If you love your holidays big, bright and full of sparkle, Wichita delivers. This season, the Heart of the Country shines with dazzling light displays, nostalgic celebrations, jolly pop-up bars and experiences and plenty of ways to make merry memories. Whether you’re road-tripping in for a weekend getaway or enjoying a staycation close to home, make plans now to visit Wichita this winter.
Light up the season
Start your celebration at Illuminations at Botanica Wichita, where more than 2 million lights transform over 30 themed gardens into a glowing wonderland. Sip hot cocoa, snap photos with twinkling backdrops and feel the holiday magic come to life in this Wichita favorite that draws visitors year after year.
Continue the glow-up with Wild Lights 2025 at Sedgwick County Zoo, where larger-than-life lantern sculptures and vibrant light tunnels turn a nighttime stroll into a walk through wonder. From glowing pandas to radiant peacocks, it’s one of Wichita’s most mesmerizing after-dark experiences.
Wichita also has magnificent neighborhood light displays. Keep an eye out as updates are made to our holiday lights guide.
Downtown magic: Somewhere in Winter Festival
Launching November 27, the all-new Somewhere in Winter Festival transforms downtown Wichita into a cozy, creative winter wonderland filled with art, music and community spirit. Glide across the outdoor ice rink beneath the Kansas sky, sip something warm, explore the artisan market and snap selfies under glowing light installations. This new tradition is set to become a must-do holiday experience in Wichita.
Step back in time
For a touch of nostalgia, visit Victorian Christmas at Old Cowtown Museum, where carolers, lamplight and costumed interpreters recreate a 19th-century holiday celebration. Or, step into the charm of Victorian Cottage Christmas at the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum, a beautifully decorated historic home that captures the magic of holidays past.
Experience the warm glow of the season during Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House Holiday Moonlight Tour, a Thursday evening series beginning November 20 where you can explore the beautifully decorated historic home by original lighting, enjoy holiday treats and shop unique gifts in the museum store.
Families will also love Watson’s Christmas Express at O.J. Watson Park. Ride the miniature train through twinkling displays, meet Santa and warm up with cocoa by the firepit—simple joys that make the season shine.
Country charm
Just outside the city, A Country Christmas at Fulton Valley Farms offers a heartwarming escape complete with Santa, live reindeer, hayrides and music. New this year: the farms will feature nearly 2 million lights, making this holiday tradition even more bright. It’s the perfect blend of Kansas charm and Christmas cheer.
See Santa around town
No holiday season is complete without a Santa sighting (or two!). From Breakfast with Santa at Eberly Farm events to photo ops at Wichita traditions like Holiday Stroll at Bradley Fair, there are plenty of places for kids to share their wish lists. Check out our full roundup: Where to See Santa in Wichita.
Skate, sip & celebrate
Bundle up and hit the ice at seasonal spots across the city—from the Somewhere in Winter Festival rink downtown to Chicken N Pickle’s Ice Rink, a family-favorite for games, food and skating fun. Find all the details and locations in our guide to Ice Skating in Wichita.
Whether you’re gliding across the ice, gazing at millions of twinkling lights or catching Santa between cocoa stops, Wichita makes it easy to celebrate the season together. Check out our all-new Fall/Winter 2025 Visitor Guide, plan your festive getaway today and see why the Heart of the Country shines brightest in winter.
