The holidays are upon us, and Kansas City has an incredible lineup of festive happenings, community events, and seasonal festivals that make us feel very merry and bright.

Recently, we asked you what local holiday traditions you love taking part in each year and received many fun and festive responses. Here are some KC holiday traditions that you all told us about:

Family-friendly traditions

“We always take our kids to Crown Center and Union Station to walk around and see all the decorations, ice skating, and enjoy lots of yummy treats. The theater at Union Station also plays the Christmas classics movies on the big screen, and the planetarium has cool light shows set to holiday music.” — Hillary Lemon

“For my family, we’ve been going to 'Christmas in Song' at the Quality Hill Playhouse for the past 10 years. I can’t imagine Christmas without it.” — Quinn Cole

“Come see the lights in the Armour Fields Homes Association. Between Wornall and Ward Parkway, 65th to Gregory. Most blocks compete for Best Block honors. There are also individual home awards. We get lots of buses and limos checking out the scenery.” — Jan Flanagan

Have you seen the Mayor's Christmas tree? | Photo by Jim Rand

Will you be trying any of these locally recommended holiday traditions? Let us know. Also, check out these additional holiday traditions and happenings around town:

Holiday bites + sips

Must-do community events

Opportunities to give back

Flourish Furniture Bank Hospitality | Dates vary | Times vary | Locations vary | This non-profit needs help collecting, preparing, and distributing donated furnishings + home essentials to those seeking housing stability.

Wayside Waifs Volunteering | Dates vary | Times vary | 3901 Martha Rd., KCMO | Looking for a way to give back while staying warm? We recommend snuggling up with some adoptable animals + lending a helping hand at this rescue.

Christmas at the Crossroads | Friday, Dec. 23 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | The Truman | Join Shelter KC's annual event to serve adults experiencing homelessness. Volunteer positions include booth set up, meal serving, and handing out care packages.