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Kansas Attractions|Small Towns

The One Town In Kansas That Turns Into A Winter Wonderland Each Year

By Annie | Published November 28, 2016

If you are a regular Only in Kansas reader, you are probably used to seeing the “Christmas City of the High Plains” on our holiday lists… but just how did this Christmas town come to be? And how did it earn its festive nickname? Let’s take a look at WaKeeney: the one town in Kansas that turns into a winter wonderland each year!

Since 1950, WaKeeney has been known as the "Christmas City of the High Plains" - an idea that was dreamed up by two local businessmen in 1948.

Two years later, their idea came to fruition and since then, the iconic 35-foot-tall tree has been created year after year thanks to many hardworking city employees and volunteers.

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As if the tree (which is then decorated in lights and stars) weren't gorgeous enough, the town is then adorned in overhead lights...

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...and another four blocks worth of colorful lights and other holiday decor!

(In all, that's a whopping 6,000 lights!)

To help community members get into the spirit of Christmas, WaKeeney hosts an annual Christmas tree lighting, which takes place each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and includes visits with Santa, refreshments, and even horse-drawn carriage rides.

This Christmas, begin a new holiday tradition by taking your family to what is considered to be the “largest between Kansas City and Denver!"

For even more holiday-oriented communities, check out The 10 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In Kansas!

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