The 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns in Kansas

Kansas is positively magical this time of year (and year-round, if we're being honest.) It seems as though towns, both big and small, pull out all the stops with beautiful displays, parades, and other special events, making the holiday season even more special.

When it comes to these 10 magical and small Christmas towns, however, the holiday season is taken to a whole new level, which is why we find them to be most enchanting of all. Here's what you can expect to see.

1. WaKeeney

Nicknamed the "Christmas City of the High Plains," it's no wonder WaKeeney—with its four blocks worth of lights, annual tree lighting celebration, and Christmastime bazaars—is once again topping our list of Kansas Christmas towns. The 25th Annual Christmas Bazaar will take place on November 29 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. this year.

2. Kansas City

Named one of "Midwest Living's" 10 Perfect Christmas Shopping Getaways, both sides of Kansas City (Kansas and Missouri) are home to remarkable lights and shopping—or both, like at the Legends Outlets of Kansas City. The outdoor seating area with twinkling lights and the giant Christmas tree in the middle of the mall are certain to put you in the holiday spirit.

3. Russell

It's no wonder former politician Bob Dole loved his hometown so much; Russell, Kansas, pulls out all the stops for Christmas with its beautiful shops, winter wonderland festivities, and other happenings along charming Main Street. Stop by Kansas Christmas Wonderland for a plethora of holiday decor and trinkets.

4. Baldwin City

Downtown Baldwin City, Kansas, has plenty of holiday festivities to join. The Festival of Lights, which takes place on December 6, includes a parade with tons of brilliantly decorated floats, a holiday bazaar where you can enjoy delicious treats and buy ornaments, a gingerbread house party, and even meet-and-greets with Santa. It's truly fun for everyone.

5. Garden City

Garden City, Kansas, isn't just a Christmas town; in fact, it is chock-full of beautiful and historic holiday homes that can be viewed during the town's annual Christmas home tour. One historic site in particular, Sunnyland B&B, is decked out with stunning traditional holiday decor inside and out. You won't want to miss a visit to all of these incredibly festive sights.

6. Atchison

Atchison, Kansas, is definitely considered a small, suburban town, but it doesn't fall short in the Christmas department. The town holds a lot of state history, including the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, which is typically decorated for Christmas. Catch the Atchison Spirit of Christmas parade in the downtown area on December 6 at 5:30 p.m. and then stop by some of the shops—like Nell Hill's—to purchase one-of-a-kind Christmas decor and trinkets.

7. Lindsborg

Lindsborg, Kansas, also known as Little Sweden, USA, because of its strong Swedish roots, incorporates old and new traditions when celebrating the holidays. Visit the charming town to experience unique Christmas events like the Julotta Christmas service on the 25th at Bethany Lutheran Church. Or, stop by the St. Lucia Festival on December 13, which will feature Swedish folk dancing performances, a Swedish bake sale, and a church service honoring St. Lucia.

8. Overland Park

Who says that big cities can't also be quaint Christmas towns? Overland Park, Kansas, may be larger, comparatively speaking, but its holiday attractions give it a small-town feel. Stop by the Luminary Walk at Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens (from November 29 to December 20), or head to Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead to see a spectacular light display from November 27 to December 31.

9. Sharon Springs

Think of Sharon Spring, Kansas, as your own personal time machine and travel back to a simpler time. The town is full of holiday sights and sounds, with parades, carolers, and light displays all around. If you're looking to get some holiday shopping in, the Mistletoe & Moonlight Market—held in the Sharon Springs Event Center on December 6—will have dozens of vendor booths with cute decor to choose from.

10. Council Grove

When people say "There's always something to do in the Flint Hills," like the town's holiday kickoff or the Candlelight Charm event, they mean it. Every December, the streets of Historic Council Grove get lit up with thousands of candles and twinkling lights to guide tourists and locals through the winter wonderland. The Cottage House hotel is always a staple photo-op—the staff have it beautifully decorated for the holidays.

Which Kansas towns are you putting on your must-see list this Christmas? Whether you're visiting for the first time or making a trip back home to the Sunflower State, try out Only In Your State's itinerary planner for the best dining, lodging, and sightseeing recommendations.