The Park Place elves in Leawood have been busy these last few weeks putting the finishing touches on transforming the shopping district into a winter wonderland. Their hard work nearly culminates this Saturday at Park Place’s festive Holiday Season Premiere—with special outdoor attractions throughout the day as guests shop, dine, and indulge safely.
Family Fun
For nearly a decade, the Park Place holiday opener has been the kickoff to the Christmas shopping season and this year is no exception. Barkley Square will once again be the go-to place for families to gather and make memories all season long. While still awaiting the colder temps, (these 70 degree days are not good for making ice), and the highly-anticipated opening of The Ice at Park Place, you can still enjoy the canopy of white lights, not to mention the fire pits and exquisitely decorated streets and sidewalks.
Here’s a quick rundown of just a few of the day’s activities:
1 – 4 p.m. | Santa’s Arrival and Photos
2 – 4 p.m. | Strolling Dickens Carolers
All Day | Special deals & offerings at the shops & restaurants
The ice rink area will be the hub for families to snag a picture with Santa (safely) in front of the tree and forget their worries of 2020 while enjoying the nostalgic holiday sounds of the Dickens Carolers. In addition to the merriment, guests are encouraged to get a little holiday shopping accomplished. Keep an eye out for sales, promotions, and seasonal menus at shops and restaurants throughout Park Place Village.
Here’s just a glimpse of some of the local specials and offerings planned for the day:
Alysa Rene Boutique
Leave it to Alysa Rene to make you feel fantastic in holiday outfits fit for any occasion. And, only during the Holiday Season Premiere, they’re offering 20% off one item- wowza! Whether it’s a sequin cami or cardigan for an intimate holiday gathering, or cozy dog pajamas for lounging or connecting over those family Zoom calls, you’ll have no trouble finding that perfect look for staying in or going out. She also has the best eye for jewelry and accessories, so gift options galore!
Pink Antlers Studio
The specialty décor and gift shop will be hosting a pop-up with four local Kansas City small businesses in their party room. “Each will be selling exclusive, locally made gifts and holiday activities,” say owners Morgan Wenger and Claire Wenger. They include:
KC Lemon Squeezy | Holiday Themed Sensory Dough Kits
Custom Cookies by CC | Thanksgiving and Christmas Cookie Decorating Kits
Evie Pearl | Holiday Hair Accessories for Girls
Crayon Letters KC | Handmade Non-Toxic Crayon Letters and Shapes
What’s flying off the shelf, you ask? “Our Papa Noel Collection! They are a classic, and our customers have been building their collection over the years,” say the Wengers. “And keep an eye out for holiday entertaining pieces. Even if you’re celebrating with a smaller than usual group this year, it’s all the more reason to make it super special!”
Verdigris
During the Holiday Season Premiere, the upscale drinkery will have happy hour from 3 – 6 p.m., featuring their new Iconic Burger, along with some snack items featured on The Ice menu for the opening of the ice-skating rink.
General Manager, Stephen Montez, says two of their new additions to the menu are already very popular. “The Hotel Nacional—a refreshing apricot daiquiri with muddled pineapple and lime. And the Oaxaca Old-Fashioned—a tequila and mezcal inspired old-fashioned with agave syrup, a dash of angostura, and orange bitters,” are two he recommends.
He also says the staff has an affinity for the Champs-Elysees, named after the Elysian Fields. It’s comprised of VS cognac, yellow chartreuse, barrel-aged demerara gomme, and fresh lemon juice. “We are very excited for the holiday season, and we look forward to all the wonderful people it will bring to Park Place,” says Montez.
Safety First
With the fire going and the ice rink adorned with a brigade of white lights, Park Place will certainly be festive this holiday season. They encourage all visitors to complete their holiday shopping early and safely. Social distancing is strongly encouraged for all outdoor activities and required at all shops and restaurants, along with a protective face covering. There are many options for curbside carry-out or pick-up at the businesses to help serve and keep guests comfortable during this busy season.
In addition, Santa will be wearing a face shield and is able to accommodate photo requests outdoors. To ensure his own safety, as well as the safety of Ms. Claus and the elves, Santa will not be able to hold or allow children to sit on his lap this season.
