Christmas Events for Kids in Kansas City, MO (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

15 min read

The Kansas City, MO area has 15 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza! in Kansas City on November 10 to Holiday Reflections in Kansas City, which runs through January 4. 10 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Missouri, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 15 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Kansas City, MO for 2026, in Kansas City, Gladstone, Independence, Leawood, Lee's Summit, Overland Park and Raytown
  • First: The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!, Kansas City, November 10. Runs latest: Holiday Reflections, Kansas City, through January 4
  • Free: Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Santa Visits at Destination North Pole, Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus, A Visit with Santa Claus, How the Grinch Stole Storytime, Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell, Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Mrs. Claus Tells It All, Colonial Santa and Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Missouri Christmas train rides page.

Kansas City, MO Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
15 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Kansas City, Gladstone, Independence, Leawood, Lee's Summit, Overland Park and Raytown
Season
November 10, 2026 to January 4, 2027
Free events
10
Kinds of events
story time with Mrs. Claus, holiday lights, Santa visit and story time with Santa
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Kansas City, MO Christmas event for kids happens

The first is The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza! in Kansas City on November 10; the last runs to January 4. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Kansas City, MO? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Kansas City

9 confirmed events for kids in Kansas City, soonest first.

Kansas City: The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!

Holiday showThe Coterie Theatre · Kansas City

Host
The Coterie Theatre (opens in a new tab)
Where
The Coterie Theatre at Crown Center, 2450 Grand Blvd, Suite 144, Kansas City, MO 64108
When
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (performance run; see theater calendar for showtimes)
Cost
Ticketed, see theater site
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Coterie Theatre's holiday show is a brand-new musical party built on the books and characters of Mo Willems, with script and lyrics by Willems and Adam Tobin. The Unlimited Squirrels deck the halls, Elephant and Piggie arrive ready to celebrate, and the question is whether the Pigeon will join in or run all the way to the North Pole in search of the greatest gift ever.

The show is for all ages and runs about 60 minutes, a good length for young theatergoers. The theater offers Family Fun Nights on Dec 4, 11 and 18 at 7 pm, an ASL interpreted performance on Nov 21 at 2 pm, sensory friendly performances on Dec 4 at 10 am and Dec 5 at 2 pm, and audio described performances on Dec 10 and 12.

Parent tip: Look at the sensory friendly performances (house lights on, flexible audience expectations) if your child is new to live theater. Buy tickets through the Coterie site.

See dates and details from The Coterie Theatre (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Holiday Reflections

Holiday lightsUnion Station Kansas City · Kansas City

Host
Union Station Kansas City (opens in a new tab)
Where
Union Station Kansas City, Grand Plaza, 30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (daily; closed Nov 26 and Dec 25; closes 6 pm Dec 4 and 11, 2 pm Dec 24), 10 am to 8 pm
Cost
$10 Mon to Thu, $12 Fri to Sun and Dec 21 to Jan 4; free 12 months and under
Ages
All ages; mini train for children under 48 inches
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Holiday Reflections fills the Grand Plaza at Union Station Kansas City with a walk through holiday village from November 20 through January 4, 2027. It is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, with early closings on December 4 and 11 at 6 pm and December 24 at 2 pm, and it is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Santa roams the village from 10 am to 2 pm through December 24 for informal photos, included with admission. Kids under 48 inches can ride the Mini Holiday Express ride on train for $5, and there are model train displays and a letters to Santa station in Grand Hall. General admission is $10 Monday through Thursday and $12 Friday through Sunday and from December 21 on, with babies 12 months and under free. Timed tickets are required, so buy ahead.

Parent tip: Visit between 10 am and 2 pm to catch Santa, and buy timed tickets in advance; the mini train line closes an hour before closing.

See dates and details from Union Station Kansas City (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Tree lightingFreeCrown Center · Kansas City

Host
Crown Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Crown Center Square, 2405 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
When
Friday, November 27, 2026, 6 to 6:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place on Crown Center Square at 6 pm on Friday, November 27, the day after Thanksgiving. The 30 minute program includes a performance by the youth Chorus KC, remarks from Crown Center's president and Mayor Lucas, the illumination of one of the largest Christmas trees in the nation, and a fireworks finale.

Admission is free. Crown Center has been home to the Mayor's Christmas Tree for more than 50 years, and the tree supports the Mayor's Christmas Tree Fund, which helps Kansas Citians in need during the holidays. If you miss the big night, nightly tree lightings with light shows continue all season on Fridays and Saturdays at 6, 7 and 8 pm and Sundays at 6 pm.

Parent tip: Santa arrives at Crown Center by horse drawn carriage at 10 am the same day, so families can make a full day of it.

See dates and details from Crown Center (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Santa Visits at Destination North Pole

Santa visitFreeCrown Center · Kansas City

Host
Crown Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Crown Center Showplace, 2405 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
When
Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (daily during shop hours: Mon to Thu 10 am to 7 pm, Fri and Sat 10 am to 8 pm, Sun noon to 6 pm, Dec 24 10 am to 5 pm)
Cost
Free visit; photo packages from $12
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Destination North Pole is Crown Center's new holiday exhibit, open November 27 through December 24, 2026. Families walk through a candy cane forest with interactive stations and letters to Santa flying overhead on the way to Santa's village, where children can meet Santa and have their picture taken.

The visit itself is free. A professional photographer is on hand with photo packages starting at $12, and families may also take their own photos at no charge. Santa is in residence during Crown Center Shops hours: 10 am to 7 pm Monday through Thursday, 10 am to 8 pm Friday and Saturday, noon to 6 pm Sunday, and 10 am to 5 pm on December 24. He kicks off the season by arriving in a horse drawn carriage on November 27 at 10 am.

Parent tip: You can skip the photo package and use your own phone for free. Weekday visits are usually calmer than weekends.

See dates and details from Crown Center (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Story time with Mrs. ClausFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Kansas City

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Woodneath Library Center, 8900 NE Flintlock Rd, Kansas City, MO 64157
When
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 6 to 7 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special trip to the Woodneath Library Center in the Northland, part of Mid-Continent Public Library, to read a story and spread holiday cheer. After the story, children are welcome to visit with Santa, tell him what they want for Christmas, and pose for photos if their families would like.

The program is listed for all ages and runs about an hour on a Wednesday evening, which works well for kids in school. It is free, but registration is required, and the library asks families to register participating children only, so grown ups do not need their own spots. These story times are part of the library's Holidays 2026 series and tend to fill, so sign up early on the event page.

Parent tip: Register children only; adults do not need a spot. Bring a phone or camera for photos with Santa.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Holiday Open House with Santa - Family and Pet Friendly!

Santa visitKansas City, Kansas Public Library · Kansas City

Host
Kansas City, Kansas Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
South Branch Library, Conference Room A, 3104 Strong Ave, Kansas City, KS 66106
When
Monday, December 7, 2026, 5 to 6:30 pm
Cost
No fee listed (library program)
Ages
Children, teens and adults
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Kansas City, Kansas Public Library's South Branch hosts a holiday open house where both kids and friendly pets are invited to take a special holiday photo with Santa. The library also plans treats and fun holiday crafts for families during the evening.

The open house runs from 5 to 6:30 pm on Monday, December 7, in Conference Room A at the South Branch on Strong Avenue. It is listed for children, teens and adults, so the whole family can come along, including the family dog. Library programs may be photographed for promotional use, and families who prefer not to be photographed can let staff know. The library lists it under crafts, entertainment, holiday and special events. Questions can go to the South Branch at 913-295-8250, extension 3.

Parent tip: Bring your camera or phone for the Santa photo, and keep pets leashed and comfortable around crowds.

See dates and details from Kansas City, Kansas Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell

Holiday story timeFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Kansas City

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Red Bridge Branch Library, 453 E Red Bridge Rd, Kansas City, MO 64131
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 4 and up
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Children's musician Dino O'Dell brings his holiday show, Santa and the Space Aliens, to the Red Bridge Branch of Mid-Continent Public Library on a Saturday morning in December. The show features a story about a curious space alien, sing along favorites like Jingle Bells and Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, and a lively debate over whether Santa's sleigh is pulled by reindeer or reindogs.

The library recommends the program for ages 4 and up, and it runs about 45 minutes. It is free, but registration is required, so reserve spots for each child on the library event page. It is a good pick for kids who like to sing, move and laugh rather than sit quietly through a story.

Parent tip: Registration is required. A Saturday morning time makes this an easy weekend plan for working families.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Mrs. Claus Tells It All

Story time with Mrs. ClausFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Kansas City

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Blue Ridge Branch Library, 9253 Blue Ridge Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64138
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2 to 3 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 4 and up
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Mrs. Claus, played by storyteller Becky Everly, visits the Blue Ridge Branch of Mid-Continent Public Library on the Saturday before Christmas week. She tells all of Santa's best kept secrets, including the time Santa got stuck in a chimney, which cookie he likes best, and the latest gossip from the North Pole.

The program is aimed at ages 4 and up and lasts about an hour on a Saturday afternoon. It is free, but registration is required through the library event page. This storytelling style visit is a fun alternative to a standard Santa line, and it suits kids who love funny behind the scenes stories about the holidays. The Blue Ridge Branch is on Blue Ridge Boulevard in south Kansas City.

Parent tip: Registration is required. The Saturday afternoon slot fits well around weekend errands.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City: Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Story time with Mrs. ClausFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Kansas City

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
North Oak Branch Library, 8700 N Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, MO 64155
When
Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 5:30 to 6:30 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special trip to the North Oak Branch in Kansas City, North, part of Mid-Continent Public Library, to read a story and spread holiday cheer. After the story, children are welcome to visit with Santa, tell him what they want for Christmas, and pose for photos if their families would like.

The program is listed for all ages and runs about an hour on Tuesday, December 22, a nice last minute visit once school is out for winter break. It is free, but registration is required, and the library asks families to register participating children only, so grown ups do not need their own spots. These story times are part of the library's Holidays 2026 series and tend to fill, so sign up early on the event page.

Parent tip: Register children only. Because it falls during winter break, spots may go quickly.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Gladstone

1 confirmed event for kids in Gladstone, soonest first.

Gladstone: Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Story time with Mrs. ClausFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Gladstone

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Antioch Branch Library, 6060 N Chestnut Ave, Gladstone, MO 64119 (near Kansas City)
When
Monday, December 14, 2026, 6 to 7 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special trip to the Antioch Branch in Gladstone, part of Mid-Continent Public Library, to read a story and spread holiday cheer. After the story, children are welcome to visit with Santa, tell him what they want for Christmas, and pose for photos if their families would like.

The program is listed for all ages and runs about an hour on a Monday evening, convenient for working parents. It is free, but registration is required, and the library asks families to register participating children only, so grown ups do not need their own spots. These story times are part of the library's Holidays 2026 series and tend to fill, so sign up early on the event page.

Parent tip: Register children only; adults do not need a spot. Photos are optional and taken by families.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Independence

1 confirmed event for kids in Independence, soonest first.

Independence: How the Grinch Stole Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Independence

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
South Independence Branch Library, 13700 E 35th St S, Independence, MO 64055 (near Kansas City)
When
Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 5:30 to 6 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 3 and up
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Grinch is coming to the South Independence Branch of Mid-Continent Public Library, and this time he is spreading holiday cheer. After a short storytime, the Grinch will stay to visit with everyone and pose for photo opportunities.

The program is recommended for ages 3 and up and lasts about 30 minutes on a Tuesday evening, which makes it a manageable outing for preschoolers and early elementary kids. It is free, but registration is required, and the library asks families to register participating children only. Kids who are a little nervous about Santa often find the Grinch a fun and silly alternative. The same Grinch storytime is offered at several other Mid-Continent branches in December if this date does not work.

Parent tip: Register children only. Bring a camera for photos with the Grinch after the story.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Leawood

1 confirmed event for kids in Leawood, soonest first.

Leawood: Graham Cracker Cottages

Holiday craftsJohnson County Library · Leawood

Host
Johnson County Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Leawood Pioneer Library, 4700 Town Center Dr, Leawood, KS 66211 (near Kansas City)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 to 11 am
Cost
No fee listed (library program); registration required
Ages
Best for children with a caregiver
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Johnson County Library calls this its version of gingerbread houses. Each participant gets a base structure made in the library's MakerSpace and supplies to build and decorate a graham cracker cottage with white icing and colorful candy, then takes the finished creation home.

The Leawood Pioneer Library session runs from 10 to 11 am on Saturday, December 12, and is described as best for children with a caregiver. Space is limited and registration is required, and each person who wants to make a cottage needs their own registration. The library offers the same program at other branches as well, including De Soto and Lenexa City Center on Friday, December 11, and Monticello on December 12. Teens have their own session at the Central Resource Library on December 3.

Parent tip: Register each child who will build a cottage, since space is limited. Bring a box or plate to carry the cottage home.

See dates and details from Johnson County Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Lee's Summit

1 confirmed event for kids in Lee's Summit, soonest first.

Lee's Summit: A Visit with Santa Claus

Story time with SantaFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Lee's Summit

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lee's Summit Branch Library, 150 NW Oldham Pkwy, Lee's Summit, MO 64081 (near Kansas City)
When
Monday, December 7, 2026, 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa Claus is visiting the Lee's Summit Branch of Mid-Continent Public Library on a Monday evening in early December. Families can get into the Christmas spirit with a story told by Santa, and then children make a simple craft to take home.

The library lists the program for all ages, and family photography is permitted, so bring a phone or camera. It runs about an hour, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. The visit is free, but registration is required, and the library asks families to register participating children only. It is part of the library's Holidays 2026 series, which offers several similar visits around the metro. The Lee's Summit Branch is on NW Oldham Parkway, and the evening time works well after school and work.

Parent tip: Register children only, and bring your own camera since family photos are permitted.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Overland Park

1 confirmed event for kids in Overland Park, soonest first.

Overland Park: Luminary Walk

Holiday lightsArts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park · Overland Park

Host
Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park (opens in a new tab)
Where
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park, KS 66013 (near Kansas City)
When
Fri November 27 (5 to 9 pm), Sat November 28 (5 to 9 pm), Fri December 4 (5 to 9 pm), Sat December 5 (5 to 9 pm), Fri December 11 (5 to 9 pm), Sat December 12 (5 to 9 pm), Wed December 16, Fri December 18 (5 to 9 pm), Sat December 19 (5 to 9 pm), Sun December 20, Mon December 21, Tue December 22, Wed December 23 and Sat December 26, 2026
Cost
$17; ages 5 and under free with a free ticket; Electric Glow nights $12
Ages
Family nights for all ages; Candlelight Stroll is adults only
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The 27th annual Luminary Walk lights up the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens with luminary candles in the woods, gnome and fairy villages, festive displays and live music. On traditional walk nights, Nov. 27 and 28 and Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 and 19, holiday trains run in the Train Garden from 5 to 8:45 pm and kids can take photos with Santa from 5 to 8:30 pm.

Tickets are $17 and sold in half-hour entry windows, with no entry after 8 pm, and the walk takes about an hour to 90 minutes. Children 5 and under are free but need a free ticket to reserve a slot. Thursday Candlelight Strolls are adults only, and Electric Glow nights in late December cost $12 and skip the trains and Santa. The event is entirely outdoors, so dress warmly. Parking is free, with shuttles from Wolf Spring Elementary when lots fill.

Parent tip: Buy timed tickets online in advance, including free tickets for kids 5 and under. Dress warmly with hats, gloves and walking shoes; parking is free with overflow shuttles, and pets are not allowed.

See dates and details from Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Raytown

1 confirmed event for kids in Raytown, soonest first.

Raytown: Colonial Santa

Story time with SantaFreeMid-Continent Public Library · Raytown

Host
Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Raytown Branch Library, 6131 Raytown Rd, Raytown, MO 64133 (near Kansas City)
When
Monday, December 21, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 6 and up
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Colonial Santa visits the Raytown Branch of Mid-Continent Public Library on Monday, December 21, tying the holiday season to America's 250th birthday celebration. Presenter Jim Wallen, as a colonial era Santa Claus, shares stories and traditions of Christmas from the earliest years of American history.

After the program, children are welcome to share their Christmas wishes with Santa, and families may take photos. The library recommends the hour long program for ages 6 and up, so it suits school age kids who enjoy history as much as holiday magic. It is free, but registration is required. The afternoon time works well once school is out for winter break. The Raytown Branch is on Raytown Road, a short drive from south Kansas City.

Parent tip: Best for ages 6 and up. Registration is required, and family photos are permitted.

See dates and details from Mid-Continent Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Missouri Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for St. Louis. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Kansas City, MO Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Kansas City, MO in 2026?

We confirmed 15 Christmas events for kids in Kansas City, MO for 2026 on each host’s own page: The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza! in Kansas City (November 10), Holiday Reflections in Kansas City (November 20), Luminary Walk in Overland Park (November 27), Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Kansas City (November 27), Santa Visits at Destination North Pole in Kansas City (November 27), Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City (December 2), A Visit with Santa Claus in Lee's Summit (December 7), Holiday Open House with Santa - Family and Pet Friendly! in Kansas City (December 7), How the Grinch Stole Storytime in Independence (December 8), Graham Cracker Cottages in Leawood (December 12), Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell in Kansas City (December 12), Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Gladstone (December 14), Mrs. Claus Tells It All in Kansas City (December 19), Colonial Santa in Raytown (December 21) and Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City (December 22). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Kansas City, Missouri?

For families in and around Kansas City, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza! (Nov 10 to Dec 31; Family Fun Nights Dec 4, 11 and 18 at 7 pm, ticketed, see theater site); Holiday Reflections (Daily, Nov 20 to Jan 4, 10 am to 8 pm, $10 mon to thu, $12 fri to sun and dec 21 to jan 4; free 12 months and under); Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Fri, Nov 27, 6 pm, free); Santa Visits at Destination North Pole (Daily, Nov 27 to Dec 24, during shop hours, free visit; photo packages from $12); Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus (Wed, Dec 2, 6 to 7 pm, free, registration required); Holiday Open House with Santa - Family and Pet Friendly! (Mon, Dec 7, 5 to 6:30 pm, no fee listed (library program)); Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell (Sat, Dec 12, 11 to 11:45 am, free, registration required); Mrs. Claus Tells It All (Sat, Dec 19, 2 to 3 pm, free, registration required); Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus (Tue, Dec 22, 5:30 to 6:30 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Kansas City section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Gladstone, Missouri?

For families in and around Gladstone, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus (Mon, Dec 14, 6 to 7 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Gladstone section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Independence, Missouri?

For families in and around Independence, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: How the Grinch Stole Storytime (Tue, Dec 8, 5:30 to 6 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Independence section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Leawood, Missouri?

For families in and around Leawood, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Graham Cracker Cottages (Sat, Dec 12, 10 to 11 am, no fee listed (library program); registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Leawood section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Lee's Summit, Missouri?

For families in and around Lee's Summit, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: A Visit with Santa Claus (Mon, Dec 7, 6:30 to 7:30 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Lee's Summit section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Overland Park, Missouri?

For families in and around Overland Park, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Luminary Walk (Fridays and Saturdays, Nov 27 to Dec 19, timed entry from 5 pm, $17; ages 5 and under free with a free ticket; electric glow nights $12). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Overland Park section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Raytown, Missouri?

For families in and around Raytown, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Colonial Santa (Mon, Dec 21, 3 to 4 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Raytown section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Kansas City, MO?

Yes. 10 of the 15 events here are free: Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Kansas City, Santa Visits at Destination North Pole in Kansas City, Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City, A Visit with Santa Claus in Lee's Summit, How the Grinch Stole Storytime in Independence, Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell in Kansas City, Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Gladstone, Mrs. Claus Tells It All in Kansas City, Colonial Santa in Raytown and Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Kansas City, MO this December?

Santa appears at Holiday Reflections in Kansas City (November 20), Luminary Walk in Overland Park (November 27), Santa Visits at Destination North Pole in Kansas City (November 27), Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City (December 2), A Visit with Santa Claus in Lee's Summit (December 7), Holiday Open House with Santa - Family and Pet Friendly! in Kansas City (December 7), Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Gladstone (December 14), Colonial Santa in Raytown (December 21) and Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City (December 22). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Kansas City, MO?

Holiday story times on this page: Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City, A Visit with Santa Claus in Lee's Summit, How the Grinch Stole Storytime in Independence, Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell in Kansas City, Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Gladstone, Mrs. Claus Tells It All in Kansas City, Colonial Santa in Raytown and Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Are there kids' Christmas events in Kansas City, MO on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza! in Kansas City (through December 31), Holiday Reflections in Kansas City (through January 4), Luminary Walk in Overland Park (through December 26) and Santa Visits at Destination North Pole in Kansas City (through December 24).

How much is The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza! in Kansas City?

Ticketed, see theater site. The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza! is on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (performance run; see theater calendar for showtimes) at The Coterie Theatre at Crown Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Reflections in Kansas City?

$10 Mon to Thu, $12 Fri to Sun and Dec 21 to Jan 4; free 12 months and under. Holiday Reflections is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (daily; closed Nov 26 and Dec 25; closes 6 pm Dec 4 and 11, 2 pm Dec 24), 10 am to 8 pm at Union Station Kansas City, Grand Plaza. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Luminary Walk in Overland Park?

$17; ages 5 and under free with a free ticket; Electric Glow nights $12. Luminary Walk is on Fri November 27 (5 to 9 pm), Sat November 28 (5 to 9 pm), Fri December 4 (5 to 9 pm), Sat December 5 (5 to 9 pm), Fri December 11 (5 to 9 pm), Sat December 12 (5 to 9 pm), Wed December 16, Fri December 18 (5 to 9 pm), Sat December 19 (5 to 9 pm), Sun December 20, Mon December 21, Tue December 22, Wed December 23 and Sat December 26, 2026 at Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Kansas City?

Free. Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 6 to 6:30 pm at Crown Center Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Visits at Destination North Pole in Kansas City?

Free visit; photo packages from $12. Santa Visits at Destination North Pole is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (daily during shop hours: Mon to Thu 10 am to 7 pm, Fri and Sat 10 am to 8 pm, Sun noon to 6 pm, Dec 24 10 am to 5 pm) at Crown Center Showplace. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City?

Free, registration required. Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus is on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 6 to 7 pm at Woodneath Library Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Visit with Santa Claus in Lee's Summit?

Free, registration required. A Visit with Santa Claus is on Monday, December 7, 2026, 6:30 to 7:30 pm at Lee's Summit Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Open House with Santa - Family and Pet Friendly! in Kansas City?

No fee listed (library program). Holiday Open House with Santa - Family and Pet Friendly! is on Monday, December 7, 2026, 5 to 6:30 pm at South Branch Library, Conference Room A. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is How the Grinch Stole Storytime in Independence?

Free, registration required. How the Grinch Stole Storytime is on Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 5:30 to 6 pm at South Independence Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Graham Cracker Cottages in Leawood?

No fee listed (library program); registration required. Graham Cracker Cottages is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 to 11 am at Leawood Pioneer Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell in Kansas City?

Free, registration required. Santa and the Space Aliens: A Holiday Music Adventure with Dino O'Dell is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am at Red Bridge Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Gladstone?

Free, registration required. Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus is on Monday, December 14, 2026, 6 to 7 pm at Antioch Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Mrs. Claus Tells It All in Kansas City?

Free, registration required. Mrs. Claus Tells It All is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2 to 3 pm at Blue Ridge Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Colonial Santa in Raytown?

Free, registration required. Colonial Santa is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Raytown Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Kansas City?

Free, registration required. Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus is on Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 5:30 to 6:30 pm at North Oak Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Kansas City, MO?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Kansas City, MO Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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