Happy holidays, Johnson County!
After the presents are unwrapped and the family finishes up their dinner, you might want some places to go to take in some holiday splendor or just get out of the house. In that case, we have some suggestions for events around the area.
Beyond the culinary festivities, there’s a lot going on in Johnson County to keep you and your loved ones entertained while you celebrate the holiday season.
Here’s where you can find some festive fun in Johnson County:
Holiday Lights at Farmstead Lane
The electric holiday paradise at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, 13800 Switzer Road in Overland Park, will continue through Dec. 31.
At this free event, people can experience the enchantment of the season from the warmth of your car as you enjoy your favorite holiday tunes and watch a light show dance across the front entrance way of the Farmstead.
It is free and open to the public.
The Ice in Leawood
If you’re looking to get people moving, The Ice at Leawood’s Park Place will have patrons strapping on their skates and taking to the ice.
Running through March 3, the outdoor ice rink is open every day, including the holidays.
Hours are: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $4 to $11. No reservations are required.
Sar-Ko Aglow
From 6 to 11 p.m. nightly, people can check out Lenexa’s massive lights display at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park at 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road.
Featuring miles of strands of holiday lights, the display invites people to take a stroll around Rose’s Pond to catch the spectacle and its reflections on the water.
The display is free and open to everyone. It will close on Jan. 20.
Johnson County Museum tours
The Johnson County Museum, at 8788 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park, offers an historic escape for families.
The museum invites people to check out its KidScape children’s zone, as well as limited-time exhibits “Free to Be…A 1960s Fashion Revolution,” and the “Home for the Holidays at the All-Electric House” tinsel tree display.
The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Luminary Walk and “The Night Tree” at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, located at 8909 W. 179th St., will offer its annual Luminary Walk, which leads people through illuminated garden paths, gnome and fairy villages and features live music and photos with Santa.
For those with sensory or mobility issues, it also offers “Electric Glow,” a special limited, electric lights-only version of its Luminary Walk with no music or crowds.
Both events are open until Dec. 30, and tickets are limited. Tickets can be ordered here.
In addition, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, it will host its annual “The Night Tree” event that includes crafting unique ornaments for woodland animals and gathering around a designated “Night Tree” adorned with the newly-crafted ornaments. Participants will receive hot chocolate during the event.
Tickets for “The Night Tree” can be purchased here.
