Like me, many of you are looking for holiday activities to partake in that are both safe AND provide some sense of holidays in years past. Thankfully, we don't have to look far as the City of Gardner Parks and Recreation Department, along with local businesses like KC Wine Co., have come up with new and different activities for the holiday season. But many of you also like to explore the Kansas City area and there are a ton of opportunities for fun for the whole family. Yes they are different this year, but that's what we're all dealing with. So why not embrace the change and try something new this holiday season. I've already heard about families doing Italian, Mexican or even Greek Thanksgiving meals (I'm doing the latter, wish me luck!).

Assuming you'd like to not be cooped up in your house for the entire month of December, why not get out and explore the local area in the coming month. The Chamber, on behalf of the City of Gardner, is part of two collaborative groups that jointly promote activities in the region as a way to drive traffic and ultimately improve the economy. Both are promoting opportunities for local exploration this holiday season. Check them out...

Northeast Kansas Tourism - Visit the website for holiday shopping ideas, Christmas tree displays, drive-thru lights and more. 

KC Destinations - Enjoy the KC Holiday Trip, a digital passport program that allows you to experience the region's best kept secrets and win prizes while exploring. 

There's no excuse to let this holiday season be any different than years past. We encourage everyone to shop local as much as possible, be safe and remember what the holidays are all about.