Winter brings with it a variety of seasonal activities such as ice skating, skiing, angel making, s’more’s and so much more! We’ve gathered a list of the best outdoor winter activities and events to do in the Kansas City area – so you can create moments with your family that one day will become fond memories. Don’t feel stuck indoors when the weather gets cold, keep the entire family entertained throughout the chilly season with our list below!
Kansas City, Kansas – Hike, Bike and Ride at the Wyandotte County Lake & Park. The park provides 1500 acres of rolling beauty and plenty of room to explore, run and ride. The park features a bridle trail, off-leash dog area, archery range, hiking and biking trails and lots of hills for sledding! Grab your gear and enjoy the outdoors at the Wyandotte County Lake & Park. Free admission. www.wycokck.org/parks
Merriam, Kansas – Mayor’s Tree Lighting November 30 from 6:30-8:00pm Enjoy the most magical time of year when Mayor Ken Sissom flips the switch, lights begin to glow, and Santa visits Merriam! Join us at the Merriam Marketplace for the annual tradition of lighting the tree. Then, head across the street for time with Santa, delicious hot soup, fun games, and more at the Irene B. French Community Center. Admission: $1 per person OR new toy or canned food item for the Johnson County Multi-Service Center. Registration at the Irene B. French Community Center, 913.322.5550 deadline Wednesday, November 28. www.merriam.org
Shawnee, Kansas - Get into the holiday spirit at Shawnee’s Christkindlmarkt! December 1, 2018 Join us on Saturday, December 1st for the Shawnee Sister Cities Christkindlmarkt! This family-friendly event features Santa and his reindeer, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting and all kinds of entertainment. This special event takes place from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at City Hall at 11110 Johnson Drive and the downtown area. https://www.cityofshawnee.org
Lenexa, Kansas - Kick off your holiday festivities this at Sar Ko Aglow, Lenexa’s holiday lighting celebration!
November 30, 2018
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park and West 87th Street Parkway, Lackman Rd, Lenexa, KS 66215
The lighting ceremony will be at 6 p.m. and the park stays lit through early January.Carolers will be stationed along the trail around Rose’s Pond following the lighting ceremony and Santa Claus will be on hand to hear children’s holiday wishes near Legler Barn. Admission is free!
Clay County, Missouri - Worlds of Fun’s WinterFest
November 23 – December 31st, 2018
Enjoy Kansas City’s newest winter attraction at Worlds of Fun’s second annual WinterFest celebration! Ring in the holidays on select nights November 23rd through December 31st. From sparkling holiday decorations, to favorite winter activities, treats, and characters, WinterFest has it all! Along with live holiday shows, WinterFest guests get to enjoy select park attractions. worldsoffun.com/play/winterfest
Lansing, Kansas – Annual Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting
December 2, 2018
The Annual Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place the first Sunday in December (December 2nd) at Lansing Middle School, Lansing, Kansas. Festivities include music, entertainment and caroling, beginning at 6 p.m. Also, Angel Tree Tags (with lists of items to help those less fortunate in the community) are available at City Hall and the Community Library.