The festive season is upon us, Hays! Explore our guide for all the must-see holiday attractions. For Hays residents and visitors, this guide unlocks the best of the holiday season.
One highlight of the festivities is Enchant Christmas, where dazzling light displays and captivating installations fill the downtown area, creating a winter wonderland for all ages. Another beloved tradition is Cowtown Christmas, featuring live holiday performances and unique shopping experiences that bring the community together. And the Frostfest is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing outdoor activities and family-friendly fun. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Hays
- Enchant Christmas (Kansas City)
- Cowtown Christmas (Abilene)
- Frostfest
- Hays Winter Market
- Hays Christmas Art Walk
- Annual Parade of Lights (Goodland)
- Downtown Christmas Parade (Liberal)
See these and even more events listed below!
Hays Holiday Light Displays
Annual Parade of Lights
What to Expect:
Vibrant light displays on decorated floats and vehicles.
Description:
The Annual Parade of Lights in Goodland, Kansas, is a spectacular holiday event featuring beautifully decorated floats and vehicles illuminated with vibrant lights, creating a festive atmosphere in downtown Goodland.
Where: Goodland | More Info: Annual Parade of Lights
Enchant Christmas
What to Expect:
Immersive light maze with interactive storytelling.
Description:
Enchant Christmas is an award-winning, story-propelled holiday light maze experience featuring stunning, custom-designed light sculptures and unique ice skating experiences. The event includes a light maze, ice skating trail, seasonal food and drink, Santa and Mrs. Claus visits, and a charming holiday marketplace.
Where: Kansas City | More Info: Enchant Christmas
Hays Holiday Markets and Shopping
Hays Winter Market
What to Expect:
Weekly market featuring local vendors selling handmade crafts and baked goods.
Description:
The Hays Winter Market is an indoor event in Downtown Hays where local vendors sell crafts, baked goods, and other local products. It offers a great opportunity to find unique gifts and support small businesses in the community.
Where: Hays | More Info: Hays Winter Market
Hays Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Hays Christmas Art Walk
What to Expect:
Showcase of local art and artists in downtown Hays.
Description:
The Hays Arts Council Winter Art Walk is a free event featuring beautiful art pieces and exhibits by local artists. Attendees can enjoy an evening out in Hays, viewing stunning artwork and meeting the artists behind the creations.
Where: Hays | More Info: Hays Christmas Art Walk
Cowtown Christmas
What to Expect:
Unique blend of historical tours and festive holiday activities.
Description:
Visit Abilene for a festive holiday celebration featuring the Heritage Homes Association's 47th Annual Homes for the Holidays tour, an Old Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Historical Society, and a Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town. Enjoy beautifully decorated Christmas Trees, ride the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad's Cowtown Santa Express, and see live holiday productions at Great Plains Theatre. The event also includes an evening cruise with Griswold-style decorations during the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown.
Where: Abilene | More Info: Cowtown Christmas
Downtown Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Live entertainment and Santa appearance during the parade.
Description:
The Downtown Christmas Parade in Liberal, Kansas, features live entertainment, prizes, and a Christmas parade through downtown, making it a highlight of the holiday season.
Where: Liberal | More Info: Downtown Christmas Parade
Hays Other Holiday Activities
Frostfest
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with festive light displays and community events.
Description:
Frostfest in Downtown Hays is a festive season from November through December, featuring Holiday Open Houses, Small Business Saturday, the Annual Tree Lighting, Winter Art Walk, and culminating with the Illuminated Parade. Discover your favorite holiday traditions on The Bricks!