The Best Events for Holiday Fun in St. Louis

St. Louis offers an abundance of holiday magic, beginning with the Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights and ending with spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations.

From jolly train rides to spirited pop-ups and live entertainment to light displays, here are the best events for holiday fun in St. Louis.

Holiday Events to Get You in the Spirit

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. Let the fun begin!

Ameren Thanks-For-Giving Parade

November 28

Celebrating its 40th year, the 2024 Ameren Thanks-For-Giving Parade will feature festive parade units, including musical floats and displays, dance groups, drumlines and marching bands from the St. Louis region. As always, Santa Claus will also attend the festivities to wish everyone a happy holiday season.

Holiday Performances to Celebrate the Season

Christmas Carol: The Remix

November 26 to December 22

In this laugh-out-loud musical remix of Charles Dickens’ classic tale, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Hip-Hop Past, Present and Future. As Scrooge is shown the path of rhythm and redemption, will he throw off his selfish chains and get down to the beat? Playing at .ZACK in Grand Center, Christmas Carol: The Remix blends everything from reggae to rock, taking this beloved story of love, forgiveness and Christmas spirit to the next level.

Mariah Carey’s Christmas Time

November 29

Mariah Carey, the Queen of Christmas, will perform live at Enterprise Center on Nov. 29 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of her album Merry Christmas. Every year, Carey breaks records with “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – last year, she shattered the record for the most Spotify streams in a single day on Christmas Eve with the song streaming 23,701,697 times. This is your chance to hear the endearing earworm live!

Lindsey Stirling: The Snow Waltz Tour

November 30

Violinist, songwriter, dancer, aerialist – Lindsey Stirling seemingly does it all. On Nov. 30, she'll bring The Snow Waltz Tour to Chaifetz Arena, tuning her bow for the holidays.

Million Dollar Quartet Christmas

December 4 to 22

Are you ready to rock? Around the Christmas tree, that is! Presented by The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis in conjunction with STAGES St. Louis, Million Dollar Quartet Christmas brings Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins together for a festive jam session that will have you jingling all the way home. In the decked-out Sun Records studio, filled with enough musical talent to power a city grid, these legendary musicians blend their chart-topping hits with seasonal cheer. Get ready for a holly jolly journey through this iconic rock ‘n’ roll musical!

Santa Jam

December 6

Santa Jam returns to Stifel Theatre on Dec. 6. This year, the acoustic concert will feature Bailey Zimmerman, Ernest and Kassi Ashton.

The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays

December 7

Celebrate the holidays with the entire family at The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays, a mind-blowing showcase featuring the jaw-dropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Coming to The Fabulous Fox on Dec. 7, The Illusionists have shattered box office records across the globe, dazzling audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever seen on stage. This nonstop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions.

Celtic Woman: White Christmas Symphony Tour

December 8

Journey to Ireland with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Joined by singing sensation Celtic Woman, the Grammy Award-winning, St. Louis-based orchestra invites you to a joyful and captivating evening featuring Yuletide songs from the all-female ensemble, which has been Billboard’s No. 1 World Music Artist of the Year six times! This dramatic collaboration combines centuries of Irish music tradition with the thrill of a full symphonic orchestra, highlighting the artistry of the internationally recognized quartet.

Derek Hough: Dance for the Holidays

December 9

An all-new celebration, Derek Hough: Dance for the Holidays, comes to Stifel Theatre on Dec. 9. Full of jingle bells and holiday carols, Hough’s latest dance spectacle will delight the whole family.

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra IN UNISON Christmas

December 13

Ring in the holidays with a powerful performance by the Grammy Award-winning a cappella group Take 6, who will perform alongside the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the IN UNISON Chorus. Heralded by Quincy Jones as the “baddest vocal cats on the planet,” Take 6 brings their unparalleled harmonies to this soulful celebration, blending gospel, jazz and traditional favorites in an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come.

The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert

December 14 and 15

Experience Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale as only the Muppets can tell it. As Kermit and the gang help Ebenezer Scrooge – played by actor Michael Caine – find redemption and his holiday spirit, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra will perform the memorable score live.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve Tour

December 18

Multi-platinum rock group Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns to Enterprise Center on Dec. 18. This year’s tour marks the grand return of “The Lost Christmas Eve” to the stage. Based on the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s double-platinum CD of the same name, the plot of “The Lost Christmas Eve” resonates deeply with people over the holidays. Alone on Christmas Eve, a bitter old businessman wanders the streets of New York City. Once a rising star, he traded family and love for solitude and regret. The tragic loss of his wife hardened his heart, pushing him away from his infant son and into decades of isolation until a chance encounter with a mysterious girl leads him to a life-altering phone call. His son, whom he abandoned decades ago, is alive and able to forgive his father. The story will play out in an all-new spectacle packed with pyrotechnics, lasers and the incredible talent associated with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. In the second set, the celebration continues with a high-energy performance of the group’s greatest hits and fan favorites.

Mark O’Connor: An Appalachian Christmas

December 18

Blending bluegrass with other American musical genres, three-time Grammy Award-winning composer and fiddler Mark O’Connor will present several arrangements of Christmas classics in one spectacular concert at The Sheldon. Mark’s touring ensemble includes his wife, Maggie O’Connor, on fiddle and vocals, as well as a variety of guest musicians at every stop.

Brett Eldredge: Glow Tour

December 18

Brett Eldredge, Mr. Christmas himself, promises to sleigh this holiday season when he brings the Glow: Welcome to the Family Tour to The Fabulous Fox. Featuring songs from his new album, Merry Christmas, the concert is the perfect family celebration!

Christmas Candlelight Concert

December 18 and 19

Don’t miss the magic of The Bach Society of Saint Louis’ Christmas Candlelight Concert, which was recognized by BBC Music Magazine as one of the top 20 live Christmas events in North America. The Bach Society Chorus and Orchestra will make you feel merry and bright as they perform timeless classics such as “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and Vivaldi’s “Gloria.” Under the direction of music director and conductor A. Dennis Sparger, this concert features guest soloists soprano Josefien Stoppelenburg and mezzo-soprano Kate Tombaugh.

A Magical Cirque Christmas: A Holiday Variety Show

December 20

Embrace the holiday spirit with A Magical Cirque Christmas, a variety show full of nostalgia, charm and awe-inspiring performances for all ages. When the show comes to The Fabulous Fox, it will dazzle and enchant audiences as world-class entertainers perform to cheerful holiday music.

Ellington Strayhorn Nutcracker

December 20 and 21

Looking for a new year-end tradition? Honoring its commitment to innovation and collaboration, Saint Louis Dance Theatre will partner with Jazz St. Louis to put an exciting new spin on Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker! Snag seats at the performance to experience an exciting blend of live music and dance as the contemporary dance company (re)imagines a vibrant time in St Louis history, set to the backdrop of Ellington’s remarkable score.

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

December 21

In this adorable musical, the TV classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage of The Fabulous Fox. Come see characters such as Hermey the Misfit Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in an adventure that teaches us that what makes us different is what makes us special.

Joyful

December 21

Celebrating the winter season, Joyful will include a wide range of music performed by pre-professional artists in the Allegro Vocal Company, including holiday favorite “Carol of the Bells.” The evening begins with a performance by local a cappella quartet Momento, which will feature a piece by The St. Louis Children’s Choirs.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

December 22

Give the gift of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet to the whole family this year. At The Fabulous Fox, the Christmas tradition will feature an all-star cast that blends world-class ballet, whimsical puppets, stunning acrobatics and lavish costumes.

Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

December 27 to 29

Featuring hit songs such as “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical is a record-setting holiday sensation. Coming to The Fabulous Fox in December, the Broadway musical stars Max the Dog, who narrates as the scheming Grinch decides to steal Christmas from the jolly Whos. Magnificent sets and creative costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville, reminding us of the true meaning of the holiday season.

Holiday Fun for All

The Chalet

November 8 to December 27

Enjoy cozy luxury at The Chalet perched on the sky-high deck of Le Méridien St. Louis Clayton. With exclusive indoor-outdoor experiences, it serves as the ultimate winter escape. At the outdoor pop-up bar, try your hand at curling, gather around a fire pit and savor seasonal bites and sips such as goat cheese truffles, barbecue pork sliders, warm mulled wine and smoky hot chocolate. Wooden pergolas, twinkling lights, heat lamps and blankets add to the allure.

The Sleigh Shed

November 8 to December 31

The Train Shed at St. Louis Union Station has been transformed into a glittering holiday retreat. With wall-to-wall bling, The Sleigh Shed puts the excess of the holidays on full display. During their visit, guests can enjoy creative cocktails such as Sleighcation (double-aged dark rum, coconut rum, hazelnut liqueur, allspice dram, cream of coconut, lime and Angostura bitters) and Just Beclaus (vanilla vodka, Aperol, Abricot du Roussillon liqueur, cream, simple syrup, lemon and egg white), alongside appetizers and desserts. Don’t wait – gather a group, secure a table and lose yourself in this wonderland of whimsy.

The Polar Express Train Ride

November 15 to December 30

The Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station is an important holiday tradition. Set to The Polar Express motion picture soundtrack, the magical experience takes guests on a journey to the North Pole aboard beautifully decorated trains. Families are encouraged to interact with the train conductor, The Polar Express characters, Santa Claus and his elves – and to wear their favorite seasonal pajamas for the occasion.

Holiday Cocktail Classes

November 21 and December 19

During the spirited cocktail classes at StilL 630, Andrew Spaugh plays guide as you create three craft cocktails that promise to delight your taste buds. The events give you direct access to one of the greatest minds of the beverage industry – plus, a chance to learn something new and savor delicious drinks! On Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, Spaugh will show guests how to mix libations that complement holiday gatherings.

Jingle Bus Express

November 29 to December 22

Hop aboard the Boogie Bus Express for a sensational holiday light tour. Cuddled together with family and friends among lights, ornaments and garland, you’ll be whisked to charming destinations such as Kiener Plaza, Union Station and Candy Cane Lane. You might also drive through WonderLight’s Christmas at World Wide Technology Raceway or stop for a treat at Ted Drewes. Although routes are subject to change, every excursion will be merry and bright – after all, this is St. Louis, and you’re allowed to bring your own drinks on the bus!

Weirdly Wonderful Holidays

November 29 to December 24

Experience the magic of the holidays at City Museum’s weirdly wonderful celebration. From Nov. 29 to Dec. 24, the uniquely wacky attraction will transform into a winter wonderland full of dazzling lights, heartwarming encounters and seasonal cocktails. While you can still enjoy classic thrills – from the enchanted caves to the rooftop rides – visits throughout the month will also include story time with Mrs. Claus and karaoke with friends among larger-than-life light displays. Those 21 and older can also sip frosty delights at the Cozy Chalet, North Pole Bar and Holly Jolly Café. Cheers!

LIT A Christmas Pop-Up Experience

November 29 to December 23

Outrageous décor, Christmas costumes, themed menus and holiday tunes – this is LIT, a seasonal pop-up experience at Molly’s in Soulard.

St. Charles Christmas Traditions

November 29 to December 24

With a special blend of storytelling, history and whimsy, St. Charles Christmas Traditions welcomes guests into a world of holiday fun. Flying reindeer, dancing sugarplums and an array of international ambassadors invite you to explore holiday traditions from around the world. Savor warm chestnuts roasted over an open fire, witness the pageantry of global Santa figures dressed in the cultural attire of their home countries and listen to timeless melodies sung by Victorian carolers. Mixing yuletide nostalgia and contemporary fantasy, this free, family-friendly event shouldn’t be missed.

Maplewood Christmas Tree Walk

December 6

From costumed carolers to horse-drawn carriages, the Maplewood Christmas Tree Walk radiates holiday spirit. After the grand lighting of the tree and the arrival of Santa, visitors can sip hot chocolate while wandering through the local small businesses that define the Maplewood neighborhood of St. Louis. Grab a good read at The Book House and indulge in gourmet chocolates at Kakao Chocolate. Shop for an assortment of products at Mystic Valley and stock up on exclusive oils and vinegars at vomFASS. Before the night ends, raise a glass with your loved ones at Schlafly Bottleworks, which boasts beer specials for the season. Storefronts will be decked out for the holidays, and many businesses will also offer live entertainment, complimentary refreshments and special discounts throughout the evening.

Holiday Dinner Cruise

December 6 to 14

Savor the season with a festive meal while taking in the St. Louis skyline. A holiday-themed dinner cruise aboard the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch is the perfect setting for a special night with loved ones.

A Spirited Holiday Past

December 7

As part of a grand tour of historic sites, museums and homes in the St. Louis region, Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum will host guests for history and iconography walking tours, holiday games and more on Dec. 7.

PJs and Pancakes with Santa

December 7 to 21

Start a new family tradition with this cozy adventure aboard the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. Dressed in your best holiday pajamas, you can enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast and capture Polaroid-worthy moments with Santa during this two-hour cruise.

Caroling with Santa

December 7 to 21

Santa Claus is trading his sleigh for the Tom Sawyer riverboat this holiday season, and he’s bringing all kinds of festive fun with him! Gather your family for an afternoon cruise where Santa will lead passengers in holiday caroling. In between songs, wet your whistle with complimentary hot chocolate or coffee and explore the different decks of the boat. This is one of the merriest ways to cruise through the season!

An Evening with Chevy Chase

December 13

Don’t miss a hilarious evening full of holiday cheer as The Fabulous Fox celebrates the timeless classic National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation with a special 35th anniversary screening of the film followed by a live conversation with Chevy Chase and his wife, Jayni. Chevy and Jayni will share their behind-the-scenes stories and personal anecdotes about the making of the beloved movie, but the laughter doesn’t stop there! You’ll also have the opportunity to ask the couple questions and hear Chevy tell stories about Saturday Night Live, Caddyshack and other moments in his career. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply love the holidays, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience for all.

12 Bars of Charity

December 14

This year marks the 12th annual 12 Bars of Charity event, which features a friendly competition between eight local charities. The charities are divided into “teams” and assigned a team color; the largest charity team, with the most sign-ups, gets a $1,000 prize. All you have to do is sign up for the charity team that you want to join. Once at the event, you will have the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want, with whomever you want. 12 Bars of Charity is a great opportunity to get family, friends and co-workers together around the holidays for a super fun event that gives back to some of the best local organizations.

Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour

December 15

The annual parlor tour in Lafayette Square is too special to miss. Participants of the Holiday Parlor Tour will be invited into 11 festively decorated homes on the self-guided walking tour. Unique in its history and character, every home reflects the diversity of the neighborhood’s residents. Ticket holders can also enjoy carriage rides in the park and trolley stops around the area. See – special!

Thursday Night at the Museum: Kwanzaa Celebration

December 26

Join the first event in a weeklong celebration honoring African American culture at the Missouri History Museum. During the Kwanzaa celebration, you can reflect on the seven principles of Kwanzaa, spend time among community and enjoy live performances.

Want more holiday fun? Check out these festive holiday light displays in St. Louis, where falling snowflakes, dancing candy canes and sparkling trees will delight the whole family.