The holidays are here — and one of the best ways to soak in the season’s spirit around Kansas City is by bundling up, hopping in your car, and driving through dazzling Christmas light displays. Whether you’re with the family or on a cozy date night, cruising through hundreds of twinkling lights feels extra special when you’ve got comfort, space, and a warm ride. At McCarthy Chevy Olathe, with our large and best‑priced Chevy inventory in the Midwest, you’ve got the perfect ride ready for the holidays.
Here are some of the top holiday light shows and displays in the Kansas City / Lee’s Summit / Northland / Olathe area that are worth adding to your Christmas bucket list.
✨ Top Holiday Light Shows to Cruise Through
Christmas in the Park — Longview Lake, Lee’s Summit / KC Area
One of the most beloved and longstanding drive‑through displays in the area. Featuring over 1 million lights and 200+ animated displays, this show runs nightly from late November through December 31. Audacy+2Visit KC+2
- 📍 Where: Enter at the Frank White Jr. Softball Complex, then wind through Longview Lake Campground. Visit KC+1
- 🕒 Hours: Typically 5:30–10:00 PM (Fridays & Saturdays often until 11:00 PM). Audacy+1
- 🎟️ Cost: Free — voluntary exit donations accepted for local charities. Visit KC+1
This one’s ideal if you want classic holiday lights and a cozy drive‑through experience with minimal planning — just pack some cocoa, hit the road, and enjoy.
Winter Magic — Platte Purchase Park (North KC)
A newer but wildly popular drive‑thru holiday light show, Winter Magic brings a full‑on light and music experience straight to your vehicle. Over a mile of synchronized lights, a massive animated light tunnel, and radiant glow arches set the scene for a festive, immersive evening — perfect in any car, especially a Chevy. Winter Magic+2Visit KC+2
- 📍 Where: 10400 N Platte Purchase Dr, Kansas City, MO 64154 Visit KC+1
- 🕕 When: Usually starts around 6:00 PM nightly. Visit KC+1
- 🎟️ Tickets: $20–$40 per vehicle (price varies by date). One ticket per carload. Visit KC+1
This one’s great if you want a more modern, “light show + music + comfy car ride” vibe. It’s especially fun for families, couples, or groups — load up the car and let the lights dance.
Neighborhood & Walking-Style Displays (Near Olathe / KC Suburbs)
Looking for something a little more relaxed or local? There are some charming neighborhood‑style light displays and smaller experiences worth checking out for a low key (and often free) evening.
Some popular picks around the KC suburbs:
- Lighted neighborhoods and holiday‑decorated streets often shine bright in early December — good for casual drives or quick stops. KC Parent+2KSHB 41 Kansas City News+2
- A relaxed evening stroll — some local parks and small walks combine holiday lights with peaceful vibes for those who’d rather get out of the car for a bit. Kids In KC+1
These are ideal when you want a simple, no‑fuss outing — a slow drive or short walk, holiday playlists, maybe some cocoa, and good company.
🚗 Why a Chevy from McCarthy Chevy Olathe Makes the Light‑Show Experience Better
Cruising through a winter light show is always more fun when you’re in a comfortable, roomy, and dependable vehicle. Here’s why McCarthy Chevy Olathe is the perfect place to get “light‑ride ready”:
- We carry the largest and best‑priced Chevy inventory in the Midwest, so whether you want a roomy SUV for family nights or a cozy sedan for couples’ drives, you’ve got options.
- Cold nights — especially for long light‑show drives — call for a warm interior, smooth ride, and reliable heating — all features Chevy handles well.
- If you’re planning a few holiday drives, school‑drop runs, shopping trips, or winter getaways — having a dependable Chevy makes it easier and more enjoyable.
Feel free to browse our selections here: McCarthy Chevy Olathe Inventory
🎁 Pro Tips for Light‑Show Drives
- Go on a weeknight — fewer crowds and shorter waits, especially for popular spots like Christmas in the Park.
- Pack for comfort — blankets, hot cocoa, snacks, and your favorite holiday tunes make the ride even more festive.
- Bring the whole crew — most drive‑through shows allow full carloads (good for families or group outings).
- Plan ahead for tickets — for ticketed shows like Winter Magic, buy ahead to guarantee your spot (especially on weekends).
✨ Final Thought: Light Up Your Holiday — and Your Drive
This season, don’t just settle for the same old holiday routine. Load up the car, bring friends or family, crank up the holiday playlist, and cruise through some of Kansas City’s most magical light shows. And if you’re shopping for a ride that makes those drives comfortable and memorable — you know where to find one.
From all of us at McCarthy Chevy Olathe — happy holidays, happy driving, and may your season be as bright as the lights you see!


