14 Ways to Enjoy Kansas City this November 2019
From yuletide previews to Thanksgiving meals and fantastic festivals, find 14 memorable things to do this November in KC.
Ongoing Ideas
1. Downtown Dazzle
Kansas City shines during Downtown Dazzle. Celebrate the holiday season during this all-encompassing event that runs November through the end of December and includes live performances, discounted shopping deals and more.
2. Access+Ability at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Explore the latest breakthroughs in mobility and accessibility in Access+Ability, the latest exhibit from The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. The exhibition, which opened Oct. 19 and runs through February 2020, displays works developed by individuals representing a wide range of physical, cognitive and sensory abilities.
3. Find Cozy Spots in Kansas City
Whether getting some work done or hanging with friends, countless cozy spots in KC offer laid-back respites from the chillier late-autumn temps. Kick back, relax and keep warm at coffee shops, bookstores and underground cocktail bars around the metro.
4. Can’t-Miss Holiday Shows
Believe it or not, holiday shows start filling the calendar beginning in November. Get in on the excitement early by picking up tickets to favorites like Manheim Steamroller Christmas, presented at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
5. Treat Yourself to KC Comfort Food
The Kansas City culinary scene touts a large assortment of flavors and styles, as well as impressive chefs pushing boundaries every day—all to the delight of discerning diners. During those especially chilly days and nights, pull up a seat to enjoy comforting dishes like soups, mac and cheese, pizza and more.
6. Cheer for the Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs continue their quest to return to the NFL playoffs with three games this month (Nov. 3, 10 and 18). Home match or away, the Chiefs faithful always shows up and gets loud, so cheer them on at Arrowhead Stadium or at sports bars like No Other Pub.
7. Pay Tribute at the National WWI Museum and Memorial
Each November, people around the country mark Veterans Day as a time for reflection and commemoration. Pay tribute to military vets from every era all month long at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, which tells the story of the Great War and the impact it still has on our world today.
November Events and Festivals
8. Great Pumpkin Smash
Say goodbye to Halloween with the Great Pumpkin Smash. Travel to the Kansas City Zoo to enjoy this lighthearted romp headlined by a variety of different animals eating, crushing and playing with pumpkins. Nov. 2-3
9. Day of the Dead Festival
A lively festival celebrating Mexican art and culture, the Day of the Dead Festival at the Nelson-Atkins includes an altar installation, features art activities, live music entertainment and traditional cuisine, making it a fall tradition for many families. Nov. 3
10. Rock the Red Kettle
Kick off the Salvation Army’s red kettle donation season with Rock the Red Kettle, a rollicking event at the Power & Light District featuring live music from Plain White T’s, The Mowgli’s and New Politics. Nov. 15
11. WinterFest
One of the most popular new holiday traditions in Kansas City returns for another season of mirthful merrymaking. WinterFest at Worlds of Fun includes carolers, live shows, tasty treats and plenty of additional festive fun. Open select nights Nov. 23-Dec. 31
12. CBE Hall of Fame Classic and Hall of Fame Weekend
Hosted by The College Basketball Experience, the CBE Hall of Fame Classic tournament at Sprint Center kicks off a new season of collegiate basketball competition. Meanwhile, the same weekend, six to eight basketball players and coaches from around the country are inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame. Nov. 25-26
13. The 90th Annual KCP&L Plaza Lighting Ceremony
Gather the entire family on Thanksgiving night for this timeless celebration. The KCP&L Plaza Lighting Ceremony is a quintessential Kansas City holiday tradition and a delightful reminder of the Spanish-inspired Country Club Plaza’s undeniable beauty. Nov. 28
14. Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The magnificent Mayor’s Christmas Tree at always impresses. Towering more than 100 feet high and illuminated by more than 7,200 white bulbs, the Crown Center centerpiece proves a proud showcase of Kansas City’s winter spirit. Attend the lighting ceremony the day after Thanksgiving to officially kick off the yuletide season. Nov. 29