Holiday Magic Begins at Union Station Saturday

Union Station begins the holiday season this Saturday with a day full of free activities for the family capped by the colorful illumination of the historic building and a magical stage and aerial performance by Quixotic.

And if that’s not enough, for only $3 per person you can enjoy the Griswold family’s holiday misadventures on the big, big screen with continuous showings of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” at the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre.

The “Holidays Come Alive” festivities begin at 10 a.m. with hands-on family activities and goes until 9 p.m. At 6:30 p.m., Quixotic will perform in what’s being described as an all-new performance.

Union Station officials say Quixotic “will help bring the holidays alive in an unexpected and utterly magical way.”

Their performance has been built around a snowy day them in which children create an ice creature that comes to life. Aerialists, silk dancers, magical reindeer, hand balancers, LED jugglers and huge inflatable ornaments are all part of the show.

“Kansas City’s historic home becomes even more magical during the holidays,” George Guastello, Union Station president and CEO said in a statement. “And this year, we have added even more spectacular and memorable holiday experiences for the entire family.”

Thousands crowded into Grand Hall at Union Station for the annual holiday lighting ceremony.

This year features two new additions to the holiday festivities, an exterior light show and Astro Botanicals.

The outside of the station will feature a dazzling light show every evening on the half hour. The choreographed display will not only entertain, but add to the festive illumination of the downtown skyline.

Astro Botanicals is being held at the Haverty Family Yards just outside Science City. It features eight inflatable sculptures between 8- and 15-feet tall that will grow in a unique and fantastic exhibition, according to Union Station officials.

Designed by Stan Clark, a California-based fabric artist, the giant ornamental pieces combine architecture, geometry and nature. Their multi-colored light displays give a magical aura.

Union Station also figures prominently in Downtown Dazzle this year. Washington Square Park will feature a festive light show that will unify Union Station, the park and Crown Center into a walkable holiday district.

The Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Train will be at Union Station Dec. 15-19.