Lee’s Summit and the surrounding KCMO area has tons to offer this winter. But don’t take our word for it! Check out one (or more) of these events and activities.
1. Christmas in the Park
For over 30 years Lee’s Summit’s Jackson County park has put together a magical winter wonderland. Over 300,000 lights and 175 animated displays starting at the Frank White Jr. Softball Complex create a Yuletide atmosphere unlike any other. While the event is free, donations are welcome and through the years over $1 million has been donated to local charities.
2. Lee’s Summit Magic Tree
Another Lee’s Summit staple, the Magic Tree is a holiday landmark that showcases the spirit of the season for everyone who stops or drives past. More than just an Instagram opportunity, the lighting of the tree offers hope, goodness, peace, and love that are the true sentiments during the holidays.
3. Longview Lake Polar Plunge
It wouldn’t be winter without a polar plunge! A project of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and hosted by Belton PD, KCPD, and Lee’s Summit PD, raise money for the Special Olympics and participate in the Polar Plunge at Longview Lake! For more information and to see how to register check out their website.
4. Sky Zone
A great place to burn off some energy year round, Sky Zone is particularly great during the winter because it doesn’t require bundling up in multiple layers to enjoy. Don’t keep the kids cooped up inside all day, let them jump off all their pent up energy!
5. Union Station
Union Station has been a Kansas City hub of culture, education, and entertainment for over a century. A piece of history that offers events and activities no matter the season, like many establishments it’s even more magical during the holiday season. Also check out their New Year’s Eve events, one for families with a balloon drop at 6 PM, and a New Year’s Swingin’ Eve for the 21+ crowd.
6. City Year Kansas City
Want to help make a difference in Kansas City, or want to add volunteering to your New Year’s Resolution list? Check out City Year! Helping to close gaps in high-needs schools, City Year is a vital part of the Kansas City community. Learn more about them, find out how to volunteer, or read about last year’s MLK Day of Service and other previous opportunities at their website.
7. NYE Live!
For over a decade NYE Live! has been the biggest New Year’s Eve Party in Kansas City. This televised event if everything you’d ever want in a NYE celebration and guaranteed to be one of the best ways to usher in the new year. The Power & Light District hosts this event, with exclusive access to a dozen bars and nightclubs and all-inclusive packages with great entertainment all night long, complete with a ball drop!
8. Chiefs Game
Don’t let the cold weather stop you from cheering on your Kansas City Chiefs as they finish out the season! If you’ve never been to Arrowhead Station, now’s the time! Pregame at a tailgate and even think about going on a tour before watching the game in a sea of red with your fellow fans.
9. KC Restaurant Week
If there’s one Kansas City event you won’t want to miss this winter, it’s KC Restaurant Week! Typically held in January, KC Restaurant Week brings together restaurants from all over Kansas City and the surrounding area. Multi-course lunch and dinner menus for only $15 and $33, respectively, mean you can finally try out that restaurant you’ve been eyeballing for a while! Get a full list of participating restaurants and their menus on the website.
10. Jackson County Parks & Rec
Much more than just Christmas in the Park, Jackson County Parks & Rec is a great place to visit all winter long, not just during the holiday season! Experience Missouri Town 1855 and Fort Osage in the beauty of the crisp winter air or enjoy nature in one of the many parks in the area.