Here are eleven things to do in KC this weekend, November 21-24, including: Festival of Lights, Yeehaw! Benefit Show and A Christmas Carol.
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.
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.
Amahl and the Night Visitors
Pairing live singing and music with puppetry, the original production Amahl and the Night Visitors was created with larger-than-life, intricate puppets. Based on Italian folktales of the Nativity and the Epiphany, this unique show retells the story of three kings—the Magi—as they make their journey to Bethlehem and meet an impoverished, disabled boy and his mother, who change the trajectory of their miraculous journey.
November 20–23. Times vary. Highlander Theatre (UCM).
Book Discussion: The Printmaker’s Daughter
In this free educational event, Nelson-Atkins staff members discuss Katherine Govier’s novel The Printmaker’s Daughter in support of the museum’s featured exhibition, “Hokusai: Waves of Inspiration.” The book features the little-known story of Hokusai’s artist daughter, Oei, and their complex parent-child relationship, while bringing the colorful 19th-century Edo (Tokyo) world to life through research mixed with compelling historical fiction.
November 21. 6 pm. Spencer Art Reference Library Reading Room.
Pink Friday
Zona Rosa is bringing the nationwide Pink Friday holiday to KC, for folks to come explore, shop and celebrate small businesses. This free public event will have special deals, pink drinks, pop-ups and activities at each stop. All participants will get a free pink ornament gift, along with photo opps and giveaways.
November 22. 4–8 pm. Zona Rosa.
International Festival
Park University’s annual International Festival celebrates the cultural diversity we have right here. The event begins with informational booths and cultural activities, followed by a diverse fashion show and cultural performances. Three Trails Taiko, a Kansas City area organization using drums and other instruments, will perform to create beautiful and powerful musical compositions that help tell the stories of Japan’s rich history and culture. Park international students will share the unique stories of their homeland and represent native countries like Bangladesh, Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe.
November 22. 5–9 pm. Park University.
Louis Prima, The Wildest Exhibition
This exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of Louis Prima, an iconic jazz artist whose vibrant contributions continue to inspire generations. Along with the Louis Prima, The Wildest Exhibition opening, there will be remarks from the Louis Prima Foundation and Executive Director, Dr. Dina Bennett, along with a live performance by a small jazz ensemble and light refreshments.
November 22. 6:30 pm. American Jazz Museum. (On display through May 4).
Strauss’ Alpine Symphony
The Friday night concert series and social experience, Symphonic Piazza, combines a shorter concert with engaging lobby activities and signature beverages. This new classical music experience is brought by conductor Matthias Pintscher, Yunchan Lim on piano and the symphony.
November 22–24. Times vary. Helzberg Hall.
Yeehaw: A Benefit Show for KC Tenants
Yeehaw is back for its third year, for a night of music and comedy benefitting KC Tenants—KC’s citywide tenant union. Alternative-indie band Waxahatchee, comedian Caleb Hearon and more surprise guests will be performing in support of KC Tenants.
November 23. 8 pm. The Midland.
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.
Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Come celebrate the start of the holiday season with the annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony at Zona Rosa, presented by Saint Luke’s North Hospital, North Park. Zona Rosa’s new 44 foot tall grand tree and holiday lights will be unveiled and then displayed all season long. To keep the festive spirit alive, there will be live music performances, food trucks and an appearance by Santa and other beloved holiday figures.
November 23. 4–6 pm. Zona Rosa.
