Being home for the holidays has a whole new meaning this year, doesn’t it?
Lucky for those of us staying around Kansas City this season, Oak Park Mall delivers, even in these trying times. The long-standing, one-stop shopping destination readily obliges with plenty of options for holiday happiness -- safely, of course.
Boasting 180 stores, there is quite literally something for everyone on your list – especially for the younger set. The mall is full-to-the-brim with Christmas magic for kiddos this time of year with special seasonal additions as well as holiday-themed fun at experience-based children’s stores designed to spark play.
Below you’ll find details on both:
Seasonal Specials
Visit with Santa
Topping the list of limited-time offerings at Oak Park Mall is, of course, a visit with the big guy himself. Good ol’ Saint Nick is on site through Dec. 24.
Guests must reserve a spot in advance and all visits are contactless – keeping everyone on the safe side. The mall is also offering a special virtual story time with Santa and live zoom calls if you’d prefer to create some holiday magic at home.
For more details and to schedule your visit, click here
Musical performances
You know it’s a special time of year when musicians serenade you while you shop. Swing by the lower level near Build-A-Bear Workshop on Saturdays through Dec 19 between 1 and 3 pm to catch holiday string performances from Diamond Trio.
Angel Tree
You’ll spot pretty holiday decorations throughout the mall, but if you’re looking to help out kiddos in need this season, swing by the Salvation Army Angel Tree. It’ll be up near the Signature Entrance through Dec. 19.
Stores Catering to Imagination
Build-A-Bear Workshop is the perfect place to create some holiday magic and memories in the same spot. If you’re not familiar with the concept, little ones get to create their own special stuffed animal and the entire store is designed to appeal to childhood wonder. There might be a socially-distant queue forming outside the entrance because of limited capacity rules, but the line moves quickly and the experience inside is well worth any wait.
If the little builders in your life prefer creating with bricks rather than with fur and fluff, a quick step into the LEGO store reveals why wide-eyed wonder is the norm in this corner of the mall. It’s a magical mosaic of color with wow-worthy displays and an assortment of kits rivaling Santa’s workshop -- including some of the popular sets currently sold out online. The best part? Special holiday deals are available now.
And while we’re talking imaginative gifts, the Disney store deserves a spot on the list. From classic mouse ears to new fan favorite characters, the shop is joy-filled from the moment you enter. It’s stocked with toys, dress up items, and clothes that your kids will actually be excited to wear. Right now special sales are running.
While it’s not a shop, the carousel sitting in the middle of the mall is worth taking a spin on. It’s the perfect way to cap off any trip with littles or, if you’re out with another adult, it’s a nice activity for kids to enjoy while you shop.
Oak Park Mall is currently operating with extended holiday hours to help meet your needs during this exceptionally stressful year. You can view details here.