Here are fourteen things to do in KC this weekend, December 19–22, including Justin Timberlake, Winter Solstice Market and Winterland: A Holiday Cirque Experience.
Brian Kennedy featuring Angelique Cinelu
Grammy-Award winning producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Brian Kennedy is coming home to KC for the holidays. Over the past twenty years, Kennedy has produced hits such as Rhianna’s “Disturbia” and Kelly Clarkson’s “Mr. Know It All” in Los Angeles. Joined by singer Angelique Cinelu, the duo will perform a free and festive concert at The Blue Room in the 18th and Vine Jazz District.
December 19. 6 pm. The Blue Room.
The King’s Singers in Holiday Concert
Part of the Harriman-Jewell Series, The King’s Singers in Holiday Concert takes the 50-plus-year tradition of the five-man acapella group and puts a holiday spin on both classic Christmas hits and contemporary favorites.
December 19. 7 pm. Folly Theater.
Kadesh Flow and the Deshtet
Since relocating to Kansas City from Alabama a decade ago, Kadesh Flow has cemented himself as a pillar of KC’s music scene. The trombonist and rapper’s interactive and high-energy performances ebb and flow between freestyling lyrics and improvising on his horn. Enter from the back of the building for this Thursday night performance.
December 19. 9 pm. The Ship.
Justin Timberlake
Beginning his career at the apex of boy band fever, Justin Timberlake rose to stardom as the dreamy, ramen noodle-haired frontman of NSYNC. His fame catapulted to new heights during his drama-filled relationship with Britney Spears and his split from NSYNC to pursue a solo career. Timberlake quickly became a pop sensation with his sultry, catchy tunes like “SexyBack” and “Rock Your Body.” He’s fallen from grace in the last decade, with allegations of problematic behavior and a recent DUI, but he’s attempting to make his comeback with his perhaps too-on-the-nose The Forget Tomorrow World Tour.
December 20. 7:30 pm. T-Mobile Center.
Winter Solstice Market
Shop small at the Winter Solstice Market, hosted by Cherry Pit Collective. The Midtown studio’s holiday pop-up includes handmade gifts, warm beverages and light snacks. The event will also collect donations of hygiene products for FosterAdopt Connect.
December 21. 11 am–4 pm. 604 E 31st St., KCMO.
The Nutcracker
It wouldn’t truly be the holidays without Kansas City Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Since artistic director Devon Carney first reimagined the show for the ballet in 2015, it’s become a tradition for many KC families.
With opportunities for professional photos with characters before and after the performance, along with a scenic designer who doubles as an author and illustrator of children’s books and a family VIP experience, The Nutcracker will be entertaining for young fans and older ones alike.
December 6–8, 11–15 & 18–24. Times vary. Muriel Kauffman Theater.
Hallmark Christmas Experience
The Hallmark Christmas Experience is set to kick off a new Kansas City tradition this year with a memorable experience for all ages. Inspired by the festive charm of a Hallmark holiday movie, the event has transformed Crown Center 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.
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. This weekend marks the finale of this season’s performance run.
November 29–December 22. Times vary. Grand Theater at Crown Center.
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 KC Rep’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.
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.
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.
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.
