KC Scene is your go-to, unbiased resource for everything Kansas City—where to live, what to do, and how to make this city feel like home. Whether you're moving in or moving up, we’ve got you covered with real estate, development, lifestyle, and local gems.
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🚢 End of an Era, ⚡️ Thundergong Madness, ✨ Plaza Lights Magic
Published 4 months ago • 8 min read
Hey Kansas City Enthusiasts,
Kansas City is buzzing with holiday cheer, big moves in sports, and exciting local developments. This week, it’s all about festive experiences, community milestones, and new opportunities shaping the city.
This edition, we’re diving into:
▪️ KC Scene spotlight: THUNDERGONG
▪️ The Pendleton Heights Holiday Homes Tour returning December 6
▪️ The Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony kicking off the holiday season
▪️ Arabia Steamboat Museum has announced that 2026 will be its final year in the River Market
▪️... and a lot more!
Check out our newest KC guides at the bottom for all the details ⬇️
🏡 PENDLETON HEIGHTS HOLIDAY HOMES TOUR RETURNS DECEMBER 6 The Pendleton Heights Neighborhood Association hosts their annual Holiday Homes Tour on Friday, December 6 from 12-5 PM. General admission $30. Tickets available at zeffy.com/ticketing/holiday-homes-tour.
🚅KICK OFF THE HOLIDAYS ON BOARD THE KC STREETCAR The 96th annual Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony kicks off at 6:30 PM on Thanksgiving, November 27, at Nichols Road and Pennsylvania Avenue, with KC Current players flipping the switch at 7:55 PM and fireworks to follow. The free event features performances from local artists and a preview of KC Repertory Theatre's "A Christmas Carol." The Plaza Lights shine nightly from 5 PM to 3 AM through mid-January.
🚢 END OF AN ERA: ARABIA STEAMBOAT MUSEUM CLOSING IN 2026Kansas City's Arabia Steamboat Museum has announced that 2026 will be its final year in the River Market, ending a three-decade run as one of the district's most visited attractions. The museum, which opened in 1991, houses thousands of artifacts recovered from the 1856 wreck of the Steamboat Arabia. The building's lease is expiring, and while the Arabia team hopes to secure a new home for the collection, no future location has been confirmed, making 2026 the last guaranteed opportunity to visit.
🏟️ KANSAS CITY TO OFFER AFFORDABLE PERMITS FOR WORLD CUP RENTALS Kansas City is set to approve an ordinance reducing short-term rental permit costs from $200 annually to just $50 for a 90-day permit, aiming to accommodate an estimated 650,000 soccer fans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Missouri Vacation Home Alliance and KC Short Term Rental Alliance are hosting a "World Cup Hosting Crash Course" workshop at the Mohart Center this weekend, covering guest screening, pricing strategies, and compliance. Online option available at hostingcrashcourse.com.
⚽ BRITTANY MAHOMES ADDED TO NWSL ADVISORY BOARD Kansas City Current co-owner Brittany Mahomes has been named to the National Women's Soccer League's inaugural 20-member advisory board, announced November 6. The board includes Magic Johnson, Ken Griffey Jr., Eli Manning, Alex Morgan, Sue Bird, and Chris Paul, among others. Starting in 2026, the board will meet twice a year to identify opportunities for growth, marketing, and fan engagement. The Current broke multiple records this season, generating a league-high $36 million in revenue in 2024.
Kansas City's Union Station marked its 111th anniversary on October 30, originally opening its doors on Oct. 30, 1914, after construction began in 1911.
Visit KC has launched a new digital passport called “KC by the Glass,” offering over $100 in exclusive savings at more than 25 local distilleries, wineries, and cocktail bars.
🏢 DEVELOPMENT SCENE
Historic Ellison Hotel Reopens as Affordable Housing Landmark in Kansas City
The Historic Ellison Hotel, a nearly century-old Kansas City landmark, has reopened as an affordable housing development after an extensive renovation. Originally built in 1926-27 as the Ellison Apartment Hotel, the building has been restored to offer modern, income-restricted studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments ranging from $870 to $1,270 per month. The project preserves the building’s historic character while creating much-needed affordable living options for local residents.
This redevelopment aligns with Mayor Quinton Lucas’ broader initiative to add and preserve 10,000 affordable and attainable housing units throughout Kansas City. Backed by more than $40 million from the city’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund and federal support for transitional housing, the Ellison’s reopening marks a major milestone in addressing housing accessibility. The project not only revitalizes a piece of Kansas City’s history but also reinforces the city’s ongoing commitment to providing inclusive and affordable homes for its growing community.
Kansas City has plenty of events, but Thundergong hit a whole different frequency. Imagine a couple actors from the Ted Lasso cast casually belting out songs, Weird Al doing Weird Al things, strangers turning into best friends, and a packed theater raising more than a million dollars in one night. It was chaotic in the best way, emotional when you didn’t expect it, and so deeply Kansas City it almost felt therapeutic. If Thundergong isn’t on your radar yet, it will be now. Dive into the recap and see why this one stayed with us, and should be on your radar.
Free Saturday Open Jam @ Knuckleheads | hosted by Billy Ebeling - 12:30 PM
SUNDAY
Free Sunday Open Jam @Knuckleheads | hosted by Levee Town - 1:00 PM
Jazz Brunch @ The Phoenix (downtown) | live jazz with brunch
🏐 SPORTS SCENE
Missouri Governor Proposes Retractable Roof Concept to Keep Chiefs at Arrowhead
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has suggested a potential compromise to keep the Kansas City Chiefs in Missouri—a retractable or flexible roof for Arrowhead Stadium. While the team is still weighing whether to renovate Arrowhead or move to a new domed stadium in Kansas, Kehoe said the state is exploring architectural solutions similar to European venues like Frankfurt’s Deutsche Bank Park, which features a translucent, cable-supported roof. He emphasized that Chiefs fans value the open-air experience but noted a partial covering could offer weather protection and make the venue suitable for major events such as the Super Bowl. The proposal comes as both the Chiefs and Royals face lease expirations in 2031 and pursue separate plans after voters rejected a sales tax extension that would have funded stadium upgrades. Kehoe plans further discussions with local officials as Missouri and Kansas continue competing to secure the teams’ futures.
Something Abnormal Is Happening in The Kansas City Housing Market
Something weird is happening in Kansas City real estate right now. It's not a crash like you're seeing in Dallas or Florida, but it IS a major shift. I'm breaking down exactly what's happening: inventory has doubled, some homes are selling in 3 days while others sit for 100+, and what this means if you're buying or selling right now.
Pendleton Heights Charmer with Historic Soul and Smart Updates
Step into this 1890 Pendleton Heights home that blends preserved character with practical modern upgrades. Set on a 3,729 sq ft lot, the property welcomes you with an enclosed front porch—perfect as a sunroom, reading nook, or work-from-home space. Inside, refinished original hardwoods guide you through the main level, where an open kitchen with a cozy breakfast nook creates an easy flow for everyday living.
One standout feature is the main-level primary suite, a rare find in homes of this era. The renovated bathroom brings a clean, refreshed feel while preserving the home’s vintage warmth. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms offer built-in shelving, an updated full bath, and convenient laundry access, making the layout both functional and flexible.
The backyard includes a concrete pad, a retaining wall, and two off-street parking spots—an added bonus in this historic district. And with PH Coffee, Core Coffee, and NorthEast Pizza just blocks away, you’re tucked into one of Kansas City’s most beloved neighborhoods, known for its architectural charm, winding streets, and tight-knit community feel.
At Loans in KC, we understand that every financial situation is unique. That’s why we offer personalized loan solutions designed to meet your specific needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with fast and reliable service. Mortgage rates change constantly, much like the weather, and they vary depending on your unique circumstances. Just like finding the right tool for a job, getting the right mortgage rate is crucial. Let us help you discover the perfect match with a FREE customized quote today! You’re not just another number to us; you’re part of the family.
November 14-15, 5-10 PM. Enjoy glowing art, live performances, and a giant illuminated puppet show at the National WWI Museum and Memorial.
We’re building the ultimate library of local guides to help you experience Kansas City like never before. From art walks to foodie finds, keep an eye out—new guides are dropping all year long. Download now, save for later, and share with a friend!
Got an idea for a guide you'd love to see? We’d love to hear it. Reach out anytime at media@thekcscene.com.
Your Guide to Living, Working & Thriving in Kansas City
KC Scene is your go-to, unbiased resource for everything Kansas City—where to live, what to do, and how to make this city feel like home. Whether you're moving in or moving up, we’ve got you covered with real estate, development, lifestyle, and local gems.
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