PRESS RELEASE: The Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony is celebrating 90 years as a beloved Kansas City tradition, taking place this year on Nov. 28. This year’s honored guest, Kansas City native and Saturday Night Live star Heidi Gardner, will “Flip the Switch” to illuminate Country Club Plaza in thousands of twinkling lights.
“Growing up, I remember how magical it felt to be with my family to watch the Plaza lights on Thanksgiving,” said Gardner. “I am honored to be back in my hometown and to be part of such a special Kansas City tradition.”
After the ceremony, the lights will remain shining daily from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. through January 12, 2020.
“Kansas City comes alive with the Plaza lights,” said Meredith Keeler, Country Club Plaza General Manager. “It is truly a special moment for the city every year as we kick off the holiday season, and we are proud to welcome Heidi back to her hometown to celebrate with us.”
This year’s ceremony features:
Gary Lezak with KSHB-TV as emcee for the ceremony.
Featured musical performances by former “The Voice” contestant Casi Joy and her band from the Evergy Holiday Joy Stage.
Performances by local musical groups KC A Cappella, Voices of Soul and the Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts’ Concert Choir.
The talented young dancers of the KC Ballet Second Company.
The Evergy Plaza Lights singers and dancers.
The Elders with special guests Susan McFadden of “Celtic Woman” fame and “Celtic Piper” Anthony Byrne, World Champion Bag Piper.
Following the flipping of the switch will be:
Three fireworks displays – above the main stage (Nichols and Pennsylvania above Tesla), at the Time Building (near Lululemon) and at the InterContinental Hotel.
A performance by Kansas City celtic rock band The Elders.
Best Views and Parking
Along Nichols Road between Pennsylvania and Broadway, and the Nichols and Pennsylvania intersections offer the most striking views of the main stage. Free parking will also be offered at several nearby garages.
Garages may be found at:
Valencia Garage (by H&M) on the north side of 47th Street and Pennsylvania.
Balcony Garage on Wornall near 46th Street.
Seville Garage (near Anthropologie), entrance on 47th Street between Jefferson and Summit.
Time Building Garage north of Hogshead on Pennsylvania.
NOTE: The Granada and Central Garages will be closed.
Partner Information
Title sponsor – Evergy. This is the 20th year that KCP&L, now Evergy, has sponsored the Plaza Lighting Ceremony.
Broadcast partner – KSHB. The local NBC station will cover the main show live.
Live entertainment partner – Harvest Productions.
For 10 years, audiences have been entertained with a dynamic live show thanks to Harvest Productions.
“We are proud to be a longstanding partner of this iconic event,” said Chuck Caisley, Chief Customer Officer for Evergy. “The Plaza Lighting Ceremony kicks off the holiday season for the whole city with an unforgettable night of entertainment, fireworks and special moments between friends and family.”
Social Media
Follow Evergy Plaza Lights and Country Club Plaza on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
