7 Things To Do This Weekend in KC: December 16-19

Photo by Brett Pruitt, KCBalletMedia

The Nutcracker

The Kansas City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is one of the quintessential productions of the year. Get immersed in the costumes, sets and enchanting melodies of Tchaikovsky as you and the family join the Nutcracker, Sugar Plum Fairy and the evil Mouse King on their journey through this epic holiday classic at the Kauffman Center.

Now–Friday, December 24. Various times. The Kauffman Center, 1601 Broadway Blvd., KCMO. $42. 

Rafael Lozano-Hemmer: Pulse Topology

If you haven’t made it to this immersive light and sound environment created by Mexican-Canadian artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, you’ve got a few weeks left to see it. The first weekend of January is the last to the internationally-recognized artist’s work at the Kemper Museum. Pulse Topology is Lozano-Hemmer’s latest work in a series of projects that use heart-rate sensors to create interactive audiovisual experiences. 

Now-Sunday, January 2. 10 am-4 pm. Kemper Museum.

Lazia’s Big Night

Based on the classic movie Big Night, Crossroads Hotel and Heidmann Art Salon are is hosting an artful celebration at Lazia in the spirit of Fellini this Friday. Tickets to the vent will include dinner, wine and pop-up theatrical performances.

Friday, December 17. Doors at 7 pm, show begins at 7:30 pm. Lazia. $125

Photography by Katie Henrichs

A Christmas Carol

Create new holiday memories with a timeless Christmas tale, A Christmas Carol from Kansas City Repertory Theater. The show will run for 10 more days this year at UMKC’s Spencer Theater, giving you a few more chances for a night out with the family and Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge himself.

Now–Sunday, December 26. Times vary. Spencer Theater, 4949 Cherry St., KCMO. Prices vary.

Photo by Don Ipock

Winter Magic

Cruise down the hill along Swope Park’s Oakwood Drive, and enter a world of holiday lights and cheer. The Winter Magic experience takes you through one completely LED-covered mile of the park as you move through their twelve themed holiday light displays. Load your group up in a car, van or bus and enjoy a drive complete with a lighted canopy, toy workshop, stained glass nativity, spinning trees, zoo animals and more.

Now–Sunday, January 2. Various Times. Swope Park, 8400 Blue River Road, KCMO. $20-$40. 

Old Crow Medicine Show

“Headed down south to the land of the pines, and I’m thumbin’ my way into North Caroline…” You know the words. You scream-sing them when the song comes on in a crowded bar and you’re a few brews deep. Familiar fun, right? Imagine that live. Old Crow Medicine Show is coming to Uptown Theater, so get ready to strain your vocal cords.

Thursday, December 16. 8 pm. Uptown Theater, 3700 Broadway Blvd., KCMO. $35–$75.

Photo courtesy of Uptown Theater

Walker Hayes

Country singer-songwriter Walker Hayes recently gained fame for his new single, “Fancy Like,” which became an overnight TikTok sensation and birthed a dance trend. The Alabama native will showcase his artistic talents at a twenty-one-and-older concert at Grain Valley’s MO Country.

Saturday, December 18. 5 pm. MO Country, 401 S. Outer Road E., Grain Valley. 21+. $20.

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