WyCo Gears Up For Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival on Nov. 7th

WyCo Gears Up For Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival on Nov. 7th

Published on October 24, 2025

After four years of leading the city's cherished holiday tradition, Mayor Tyrone Garner, along with the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, KS (UG) and the KCK Downtown Shareholders will host Mayor Garner's final Christmas Tree Lighting Festival in exactly two weeks on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Memorial Hall, 600 N 7th Street Trafficway, KCK.

This year's event will serve not only as a celebration of the season, but also as a heartfelt farewell from the Mayor to the community he has served. "This event has always been about bringing people together," said Mayor Garner. "It's been my greatest honor to share in the magic of the season with our residents year after year, and I look forward to one last unforgettable evening with all of you."

Festival Highlights to Include:

• Live performances from local school bands, drill teams, and dance troupes
• A Battle of the Bands showcase
• Local vendors and holiday shopping
• Food trucks and seasonal treats
• Appearance and Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus
• Book giveaways, children's activities, and games
• Face painting, holiday movies, and goody bags
• The official lighting of the city's Christmas tree at 7PM

On the main stage, guests will enjoy musical performances by Chris Stewart, singer/songwriter, and Stranded in the City, a local favorite.

This year's Grand Marshal is Midwest native and actor Anthony Hill, best known for his role as Dr. Ndugu on Grey's Anatomy. He will be joined on stage by the families of Wyandotte County Sheriff's Deputy Elijah Ming and Kansas City, Kansas Police Officer Hunter Simoncic, both of whom made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community. As part of the city's commitment to honoring their legacies, their families will be a part of this year's celebration and will light the official tree at 7:00 PM, marking the start of the holiday season in our metro area.

Fourth Annual Gingerbread House Competition

Mayor Garner's annual Gingerbread House Village is back! This year, UG departments will compete again for bragging rights. Competition winners will be selected by UG Commissioners and will be announced and on display during the lighting festival. Festival guests are encouraged to take a tour of the Gingerbread Village.

The festival is free and open to the public. A complete schedule of events and vendors will be available on the Unified Government website beginning Monday, November 3rd at wycokck.org.

Everyone is welcomed and attendees are encouraged to arrive early and dress warmly for an evening of holiday fun, cheer, and surprises!

Download the event flyer:

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