Here are twelve things to do in KC this weekend, December 5–8, including Hallmark Christmas Experience, Warren Wolf and Friends at The Blue Room and Rec Dec the Halls.
Hallmark Christmas Experience
The Hallmark Christmas Experience is kicking off a new Kansas City tradition this year with a memorable time for all ages. Inspired by the festive charm of a Hallmark holiday movie, Crown Center has been transformed into a vibrant holiday market. General admission is free, but visitors can purchase admission to additional activities and special events featuring Hallmark stars and artists.
November 29–December 22. Times vary. Crown Center.
Handel’s Messiah
Hallelujah! Handel’s Messiah returns to the Kauffman Center with a lineup of over 150 musicians. The Kansas City Symphony will be joined by the Kansas City Symphony Chorus to perform the masterwork, filling Helzberg Hall with jubilant fanfare.
December 6-8. Times vary. Helzberg Hall, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
Soul of Santa Christmas Tree Lighting and Concert
Take in the sights of holiday lights at the sixth annual Soul of Santa Christmas Tree Lighting in the historic 18th and Vine Jazz District. The lighting ceremony will be followed by a funky performance by bassist Blair Bryant and his band at the nearby Gem Theater.
December 6. 5 pm. 1512 E 18th St, KCMO.
Warren Wolf and Friends
Baltimore-based vibraphonist Warren Wolf is making a stop in Kansas City to perform two sets at The Blue Room. The international touring artist and member of the all-star ensemble SFJAZZ Collective will be joined by three Kansas City jazz musicians: drummer Carl Allen, pianist Roger Wilder and bassist Jeff Harshbarger.
December 6. 8:30 pm and 10 pm. The Blue Room.
Winterland: A Holiday Cirque Experience
Take in the sights and sounds of the season at Winterland: A Holiday Cirque Experience. The Quixotic production prides itself on being an immersive experience—made complete with live music, art installations, dancers, and cirque performance––to transport participants to a shimmering winter wonderland.
November 29–December 22. Times vary. Grand Theater at Crown Center.
Park ICM Holiday Concert
Park University’s International Center for Music is one of the region’s premier music schools. Located in the scenic river town of Parkville, the conservatory’s orchestra will present the annual Park ICM Holiday Concert to perform renditions of classics such as “O Holy Night” and “Sleigh Ride.” Reservations are strongly recommended for the free performance.
December 7. 7:30 pm. Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel, Park University.
Rec Deck the Halls
Celebrate the season with Boulevard Brewing Company’s holiday pop-up bar Rec Deck the Halls. In addition to a menu of beloved staple brews and festive cocktails, the pop-up will feature limited-edition Aronia Berry Kriek Ale. The ale highlights the region’s natural heritage, brewed with aronia berries sourced from KC’s botanical treasure, Powell Gardens. A portion of the $5 cover charge will benefit Guadalupe Centers and Kansas City G.I.F.T.
November 29–December 28. Times vary. Boulevard Brewing Company.
A Christmas Carol
A Kansas City tradition for more than 40 years, this Charles Dickens classic is a cemented part of Spencer Theatre’s Christmas past, present and future. Enjoying this performance of A Christmas Carol is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and a good reminder of what the festivities are really about.
November 23–December 28. Spencer Theatre.
Christmas in the Crossroads
Ring in the yuletide season at Christmas in the Crossroads, where the arts district cocktail bar Society is transforming their space into a full-fledged holiday experience. Indulge in shareable bites and seasonal cocktails—including sugar cookie martinis with sprinkle rims and white cranberry margaritas among many other beverages—with no cover charge.
November 29–January 4. Times vary. Society.
Festival of Lights
The only thing more beautiful than Powell Gardens in the spring is the botanical garden in the winter, shining with holiday lights. The Festival of Lights is a great opportunity to appreciate the garden’s landscape and architecture while ushering in the holiday spirit. In addition to the mile-long walking path, which includes over 20 miles of lights, attendees may enjoy other attractions such as winter plants like poinsettias, local artwork, opportunities to visit Santa and even workshops on how to make holiday decorations and drinks.
November 14–January 4. Powell Gardens.
Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big KC MO Christmas Show
Once you’ve enjoyed the classic Dickens story, you might consider checking out a less conventional retelling. Directed by Ernie Nolan, Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big KC MO Christmas Show at the Unicorn Theatre on the Levin Stage promises a performance full of music, laughter and fun. Watch five actors take on multiple characters, including Scrooge, Tiny Tim, the ghosts and more, in this family-friendly show personalized just for Kansas City.
November 26–December 22. Times vary. Unicorn Theatre.
Jingle at KC Wine Co.
No tickets or reservations are necessary at this Christmas pop-up in Olathe. Festive cocktail pop-up Jingle will be serving festive cocktails including a Mistletoe Marg and Jack Frosty. Hard cider flights, wine, beer, wine slushies, charcuterie, and flatbread pizzas are also on the menu.
November 8–December 22. Times vary. KC Wine Co.
