It’s time to ‘Tech the Halls’ with Tech N9ne getting the honor of flipping the switch on the Plaza lights this Thanksgiving, November 23rd.
The Country Club Plaza lighting ceremony is an area holiday tradition now in its 94th year. The ceremony will be broadcast locally on KMBC starting at 6 p.m. Tech N9ne—a Kansas City native and local favorite—expressed his excitement about being chosen for this year’s lighting ceremony.
“I remember as a 12 or 13-year-old, I would travel down to the Plaza with friends to witness the Lighting Ceremony on Thanksgiving evening but could never get close enough to see anything due to a large amount of spectators,” said Tech N9ne in a statement. “Back then, this kid on 5816 Forest would’ve never believed that he’d be part of that huge ceremony one day, and now look. It’s such an honor to be the one to give light this year. I’m excited!”
Tech N9ne has had a big year releasing his album “Bliss” and finishing his tour with Hollywood Undead and King Iso. He reflected on his growth in an X (formerly Twitter) post:
“So I did the lighting ceremony last year on 18th and Vine, some years back I lit the Mayor’s Christmas tree at Crown Center and NOW the Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony switch will be flipped by yours truly. WOW! Talk about evolution!”
The Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony, a cherished tradition in Kansas City, will not only feature Tech N9ne’s switch-flipping moment but also include performances by Tech N9ne, Quixotic, DJ Kirby, and The Elders. A spectacular fireworks show is scheduled to follow the switch-flipping ceremony.
Plaza Lighting Schedule:
5–6 p.m.: Pre-lighting performances and giveaways from the main stage
6–7:05 p.m.: 94th Annual Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony
7:05 p.m.: Flip of the switch by Tech N9ne, followed by fireworks
7:15–8 p.m.: Post-ceremony show with The Elders
Where to Watch & Park
The stage will be located at the intersection of Nichols Road and Pennsylvania, the best views are along Nichols Road between Pennsylvania and Broadway.
Free parking will be available at several nearby garages, including Valencia Garage by H&M, Balcony Garage on Wornall near 46th St, Seville Garage (entrance on 47th St between Jefferson and Summit), and Time Building Garage north of True Food Kitchen on Pennsylvania.
The Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony is open to the public and free to attend. The lights will continue to shine through January 14, 2023.