Kansas City native and Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen is returning home to help light up the city’s most beloved holiday tradition. The 97th annual Country Club Plaza Lighting Ceremony will take place on Nov. 26, and Jensen, a proud Park Hill High School alum, has been invited to flip the switch that ignites thousands of twinkling lights across the Plaza.
“The Plaza Lights are a Midwest staple that all Kansas Citians know and love, and to be able to do this in my hometown with my Kansas City family is an incredible honor,” Jensen said in a press release. “I can’t wait to help celebrate the holidays and this city with everybody in a place we all cherish. My family and I are extremely grateful for this opportunity to help light up the city that raised me!”
Event details
The lighting ceremony opens to the public at 5 p.m. on Nov. 26, with Jensen scheduled to flip the switch at approximately 6:25 p.m. Once illuminated, the Plaza’s festive display will remain lit through Jan. 10, 2027, providing a seasonal backdrop for shoppers, diners, and families throughout the holiday season.
In addition to the lighting, the event will feature a lineup of local entertainment, including performances by Vocalocity, Miller Marley Dance Company, QUIXOTIC, and DJ Kirby Hamm. All activities are free and open to anyone who wishes to enjoy the holiday atmosphere.
Why the ceremony matters to the community
The Country Club Plaza Lighting Ceremony has become a cherished tradition for Kansas City residents and visitors alike. It signals the start of the holiday season and draws crowds to the downtown area, supporting local businesses and reinforcing the city’s reputation as a vibrant, family‑friendly destination.
Having a hometown sports hero like Jensen lead the ceremony underscores the strong ties between the Royals organization and the community. It also offers a positive role model for young fans, highlighting the values of gratitude, family, and civic pride that are central to Kansas City’s cultural fabric.
How to attend
Anyone can attend the ceremony; no tickets or reservations are required. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially if they plan to watch the switch‑on moment. For the latest updates on the event schedule, parking options, and any weather‑related changes, readers should consult the Country Club Plaza website or its official social‑media channels.
As the Plaza lights begin to glow, Jensen’s participation will serve as a reminder that local heroes—whether on the baseball diamond or in the stands—play a vital role in keeping Kansas City’s traditions alive and thriving.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
