Deck the Halls in Kansas City: A Festive Weekend of Holiday Arts Awaits!
As December settles upon us and the chill in the air starts to warrant hot cocoa, Kansas City is ready to kick off its holiday season in style. If you’re a fan of holiday magic, this first full weekend of December is set to dazzle you with three amazing traditions returning to the stage. Grab your friends and family as we dive into what’s happening at the Kauffman Center and other local venues!
The Kansas City Ballet’s Enchanting “The Nutcracker”
First up on the festive agenda is the Kansas City Ballet’s delightful rendition of “The Nutcracker”. This beloved holiday classic has been charming audiences for more than 50 years, making it a staple of the Kansas City arts scene. Starting on December 6th and running through December 24th, this ballet will grace the Kauffman Center with magical performances featuring music by the legendary Tchaikovsky.
Showtimes are set for 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Note that there won’t be shows on Mondays or Tuesdays, except for the special performances on December 23rd and 24th. Tickets are priced reasonably from $34 to $250, depending on seating, so there’s something for everyone!
Don’t forget to secure your parking spot early in the Arts District parking garage, which costs $13 in advance or $16 the day of the show. For more information or to get your tickets, be sure to check out kcballet.org.
Sing Along with the Kansas City Symphony’s “Handel’s Messiah”
If music is more your jam, come join the Kansas City Symphony for their powerful presentation of “Handel’s Messiah”. This performance marks a long-standing tradition as it’s been part of the symphony’s holiday calendar since 1992. Set your sights on December 6th to 8th with shows at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday.
Under the baton of guest conductor Patrick Summers from the Houston Grand Opera, you’ll hear the stirring melodies that have captivated audiences for centuries. Tickets for this musical feast range from $30 to $95—definitely an investment in a night to remember! Remember, there’s more convenient parking available at the Arts District parking garage too!
Get Your Family Together for the Nativity Puppets Show
And don’t miss the return of the enchanting Nativity Puppets to Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral! This year marks the spectacular 25th anniversary of this family-friendly production, featuring larger-than-life puppets that will bring the nativity story to life in a unique way. The show opens on December 6 with performances running through December 8.
With two performances on Saturday and Sunday at 2 and 5 p.m., the Nativity Puppets bring together over 40 volunteers in a dazzling display of community spirit! Tickets are affordably priced at $15 to $18 and there’s even free parking available at the cathedral—although spots may fill up quickly!
The fun doesn’t stop with these three highlights. Kansas City is also celebrating the season with additional events including “It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play” at the MTH Theater, Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the T-Mobile Center and a holiday rendition from the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra—all happening throughout December.
Wrap Up for a Festive Month Ahead!
This weekend is just a sneak peek of the holiday cheer awaiting you in Kansas City. So bundle up and join in the festive spirit. Whether you’re dancing along with Sugar Plum Fairies or singing “Hallelujah,” there’s plenty to enjoy as we dive into this magical season. Don’t miss out on the chance to create some unforgettable memories!
