'Tis the season in Kansas City. We're always keeping a pulse on unique places in our region to share with candidates and new hires, and with the holiday season upon us, there's no shortage of fun things to do around town. 
TeamKC partner Katie McLiney, founder of loKCal, a blog dedicated to all things Kansas City, offers insight on top places to explore during the holidays in Kansas City:
The minute the Plaza Lights turn on, it officially becomes holiday season in Kansas City. If you are looking to get into the holiday spirit, there are plenty of classic KC events to discover. Below are a few twists on old favorites; perfect for exploring the new while honoring your favorite winter traditions. Whether you are looking to surprise your better half with a festive date night, create memories with your children, or entertain out-of-town guests, there are ideas for every occasion this holiday season.
Holidays with Kids
See City Market transform into
Whoville for the Holidays this year! Head down to City Market December 10-11 or December 17-18 to catch a glimpse of Cindy Lou Who and the Grinch. The event is free with a suggested donation of three canned goods for Harvesters or a toy in original packaging for the Salvation Army. And if you need to brush up on your Whoville knowledge, be sure to catch a showing of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" at TGIF (Thank Grinch it's Friday) on December 9 and December 16. Bring your own chairs and blankets to watch the movie from the enclosed north pavilion in City Market Square.
Bonus: If you park at Crown Center, you can see the Mayor's Christmas tree before taking the streetcar to City Market. Your kids (and you!) will love it!
Family in Town for the Holidays
Holidays at Union Station is at the heart of Kansas City tradition. The building alone has such a rich history that can be appreciated by in-laws or out-of-town relatives year round, and during the winter months, Union Station completely transforms.
Clocking in at around 40 feet tall and taking up a large portion of the East side of the station, stands an ornately decorated Christmas tree that provides the perfect backdrop for this year's family photos. You can even catch seasonal classics such as "Elf," "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," and "Polar Express" in the
Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre for just $3 a ticket! If your family is full of Christmas music fanatics, be sure to check out "
Let it Snow," a soundtrack of seasonal classics that is set to stunning visuals shown on the dome screen in the Planetarium. Be sure to grab a drink afterwards at Pierpont's in Union Station. The beauty of the space is sure to wow your guests!
Festive Date Night
If you missed the lighting ceremony at the Plaza this year (or just can't stay away!) grab your sweetheart and make a night of enjoying arguably the most iconic holiday tradition Kansas City has to offer. As the sun begins to set, head to
Kaldi's on Jefferson Street to grab a hot coffee or tea to keep you warm as you explore the Country Club Plaza on foot. Be sure to make a stop on Nichols Road at the former Hall's parking garage. Trust me when I say that this view of the lights from above will take your breath away.
When you're ready to get inside, head to the brand new steakhouse,
Stock Hill, for dinner and drinks. Try to pork shank osso buco or the Akaushi short ribs with one of their signature cocktails. The location is enormous and can seat more than 300 guests, but the separate rooms keep the large space intimate and romantic. The décor is a blend of vintage elements with modern touches throughout. This warm and inviting space makes for the perfect place to spend a cold winter's night.
Looking for more hotspots in Kansas City? Visit
loKCal to get the inside scoop. To learn more about TeamKC, contact
Jessica Nelson.
Katie McLiney runs loKCal, a blog dedicated to all things Kansas City. She has made her home here in the middle of the map, and is passionate about sharing the magic of KC with newcomers and long-time residents alike. Her blog highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of the city, featuring local business owners, artists, restaurants, events and much more. Kansas City is unique in its desire to support local businesses wholeheartedly, and Katie is glad to be able to do her part to spread the word.