Family or friends in town? What to do in Kansas City this Thanksgiving weekend
Thanksgiving brings friends and family to town, especially this year with the vaccine making it safer to gather together for the holidays. If you’re off work and looking for ways to spend time with loved ones in the city this weekend, we’ve got you covered.
Can’t get enough lights after the annual Plaza lights on Thursday? You’re in luck...
Mayor’s tree lighting ceremony
Taking place in Crown Center, the 100-foot-tall Christmas tree is the centerpiece for the holiday season. Mayor Quinton Lucas and an unannounced celebrity guest will flip the switch, illuminating the pavilion. Members of the Kansas City Chorale will also perform during the ceremony.
The event starts at 5:30 p.m. Friday and is free to attend. The tree will be lit from Nov. 26 to Jan. 3.
Crown Center Ice Terrace
Looking for something to do right after the mayor’s tree ceremony? Just walk a bit behind the tree and you’ll find the Crown Center Ice Terrace, Kansas City’s public ice skating rink.
It’s open on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. It costs $8 for adults and children ages 4 and older, while it’s free for children ages 4 and under. Ice skate rental is $4.
Looking for other holiday themed events or places to spot light displays? We have a mega-guide for Kansas City holiday events.
Kansas City Museum
The museum re-opened its doors on Oct. 21 and it remains the attraction it was over 14 years ago. Highlighting Kansas City’s past, present and future on its three floors, this is the perfect spot to introduce the city to family and friends that have traveled in for the holiday.
Admission is free, and it’s open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and from 12-5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are separated into different time blocks and can be found here.
Need a refresher on what other museums Kansas City has to offer? Here’s a guide to the best museums in the area.
Merry Market
Thanksgiving also kicks off the City Market’s Merry Market. Every weekend from now until Christmas, patrons can enjoy local festive foods, drinks and gifts for themselves or someone on their Christmas list.
Admission is free, but parking is $5. It starts on Friday from 4-8 p.m, on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Kansas State Parks and nearby hiking
Hoping to get outside for some fresh air and a breather after the holiday chaos? Admission to all state parks in Kansas will be free on Friday Nov. 26. Find a park near you with this map.
We also have a guide to the best hiking trails within driving distance of Kansas City to help you find a spot to break a sweat.
Kansas City Barbecue
And last but not least, if friends or family are visiting you from out of town and need some Kansas City barbecue after the turkey, here’s a guide to picking a spot.
This story was originally published November 24, 2021 at 5:00 AM.