KC Holiday Boutique and The Coveted Parking Pass

By Katy True, Operations Manager at Swartz and Associates

One of the many things I appreciate about the Swartz + Associates, Inc. office is the fantastic location. We are on College Boulevard, right in the heart of Johnson County, KS, next to the Overland Park Convention Center (OPCC). This prime spot comes with a wonderful perk: we receive coveted parking passes for the KC Holiday Boutique held at the OPCC!

If you weren’t aware, the KC Holiday Boutique is a festive marketplace where attendees can shop for holiday gifts, see works from local artisans, experience inspiring holiday displays, and much more! The KC Holiday Boutique has been a tradition since 2011 where it is estimated more than 45,000 people explore over 350 vendors of which about 60% are local. It’s a shopping experience for sure, but there are tons of things to do for family and friends. And yes, since thousands of people show up for this event, parking can be a real problem.

A highlight for me is taking the Friday afternoon off during the KC Holiday Boutique to enjoy shopping with my friends. This year’s parking pass was hot pink. Thanks to our parking pass, we didn’t have to worry about our car being towed. This might seem trivial, but just ask the shoppers who came out with loads of Christmas gifts, bags hanging on both arms, only to see that their car is no longer where they left it!!! Yikes. I understand why it might be tempting to park in our lot – it is conveniently close to the OPCC and often has plenty of open spaces. However, throughout the day, tow trucks were continuously circling the area, and unfortunately, several cars were towed.

What truly makes the KC Holiday Boutique special is the lively atmosphere. The energy of the crowd, eager to explore the latest trends, discover unique gifts, and enjoy the holiday spirit. For me, one of the best parts is spending quality time with friends as we navigate the bustling aisles, share laughs, and make memories. The blend of lively crowds, festive decorations, and the change to support local businesses creates a wonderful experience that I look forward to every year. Being located right next to the Overland Park Convention Center is just another perk of working at Swartz + Associates!