People ice skate at Winterfest in Kiener Plaza.

5 Things to Do in St. Louis This Weekend | November 21 to 24

Monday November 18, 2024

By Rachel Huffman

Explorers of all ages will find something of interest on our list of 5 things to do in St. Louis this weekend, which includes a moving musical, an outdoor extravaganza and the most inspiring night in sports.

If you want to plan ahead for the holidays, check out these festive light displays.

Anastasia The Musical

Until November 24

Inspired by the beloved film, Anastasia The Musical transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.​

Gateway Outdoor Expo

November 22 to 24

The Gateway Outdoor Expo invites everyone to discover and explore outdoor opportunities in the St. Louis region. Produced by Terrain Magazine and River City Foundation, the annual family-friendly weekend event will feature more than 200 exhibit booths from the regional outdoor industry, product demonstrations, show specials, food and drinks, kids’ activities and other attractions. “The Gateway Outdoor Expo has become a must-attend event for outdoor and adventure sports enthusiasts in the Midwest,” Brad Kovach, publisher of Terrain Magazine and deputy director of River City Foundation, said in a recent press release. “We love hosting it every year, and personally, I love seeing all our partners and friends in one place, sharing their love for biking, running, hiking, camping, climbing, paddling and so forth.”

Musial Awards

November 23

Be in the audience for the nationally televised Musial Awards! On Nov. 23, the nation’s best athletes will gather at Stifel Theatre in St. Louis for the world-class event, which celebrates sportsmanship across the U.S. This year’s honorees include sports commentator Bob Costas, NFL wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, Jr. and MLB catcher Salvador Pérez. Uplifting, heartwarming and entertaining, the Musial Awards put on a show like no other.

Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights

November 23

Ushering in the holiday season, the Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights also opens Winterfest in downtown St. Louis. The free, family-friendly event features festive holiday performances by local talent, photo opportunities with local mascots, real reindeer, vendor booths, the lighting of The Salvation Army Tree of Lights and an outstanding fireworks finale. Don your favorite hat, scarf and mittens, and join us in Kiener Plaza for one of the best and brightest days in the Gateway City.

Winterfest

November 23 to December 31

In downtown St. Louis, Kiener Plaza goes into overdrive for the holidays. Hosting Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s Winterfest, the space fills up with fan favorites such as ice skating, s’more stations and igloos positioned under 100,000 twinkling lights. The festivities kick off with the annual Winterfest 5K and Kids Fun Run, which are the only routes through Gateway Arch National Park that support the park. Winterfest continues with holiday-themed karaoke and appearances by princesses and superheroes, while a family-friendly New Year’s Eve fireworks display marks the end of the celebration. This year, The Lodge will expand the festival’s footprint, serving a curated menu of warm drinks, seasonal cocktails and small bites in a cozy setting.

While you’re out and about in the area, make sure to share your photos with us using #ExploreStLouis, and you could be featured on our social pages.