🎄 Experience the Magic: Your Ultimate Guide to the Most Magical Kick Off Yet!

The holiday season officially begins in Downtown Excelsior Springs this weekend, and it’s packed with festive fun for the entire family! From dazzling lights and charming shopping experiences to magical parades and heartwarming traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Stroll through the Hall of Trees, shop for unique gifts at the Downtown Holiday Open Houses or Mistletoe Market, and soak on the magic of the Lighted Christmas Parade. Don’t forget to bring the kids to the Elf Factory or gather your friends for a holiday outing at the Homes Tour or Cocktails & Candy Canes! Downtown is going to be buzzing with joy, music and holiday spirit! You don’t want to miss it!

Ready to dive into the details? Let’s explore the fun awaiting you this weekend and for the rest of the season!

Bid for Holiday Cheer: Holiday Decor Auction

November 15 – November 23

Step into the spirit of the season with the Holiday Décor Auction, a festive way to bring cheer to your home while supporting a great cause! From November 15 through November 23 at noon, you can bid on a variety of beautifully crafted holiday decorations, including wreaths, table toppers, and window displays. These unique items, donated by talented locals and businesses, will transform your space into a cozy winter wonderland.

Proceeds from the auction will go directly toward upgrading Excelsior Springs’ future holiday displays, ensuring the town remains a magical holiday destination for years to come. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or totally unique, you’re sure to find decor that captures the season’s magic.

Sip, Shop & Stroll through the Downtown Holiday Open Houses

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23

Experience the holiday magic in Downtown Excelsior Springs during our Downtown Holiday Open Houses, where local shops throw open their doors to offer one-of-a-kind gifts, seasonal treats, and warm hospitality. As you stroll through the historic district, you’ll find yourself surrounded by twinkling lights, beautifully decorated windows, and the buzz of holiday shoppers.
Enjoy special holiday promotions and the chance to meet local business owners who are ready to help you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Whether you’re shopping for unique handmade goods, cozy winterwear, or gourmet treats, there’s something for everyone in Downtown Excelsior Springs.
Pro Tip: Make a day of it! Grab a cup of cocoa, enjoy a meal at one of our local restaurants, and soak in the festive atmosphere while crossing items of your holiday to-do list.

Shop the Mistletoe Market

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 • MONTGOMERY EVENT VENUE

Kick off your holiday shopping at the Mistletoe Market, Excelsior Springs’ favorite holiday bazaar! On Saturday, the Montgomery Event Venue will transform into a bustling marketplace filled with over 20 unique vendors. From handcrafted jewelry and boutique clothing to festive home decor and specialty foods, this market is packed with treasures waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re shopping for stocking stuffers, hostess gifts, or that one-of-a-kind present, the Mistletoe Market has it all. Each vendor brings something special, so you’ll find items you won’t see anywhere else. Plus, shopping local means supporting the hardworking artisans and small businesses that make our community thrive.
Pro Tip: Many items are limited, so come early for the best selection! And don’t leave without taking something home.

Create Christmas Magic at the Elf Factory

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 • 10:00 AM-3:00 PM • EXCELSIOR SPRINGS COMMUNITY CENTER

Watch your little ones light up with joy as they become honorary elves at the Elf Factory! This interactive holiday workshop invites kids to dive into the spirit of the season by creating their own Christmas crafts. From festive ornaments to keepsake gifts, every creation is a labor of love that they’ll treasure for years to come.
Parents will enjoy the warm, cheerful atmosphere as kids let their imaginations run wild. Whether it’s glitter, ribbons, or sparkly paint, our crafting stations are stocked with everything they need to bring their visions to life. Plus, this event is a fantastic opportunity to make lasting holiday memories as a family.
Pro Tip: This is a cash only event, so hit up the ATM before heading over.

The North Pole is Waiting for You!

MAILBOX OPEN NOVEMBER 23 THROUGH DECEMBER 13

Nothing captures the magic of the holiday season quite like a letter from Santa himself! This tradition invites children of all ages to send their wishes directly to the North Pole. Santa will personally respond with a keepsake letter, adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday season.
Parents, this is your chance to create unforgettable memories for your little ones. Help them pen their most heartfelt wishes, or let them add their creative flair with drawings and decorations. Santa loves receiving letters filled with joy, hope, and maybe even a few funny questions!
Drop your letter in our special North Pole mailbox located outside the Excelsior Springs Museum & Archives. Include your return address to ensure Santa can reply.
Pro Tip: Submit letters early to give Santa plenty of time to respond before Christmas!

All The Holiday Cheer at the Lighted Christmas Parade

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 • 6:00 PM

It’s the official kick off with the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony! Get ready for the most magical event of the season—the Lighted Christmas Parade in Downtown Excelsior Springs! Featuring dozens of dazzling floats, marching bands, and even Santa himself, this parade is a feast for the eyes and the heart. This year’s theme, “Christmas in the Kingdom,” promises to enchant attendees
Bundle up and find your spot along the parade route early, as this is one event you won’t want to miss! Kids will love waving at the floats, while adults soak in the festive atmosphere and community spirit.
Special Highlights: Watch for a special appearance by a Kansas City favorite and our visitors from the North Pole!
Pro-Tip: Come early to get your $1 glow necklaces while supplies last. Then stay for the post-parade activities, including viewing the Hall of Trees and enjoying cookies from Job Corps.

Hall of Trees is a Stunning Display

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 31

Step into a holiday wonderland at the Hall of Trees! This breathtaking display of decorated Christmas trees will leave you in awe. Each tree is uniquely adorned by local businesses, organizations, and individuals, showcasing their creativity and holiday spirit.
Located inside the Hall of Waters, the Hall of Trees is perfect for families, or a festive outing. Walk among the glowing trees, take in the scents of pine and cinnamon, and vote for your favorite display. Proceeds from votes help support the Christmas Committee.
Pro Tip: Bring your camera! This is one of the most IG worthy spots in town!

A Drive-Thru Winter Wonderland • Lane of Lights

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 25

Pile the family into the car, crank up your favorite holiday playlist, and take a journey through the Lane of Lights, a mesmerizing drive-through display that brings the magic of Christmas to life. Stretching along a scenic route, the Lane is filled with twinkling light displays, whimsical scenes, and festive characters that will delight kids and adults alike.
This annual tradition is perfect for a cozy family outing or a romantic holiday date night. Watch the wonder on your kids’ faces as they spot Santa and his reindeer or snap a selfie with a glowing backdrop of holiday cheer.
Pro Tip: Donations are accepted and appreciated to help keep this magic experience alive for years to come. We recommend $5 to $10 per carload, so bring your cash!

Pop-Up Holiday Events by the Boutiques

Additional Events To Enjoy This Christmas Season

Small Business Saturday: Shop Small, Love Local

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30

Support the heart of our community this holiday season by shopping small and local on Small Business Saturday. Our downtown boutiques and shops are rolling out the red carpet with exclusive deals, giveaways, and personalized service that makes holiday shopping a joy.
Each purchase you make supports our community, so skip the big-box stores and discover unique, meaningful gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, enjoy festive music and decor that will get you in the holiday spirit as you stroll through the charming streets of Excelsior Springs.
Pro Tip: Start early! Make a day of it! Treat yourself to breakfast or lunch to fuel your shopping spree.

Holiday Homes Tour

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Step inside six stunning homes during the Holiday Homes Tour on Saturday, December 7, and see how Excelsior Springs celebrates the season with style and elegance. Each home is beautifully decorated for the holidays, showcasing unique designs, cozy vibes, and personal touches that are sure to inspire your own holiday decor.
This self-guided tour is perfect for design lovers, holiday enthusiasts, or anyone looking for festive ideas to bring home. Grab your tickets early—this popular event sells out fast!
Pro Tip: Wear shoes that slip on and off easily! Take your time at each home to admire the details and ask questions about the decor.

Free Pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus + Trolley Rides Through the Lane of Lights

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 • HALL OF WATERS

Bring your kids (and your camera!) for a magical evening with Santa and Mrs. Claus. They’ll be ready to pose for photos and hear what’s on every child’s wish list. Afterward, hop aboard a festive trolley for a scenic ride through the Lane of Lights, where you’ll see the holiday magic from a whole new perspective.

A Spirited Day At Cocktails & Candy Canes

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

As we near the end of the holiday season join us in downtown for a day of fun at Cocktails & Candy Canes on Saturday, December 14. Sip on seasonal cocktails, indulge in delicious treats, and wrap up your last minute shopping on the charming streets of Downtown Excelsior Springs. This adults-only event is the perfect way to toast to the season with friends and loved ones.
Pro Tip: Festive holiday attire is highly encouraged! Carpool or arrange a ride to enjoy the day worry-free.

With so many magical events and festive activities, Excelsior Springs is your ultimate holiday destination this season. From twinkling lights and enchanting parades to cozy boutique shopping and joyful family traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re making memories with loved ones, finding the perfect gift, or simply soaking in the charm of our district, the holidays in Excelsior Springs are nothing short of unforgettable. Make your plans, grab your calendar, and let your holiday spirit guide you to a season filled with joy, laughter, and a little sparkle. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!