Winter is here, and the holiday season is upon us. It's time to put on your warmest clothes, grab your loved ones, and head out to one of the most festive events of the year: the Kansas City Plaza Lights. With its dazzling display of lights, music, and holiday cheer, the Plaza Lights are a must-see attraction for locals and visitors alike. In this guide, we'll show you everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to the Kansas City Plaza Lights 2016.
What are the Kansas City Plaza Lights?
The Kansas City Plaza Lights are an annual holiday tradition that started in 1925. The event features a stunning display of lights that illuminate the Country Club Plaza, a popular shopping district in Kansas City, Missouri. The lights are turned on during a special ceremony on Thanksgiving Day and remain on until mid-January. The Plaza Lights attract thousands of visitors each year and have become a beloved holiday tradition for many Kansas City residents.
When do the Kansas City Plaza Lights 2016 start?
The Kansas City Plaza Lights 2016 start on Thanksgiving Day, November 24th, 2016. The lights will remain on until mid-January 2017. The official lighting ceremony takes place on Thanksgiving Day, but you can visit the Plaza Lights any time during the holiday season.
Where are the Kansas City Plaza Lights?
The Kansas City Plaza Lights are located in the Country Club Plaza, a popular shopping district in Kansas City, Missouri. The Plaza covers 15 blocks and features more than 80 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. During the holiday season, the Plaza is transformed into a winter wonderland with its beautiful display of lights and festive decorations.
What can you expect at the Kansas City Plaza Lights?
The Kansas City Plaza Lights offer a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Here are just a few things you can expect:
- A stunning display of lights: The Plaza Lights feature more than 80 miles of lights that illuminate the buildings, trees, and fountains in the Country Club Plaza. The lights are turned on every evening at 5:00 PM and remain on until 3:00 AM.
- Festive music: The Plaza Lights are accompanied by a selection of holiday music that adds to the festive atmosphere.
- Horse-drawn carriage rides: Take a romantic ride through the Plaza in a horse-drawn carriage. Carriage rides are available every night during the Plaza Lights.
- Ice skating: The Crown Center Ice Terrace, located just a few blocks from the Country Club Plaza, offers outdoor ice skating during the holiday season.
- Shopping: The Country Club Plaza features more than 80 shops and boutiques that offer a variety of holiday gifts and decorations.
- Dining: The Plaza also offers a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve up delicious holiday-themed dishes and drinks.
How to get to the Kansas City Plaza Lights?
The Kansas City Plaza Lights are located in the Country Club Plaza, just a few miles south of downtown Kansas City. Here are a few ways to get there:
- By car: The Plaza is easily accessible by car via several major highways, including I-35, I-70, and I-670. There is plenty of parking in the area, including several parking garages and lots.
- By public transportation: The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) offers several bus routes that serve the Country Club Plaza.
- By taxi or ride-sharing service: Several taxi companies and ride-sharing services, including Uber and Lyft, operate in the area.
Tips for visiting the Kansas City Plaza Lights
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Kansas City Plaza Lights:
- Dress warmly: The Kansas City winter can be cold and windy, so make sure to dress in layers and bring a coat, hat, and gloves.
- Visit during the week: The Plaza can get crowded on weekends, so consider visiting during the week to avoid the crowds.
- Arrive early: If you're planning to attend the lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving Day, arrive early to secure a good spot. The ceremony usually starts at 6:00 PM.
- Bring cash: Some attractions, such as the horse-drawn carriage rides, may only accept cash.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle: The Plaza offers a free shuttle service that runs every 10-15 minutes during the holiday season. The shuttle can take you to and from the Plaza and nearby parking lots.
Conclusion
The Kansas City Plaza Lights are a must-see attraction for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. With its stunning display of lights, festive music, and fun activities, the Plaza Lights offer something for everyone. Whether you're a local or a visitor, we hope this guide has helped you plan the perfect visit to the Kansas City Plaza Lights 2016.
