Hi everyone, Scott Asner here!

Winter in Kansas City is magical, offering a blend of cozy traditions, festive celebrations, and outdoor adventures for all ages. From ice skating under twinkling lights to sipping hot chocolate while viewing dazzling holiday displays, here are five fun family activities to enjoy in Kansas City this winter.

1. Ice Skating at Crown Center

There’s nothing quite like skating at Crown Center’s Ice Terrace, Kansas City’s iconic outdoor ice rink. Open from November through March, this rink is surrounded by twinkling lights, giving it a festive feel for the winter season. After your skate, warm up with a hot chocolate from the nearby café, or stroll over to the Crown Center Shops for holiday treats and gifts.

When: Nov. 8, 2024 – Mar. 9, 2025

Location: 2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO

2. Explore Holiday Lights at the Plaza

The Country Club Plaza lights up each winter with the stunning Plaza Lights display, illuminating this historic area with thousands of colorful holiday lights. Families can walk around the plaza to enjoy the lights or take a horse-drawn carriage ride for a unique experience. Make it a full evening by stopping at one of the Plaza’s cozy restaurants for dinner.

When: Nov. 28, 2024 – Jan. 12, 2025; Plaza Lighting Ceremony: 5-8 pm, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024

Location: Country Club Plaza, Kansas City, MO

3. Christmas in the Park at Longview Lake

Longview Lake’s Christmas in the Park is a Kansas City tradition, featuring a drive-through light display with more than a million lights and hundreds of animated displays. This 37-year holiday tradition is free to attend, making it a wonderful option for a cozy, budget-friendly family night out. Kids will love seeing Santa Claus and festive scenes from the comfort of the car.

When: Nov. 27, 2024 – Dec. 31, 2024, 5:30-10 pm

Location: Frank White Jr., Softball Complex, 3901 SW Longview Road, Lee’s Summit, MO

4. Take a Trip to Union Station’s Holiday Reflections

Union Station’s Holiday Reflections event is an indoor winter wonderland filled with larger-than-life decorations, a model train display, rides (including a virtual reality ride that puts you on Santa’s sleigh!), and interactive photo opportunities. The exhibit is designed for kids and adults alike, offering the chance to take family photos surrounded by festive lights, ornaments, and displays – and with Santa. Afterward, grab a warm treat from Parisi Coffee, located inside Union Station.

When: Nov. 22, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025; Monday-Sunday, 10 am – 8 pm

Location: 30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO

5. The Penguin March at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Each winter, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium hosts the adorable Penguin March, where the zoo’s Humboldt penguins waddle through the grounds, delighting visitors of all ages. Held on Saturdays and Sundays, this unique event allows families to see the penguins up close as the loveable animals amble around. Don’t forget to dress warmly!

When: Nov. 30, 2024 – Feb. 23, 2025; Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am

Location: 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO, Helzberg Penguin Plaza

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From festive light displays to holiday skating and penguin marches, Kansas City is packed with activities to help your family make the most of winter. So bundle up, embrace the chilly weather, and create wonderful memories with your loved ones!

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Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri   

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