Looking for free and festive holiday fun around Kansas City? From twinkling light displays to magical walk-throughs and Santa visits, these are our family’s favorite free (or donation-based) holiday experiences in and around the KC metro.
Save this guide and share it with your holiday crew — the season is FULL of memory-making moments that don’t cost a thing.
Christmas in the Park – Longview Lake
Nov 26–Dec 31
Longview Lake | Lee’s Summit
(Donations accepted)
A Kansas City classic! Drive through more than 300,000 lights and animated displays.
Mom tip: Go earlier in the season or on weeknights to avoid very long waits.
Hallmark Christmas Experience – Crown Center
Fridays & Saturdays in December 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through December 21
Crown Center | Kansas City
See the beautiful and festive hourly tree lightings nightly, send a free Hallmark holiday card, stroll the local shops and let the kids climb on the Toys Under the Tree (check their schedule for updates).
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park Lights – Lenexa
Dec 5–Jan 19
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park | Lenexa
Sar-Ko Aglow is one of the metro’s BEST holiday light strolls. It’s open nightly through Jan 19.
Stagecoach Park Lights – Olathe
Stagecoach Park | Olathe
A lovely, walkable light display. Park at the Olathe Community Center and enjoy a peaceful, glowing trail.
North Pole Trail of Lights – Blue Springs
Dec 2–30
Mon–Thurs 5–9 PM | Fri–Sun 5–10 PM
Rotary Park | Blue Springs
A magical walk-through display that feels like stepping into the North Pole.
Perfect for little ones, strollers, and cozy family evenings.
Holiday Lights on Farmstead Lane – Overland Park
Nov 27–Dec 31 | 5–10 PM
Deanna Rose Farmstead | Overland Park
A beautiful drive-up (and park) light experience at the entrance of Deanna Rose Farmstead — bright, festive, and perfect for families looking to stay close to home. Wear your holiday jammies, bring your hot cocoa and snacks and stay cozy in your car while enjoying this display.
Trip the Light Fantastic – One Night Only!
Sunday, Nov 23 | 5:30–7 PM
Longview Lake | Lee’s Summit
Bring your bike and ride through a section of the iconic Christmas in the Park display before it opens to cars.
Park at Longview Community College and follow the crowd.
It’s one of the most unique (and beloved) KC holiday traditions!
Chapman Farms Neighborhood Lights + Scavenger Hunt
Chapman Farms (7 Hwy & Mason School Road) | Blue Springs
This neighborhood goes ALL OUT with themed displays: Chiefs, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Frozen, and more.
Kid-favorite:
A free scavenger hunt! Look for containers by mailboxes with printed lists your kids can check off as you drive.
Plaza Lights – Country Club Plaza
Nov 27–Jan 11
Country Club Plaza | Kansas City
A Kansas City holiday must-see. Grab hot cocoa, stroll the Plaza streets, and enjoy one of the most iconic Christmas light displays in the Midwest.
Crown Center Destination North Pole + Santa Visits
Nov 28–Dec 24
Crown Center | Kansas City
Visit Santa in one of the most magical setups in KC! Pair it with ice skating, shopping, a Christmas show at The Coterie and a visit to Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant.
The Magic Tree – Lee’s Summit
Beginning Nov 26
Paragon Star Sports Complex | Lee’s Summit
A glowing small but mighty tree that makes the perfect family photo backdrop. Simple, beautiful, and free.
Lane of Lights – Excelsior Springs
(Donations appreciated: Suggested $5/vehicle)
Lover’s Lane | Excelsior Springs
Drive through a breathtaking series of lighted Christmas displays hosted by local nonprofit groups. It’s festive, bright, and the perfect way to start or end a holiday evening in Excelsior Springs.
Kansas City has SO much holiday magic — and the best part is that so much of it is completely free. Whether you’re loading up the car with cocoa for a drive-through or bundling up for a walk-through experience, these spots will fill your December with joy, magic, and memories.
Share this guide with family and friends who love Christmastime as much as you do!
Save it to plan your festive adventures all season long.
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