The City Glitter: Kansas City’s Holiday Lighting Legacy
When the holiday season rolls around in Kansas City, it’s hard not to notice the dazzling lights that brighten our streets, shopping districts, and homes. Whether you’re taking a cozy evening stroll at the enchanting Country Club Plaza or cruising through the mesmerizing Christmas drive-thru displays, the festive atmosphere truly transforms the city. But have you ever stopped to think about the magic-makers behind these stunning spectacles?
A Spark of Inspiration
In 1959, a simple garage in Kansas City became the birthplace of a dream that would light up the world. The talented George Purucker, an employee at General Electric, decided to turn his fascination for radiant holiday displays into his very own business. After being inspired by the dazzling lights in London’s West End—especially those iconic crowns over Regent Street—George knew he could bring that charming European flair to the growing shopping scene in Kansas City.
With rapid retail development, George seized the moment and began showcasing eye-catching displays across local shopping centers like Ward Parkway and the Country Club Plaza. He quickly attracted attention and secured contracts with several prominent shopping developments, dazzling shoppers and turning heads in the city.
A Family Tradition
But it wasn’t just George working the magic! His daughter, Ann, also played a vital role in the family business. After school, Ann would come home to dive into the world of holiday décor, measuring wires and installing lightbulb sockets. Those handmade streamers became a staple of the family business as they strung up shimmering crowns across downtown Kansas City streets starting in 1962, creating a holiday tradition for all.
Unfortunately, times changed, and in 1976, the retail scene shifted into crowded suburban malls. However, Creative Displays, as it had been aptly named, continued to spread its festive magic throughout Kansas City and beyond, remaining a family-run operation until it was sold in 1984.
From Local to Global
Fast forward to 2023, and Creative Displays is celebrating a remarkable 65 years of brilliance! The company, now under the ownership of Angela Primavera since 2017, has flourished into a worldwide holiday display powerhouse. With a background in sourcing, product innovation, and design from her corporate career, Angela is committed to taking the enchanted lights to the next level while weaving family warmth and tradition. “Bringing joy to families during the holidays inspires me,” she shares warmly.
Stunning Displays for Every Occasion
Today, Creative Displays continues to take on projects in not only Kansas City but all over the globe. They are crafting exquisite displays for various cities and attractions such as the Kansas City Zoo, Union Station’s Giving Machines, and even a massive production bow for an upcoming holiday movie featuring some Hollywood heavyweights!
They’ve also recently made headlines with awe-inspiring creations like a stunning replica of the Eiffel Tower for the Olympic pre-trials and a drive-thru lights show in New York that captured the essence of the holidays. Talk about showcasing spirit wherever they go!
A Bright Future Ahead
With an impressive portfolio of holiday displays that mark every festive occasion—including Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, and the Fourth of July—Creative Displays shows that the sky truly is the limit when it comes to creativity. From whimsical animated volcanoes to towering 8-foot cowboy displays, they produce custom pieces that cater to the unique desires of their clients.
Angela believes that the essence of their success lies in their exceptional customer service, and she hopes to continue nurturing those relationships for another 20 years to come. So next time you find yourself enchanted by the luminous holiday displays in Kansas City, remember the magic-makers behind the scenes who bring these twinkling wonders to life!
