The holidays are upon us and we’re making spirits extra bright here in Overland Park. Feel the magic of the season with everything from holiday lights displays and ice skating to gift shopping for all ages--only for those who made the Nice List, of course.
Luminary Walk | Nov. 29, 30 & Dec. 6, 7, 13,14
The Overland Park Arboretum transforms into a winter wonderland for three weekends this season, as the enchanting trees and bridges are lit up with holiday lights. Take the family on a walk down the winding trails lit only by candle, hop on a horse-drawn wagon for a ride through the arboretum, or tell Santa Claus himself what you’ve been wishing for this year.
Country Club Plaza Lights | Nov. 28-mid January
The Plaza draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to take in the 15-block array of festive lights. A team of electricians begins installation just after Labor Day, and the multi-color lights shine every evening Nov. 28 through mid- January. Holiday visitors can spend an entire day at The Plaza shopping, eating and enjoying the lights that make this spot famous. Don’t forget to pick up a KC shirt from Charlie Hustle, a perfect gift for anyone back home.
Holiday Lights on Farmstead Lane | Nov. 28-Jan. 7
The farm animals may be away for winter but new friends like Frosty the Snowman, Dancer & Prancer and Old St. Nick await in a drive-in holiday lights display at Deanna Rose Farmstead. Crank up the festive music (channel 90.5 FM), snuggle under a blanket and enjoy a 38-minute synchronized light show displayed right on the front of the Farmstead’s famed red barn building.
Oak Park Mall
Want to get all your holiday shopping done in one stop? Oak Park Mall is the place that could turn that Christmas miracle into a reality. The 180-store shopping destination includes big-box retailers like Nordstrom and Macy’s as well as specialty shops like Build-A-Bear Workshop. Plus, fuel up and warm up with a holiday drink from the Barnes & Noble cafe.
Historic Downtown Overland Park | Nov.-Dec.
The tree-lined streets of Historic Downtown Overland Park make this the picture-perfect place to visit during the holidays. The Mayor’s Christmas Tree is adorned with lights, and local shops are filled with unique gift ideas. If you are fortunate to make your visit on the third Friday of the month, you are in for a treat. Local Life Third Friday is celebrated in Downtown OP with gallery openings, food & drink samples, spa treatments, sales and much more.
Ice Rinks | Nov.-March
You may have the dream of hitting the ice and nailing a triple axel, but if you’re anything like me, gingerly skating around with a warm cup of hot chocolate in hand underneath the holiday lights is excitement enough. Both the Crown Center Ice Terrace and The Ice at Park Place open for the season in November.
American Youth Ballet’s The Nutcracker | December
A classic holiday tradition comes to life this season at the Johnson County Community College’s Yardley Hall. The American Youth Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker will mesmerize audience members of all ages with its sugar plum fairies, toy soldiers and 40-foot growing holiday tree, all set to a live orchestra playing Tchaikovsky’s enchanting holiday music.
