You can find twinkling light displays, immersive winter experiences, and cheerful Santa sightings throughout Wichita during the holiday season, but Kansas’ largest city stands out for its magnificent holiday performances.
From timeless productions like “The Nutcracker” and “White Christmas” to concerts, comedies and cabarets that fill the season with music and joy, Wichita shines brightest when the curtain rises. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a romantic weekend getaway or a holiday trip with the kids, there’s no better place to experience the magic of the season than the Heart of the Country.
MTWHoliday Extravaganza | Photo credit: Jerry Fritchman
Holiday Performances & Shows
The curtain rises on a spectacular lineup of holiday performances across Wichita, filling the season with music, dance and storytelling. At Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, audiences can experience beloved productions like “Christmas with the Rat Pack,” Metropolitan Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” “MTW Holiday Extravaganza” presented by Music Theatre Wichita, “National Lampoon Christmas Vacation” presented by Orpheum Theatre & Summit Media and Ballet Wichita Presents the “51st Annual Nutcracker Ballet.”
The Wichita Symphony Orchestra delivers classical cheer with concerts such as Spirit of the Season, while Roxy’s Downtown brings “Dwight Christmas” and Mosley Street Melodrama performs “Holidaze of our Lives,” a festive musical comedy revue.
Families will also love kid-friendly performances like “The Gingerbread Man” and “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at Wichita Children’s Theatre & Dance Center, or the heartwarming The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at Newman University. Whether your tastes lean toward ballet, comedy or carols, Wichita’s performing arts scene offers something for every age and tradition.
Other shows to put on your holiday must-see list include “Darci Lynne: Up Close and Personal Christmas” at Crowne Uptown Theater and “Mannheim Steamroller Christmas” at Park City Arena.
Shop Local & Celebrate the Season
Between performances, make time for Wichita’s many holiday markets and craft fairs, where you can pick up handmade gifts, local art and festive treats. From Holiday Market Season at Old Town Farm & Art Market to HoliDAZE Annual Pop Up Market at Brick & Mortar, each offers a chance to find something special while supporting local makers. Check out our holiday shopping guide for even more shopping inspiration.
And when you’re ready for a festive toast, Wichita’s holiday pop-up bars bring cheer to the city’s nightlife scene. Make a toast to the season at Bubbles Champagne Bar’s Boozy Santa Brunch or cozy up inside themed winter lounges like The Jingle at Public, The Holiday Hideaway at Chicken N Pickle, or Miracle on Mosley Street at River City Brewing Company – each one a perfect spot for seasonal sips and photo ops.
Holidays in the Heart of the Country
From stage lights to twinkle lights, Wichita shines bright all season long. Explore immersive holiday experiences and traditions such as and browse our full calendar of holiday events, shows, and markets to make this winter one to remember in the Heart of the Country. Then, take a look at our Fall/Winter 2025 Visitor Guide to plan your festive getaway today.
