Holiday Happenings in Lawrence
Lawrence has plenty to offer this holiday season. Enjoy festive lights downtown, shop unique local gifts, and check out holiday events around town. With markets, live performances, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. Explore what Lawrence has in store to make your holidays memorable.
Here are some fun and festive events to enjoy the holiday season.
Santa’s Rescue (Nov 29, 5:30-7:30 p.m.) This official kick-off to the holiday season is a Lawrence tradition. Large crowds gather to see Santa safely rescued from the roof of Weaver’s by the local fire department. Once Santa is safely on the ground, the downtown bursts with holiday lights as the countdown is completed. MORE INFO
Winter Wonder Weekend (Dec 6-8): This annual festival offers an array of holiday-themed activities, including local shopping, live performances, and family-friendly entertainment in Downtown Lawrence.
Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade (Dec 7, 11 a.m.): Held on Massachusetts Street, this unique parade showcases horse-drawn carriages, carolers, and festive decorations, bringing classic holiday cheer to the community. MORE INFO
Holiday Homes Tour (Dec 8, 12-5 p.m.) Get inspired for the holiday season! The Holiday Homes Tour includes up to eight homes in the Lawrence and surrounding area beautifully decorated for the holiday season and put on display for your viewing delight! MORE INFO
Holiday Farmers Market (Sat, Dec 14, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.): An extension of the popular Lawrence Farmers Market, this seasonal market under the Pavilion at the Douglas County Fairgrounds features holiday vendors, artisan goods, and local produce to prepare for holiday meals. MORE INFO
Candlelight Concert at Abe & Jake’s Landing (Dec 20): Experience “The Nutcracker” and other holiday classics in an elegant candlelight setting, creating a memorable evening for music lovers. MORE INFO
KU’s Holiday Vespers Concert (Dec 8): Join the University of Kansas for its annual Holiday Vespers concert featuring c lassical holiday music and seasonal performances by student ensembles. MORE INFO
Lawrence Lights (Nov 30 – Dec 27, 5:30-9:30 p.m.): $20/car – Create a new holiday tradition with a tour of Lawrence Lights – Making Spirits Bright, a drive-through holiday wonderland of synchronized lights and lighted displays. MORE INFO
Holiday Art Fair (Dec 14-15): The Lawrence Arts Guild hosts this annual market with handmade gifts, art pieces, and more from local artists, making it perfect for unique holiday shopping MORE INFO
Festival of Trees (Friday, November 29 – Sunday, Dec 8) at Maceli’s Banquet Hall & Catering, 1031 New Hampshire Street MORE INFO
