East Independence Other Christmas Activities 2026

Journey back to the 1800s at Fort Osage National Historic Landmark for a special Candlelight Tour. This immersive experience allows visitors to meet historic residents, learn about their challenging lives, and witness how they celebrated Christmas. Enjoy festive decorations, music,...

Join the annual Candy Cane Hunt for a festive morning of fun! Children aged 6 and under can search for candy canes outdoors before heading inside for milk, cookies, crafts, and story time. A musical performance adds to the holiday...

Experience the heartwarming Mayor's Christmas Concert, a cherished community event. While general admission is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis, premium seating and VIP packages are offered. Sponsorship opportunities provide exclusive benefits, including reserved seats and reception invitations,...

Experience a morning of holiday magic at the Breakfast with Santa event! Families can enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast, participate in fun crafts and games, and, most importantly, meet Santa Claus himself. This popular event historically sells out quickly, so...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Christmas in the Courtyard! This cherished family tradition returns with an evening of festive fun. Enjoy delightful caroling from local elementary schools, witness the ceremonial lighting of Merriam Plaza by Mayor Bob...

Lace up your running shoes for the Westport Santa Dash, a festive holiday event on December 12, 2026. Participants can choose from a 5k run, a 1k Reindeer Trot, or the Elf Dash for younger participants. It's a perfect way...

Step back in time to experience a 19th-century Christmas at Missouri Town Living History Museum. This event highlights the significance of clothing as a Victorian holiday gift, featuring crafts, decorations, and historical demonstrations. Visitors can enjoy traditional carols with provided...

Kansas City's 'Jingle All the Way: A Merry Christmas Run!' offers 5K, 10K, or 13.1-mile distances for running or walking. This holiday race provides a stress-free environment for all, with optional timing and a virtual option. Swag includes a t-shirt...

The Westport Santa Dash 5k is a holiday race with a 5k for adults and an Elf Dash for children 12 and under.

The Westport Santa Dash in Kansas City features a 5k race, a 1k Reindeer Trot, and an Elf Dash for children.

The Westport Santa Dash is a holiday race event with a 5k run, a 1k Reindeer Trot, and an Elf Dash for younger runners.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosts a free Ward Christmas Party celebrating 'Happy Birthday Jesus'.

The 2026 Kappa Holiday Homes Tour allows visitors to view private residences decorated for the holidays. The event provides home decorating inspiration and showcases architectural styles, while benefiting the Kappa Kappa Gamma organization.

The Stanley Ward Christmas Party 2026 is a free community gathering hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Hometown Olathe Family Farm presents its first Tree Lighting event, a family-friendly celebration. The evening includes a tree lighting ceremony followed by a Silent Disco. Admission is free.

Step back in time at the Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade, a beloved tradition celebrating over three decades of holiday cheer. This unique, exclusively horse-drawn event features dozens of magnificent horses and authentic carriages adorned with festive decorations. Experience the magic...

Experience the magic of Liberty Hometown Holidays, a beloved community event that brings festive cheer to the season. Stroll through downtown Liberty and admire the beautifully decorated storefronts, participating in the popular contest to vote for your favorite. This celebration...

Join The Soul of Santa for a heartwarming FREE community breakfast and giveaway event. This special gathering aims to spread holiday cheer and provide a welcoming atmosphere for all. While registration is required and capacity is limited, the event promises...

Experience the enchantment of the season at the Mayor's Tree Lighting ceremony. Join Mayor Bill Baird as he illuminates downtown Lee's Summit with thousands of twinkling lights, transforming it into a winter wonderland. The evening features live musical performances, opportunities...

Lace up your skates for the 53rd season at the Crown Center Ice Terrace, Kansas City's premier outdoor skating destination. Open from November 7, 2025, through March 8, 2026, it offers a classic winter experience for all ages. Don't miss...

Prepare for a heartwarming and soulful celebration of Christmas. This event promises a unique musical experience that blends the spirit of the holidays with soulful melodies. It's an opportunity to enjoy a special performance that captures the joy and warmth...

Get ready for the Leawood Rotary Christmas Auction Part 1, a special event designed to bring the community together for a festive cause. This auction is a key part of the club's holiday fundraising efforts, offering a chance to bid...

Join the community for the enchanting Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Hundreds of families gather to witness Mayor Leonard Jones illuminate the Mayor's Christmas Tree, officially kicking off the holiday season. Enjoy festive carols from local school choirs and a...

Experience the holiday spirit at Boulevard Brewing Co.'s Rec Deck during their 'Deck the Halls' event. They offer a festive atmosphere perfect for enjoying seasonal beverages and seasonal treats. It's a great spot to soak in the holiday cheer and...

Experience a truly magical holiday season at Park Place with Strolling Santa and Carolers. Families can visit with Santa on select Saturdays, creating cherished memories. Delight in the sounds of Dickens-style carolers as they fill the air with festive tunes,...

Celebrate the holiday season with a delightful gingerbread house making class. Participants of all ages can design and decorate their own festive creation with guidance from experienced instructors. It's a perfect opportunity for family bonding and creating lasting memories with...

Bring the family to Olathe for a heartwarming "Cookies With Santa" event. This festive gathering offers a magical opportunity for children to meet Santa Claus, share their holiday wishes, and enjoy delicious cookies. Several "Cookies With Santa" sessions are available,...

Embark on a festive adventure with The Great Candy Cane Hunt and other 'Hometown Holidays' events in Olathe. Families can send letters to Santa, enjoy 'Cookies With Santa' sessions, and witness the magical Olathe Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting. Explore dazzling...

Experience the magic of the season with Olathe's Hometown Holidays! This festive celebration offers a variety of events, from 'Cookies With Santa' to the Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting. Send letters to Santa at designated mailboxes across the city and enjoy...

Olathe invites you to celebrate the holiday season with its Hometown Holidays event series. Experience the enchanting Olathe Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, a dazzling spectacle that kicks off the festive spirit. Children can send their wishes to Santa through...

Get ready for a magical morning at Breakfast with Santa, a cherished part of Baldwin City's Festival of Lights! This free event offers a delightful pancake breakfast, professional photos with Santa, and engaging festive activities. It's the perfect way to...

Join the beloved Lawrence tradition of the Santa Rescue and Holiday Light Ceremony. Watch as Santa Claus is dramatically rescued from the roof of Weaver's Department Store by the local fire department. Once Santa is safely on the ground, the...