A bucket list for your holiday season? Why not?? Christmas break is the perfect time and Salina, Kansas, is the perfect place to make wonderful holiday memories your family will talk about for years to come. Whether you’re visiting family or looking for local holiday fun, Salina has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here’s a roundup of must-see events and attractions this Christmas season.
1. Go for a Drive to See Holiday Lights
The season just wouldn’t be the same without a drive around town to see all the Christmas light displays. Salina comes alive with sparkling lights and holiday cheer during this season. A few neighborhoods you won’t want to miss:
- Red Fox Lane (Go East on Albert Avenue from Ohio Street): A gorgeous display where homes, lawns and trees are lit up spectacularly, with the colorful reflection off the water adding to the magic. This season, there’s even an icicle archway to drive under.
- Highland Meadows Hamlet (West of Markley Road off of East Magnolia Road): Take a scenic drive through this neighborhood to see twinkling displays that’ll fill you with the wonder and magic of the season.
- River Trail Neighborhood (Intersection of East Magnolia Road and River Trail Road): This easy loop, or figure 8 if you prefer, is sure to dazzle, with many homes participating in the merriment.
- Downtown Salina: And, of course, Santa Fe in Downtown Salina is always a must-see at this time of year.
2. Experience Holiday Performances
Get into the holiday spirit with live entertainment:
- Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts: There’s still time to celebrate the season with a live performance of the classic ballet The Nutcracker, or get into the spirit with an uplifting live performance of the Leahy Christmas Show. You can even see a special showing of The Grinch and Christmas Vacation movies, featuring costume competitions and trivia contests.
- Salina Community Theatre: Enjoy a heartwarming production of The Sound of Music featuring talented local performers. Or you can catch a special showing of The Grinch and Christmas Vacation movies, featuring costume competitions and trivia contests.
3. Shop for Unique Gifts
Find one-of-a-kind presents to finish up your shopping list:
- Downtown Salina Boutiques: Discover unique gifts, holiday decor, handmade crafts, antiques, and specialty food items.
- Junk in the Trunk Antique Mall: Find something truly unique at this huge antique mall located in Central Mall.
- Central Mall’s Christmas Bazaar: Find lots of handmade crafts and specialty items that you won’t find anywhere else.
4. Embrace Winter Fun Outdoors
Bundle up and enjoy winter activities:
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore trails at Indian Rock Park or Lakewood Discovery Center for peaceful winter hikes.
- Pickleball at Oakdale Park: Why not?? Grab a jacket, some gloves, your pickleball rackets and a thermos of hot chocolate, and have a pickleball tournament with family and friends. Winner gets the first mug of cocoa!
5. Savor Holiday Treats and Dining
Warm up with delicious holiday treats:
- Cozy Coffee Shops: Enjoy hot cocoa, seasonal lattes, and festive treats at Salina’s local coffee shops. You can check out a full list of local coffee shops by viewing our post about Autumn coffee flavors throughout Salina.
- Holiday Dinners: Treat yourself to a special meal at one of Salina’s beloved restaurants offering holiday menus.
6. Family-Friendly Festivities
Create lasting memories with fun-filled activities:
- Santa Visits and Storytime: Look for Santa (or the Grinch!) appearances at local businesses, museums and the Salina Public Library. Click here to see our Calendar of Events.
- Holiday Craft-Making: Pick up a gingerbread house kit at a local store or be adventurous and bake your own. Or invite friends and family for a cookie-decorating or Christmas craft party.
- Host a White Elephant Party: The shelves of local stores are full of fun options for making hilarious memories. Or browse your own attic or storage room for that perfect nonsensical gift.
7. Do a Little Good
Gather your friends and family to help brighten the season for someone. There are loads of opportunities to get involved in spreading holiday cheer. Here are a few options:
- Salina Rescue Mission: Providing food, shelter, clothing, and community, as well as rehabilitation. Click here to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
- Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas: Click here to see opportunities to get involved.
- Salina Area United Way: Click here for a daily schedule of volunteer opportunities at various organizations, such as Gentiva Hospice, Prairieland Market and the Salina Public Library.
8. Celebrate the Birth of Jesus at a Local Church Service
No matter what faith you practice, and even if you don’t, there’s something to be said for gathering to celebrate the birth of Christ. From services of quiet reverence to rousing musical performances, you’ll find moments of “peace on earth and goodwill toward men”. A warm welcome awaits at any one of the dozens of churches and temples in Salina.
Make Some New Memories and Discover New Traditions
The holiday season is a great time to enjoy fun traditions with your family and friends. It’s also the perfect time to discover something new!
Salina, Kansas, is a town that absolutely shines during the holiday season with its festive lights, holiday events, and adults-only and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or festive fun,you’ll find plenty to enjoy this Christmas break. So make that bucket list and start checking things off! Here’s a link to our helpful Calendar of Events.
Happy Holidays from all of us here at WhatsUpSalina!
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