Tis the season for holiday shopping and Independence Center has everything you need! We are Eastern KC residents, so the mall is not far from us, but I must admit I’ve always done most of my Christmas shopping online. Why? The introverted side of me doesn’t want to deal with the public during the holidays. How Grinch of me, right?
Well, Independence Center has me whistling a different tune now.They’ve decorated for the holidays and all the festive lights made me happy as I browsed from store to store. Speaking of stores, the options are plentiful. From great department stores and kids clothing to novelty stores and seasonal pop-ups, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list. Read on to find special events and exciting things happening at Independence Center, while also sharing my best mom tips.
Shop ’til you drop and play Bingo while you’re at it! The first thing you should do is get to the Management Office or Guest Services Desk (near the 3rd floor escalator, by the 39th Street entrance) for your Bingo card. Get 5 spaces in a row by shopping at the stores listed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally on your card and BINGO! Save your receipts from those stores and bring them back with your card to get stamped. Bingo gets you a $10 gift card to select stores in Independence Center. Holiday Bingo is happening now through Christmas Eve, 12/24. KCMB Tip: Text the word ‘Bingo’ to 41487 to receive a free space on your Bingo card! 
Also, Santa is in the house! It’s all about quality here as Santa’s elves work with your little angels to capture the best shot…even when they’re being not-so-angelic. Like my kids. My oldest was not cooperating that day, and the elves brought out a stuffed penguin, toy for him to hold, and let him stand next to Santa while I half-held him. Then they cropped me out. I was so appreciative of the patience and professionalism. It was definitely not a quick click then done. They never made me feel rushed at all. There are lots of options for different photo packages to choose from and I was able to review the pictures taken to choose my perfect photo. The quality of the photo was very impressive!
KCMB Tip: You can find Santa’s hours AND a FastPass (schedule your visit ahead of time to avoid lines!) on the website!
All kids can also have Breakfast with Santa next weekend, Saturday, December 15 at 9 a.m. The cost is $15/person for a hot breakfast and free photo package with Santa, per family. There will also be a hot chocolate bar, crafts, and cookie decorating.
KCMB Tip: Santa Pet Photos (Dec. 16) will make for a cute memory of your pup or kitty! You guys, the Santa love is real here.
When you’re all shopped out and need a break, grab a seat at one of the benches in the large play area, and let your kids play. There is a padded floor with soft slides and tunnels, along with plenty of $1 ride options. Shopping alone? (You go, mama!) Pull up a seat at the mini tavern set up in the food court! Yes, you read that right. Barrel & Vine Tavern is in the Independence Center food court. This might also be a good spot for the hubby to post up while you shop so no one’s rushing you while you shop.
The food court has a lot to offer from trusty pizza to bubble teas (my favorite!). A newer option is Lutfi’s Fried Fish, known for their battered catfish. If you’re craving a sweet treat, they have rolled ice cream or the newly opened Paciugo Gelato (located upstairs in front of Victoria’s Secret). 
After doing all the shopping, I’m not usually in the mood to wrap it all. Independence Center has a pop-up called “All Wrapped Up”, which is a gift wrapping booth so you have one less thing to worry about. Let me tell you, these wrappers are fast and efficient! KCMB Tip: Bath & Body Works has free cellophane gift bags, ribbon, and gift tags in store. Personally, I think this is THE store for your stocking stuffer needs, so how great is it that you can also leave having you gift packaged up nicely–for free?!
I spent many hours shopping, along with my assistants – a toddler and a baby. Despite that, between Santa, playing, and eating lunch, no one got bored! I found some great deals, checked off many people on my shopping list (and might’ve picked up something for myself, too), and had a great shopping experience at Independence Center. Mama’s coming back for a date night at the Tavern!
Where can I I find that Sherpa buffalo plaid wrap?