Kansas City transforms into a holiday wonderland each winter as Christmas markets bring festive cheer, unique gifts, and seasonal foods to the city. From traditional European-style markets to local craft fairs and community gatherings, Kansas City’s holiday markets offer something for everyone. Each market is a perfect destination for holiday shopping, with various artisan crafts, specialty foods, and holiday decor. Family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and festive decorations make these markets ideal for a holiday outing with loved ones. In this guide, you’ll find detailed information on Kansas City’s top Christmas markets for 2025, complete with must-visit spots, event highlights, parking options, and nearby dining and accommodations.These Kansas City markets capture the enchantment of the season and offer unforgettable experiences for all, whether your search is for unusual presents or just enjoys the Christmas atmosphere. Discover the top holiday markets in Kansas City to maximize your festive season.
1: Kansas City Holiday Market at Union Station
One of the city’s holiday attractions is the Kansas City Holiday Market, held at Union Station. Every visitor will have an amazing time at this holiday market, which is celebrated in the majesty of Union Station and combines traditional elegance with festive zeal. The market is ideal for Christmas shopping, with a range of exhibitors offering handcrafted, unique gifts, seasonal treats, and holiday décor. Among the market’s family-friendly Christmas-themed events are a children’s Santa’s Workshop, a beautiful gingerbread home exhibit, and live holiday choir performances. The Holiday Train Exhibit is a must-see for train enthusiasts, showcasing model trains in a festive setup. Union Station’s grand hall, decorated with holiday lights and a massive Christmas tree, provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and holiday memories. This market’s festive ambiance, convenient location, and accessible parking make it one of Kansas City’s top destinations for experiencing the holiday season in style. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, enjoying live entertainment, or soaking in the holiday ambiance, the Kansas City Holiday Market at Union Station offers something for everyone.
Address: Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Dates: December 1 – December 3, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Friday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: $5 for adults, free for children under 12
Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets available on the Union Station website.
Nearest T Stations: Kansas City Streetcar Union Station Stop
Events:
- Holiday Choir Performances: Local choirs sing holiday classics in Union Station’s grand hall.
- Craft Workshops: Create holiday crafts, ornaments, and decor with local artisans.
- Santa’s Workshop: A family-friendly area where kids can meet Santa Claus.
- Gingerbread House Display: View beautifully decorated gingerbread houses created by local bakers.
- Holiday Train Exhibit: A seasonal train display that delights children and adults alike.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Handcrafted Jewelry Booth: Unique, locally made jewelry pieces.
- Kansas City Artisans: Booths featuring handmade Kansas City-themed crafts.
- Hot Chocolate Bar: Indulge in specialty hot chocolates with various toppings.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Union Station’s Grand Hall: Beautifully decorated for the holidays, ideal for photos.
- Santa’s Sleigh Photo Booth: Capture festive memories with Santa’s sleigh as a backdrop.
- Holiday Tree Display: Union Station’s giant holiday tree, fully adorned with lights.
- Historical Train Exhibit: A must-see for train enthusiasts and families.
- Giant Ornament Sculpture: Perfect for holiday photos with friends and family.
Parking Information: On-site parking available for $10.
Nearby Hotels:
- The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center: Upscale hotel within walking distance.
- Hotel Kansas City: Boutique hotel with a historic ambiance.
- Crossroads Hotel: A modern hotel close to Union Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Pierpont’s at Union Station: Known for fine dining and historic decor.
- Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue: Classic Kansas City barbecue nearby.
- Lidia’s Kansas City: Cozy Italian restaurant with a festive ambiance.
2: Westport Christmas Market
The Westport Christmas Market is one of Kansas City’s most loved holiday traditions. It is in the historic Westport District. A lot of different local artists and dealers come together for this market every year. It has a unique mix of handmade goods, seasonal food, and fun entertainment. The market’s tree lighting ceremony starts the season with live music and caroling, filling the air with holiday cheer. Horse-drawn carriage rides provide a scenic way to explore the district. At the same time, family-friendly activities, such as ornament-making workshops, allow visitors of all ages to participate in the festive fun.Visitors may enjoy anything from freshly made Bavarian pretzels and hot cocoa to locally produced candles and handcrafted holiday décor as they stroll over the adorned streets. Because of its historical attraction, vibrant festive environment, and unique local offers, dining, shopping, and making holiday memories fit the Westport Christmas Market. This market offers free entrance and a handy position near several Westport hotels and restaurants, hence everyone can visit it.
If you’re seeking more festive experiences in the Midwest, don’t miss the Naperville Christmas Markets for a magical holiday atmosphere.
Address: Westport District, Westport Rd & Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64111
Dates: December 9 – December 10, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required
Nearest T Stations: Kansas City Streetcar Stop at Union Station (short drive or bus ride to Westport)
Events:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: Join the market’s tree-lighting with live music and caroling.
- Live Music and Caroling: Local bands and carolers bring holiday cheer to Westport.
- Family Ornament-Making: Hands-on ornament-making station for kids and adults.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Enjoy a scenic ride through the holiday-lit Westport District.
- Artisan Craft Demonstrations: Watch artisans create handcrafted holiday goods.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Westport Boutique Collective: Unique boutiques offering holiday fashion and decor.
- Artisan Holiday Candles: Locally made candles in seasonal scents.
- Bavarian Pretzel Stand: Freshly baked, warm pretzels for holiday snacking.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Historic Westport Fountain: Beautifully decorated for the holidays.
- Santa’s Photo Booth: Capture festive family moments with Santa.
- Main Stage for Live Music: Center stage for local bands and holiday performances.
- Westport Mural Wall: Popular for photos, decorated in holiday themes.
- Warm Cocoa Cart: Specialty hot chocolates and seasonal drinks.
Parking Information: Street parking and nearby lots available, with fees varying by location.
Nearby Hotels:
- AC Hotel by Marriott Kansas City Westport: Modern hotel close to the market.
- 816 Hotel Westport: Boutique option with local art and a cozy vibe.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Kansas City Plaza: Spacious suites, perfect for families.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Beer Kitchen: Known for comfort food and holiday specials.
- Westport Café and Bar: French-inspired dishes in a warm setting.
- McCoy’s Public House: Offers hearty meals and seasonal craft brews.
3: Crown Center Christmas Village
The Crown Center Christmas Village is one of Kansas City’s most iconic holiday destinations. Located in the heart of Crown Center, this market offers a festive mix of shopping, entertainment, and winter activities for all ages. From November through December, Crown Center becomes a holiday wonderland, with a giant Christmas tree, beautiful lights, and a magical atmosphere that draws locals and tourists alike. The Crown Center Ice Terrace is a famous winter spot where people can skate under the stars while being surrounded by holiday decorations. Families love Santa’s Gingerbread Station because it lets kids meet Santa and look around his gingerbread-themed home.The market is a great place to buy gifts because it’s free to enter and the shops sell items made by locals, gifts from Kansas City, and Hallmark holiday ornaments. The cute layout of Crown Center, along with its holiday lights and events that are good for the whole family, makes it a great place to go on holiday trips. The Crown Center Fountain Light Show is another thing that people can enjoy. It makes this a unique holiday event.
Address: Crown Center, 2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Dates: November 24 – December 24, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; details available on Crown Center website.
Nearest T Stations: Kansas City Streetcar Stop at Union Station
Events:
- Ice Terrace Skating Rink: A popular ice rink open during the holiday season.
- Santa’s Gingerbread Station: Meet Santa in a gingerbread-themed setting.
- Holiday Puppet Shows: Fun puppet shows perfect for kids and families.
- Live Christmas Music: Enjoy holiday music performances on select days.
- Crown Center Fountain Light Show: Spectacular holiday lights display.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Hallmark Store: Find festive ornaments and gifts from Hallmark.
- Kansas City Souvenirs: Unique Kansas City-themed holiday gifts.
- Handmade Holiday Decor: Local vendors with beautiful seasonal items.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Crown Center Ice Terrace: An iconic outdoor rink open all season.
- Mayor’s Christmas Tree: One of the tallest holiday trees in Kansas City.
- Fountain Lighting Show: A stunning fountain with holiday lighting displays.
- Santa’s Gingerbread House: Perfect for photos and visits with Santa.
- Holiday LEGO Display: An impressive holiday-themed LEGO exhibit.
Parking Information: Crown Center parking garages available, free with validation.
Nearby Hotels:
- The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center: Attached to Crown Center.
- Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center: Conveniently located with great amenities.
- Residence Inn Kansas City Downtown/Convention Center: Ideal for extended stays.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant: Family-friendly, train-themed dining.
- Milano Italian Dining: Casual Italian fare within Crown Center.
- Unforked: Quick bites and seasonal treats.
4: Strawberry Swing Holiday Market
The Strawberry Swing Holiday Market at Zona Rosa Shopping Center is a festive, artisan-focused market that brings Kansas City’s best local makers and crafters together. Known for its dedication to handmade goods and local craftsmanship, this market features everything from artisan jewelry and leather goods to holiday-themed home decor. Live acoustic music adds to the cozy setting and makes people feel happy as they look at the booths. DIY craft workshops are fun for people of all ages because they let everyone participate. For example, kids can paint their own ornaments at a special craft area. The market’s photo station with Santa’s helpers adds a playful holiday touch, perfect for capturing family memories. Hot cocoa tastings allow guests to sample seasonal flavors and warm up while shopping. With free parking and easy access, the Strawberry Swing Holiday Market offers an ideal holiday shopping experience for those looking to support local artisans and find unique, handcrafted gifts. This market is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates quality craftsmanship and the joy of shopping local.
Address: 7000 NE Barry Rd, Kansas City, MO 64156 (at Zona Rosa Shopping Center)
Dates: December 16 – December 17, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; event details available on Strawberry Swing’s website.
Nearest T Stations: Kansas City Streetcar at North Loop (then a short drive)
Events:
- DIY Craft Workshops: Join local artisans in workshops to make your own holiday crafts.
- Kids’ Ornament Painting: A creative spot for kids to paint holiday ornaments.
- Live Acoustic Music: Enjoy live performances by local musicians throughout the day.
- Photo Station with Santa’s Helpers: Take pictures with Santa’s cheerful helpers.
- Hot Cocoa Tasting: Sample a variety of hot cocoa flavors at the tasting tent.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Handmade Leather Goods: Unique leather crafts perfect for holiday gifts.
- Kansas City-Themed Apparel: Cozy winter wear with Kansas City pride.
- Artisan Honey and Jams: Local, organic products ideal for holiday cooking.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Zona Rosa Holiday Lights: A beautifully decorated shopping area that’s picture-perfect.
- Family Photo Wall: A holiday-themed wall with photo props for family pictures.
- Fire Pit Lounge: Warm up with friends at the cozy fire pit area.
- Holiday Market Entrance Arch: A festive entrance that’s perfect for photos.
- Community Art Mural: Holiday-themed art created by local artists, ideal for photos.
Parking Information: Free parking available at Zona Rosa’s on-site parking lots.
Nearby Hotels:
- Courtyard by Marriott Kansas City at Briarcliff: Comfortable accommodations near the market.
- Hampton Inn Kansas City Airport: Convenient and family-friendly option.
- Hilton Kansas City Airport: Great amenities and easy access to Zona Rosa.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bravo! Italian Kitchen: Casual Italian fare with holiday specials.
- 54th Street Grill & Bar: Known for its hearty American dishes.
- Bo Lings Zona Rosa: A popular spot for delicious Chinese cuisine.
5: Downtown Overland Park Holiday Market
Just outside of Kansas City, the Downtown Overland Park Holiday Market is a lovely and community-focused place to spend the holidays. This one-day market takes place in the middle of Overland Park and brings together local artists, musicians, and families for a fun holiday party. Horse-drawn carriage rides through the decorated streets make the market a beautiful place to spend the holidays. The market is known for having a friendly attitude and events that are good for the whole family. People can meet Santa Claus, use the craft station to make their own ornaments, and listen to live performances by local groups. This is a great spot to get unique holiday gifts since different vendors provide handcrafted jewelry, warm winter clothes, and delicacies. The Downtown Overland Park Mural and Santa’s Sleigh Photo Area offers great sites for pictures and memories of fun times for families and friends. The Downtown Overland Park Holiday Market exudes community spirit and holiday shopping. Entering is free; parking is easy; and there are many of eateries all around.
Address: Downtown Overland Park, 7935 Santa Fe Dr, Overland Park, KS 66204
Dates: December 2, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; additional details on the Downtown Overland Park Partnership website.
Nearest T Stations: RideKC Bus Stop at Overland Park Farmer’s Market
Events:
- Holiday Carriage Rides: Ride through the festive streets in a charming horse-drawn carriage.
- Santa Claus Meet and Greet: Families can take pictures with Santa and share holiday wishes.
- Local Choir Performances: Enjoy Christmas carols by local choirs throughout the day.
- Handmade Ornament Workshop: Kids and adults alike can make their own ornaments.
- Gingerbread House Display: View creative gingerbread houses made by community members.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Overland Park Artisans: Handcrafted jewelry, art, and decor from local artists.
- Holiday Confectionery Stall: Freshly made fudge, cookies, and holiday candies.
- Warm Winter Accessories: Cozy scarves, gloves, and hats perfect for the season.
Special Spots Not to Miss:
- Downtown Overland Park Mural: A festive mural that’s perfect for holiday photos.
- Santa’s Sleigh Photo Area: A spot for families to take memorable holiday photos.
- Warm Cocoa Bar: A delicious cocoa station with toppings like marshmallows and peppermint.
- Community Christmas Tree: The market’s tree is lit up beautifully and decorated.
- Holiday Bazaar Tent: An indoor area with more artisan and holiday goods.
Parking Information: Free public parking is available in Downtown Overland Park.
Nearby Hotels:
- Sheraton Overland Park Hotel: Conveniently located with easy access to the market.
- Drury Inn & Suites Kansas City Overland Park: Great amenities for families.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Kansas City Overland Park: Comfortable and affordable option.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Strang Hall: A food hall featuring multiple local chefs and seasonal menus.
- The Peanut on Santa Fe: Cozy pub with hearty fare and holiday ambiance.
- The Snack Shack on Santa Fe Drive: Casual spot known for burgers and shakes.
