Winter in Wichita is a magical time to connect with family, make new traditions, and see some of the best that Wichita has to offer. From incredible dining experiences to special events and performances, you'll find something to keep you busy during the holidays and beyond. Illuminations at Botanica Wichita Botanica, Wichita's world-class botanical garden, is an incredible destination any time of the year but particularly around the winter holidays. Illuminations is Botanica's enchanted light display with more than one-million lights strung atop trees in more than 30 themed gardens. This stunning display, including choreographed light shows, is open every evening beginning the day after Thanksgiving and running through the end of the year. During this year's Illuminations display, Santa will be making special visits to the garden on Dec. 3-5 and 17-19 for a VIP holiday experience. more Holiday Galleria For the 15th year running, the Junior League of Wichita will present its Holiday Galleria shopping event to support the Junior League's many community-based efforts. Featuring over 100 upscale national and local merchants, the Holiday Galleria offers a great way to get a head start on your holiday shopping. Featuring clothing, imported home goods, gourmet gifts, and much more, the Holiday Galleria has something for everyone on your list. This year's Holiday Galleria will be held Oct. 5-7 at the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center in Wichita. The Runaway Snowman Bring the kids to the Wichita Children's Theatre & Dance Center's presentation of "The Runaway Snowman" as part of their Once Upon a Time Series. The premier children's theater company shares the heartwarming story of Happy the Snowman, which is sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit. Performances will be held Dec. 1 and 15 at the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center. The Polar Express Hop aboard the Polar Express for an exhilarating trip to meet Santa this winter at Watson Park. This annual adventure begins with a reading of the classic book "The Polar Express," followed by a fun seasonal holiday craft. Ride the Polar Express miniature train for an exciting tour around the park, and make sure to stop by the campfire for some s'mores and hot chocolate. At the end of the evening, children will receive a special gift from Santa. Young ones are encouraged to wear their pajamas for an extra touch of coziness on this magical evening. The Polar Express heads out of the station at Watson Park several times each evening from Nov. 23 through Dec. 22. New Year's Eve at Prairie Rose Chuckwagon Ring in the new year with a touch of country fun at the Prairie Rose Chuckwagon in nearby Benton. Enjoy a movie and horse-drawn carriage ride followed by an all-you-can-eat chuckwagon dinner. Dance the night away to the tunes of Rusty Rierson & the Forever Young Band. While you may be tempted to stay inside during the shorter, colder days of winter, you won't want to miss the amazing events Wichita has on offer this season. From shopping to the theater, you'll be busy right through to the new year. Photo via Flickr by Ty Nigh | Licensed under cc by 2.0
