Here we are at the weekend again, but this time it's the first weekend in December! All the holiday feels with that statement! The city seems awash in holiday magic and nothing could be more true than at Crown Center!
As you know, last weekend was their major kickoff to the holidays. Santa arrived last Friday morning, taking up residence at Santa's Gingerbread Station until 5:00 pm on Christmas Eve. If you need to read your list to Santa, head down this weekend for a photo as well!
The Mayor's Christmas Tree lighting took place Friday evening and it was such a fun first time experience. The Kansas City Choral sang carols leading up to the big moment. But before that, McKinley played under the tree, running from one toy to the other. We then headed over to Crown Center where we picked up hot chocolate to warm up a bit. Then it was back outside, where we were handed light sticks for later in the program, and took our place in the square right in front of the tree! We took in the sight all around us. People gathering in groups of family and friends. Others watching from the hotel rooms in the Westin Crown Center. After the carols were sung, and the hot chocolate was devoured, the Mayor, along with the crowd of thousands, counted down from ten and the tree came to life with bright white lights that lit up the night sky!
A huge fireworks display took place afterwards, definitely something we didn't expect, and McKinley's face was that of pure joy! I think all of ours were. If you missed even one minute of it, head over to my IGTV page to watch the video! You too will be grinning from ear to ear!
But here is a great tidbit I learned about the tree itself. Since 1987, with assistance of Hallmark artists and other creative staff, the wood from the previous years tree is turned into commemorative ornaments. And the proceeds from the sale of the ornaments benefits the Mayor's Christmas Tree Fund. What is the Mayor's Christmas Tree Fund? This charitable organization was founded in 1908 with a mission to provide help to senior citizens, people with disabilities, and underprivileged children throughout Kansas City. You can help support the fund by purchasing one of the ornaments or by simply making a donation. Head here for additional information. And when down at Crown Center, make sure to stop by the display to see the ornaments from years past.
There is plenty more taking place this weekend! Listen to the sounds of metro wide school choirs performing in the Atrium on the first level. There is a list of choirs by date and time found here. These performances run through December 19th.
Also running this weekend only is the "Buddy's Holly Jolly Christmas" show through MTH. Tickets are limited so grab yours now! This show pays tribute to the late Buddy Holly with some of his classics and holiday favorites sprinkled in. Zachary Stevenson portrays Holly and the resemblance is uncanny! Get your show and ticket info here!
Lastly, take a glide along the ice at the Ice Terrace! This weekend is supposed to be another beauty and one that doesn't need all the cold weather gear! We added this to our annual Holiday Bucket List and I can't wait to get us out on the ice! Get all the hours, pricing, and more here.
So, what will you do at Crown Center this weekend? Make sure to take tons of photos and share all of your favorites with us!
XO,
Andrea
No Comments Yet, Leave Yours!