Washington County Economic Development

Washington Fall Fest
2026-09-20 | Washington County, 214 C St, Washington, KS, 66968, United States
Washington Fall Fest — Washington, Kansas
Washington Fall Fest is a lively fall community celebration held each September in Washington, Kansas. This seasonal event brings together families, car enthusiasts, and community members for a day of autumn fun, classic cars, friendly activities, and small-town charm.
One of the centerpiece attractions is the Fall Fest Car & Truck Show, where vintage and modern vehicles line the streets around downtown Washington for visitors to admire. Participants can register their cars, enjoy friendly competition across multiple classes, and take part in fun prize drawings.
Beyond the car show, the festival offers food vendors, kid-friendly activities like inflatables and games, raffles, and other fall-themed fun. With something for all ages, Fall Fest captures the seasonal spirit and brings the community together for a memorable day celebrating autumn in northeast Kansas.

Holidays in Hanover
2026-12-01 08:00 - 2026-12-31 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Holidays in Hanover — Hanover, Kansas
Holidays in Hanover is a festive seasonal celebration that shines each December in Hanover, Kansas, blending small-town charm with holiday spirit and community togetherness. This event, often dubbed A New Twinkling Tradition, creates a magical atmosphere where lights, music, shopping, and family-friendly activities usher in the holiday season for residents and visitors alike.
The celebration typically unfolds in early December and includes a variety of activities that highlight the charm of Hanover in winter. Downtown streets sparkle with holiday lights and decorations, while local vendors and makers line North Street with booths offering handmade gifts, seasonal décor, and festive treats — perfect for holiday shopping and supporting small businesses.
Families can enjoy children’s crafts, holiday games, Christmas Bingo, and letters to Santa at community hubs like the Knights of Columbus Hall, and don’t miss the chance to meet Santa himself, whose arrival adds that classic holiday excitement. A centerpiece of the evening is the town’s Christmas tree lighting, where neighbors gather around a beautifully decorated tree — often a freshly chosen local cedar — to sing carols and celebrate the season together.
Holidays in Hanover is more than just an event — it’s a heartfelt community tradition that captures the warmth, nostalgia, and joy of the holidays in rural Kansas. Whether you’re browsing festive booths, sipping a warm drink by the lights, or sharing moments with family and friends, this special celebration truly embodies the holiday spirit.

Santas Gifts & Goodies
2026-12-05
Santa’s Gifts & Goodies — Washington, Kansas
Santa’s Gifts & Goodies is a festive, all-ages holiday event held each first Saturday in December in Washington, Kansas. This seasonal celebration offers a wonderful way for families and friends to enjoy the magic of the holidays while supporting local businesses and community spirit.
Throughout the day, the streets and venues of Washington are filled with craft vendors, local businesses hosting open houses, and unique holiday shopping opportunities — perfect for finding special gifts and goodies for everyone on your list. Adventurers can “weave through Washington” visiting multiple locations that showcase handmade items, holiday treats, and creative crafts.
No holiday celebration in Washington would be complete without a stop for a Lions Club pancake feed, a beloved tradition that draws locals together over delicious breakfast favorites. Later in the afternoon, Santa Claus makes a cheerful appearance, greeting families and adding extra holiday magic to the festivities.
Whether you’re checking items off your Christmas list, enjoying seasonal food and treats, or just soaking up the warm community atmosphere, Santa’s Gifts & Goodies is a cherished way to kick off the holiday season in Washington.

Palmark Christmas
2026-12-06
Palmark Christmas — Palmer, Kansas
Palmark Christmas is a festive annual holiday celebration held each December in Palmer, Kansas, that brings downtown to life with seasonal cheer and community spirit. Hosted by the Palmer Booster Club, this event is designed to capture that Hallmark-style Christmas magic — with activities and traditions the whole family can enjoy.
Throughout the day, downtown Palmer becomes a cozy holiday destination, featuring a visit from Santa Claus, horse-drawn carriage rides, professional photos with Santa, and a hot cocoa bar to warm up holiday shoppers and families. Local businesses and volunteers often host additional activities, including children’s fun at the Palmer Café and a soup supper that adds to the community feel of the day.
A highlight of Palmark Christmas is the grand lighting countdown, which kicks off as twilight falls, and the festive town decorations shine bright. During the event, residents participate in a Christmas Lighting Contest, where judges tour local displays and award prizes for the best home light shows — along with a community-voted People’s Choice Award.
Whether you’re finding gifts, enjoying holiday treats, taking carriage rides, or meeting Santa, Palmark Christmas offers a warm and welcoming way to celebrate the season and make memories with family and neighbors right in the heart of Palmer.
