Oh, what fun it is in the City of Festivals!
Published on October 25, 2024
Lenexa is here to make your holidays merry and bright! From festive shopping events and seasonal displays to events that will “sleigh” your expectations, we have plenty of cheer to unwrap. Whether you're looking to invite your friends, delight your guests, or just soak in the season, there's “snow” better place to be!
Everybody fun
Sar-Ko Aglow
Lighting Ceremony: Friday, Dec. 6, 6–7 p.m.
Nightly viewing: through Jan. 20, 6–11 p.m.
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road
Sar-Ko Aglow is one of the region’s brightest traditions, and you’ll be lit with holiday joy! Mayor Sayers will flip the ceremonial switch for the first time on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. Santa will be there to check his list twice and hear holiday wishes. Warm up with hot cocoa as the Dickens Carolers fill the air with fa-la-la-la-bulous tunes. Once the park lights up, take a winter wonderland stroll around Rose’s Pond every night through Jan. 20.
Free admission.
"It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play"
Adapted by Joe Landry
Saturday, Dec. 14, 6:30–8 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 15, 3:30–5 p.m.
Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.
This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life like you've never seen — or should we say, heard — before. As the heartwarming story of George Bailey unfolds, you’ll jingle all the way through this live 1940s radio-style performance. It’s guaranteed to make your spirits merry and bright as you enjoy the timeless tale of hope and community.
Free admission. Part of the City Center Live series by the Lenexa Arts Council.
Tuesday, Dec. 31, 11 a.m.–Noon
Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Ln.
Want to celebrate the New Year without staying up late? Or looking for a fun activity with the kids before you head out for the night? Join us for our Noon Year’s Eve Pajama Party. This family-friendly celebration counts down to noon — perfect for little ones who can’t wait until midnight. Enjoy board games, giveaways, a time capsule activity, sing-along and more.
Free admission — and don’t forget to wear your coziest PJs!
Kid fun
Friday, Dec. 13, 9–11 a.m.
Lenexa Old Town Activity Center, 9301 Pflumm Rd.
This event is a swirl of fun! Join us on the lawn at 9 a.m. to gather candy canes and then go inside to warm up with milk and cookies. Enjoy a heartwarming story time, winter crafts, and a jolly performance by Mr. Stinky Feet. If we’re lucky, Mr. and Mrs. Claus may also make a surprise visit. It’s “mint” to be the perfect holiday activity for kids age 6 and under.
Free admission.
Friday, Dec. 13, 6–8 p.m.
Lenexa Rec Center, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.
Oh, the Who-liday cheer will be sprouting right here! Bring your little Whos down to the Lenexa Rec Center for a tree-mendous night of fun. With a visit from a certain grumpy green guest (you know the one with a heart two sizes too small), your kiddos will have a Seuss-tacular time. Cookie painting, crafty and grinchy games aplenty their hearts are sure to grow three sizes. Fun for ages 4–12.
Cost is $5 per child for Rec Center members or $8 per child for nonmembers. Register in advance.
Saturday, Dec. 14, 8–11:30 a.m.
Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Ln.
Santa Claus is making a special trip from the North Pole to join us for breakfast at the Lenexa Public Market. Gather the family and enjoy a delicious breakfast with jolly ol' Saint Nick as he takes a well-deserved break from his toy shop. Watch the kids’ faces light up as they meet Santa and share their holiday wishes — it’s a magical morning filled with festive fun for everyone!
Seats are limited. Sign up for the Public Market newsletter for early registration access.
Need more fun for the kids? Check out Winter Break Camp dates.
Shop, bake and eat fun
Hosted by Lenexa Parks & Recreation
Thursday, Dec. 5, 6–8:30 p.m.
The Kitchen at Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Ln.
Get ready to whisk up some holiday magic! Learning to bake desserts from scratch not only stirs up your creativity, but it also offers sweet savings. In this class, you’ll learn to turn basic ingredients into a batch of delicious treats at a fraction of the cost of store-bought goodies. We’ll also show you how to make the most of extra ingredients like vanilla, and even teach you how to create your very own bottle of vanilla extract — a flavorful holiday gift idea. You’ll go home with a goodie bag of baked treats, recipes, and your homemade vanilla extract to steep for your next bake or to give as a gift.
Cost: $25. Register in advance.
Saturday, Dec. 21, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.
"Yule" be in for a treat at the Holiday Farmers Market! Get ready to sleigh your holiday shopping with local vendors offering everything from seasonal produce to handmade gifts that will make your loved ones merry and bright. Whether you’re looking to spice up your holiday dinner or find that perfect, one-of-a-kind gift, this market has something for everyone.
Free admission.
Make a difference fun
Warmth Trees
Dec. 1–31
All month long, help us spread warmth by donating new or handmade hats, mittens, socks, and scarves. Drop off your items at one of our Warmth Trees. Whether you’re knitting kindness or shopping for a cause, your donation will help make the winter ahead a little warmer for those in need. Items will benefit SafeHome, Sunflower House and Shawnee Mission Area Council PTA Clothing Exchange.
Warmth Tree locations:
- Lenexa City Hall (2nd Floor), 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.
- Lenexa Rec Center, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.
- Lenexa Justice Center, 17371 Prairie Star Pkwy.
- Lenexa Fire Station No. 1, 9650 Pflumm Rd.
- Lenexa Old Town Activity Center (Haskins wing), 9301 Pflumm Rd.