How to buy gifts, see artwork and win prizes in Johnson County this week
There is still plenty of holiday cheer going on in Johnson County this week with live music performances, arts and crafts workshops, a Yule Ball for youth and even a candy cane hunt by flashlight.
Each week, as part of our Johnson County News coverage and weekly newsletter, we share news, tips, events and community resources for several cities across Johnson County.
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Kids can play with music
Join Toddler Gym Jam from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, at The Greenspace Gym at 303 E. Nelson St. in Edgerton. In this open play session designed for toddlers, kids jam out to children’s tunes while enjoying a variety of toys, soft play equipment, and balls to toss, roll, and bounce.
Hunt for candy canes at night
Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt will be 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at Cornerstone Park in Gardner. 215 N. Center St. Space is limited, and registration is required. No walk-ups.
Explore a challenge course
Summit Saturday runs from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., or 12 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, Ironwoods Challenge Course, 14701 Mission Road in Leawood. Climb on the 50-foot Alpine or Carolina Towers, with routes designed for both beginner and advanced climbers.
Learn about science and tech over winter break
Snapology S.T.E.A.M. Workshop is open 9 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, front lobby of The Wave, 10601 Lee Blvd. in Leawood. The workshop will also be available Dec. 29 and 30 and Jan. 5. Snapology offers hands-on programs for kids using Lego bricks and robotics.
Bingo at the market
Join Winter Water-land Bingo from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at the Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Lane. Play for prizes like day passes to the Lenexa Rec Center.
Learn about Civil War history
History Happy Hour: The Civil War in Kansas runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Parkway. Presenter Will Haynes, director of engagement and learning for Watkins Museum of History in Lawrence.
Gifts available at market
Holiday Farmers Market is open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Parkway. More than a dozen local vendors will offer meats, pies, wine, jams, body care and pet treats.
Kids can make their own presents
Holiday Arts & Crafts Workshop will be 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at the Lenexa Rec Center, 17201 W. 87th St. Parkway. Kids ages 6–12 will make a festive canvas painting of a winter wonderland, a felt ornament and holiday cards. Snack included, and you can register through the Lenexa Rec Center.
See high schoolers’ artworks
High School Visual Arts Competition exhibit is open through Dec. 27 at the Tim Murphy Art Gallery at the Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slater St. Students from 17 local high schools submitted various works of art from watercolor, pastel, oil, acrylics, drawing, photography, 3D and digital illustration.
Send Santa Christmas wishes
Families can Send Your Letters to Santa through Dec. 24 at the Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slate St. Bring your own letter or fill out a new one in the lobby.
Live music for Christmas
Olathe Live! Christmas – Lester Estelle & Friends will be 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at Eagles Landing at Lake Olathe, 475 S. Ward Cliff Drive. Live music and dancing.
See a holiday classic
Night at the Movies: Polar Express runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, Olathe Downtown Library, 260 E. Santa Fe St. Free popcorn.
Swimming and Santa
Santa’s Splash and Stacks from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Olathe Community Center, 1205 E. Kansas City Road. Dinner (pancakes, sausage), meet and greet with Santa Claus, kids activities, bell choir performance, and swimming. All children 5 years old and younger must have an adult in the pool.
Time for a ball
Yule Ball is scheduled from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Flexbox Theater, Olathe Downtown Library, 260 E. Santa Fe St. Event for students sixth to 12th grades. Registration is required and closes at 6 p.m. Dec. 20. Dress up in your finest outfit, food, dancing, games and crafts.