Holidays in KC
Experience the magic of winter at The Raphael Hotel, where Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza transforms into a dazzling wonderland of lights, festive displays, horse-drawn carriages, and joyful carolers. A cherished city landmark since 1975, The Raphael embodies timeless holiday tradition and warmth. Whether admiring the glowing tiled rooflines or sharing special moments with loved ones, guests are invited to celebrate the season in elegant comfort. Create lasting memories amid the Plaza’s sparkling charm and discover why The Raphael Hotel has become Kansas City’s most beloved destination for holiday joy — your merriest home away from home.
Kansas City Holiday Events
Kansas City Symphony
The acclaimed Kansas City Symphony presents three distinct holiday concerts in Helzberg Hall at the magnificent Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: Handel’s Messiah; Christmas Festival; and Elf™ in Concert.
The Nutcracker Ballet at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
Take the family to a charming performance of The Nutcracker at the Kauffman Center. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful dance routines of the Mouse King and Sugar Plum Fairy set to the Kansas City Symphony playing classic music by Tchaikovsky.
A Christmas Carol at Kansas City Repertory Theater
One of Kansas City’s favorite holiday traditions for over 40 years is back for another season. Visit the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future in A Christmas Carol, the classic Dickens tale of hope and redemption through the eyes of Ebenezer Scrooge at the Kansas City Repertory Theatre.
Christmas in the Park
Take an enchanting drive through Longview Park to see a winter wonderland lit up with more than a million lights and over 200 animated figures. The light show goes on evenings through December 31.
Dining
Chaz Restaurant and Lounge
Chaz is a romantic and festive place to be every night during the Season of the Light. Enjoy craft cocktails and innovative menus prepared by the acclaimed Chaz culinary team. Weekly specials include happy hour, weekend brunch, and live jazz on Sunday-Thursday evenings.
Chaz Lounge with music and merriment
Chaz Lounge is the perfect place to celebrate the holidays with friends and colleagues. Enjoy nightly live music with a beautiful streetscape view of the Country Club Plaza, award-winning wines, classic and modern cocktails, and a fabulous menu of appetizers. View our upcoming performances here.
Christmas at Chaz
Let our esteemed culinary team and courteous waitstaff take care of dinner this Christmas. You and your party can enjoy a five-course prix fixe menu with unique holiday-inspired dishes to help make your Christmas merry and spirits bright. Call Chaz at (816) 802-2152.
Chaz Gift Cards
Housed inside the historic Raphael Hotel, the foodies in your life will love the gift of an upscale dining experience at one of Kansas City’s best restaurants. Chaz Restaurant and Lounge Gift Cards are perfect for anyone on your list and are available in increments of $25. Click here to purchase.
Holiday Highlights
Country Club Plaza
The Plaza is a haven for shoppers seeking the very best. From the time the plaza lights are illuminated on Thanksgiving, the holiday magic is alive in this upscale shopping and dining district. Enjoy a day of shopping, then renew your spirit with a glass of wine or holiday cocktail in the Chaz Lounge.
Kansas City Restaurant Week
Foodies love this opportunity to visit KC’s best restaurants, including Chaz Restaurant and Lounge. Join us in mid-January to enjoy a multi-course lunch or dinner while raising money for charity.
The National WWI Museum and Memorial
Visit this unique museum and learn the lessons of history through ongoing and special exhibits commemorating the centennial of “The War to End All Wars.”
Westport
Kansas City’s original entertainment district boasts a rich history as the oldest established community in Kansas City. More than 150 years ago, Westport marked the passage into the Western Frontier and set the foundation for what it is today; a thriving shopping and entertainment district. Located less than a mile north of the Raphael, Westport is a fusion of local eateries, fashionable boutiques, and hot late-night spots combined with remnants of the neighborhood’s historic past.
Brookside
Brookside, planned and built in 1920, is considered one of Kansas City’s most charming residential communities. Over 100 years later, the district is home to more than 90 shops, restaurants and offices, all unique and in keeping with the original neighborhood charm and architecture.
