Hang up your stockings - the holidays are in full swing in Manhattan! With over 30 different festive events happening this holiday season there is something for everyone in The Little Apple® From yearly traditions to inaugural events, come enjoy the complete holiday experience in Manhattan, Kansas.
Festival of Trees
We begin the holiday season with joyful decorations for all to see. Every year, the Flint Hills Volunteer Center hosts the Festival of Trees at Manhattan Town Center. Local area businesses and community members donate decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, entryway displays, and mantel displays to be auctioned off during their live auction event on November 18 at 6 p.m. Before the live auction fun begins, stroll through Manhattan Town Center to view all the beautiful decorations beginning November 11.
12 Drinks of Christmas
On the 12th day of Christmas Downtown gave to me.. A very merry pub crawl! Downtown Manhattan kicks off its 12 Drinks of Christmas on November 18. Running through December 16, your $10 ticket grants you access to an exclusive list of holiday beverages at 13 different Downtown restaurants and bars. Complete the pub crawl and get a commemorative 12 Drinks of Christmas glass. But wait, there’s more! While you’re Downtown don’t miss the dining platform light fight. Platforms located all over Downtown will be decorated bright for all to see. Use the QR code at each platform to vote for your favorite festive platform.
Wrap it up Art Exhibit and Sale
Manhattan Arts Center makes gift-giving a breeze during their annual Wrap it Up Art Exhibit and Sale. Come experience the artwork of over 80 local artists. You will find a piece for a friend or for yourself to love! Wrap it up and take it home! But don’t just visit one time as the featured artwork changes daily. The gallery is open from November 13 to December 24 with an opening reception on Sunday, November 13.
Manhattan Spirit of the Holidays Lighted Parade
On Friday, December 2 head to Manhattan for the annual Spirit of the Holidays Lighted Parade. This winter spectacular features tons of participants competing for the brightest float of them all. The parade route will run from 3rd Street & Poyntz Avenue to 14th Street ending in City Park. It will start at 5:30 p.m. with the official lighting of the Mayor's tree to follow in City Park.
Festival of Lights
The Festival of Lights Tree Lighting Ceremony is one of the most magical events of the season. This signature event transforms Blue Earth Plaza into a winter wonderland. This year they are celebrating 10 years of these #MHKTraditions. Santa and his helpers will turn on the grand tree on Friday, November 25 at 7 p.m. Walk through the lighted tunnel, take a picture in Santa’s sleigh and enjoy marvelous lighted displays until January 1.
Festival of Lights Family Christmas Carnival
The Festival of Lights celebration continues with the Family Christmas Carnival on December 3. From 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. head to Blue Earth Plaza for one of the biggest carnivals of the year. There will be tons of free activities including train rides, carnival games and a chance to meet Santa. Plus each child will receive a free Wonderbag full of goodies.
Santa Con
Santa is coming to town early this year for Aggieville’s Santa Con. On Saturday, December 3 grab your best Santa gear and come spend time in your favorite Aggieville businesses. The first 300 people to arrive will be entered to win some incredible prizes like a flat-screen TV, a free two-night stay at the Marriott, and much more! Plus there will be a donation drive in support of Toys for Manhattan.
Little Apple New Year’s Eve
Aggieville hosts the Little Apple New Year’s Eve Celebration on December 31, 2022. Come watch the Little Apple drop in the ‘Ville as you ring in a new year with thousands of other revelers.
These are just a few of the magical events happening this holiday season in Manhattan, Kansas. We hope you come see for yourself the magnificent festive spirit that comes to life in our cozy town. We may be The Little Apple®, but we have big holiday cheer! Learn more about these events and several more here.
