November Nights: Your Ultimate KC Weekend Guide (November 14th–16th)

Autumn is officially giving way to the holidays, and Kansas City is celebrating the transition with a perfect blend of sophisticated culture, high-energy music, and unique shopping experiences this weekend, November 14th through November 16th.

From opera to a major country concert, here are five fantastic, unmissable events to explore across the metro area this weekend.

1. The Barber of Seville: Lyric Opera of Kansas City 🎭

Elevate your weekend with a night of classic, comedic opera! The Lyric Opera of Kansas City presents The Barber of Seville, known for its witty plot and brilliant music by Rossini. This is the perfect opportunity to experience the spectacular acoustics and elegance of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

• Dates: Friday, November 14th, through Sunday, November 16th (Select dates/times)

• Location: Muriel Kauffman Theatre, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108

• Times: Friday & Saturday: 7:30 PM; Sunday Matinee: 2:00 PM

2. Little Big Town & Sugarland: Take Me Home Tour 🎤

Get ready for one of the biggest country concerts of the season! Little Big Town, celebrating their 25th anniversary, is joined by longtime collaborators Sugarland for the highly anticipated Take Me Home Tour. This is a massive, high-energy show guaranteed to get you dancing and singing along.

• Dates: Friday, November 14th

• Location: T-Mobile Center, 1407 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106

• Times: Show starts at 7:00 PM

3. Final Weekend: UPHA American Royal National Championship Horse Show 🐎

A cornerstone of Kansas City’s agricultural tradition! This is the final weekend to witness the prestige and athleticism of the UPHA American Royal National Championship Horse Show. See world-class horses and riders compete in various disciplines, a must-see event that connects KC’s urban core with its heartland roots.

• Dates: Runs through Saturday, November 15th

• Location: Hale Arena, 1701 American Royal Ct, Kansas City, MO 64102

• Times: Events and viewing times vary daily; check the American Royal website for specific schedules.

4. Festival of Lights Opening Weekend at Powell Gardens 💡

The holidays begin here! Take a beautiful drive out to Powell Gardens for the opening weekend of the Festival of Lights. The botanical gardens transform into a brilliant, mile-long walking path illuminated by over 20 miles of holiday lights and festive displays. It's a magical, family-friendly event to kick off the festive season.

• Dates: Opens Friday, November 14th (Runs nightly through January 4th)

• Location: Powell Gardens, 1609 NW U.S. Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061

• Times: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM nightly

5. Nighttime Spectacle: GloWild at the KC Zoo ✨

This stunning nighttime lantern festival continues this weekend, featuring handcrafted illuminated sculptures along a mile-long path. This year's theme is "Time Traveler," taking you on a visual journey through history and the future. It's a captivating, cashless, and highly popular event for all ages.

• Dates: All Weekend (Continues through November 28th)

• Location: Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132

• Times: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM nightly

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are the events family-friendly? A: The Festival of Lights, GloWild, and the Horse Show are excellent for families. The concert and opera events are best suited for older children or adults.

Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance for these events? A: Yes, advance tickets are strongly recommended for the Opera, the Concert, and the Festival of Lights/GloWild, as popular time slots can sell out.

Q: Where can I find more information on these events? A: For more detailed information on times, specific locations, and ticket prices, please visit the official event websites for the respective venues.