Kansas City’s Bows in the Bottoms Festival: A Perfect Start to the Holiday Season

Published on December 4, 2025

Kansas City’s Historic West Bottoms District is transforming into a winter wonderland for the Bows in the Bottoms festival, a beloved holiday event running from December 5-7, 2025. This festive celebration, held during the First Friday Weekend, marks the beginning of the holiday season in Kansas City with an exciting mix of shopping, entertainment, and community spirit.

Known for its charming vintage charm and unique shopping experiences, the West Bottoms offers visitors a nostalgic holiday atmosphere with twinkling lights, oversized bows, and a towering multi-story Christmas tree. The festival is a perfect way for travelers to experience the magic of the holidays in Kansas City, offering a blend of fun, tradition, and festive cheer.

A Magical Start to the Holiday Season

The highlight of the Bows in the Bottoms festival is the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 5, at 6 PM at 13th and Hickory. Visitors can enjoy free live music, visit with Santa and the Grinch, and capture special holiday photos. The event also features magical snowfall, adding an extra layer of winter wonder to the festivities, whether or not Mother Nature cooperates.

In addition to the tree lighting, guests can enjoy holiday-themed entertainment throughout the weekend, including classic jazz performances by local jazz pianist Michael Pagán, playing holiday tunes from 2-4 PM and 4:30-6 PM on Friday, December 5. The festivities continue on Saturday and Sunday with characters available for photos from noon to 3 PM.

Vintage Shopping and Holiday Gifts

The West Bottoms District is famous for its vintage stores, curated boutiques, and one-of-a-kind shopping experiences that make it a must-visit destination for holiday shoppers. The district’s holiday décor and vintage charm create a perfect backdrop for browsing through furniture, jewelry, apparel, antiques, and unique gift items, many of which cannot be found online or in traditional stores.

Many of the district’s stores are open only on weekends, making the Bows in the Bottoms event a perfect opportunity to shop for unique, thoughtful gifts and décor that reflect the season’s spirit. Featured stores include:

• Serendipity, Treasures on 13th, and The Robin’s Nest, all open December 5-7 and beyond with additional holiday hours.
• Bella Patina, Good JuJu, and Ugly Glass offering distinctive treasures and gifts.

For those looking to find a special gift or indulge in holiday shopping, the West Bottoms is the ideal destination, where every corner is filled with creativity and seasonal charm.

Festive Dining and Seasonal Delights

Bows in the Bottoms also brings seasonal flavors and comfort foods to the celebration. Enjoy a Food Truck Wine & Dine experience on Friday, featuring seasonal treats and delicacies along Hickory Street between 12th and 13th. Guests can also visit local cafés, Chef J’s BBQ, and coffee shops within some of the shops offering delicious meals and snacks. The area’s restaurants and food vendors add a delicious touch to the festive atmosphere, giving visitors the chance to savor the flavors of the season.

For dessert lovers, Cono Loco, a playful gelateria, is perfect for indulging in sweet treats while shopping and exploring the district’s many festive offerings.

Fun for the Whole Family

Families visiting Kansas City during the holiday season will find that Bows in the Bottoms offers something for everyone. The kids’ adventure area near the tree features a splash zone and waterslides, creating a fun-filled experience for younger guests. Parents and grandparents can join in the fun or take time to enjoy the entertainment, shopping, and dining options the district has to offer.

The Bows in the Bottoms festival embraces multigenerational experiences, with activities designed to appeal to visitors of all ages. Whether it’s family photos with Santa and the Grinch, enjoying the live jazz music, or shopping for that perfect gift, the event fosters moments of connection and celebration.

A Weekend of Holiday Spirit in Historic Kansas City

The West Bottoms Historic District offers visitors a nostalgic, warm atmosphere that is perfect for celebrating the holiday season. With its vintage charm, unique shopping experiences, and festive atmosphere, the district is a wonderful destination for both Kansas City residents and visitors from afar. The Bows in the Bottoms festival gives travelers the perfect reason to visit this historic neighborhood, creating holiday memories that will last long after the season ends.

As the year winds down, the Bows in the Bottoms festival is just the beginning of the holiday celebrations in Kansas City. With Santa, live music, and seasonal shopping, this event offers the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with a blend of nostalgia, festive cheer, and community spirit.

Celebrate the Holidays in Kansas City’s Historic West Bottoms

For travelers seeking a unique and memorable way to experience the holiday season, the Bows in the Bottoms festival in Kansas City’s Historic West Bottoms District offers an ideal mix of shopping, entertainment, and festive joy. Whether visiting for a weekend getaway or making it part of a longer trip, this celebration brings holiday cheer to every corner of the district, making it a must-see destination for those seeking a special holiday experience.