Thanksgiving weekend in Kansas City is a time to gather, celebrate, and kick off the holiday season in style. Whether you’re craving a stress-free Thanksgiving dinner, looking to explore festive traditions, or simply want to make the most of the long weekend, Kansas City offers something for everyone. From the dazzling Plaza Lights Ceremony to family-friendly activities like ice skating and holiday shopping, the city is alive with seasonal cheer. This guide will help you navigate the best events, dining options, and experiences to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Let’s dive into everything happening around KC this Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving Weekend Activities in Kansas City
- Gillham GobbleTrot: Kick off Thanksgiving Day with this family-friendly 5K run/walk on Thursday, November 28th, at 9 a.m. starting at the Pilgrim Chapel. It’s a great way to get moving and connect with the community before indulging in your holiday feast. Learn more.
- Kansas City Turkey Trot 5KStart your Thanksgiving Day with the Kansas City Turkey Trot 5K at Swope Park. This family-friendly event encourages participants to run or walk, promoting health and community spirit. The race begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday, November 28, 2024. Learn more.
- Thanksgiving Dinner at Kansas City Restaurants: For those who prefer to skip the cooking, Kansas City offers fantastic dining options on Thanksgiving Day. Check out the list of restaurants below for traditional turkey dinners and unique holiday menus.
- Ice Skating at Crown Center: Open daily starting November 1st, the Crown Center Ice Terrace is a must-visit over Thanksgiving weekend. Enjoy outdoor ice skating with friends and family to embrace the winter spirit. Learn more.
- Kansas City Plaza Lights Ceremony: Wrap up your Thanksgiving Day on November 28th with the iconic Plaza Lights Ceremony at the Country Club Plaza. Festivities start at 5 p.m., with the lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. This tradition brings the city together to celebrate the start of the holiday season with music, entertainment, and magical lights. Learn more.
- Holiday Reflections at Union StationExperience the magic of the season at Union Station’s Holiday Reflections. This walk-through village features festive decorations, towering trees, and classic seasonal films. The event runs from November 22, 2024, through January 1, 2025. Learn more.
- Holiday Shopping at Merry Market: After Thanksgiving, dive into holiday shopping at the City Market’s Merry Market. This festive market features over 75 local retailers across four weekends in November and December, starting on Black Friday, November 29th. Learn more.
Thanksgiving Dining Options
If you’re opting to dine out this Thanksgiving, Kansas City offers a variety of restaurants serving delectable holiday meals. Here are some top picks:
- Eddie V’s Prime Seafood: Known for their luxurious seafood options, Eddie V’s offers a slow-roasted turkey dinner alongside their regular menu.
- Garozzo’s Ristorante: This local Italian favorite serves a prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu with options for dine-in and carry-out, including turkey and classic Italian dishes.
- The Stilwell: Located at the Loews Kansas City Hotel, The Stilwell provides a sophisticated holiday dining experience with roasted turkey and gourmet sides.
- Grand Street Cafe: Enjoy a buffet-style Thanksgiving dinner featuring turkey, ham, prime rib, and a variety of sides and desserts.
