Did you know that Crown Center was named after the Hallmark corporate symbol? But before Crown Center, the area in which the shopping center stands, was once a part of the Union Square neighborhood. During World World I, downtown Kansas City was a hustle and bustle of businesses. But like everything else, times changed and by World War II, most families had moved out South leaving downtown to dry up. Hallmark maintained their headquarters, which opened in 1922, at 26th and Grand Boulevard, and was one of only a couple of businesses left standing in this vacant part of the city.
Did you know that in 1966, Donald J. Hall, Sr. took over as President and CEO of Hallmark? His father Joyce Hall, wanted to develop an area around the existing headquarters, and Hall Sr took the reigns to develop the entire area. Over time, he acquired all the land around the headquarters and worked with local architects to create a "city within a city" concept.
Did you know that in September of 1968 they broke ground and the entire complex was completed in 1971? There were five interconnected, seven story buildings that existed as office complexes. Today, there are three major law firms that reside in the office buildings that surround Crown Center Square. It also maintains Hallmark headquarters and our favorite spot for the holidays, Crown Center!
Did you know that Crown Center offers nearly 300,000 square feet of leasable space? And I can't wait to share some of my favorites soon. Places I love to shop, eat, and find entertainment are all housed inside Crown Center! This weekend, you can find so many new things to do! A Spectacular Christmas, brought to you by Musical Theater Heritage, opens this weekend and runs Wednesday through Sunday until the 23rd. This annual holiday show is a Crown Center tradition. It offers classic holiday tunes and original arrangements. There are some safety protocols in place, so make sure you head to their site to find out all the details and to get your tickets.
Did you know choir performances are still taking place in the Atrium? Has your school performed this season? If you want to get a list of current, and upcoming performances, check the schedule here.
Did you know that Hallmark released their first Christmas card in 1915? A staple for our family, and now their line of ornaments, I find that I spend lots of time browsing the aisles of the Hallmark store on the second floor of Crown Center! I can truly get lost reading all the sweet sentiments, stocking up for birthdays and other occasions, and adding a few extras to the pile I've already created!
Did you know that the Crown Center Fountain has 49 water jets and 48 water shooters that can shoot up to 60 feet in the air? And if you get there at just the right time, or stay for the next show, the water dances all around the square! It's so much fun to watch. And, they are currently playing lovely holiday music to help you stay in the spirit!
Did you know that if you head down to Crown Center this weekend, you and your family will end up creating memories you didn't know existed? What are you waiting for? Get to Crown Center now!
XO,
Andrea
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