What began in 1925 with the lighting of a single strand of Christmas lights strung above the entrance to the Millcreek Building on Kansas City's Country Club Plaza has grown into one of the nation's largest and most enduring Thanksgiving night traditions. The 88th Annual Plaza Lighting Ceremony takes place Thursday, November 23, 2017. The celebration begins at 5:00 p.m. with entertainment and giveaways. With the flip of a switch at 6:54 p.m., 200,000 jewel-colored bulbs will transform the 14-square block Plaza into a winter wonderland, illuminating every tower, dome, balcony, building and courtyard. Fireworks and a concert featuring traditional Irish and holiday music by the Elders will follow. Hundreds of thousands of people will witness the lighting ceremony live and on local television. Millions will make their holiday pilgrimage to the Plaza during the Season of the Lights, which runs through the second Sunday of January. The Country Club Plaza is a mecca for all who enjoy upscale shopping, a diverse variety of dining and nightlife, or who simply want to regain their holiday spirit by strolling or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the ooh and ahh-inspiring atmosphere. The Raphael and its signature restaurant, Chaz on the Plaza, occupy a special place in the memories of many Kansas City residents and visitors who haves sought the Plaza holiday experience since 1975. Plaza view suites and rooms are in particularly high demand Thanksgiving night for family traditions and weekends. Chaz features a special four-course Thanksgiving menu from 11:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. that includes two options for first and second courses, five entrée courses and seasonal dessert selections. Chaz lounge will feature the popular A La Mode Jazz Trio and its signature BellRinger holiday cocktail along with other handcrafted cocktails, single malts, aperitifs, wines and beers. Throughout the Season of the Lights, The Raphael will feature a Holiday Magic package. Chaz will set the stage for memorable holiday dining with inspirations from Chef Joe Cizek's new Fall/Winter menu. Chaz is a romantic and festive place to be every night during the Season of the Lights. Weekly special offers include Sunday Prime Time, Happy Hour, Throwback Thursdays and Weekend Jazz Brunch.
