by Colby Sharples-Terry

As the calendar turns to November and December, Kansas communities begin their preparations for the holiday season. The state transforms into a winter wonderland brimming with festive lights, unique events and heartwarming traditions for children of all ages. Here are some of the top Christmas attractions across Kansas you’ll want to add to your family’s calendar:

Botanica’s Illuminations. Wichita may be known for its aviation heritage, but come December, the city's Botanica Gardens turn into a breathtaking spectacle of Christmas lights during the annual Illuminations event. Over 2 million lights illuminate the garden paths, with displays ranging from whimsical scenes to elegant light sculptures. Visitors can stroll through the Tunnel of Lights, enjoy live music, warm up with hot cocoa and take in the glowing reflections over the garden’s ponds.

A Swedish Christmas. Lindsborg, affectionately known as “Little Sweden,” is where Swedish heritage shines all year. But during the Christmas season, this heritage takes center stage with Julotta, an early-morning Christmas Day service, and St. Lucia Festival, on Dec. 14. This traditional Swedish festival celebrates St. Lucia, the bearer of light, with a candlelit procession led by young girls dressed in white gowns and red sashes. The town is also filled with festive decorations, including the beloved Swedish Dala horses, making it a unique cultural holiday experience in Kansas. Holiday events begin Nov. 9 and continue throughout December.

Historic Christmas at Seelye Mansion. Step back in time to a Victorian Christmas at Abilene’s Seelye Mansion. This grand home, built in 1905, is lavishly decorated each season with over 100 Christmas trees, vintage ornaments and twinkling lights that transport visitors to the early 20th century. Guided tours of the mansion offer insights into the history of the Seelye family and their impact on Kansas. Be sure to book a ride on The Cowtown Santa Express with the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad on select dates starting Nov. 29 through Dec. 23. And be sure to put Cowtown Christmas, Dec. 7-8, on the calendar. For more information, head to abilenekansas.org/christmas.

Winter Wonderland at Lake Shawnee. Topeka’s Lake Shawnee transforms into a shimmering wonderland of holiday lights called “Winter Wonderland.” This drive-through display stretches along the lake, showcasing themed light exhibits, from nativity scenes to playful holiday characters. Visitors can drive through the display at their own pace, taking in the dazzling lights while enjoying hot chocolate from the warmth of their car. Proceeds from the event benefit TARC Inc.

Christmas City of the High Plains. WaKeeney, known as “Christmas City of the High Plains,” has been celebrating Christmas in grand style since 1950. The town square is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights, a beautiful handmade 35-foot tree and charming decorations that bring a nostalgic touch to the season. The lighting ceremony will be Nov. 30 to start the holiday season for families.

To see all events, festivals and holiday markets, head to travelks.com/events. It’s never too late to start a new family tradition. Make exploring Kansas this winter your best idea yet.

Sharples-Terry is public relations and communications manager for Kansas Tourism, which aims to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on the state and local communities. For more trip inspiration and to order a free Kansas Travel Guide, head to travelks.com.