There’s always an abundance of holiday events around town the first weekend of December. In fact, the choice can be nearly impossible. These are the events we think will be worth your time.
Cable Dahmer Arena Tree Lighting Spectacular December 3
Cable Dahmer Arena’s Tree Lighting Spectacular is an all-inclusive event that includes ice skating, Make-A-Wish photo frames, a local vendor fair, sponsor giveaways, an opportunity to purchase Maverick’s tickets, and of course, a tree-lighting show with Santa. The event is free to attend, but some activities range from $5 to $20.
KCAI End of Semester Exhibition and Sale December 3-5
Enjoy the first in-person End of Semester Exhibition and Sale in two years. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts made by the Kansas City Art Institute’s (KCAI) talented students and visit the school’s 11 studios (each of which focuses on a different discipline). All proceeds benefit individual student artists and designers. If you can’t make the in-person event, browse select work at the End of Semester virtual show online. Artwork will not be for sale online, however.
Kansas City Ballet Presents The Nutcracker Beginning December 3
Kansas City Ballet’s annual tradition, The Nutcracker, continues to awe audiences year after year. The classic Victorian-era story by E.T.A. Hoffman featuring Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, Dr. Drosselmeier, and the Sugar Plum Fairy is a magical theatrical experience wrapped with exquisite costumes, grand sets, and captivating choreography. Ignite your wonder and feel the glimmer once more as your childhood dreams return to inspire you.
‘Rec Deck The Halls’ Holiday Pop-Up Bar Beginning December 3
Boulevard Brewing Company is gearing up for the holiday season with the launch of its first-ever holiday pop-up bar, “Rec Deck The Halls.” The brewery will transform the fourth-floor Rec Deck into a 21-and-over holiday experience with exclusive festive cocktails, frozen Flings, Quirktails, and a bevy of boozy, barrel-aged beers. The pop-up will include keepsake glassware, yuletide nibbles, shimmering shuffleboard courts, and extra-festive special events.
Cracked! A Reimagined Kansas City Nutcracker December 4-5
Set in Kansas City, this unique take on the traditional classic from VidaDance Company and Kansas City Aerial Arts follows Clara. Throughout the production, she meets local favorites, such as Christopher Elbow Chocolates, The Roasterie Coffee, and the Cherry Mash Fairy, all while enjoying the sights and sounds of a jazz club at 18th and Vine and the Country Club Plaza. Combining the best of ballet, modern, tap, jazz, and aerial, Cracked! is sure to invoke joy and festivity for audiences.