert goers.
A Kansas City Christmas Dec. 8 & 9 at Lenexa Baptist Church, 15320 W 87th St Pkwy, Lenexa, KS. Kansas City Christmas is our yearly Christmas program featuring the LBC Worship Choir and Orchestra. This is event is free to everyone but there is no reserved seating, so get here early! The concert will be followed by a Dessert Buffet. Childcare provided for ages 3 and under.
Ms. Dennise’s Christmas Puppet Theater Dec. 8 at 2pm at Mid-Continent Public Library, Lee’s Summit Branch. Santa visiting the Library! Join the nationally-renowned LS Puppeteers for two charming and lively tales that star the “jolly old elf” himself! Registration required.
Movies @ the Library: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Load up the RV and join us to watch this classic holiday comedy. It’ll be more fun than a membership to the Jelly of the Month Club! Registration required.
- Dec. 4 at 6:30pm at Colbern
Movie on the Turf: Polar Express Nov. 30 from 7:30-10pm at Fieldhouse, 425 NE Mock Ave, Blue Springs MO. $5 per person. Children 2 and under free. All aboard the Polar Express Pajama Party! Get in the Christmas spirit with the family, while watching the adventurous film on the turf. Hot chocolate, cookies, and popcorn will be available. Pajamas are encouraged!
Elf Night at Summit Fair Dec. 7 from 6-9pm at Summit Fair space next to Cato, 840-M NW Blue Pkwy, Lee’s Summi, MO. Enjoy a FREE Christmas celebration featuring cookies and cocoa, crafts for the kiddos, free visits and photos with Buddy the Elf, balloon art, holiday face painting, giveaways and more! *All giveaways are provided on a first come, first served basis and are only available while supply lasts. Elf will be showing in the courtyard for ambiance.
Christmas Classics: Holiday Movies Olathe Downtown Library, 201 E. Park St., Olathe, KS. Enjoy classic Christmas specials at the library! All seating is on the floor, so we suggest bringing a blanket or pillow. Tickets will be handed out beginning 15 minutes before the movie. For all ages. Kindergartners and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
2018 Schedule:
- Dec. 10 at 4pm Frosty the Snowman (1969, 25 mins. G)
- Dec. 12 at 4pm How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966, 26 mins. NR)
- Dec. 14 at 4pm Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964, 47 mins. G)
KC Trombone Christmas Dec. 15 at 11am at Union Station 30 W. Pershing, Kansas City, MO. 2018 marks the second annual year of KC Trombone Christmas held in the Grand Plaza at historic Union Station! The Trombone Christmas Kansas City Concert was founded by Dr. Frank Perez and Mr. William Biggs in 2017 and is presented to promote and encourage the fellowship and musicianship of trombone players through the performance of Christmas Music.
Find more Holiday Shows in Kansas City here.
FREE Santa Sightings across Kansas City
Letters to Santa: Blue Springs Nov. 3- Dec. 14, Fieldhouse, 425 NE Mock Avenue, Blue Springs, MO. Santa is making his list and checking it twice, but he’s waiting for your letter! Put your Christmas wishes into writing and drop them off at the Fieldhouse’s direct mailbox to the North Pole.
Santa’s Wonderland Nov. 10 – Dec. 24 at Bass Pro & Cabela’s locations across the metro. Enjoy a free photo with Santa and experience a classic Christmas inside every Bass Pro & Cabela’s store.
Christmas in the Country Nov. 17, Mt. Gilead Historic School & Church, 15918 Plattsburg Road, Kearney, MO. There will be a Christmas “selfie station” for taking photos, crafts for children to make, music, and hot cider and cookies. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance. This is a free event.
Santa at Crown Center (2500 Grand, Kansas City, MO):
- Santa’s Arrival at Crown Center Nov. 23 at 10am 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.
- EBT Santa’s Countdown to Christmas Nov. 23 ‘ Dec. 31. Don’t miss one of Kanas 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 new generations at Crown Center since 1979. Children of all ages will marvel at this Jolly Ol’ Soul as he chuckles his way through the holiday season while counting down the days until Christmas. Open during Crown Center Shops holiday hours.
- Santa’s Gingerbread Station Nov. 23 ‘ Dec. 31. All aboard for a favorite holiday tradition at Crown Center! Kids and families can explore this interactive exhibit, meet and have their photo taken with Santa Claus (through December 24), climb aboard the Crown Center Express Train Engine, and enjoy Gingerbread Village. No admission fee. Photos with Santa are available for a fee, or you may take your own. Open during Crown Center Shops holiday hours.
Lanesfield School Country Christmas Weekends starting Nov. 24 at Lanesfield School, 18745 S. Dillie Rd, Edgerton, KS. Experience a traditional 1904 old-fashioned Christmas! Write to Santa with pen and ink, make an ornament, and visit the gift shop for stocking stuffers. Drop in between 1 pm and 5 pm – FREE
Living Windows Nov. 30, Independence Square, Independence MO. The windows will again come to life with holiday scenes, musicians and more for one night only. Explore our historic downtown where many merchants will be open late and other businesses may invite you in for a warm drink. Grab a late dinner or dessert. Come home to a new tradition, Living Windows. Make the Square your home for the holidays. Holiday Windows come to life with sights and sounds of the season. Street musicians, sidewalk vendors, sleigh rides and more.
Sar-Ko Aglow Nov. 30, Kick off your holiday festivities from 6-8pm this year by watching the lighting of Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, where the lights will stay lit through early January. There will also be carolers, a visit from Santa, and hot chocolate!
Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade: Lawrence Dec. 1 at 11am, Lawrence, KS. The horses will travel from 7th & New Hampshire towards Massachusetts Street, then turn south on Massachusetts to 13th Street.
Mayor’s Christmas Carnival: Independence Dec. 1 from 9am-Noon, Roger T. Sermon Center, 201 N Dodgion St, Independence, MO. Join Mayor Eileen Weir as we enjoy a variety of games and activities. Balloon creations, popular carnival games, face painting and other surprises await you. Each child will have the opportunity to visit with Santa and will receive a bag of treats. Bring your camera if you would like a picture with Santa.
Santa Visits Family Tree Nursery Dec. 2, 8 & 9 Family Tree Nursery. Every holiday season we transform our garden centers into magical winter wonderlands lined with forests of decorated trees. lights, decorations, and holiday gifts.
- Sunday, Dec 2nd – Liberty Location: 830 W. Liberty Dr. (816.781.0001)
- Saturday, Dec 8th – Overland Park Location: 8424 Farley St. (913.642.6503)
- Sunday, Dec 9th – Shawnee Location: 7036 Nieman Rd. (913.631.6121)
Holiday Lights & Festive Sights Dec. 7, Sylvester Powell Community Center, 6200 Martway, Mission, KS. A night of fun for all ages; come out to SPJCC to enjoy local choirs, a visit from Mr. & Mrs. Claus, balloon artists, hot chocolate & s’mores, indoor playground, swimming and much, much more! FREE!
Santa’s Wonderland at KC Parks Experience the wonder of the season at Kansas City’s holiday tradition, Santa’s Wonderland! Gather friends and family and spend an evening celebrating the holidays with festive entertainment by the Starlight STARS of Tomorrow, light displays and, of course, a visit from Santa and his friends. Free and open to the public. Bring your camera/phone to take a picture with Santa.
- Dec. 7, Gillham Park, Gillham Rd. and 41st St., Kansas City, MO.
- Dec. 8, Penguin Park, N Vivion Rd. and N Norton Ave., Kansas City, MO.
- Dec. 15, The Bay/Longview Tract, 7101 Longview Rd., Kansas City, MO.
Holiday Wonderland Celebration Dec. 7 from 6-8:30pm, NKC Parks & Recreation Center, 1201 Clark Ferguson Dr, North Kansas City, MO. Celebrate a Holiday Wonderland with us! Games, Holiday Crafts, and Cookie Decorating are all on the docket for the evening! Come enjoy the evening, but please register by November 30 in person, by phone, or online.
Cocoa & Cookies with Santa Dec. 9 from 6-8pm at AldersgateLife 350 SW 150 Highway, Lees Summit, MO. Enjoy a Who-Ville themed party where your kids can visit with Santa and get a (free download) picture by a professional photographer! (You are encouraged to take your own as well if you would like!) Enjoy a snack of cookies and cocoa while you watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas, color Who-Ville coloring pages and write your letter to Santa and drop it in our North Pole Bound Mailbox! Stop in for a How the Grinch Stole Christmas storytime with Cindy Loo Who! Kids are also welcome to head to the North Pole workshop where there will be stations and volunteers ready to help them make and then wrap their very own Christmas gifts for parents, grandparents, siblings or whoever they choose! While you wander and explore everything there will be to see and do, you may run into the Grinch also who will be hanging out all evening ready to take pictures with everyone! He wants to be there to remind you that Christmas doesn’t actually come from a store but perhaps means a little bit more!
15th Annual Winter Soltice Torch Lit Hike Dec. 12, George Owens Nature Park, 1601 S. Speck Rd., Independence, MO. Enjoy this family favorite seasonal program as you walk the trails of George Owens Nature Park and enjoy holiday decorations, ice sculptures, and more.
KCS Holiday Express (Feature photo) Dec. 14 ‘ 18 , Union Station, 30 W. Pershing, Kansas City, MO. Back for its 18th annual run, the Kansas City Southern Holiday Express train brings Santa Claus and his elves back to Union Station. The Kansas City Southern Holiday Express is unlike any other train in the world! One of Kansas City s favorite holiday traditions, the Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Train brings Santa to Union Station just before Christmas. Guests can visit with Santa and tour the train for free. Led by Kansas City Southern, Southern Belle business train, the Holiday Express train includes a smiling tank car Rudy; a flatcar carrying Santa’s sleigh, reindeer and a miniature village; a gingerbread boxcar; the elves’ workshop; the reindeer stable; and a little red caboose.
Louisburg Cider Mill Santa Day Dec. 22, Louisburg Cider Mill, 14730 K68 Hwy, Louisburg, KS. Santa Claus will be visiting the Louisburg Cider Mill Country Store from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come visit us with your children so they can tell Jolly Ole St. Nick all their last minute wishes!
A Holly Jolly Party: Santa’s North Pole Elves at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Celebrate the spirit of the season with some special elves straight from Santa’s workshop. Join your new elfin friends as they sing and dance to your favorite holiday tunes. Registration required.
- Dec. 1, 2pm at Blue Springs South Branch
- Dec. 8, 10:30am at Kearney Branch
- Dec. 15, 10:30am at Smithville Branch
- Dec. 19, 2pm at Colbern Branch
- Dec. 20, 2pm at North Independence Branch
Candy Cane Lane: Grandview Dec. 7, The View, 13500 Byars Road, Grandview, MO. Let’s take a trip to Candy Cane Lane to visit Santa! We’ll create crafts and decorate delicious cookies to enjoy! Get your photo with Santa after you tell him what you’d like for Christmas. Enjoy an evening of fun for the whole family at the View! This is a FREE event, however, space is limited so please register online!
Jim “Two Crows” Wallen Presents: A Visit with Santa Claus at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Get in the Christmas spirit with a story from Santa, and make a simple craft to take home. Parents and grandparents, don’t forget your cameras. An adult must accompany each child. Registration required.
- Dec. 3, 5:30 pm Weston Branch
- Dec. 15, 10:15 & 11:30 am Plate City Branch
- Dec. 18, 6:30pm North Oak Branch
Storytime with Santa at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Santa is making a special trip to the Library to read a holiday story. After the story, sit on Santa’s knee to tell him what you want for Christmas. Parents, don’t forget your cameras! Registration required.
- Dec. 4 at 2pm & 4pm at Woodneath Branch.
- Dec. 6 at 6:30pm at Smithville Branch
- Dec. 11 at 6:30pm at Parkville Branch.
- Dec. 17 at 6:30pm at Excelsior Springs Branch
Storytime with Santa & Mrs. Claus at Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special trip from the North Pole to read a holiday story at the Library. After the story, sit on Santa’s lap to tell him what you want for Christmas. Registration required.
- Dec. 4 at 6:30pm at Lone Jack Branch
- Dec. 7 at 10am at Blue Springs Branch
- Dec. 8 at 10:30am at Liberty Branch
- Dec. 8 at 3pm at Boardwalk Branch
- Dec. 10 at 10:30am at Grain Valley Branch
- Dec. 11 at 6:30pm at Oak Grove Branch
- Dec. 12 at 10am at Raytown Branch
- Dec. 14 at 2pm at North Independence Branch
- Dec. 15 at 10:30am Parkville Branch
- Dec. 18 at 6:30pm at Red Bridge Branch
- Dec. 20 at 6:30pm at Lee’s Summit Branch
- Dec. 22 at 2pm Blue Springs Branch
Father Christmas Dec. 15 at 2pm at Midwest Genealogy Center Mid-Continent Public Library. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, but he is older than you might think. Before Santa Claus was born, many cultures of the world came to America and brought their holidays and traditions. Registration required.
More Santa Sightings in Kansas City here.
FREE Christmas Events & Tours in Kansas City
Christmas at Crown Center For generations of Kansas Citians, it wouldn’t be Christmas without an annual visit to Crown Center. From family photos with the 100-ft Mayor’s Christmas tree, to outdoor ice skating, to a visit with Santa himself at the Gingerbread Village – Crown Center is the perfect destination to make memories with your family this holiday season. Enjoy live theater with charming Christmas shows, holiday performances, dining and shopping. Read our Guide to Christmas at Crown Center for complete information.
Downtown Dazzle Nov. 22 – Dec. 31, Downtown Kansas City, MO. Downtown KC