The holiday season is here and there are so many ways to get into the spirit in St. Louis. Sure, you may want to pick out the perfect tree, but below are other events just begging to become an annual holiday tradition. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah or Kwanzaa, there's something for everyone this holiday season. If you're looking for ways to celebrate without spending money, check out Free Holiday Events and Celebrations in the St. Louis Area.
For ideas on ringing in new year, see Top New Year's Eve Celebrations in St. Louis.Christmas Light Displays
Photo courtesy Alton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau
St. Louis has some wonderful Christmas light displays, from Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park to the Way of Lights in Belleville and many more. For hours of operation, admission prices and other information, see St. Louis' Best Holiday Light Displays.
November 2011 - January 2012
Various Locations
Deck the Halls Wreath Exhibit
Local floral designers are showing off their best work at the annual holiday wreath exhibit at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The wreaths are on display each day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibit is included with the cost of Garden admission. You also have the chance to own one of the featured wreaths by making a bid during the silent auction. Proceeds from the auction benefit Garden programs.
November 19, 2011 - December 28, 2011
Missouri Botanical Garden
Gardenland Express
Photo courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden
It's all aboard for some holiday fun at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The Garden is kicking off its holiday season with its "Gardenland Express" annual flower and train show. The show features model trains that wind their way though a miniature landscape filled with winter scenes and surrounded by poinsettias and other flowering plants. The display is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $13 for adults and $5 for children. Garden members get in free.
November 23, 2011 - January 2, 2012
Missouri Botanical Garden
Miracle on 34th Street
Miracle on 34th Street comes to the stage at the Touhill Performing Arts Center. The classic Christmas tale of Kris Kringle on trial is one the whole family can enjoy. Tickets are $29 to $42.
November 30, 2011
North St. Louis County
Santa vs the Snowman
Alien vs. Predator. Freddy vs. Jason. Now there's Santa vs. the Snowman, and you can catch it on the ultimate big screen, the OMNIMAX theater at the St. Louis Science Center. Luckily this holiday tale is lighthearted and suitable for kids. It tells the story of a curious snowman who challenges Santa and his workshop for control of the Christmas gift delivery business. Tickets are $9 for adults and $8 for children and seniors. Special group discounts are also available.
December 2011
St. Louis Science Center
Christmas at the Fabulous Fox
The Fox Theatre is celebrating the holidays with a couple of great Christmas shows. There are performances of Dickens' A Christmas Carol in early December, then Christmas with the Rat Pack later in the month. Tickets for the shows range from $15 to $70.
A Christmas Carol: December 1-4, 2011
Christmas with the Rat Pack: December 6-18, 2011
Fox Theatre
Holiday Art Show & Sale
Muddy River Arts will hold its annual Holiday Art Show and Sale at The Ethical Society of St. Louis at 9001 Clayton Road. Find one-of-a-kind gifts from 30 local artists who will be showing their works. Art on display includes pottery, fused glass, jewelry and photography.December 2 & 3, 2011
Richmond Heights
CWE Window Walk
The Central West End neighborhood is celebrating the holidays with a Window Walk and street festival. The fun begins at 1 p.m., with carolers, ice sculptors, pictures with Santa, roasted chestnuts and more. Visitors can also vote for their favorite holiday window display.
December 3, 2011
Central West End
Holiday Magic
The Edward Jones Dome will turn into a Christmas wonderland for Holiday Magic 2011. There will be shopping, decorations, food and fun at this three day event. The highlight of the show is an indoor Main Street where vendors will be selling local goods, Christmas decorations and more. When you're tired of shopping, you can take a spin on a carnival ride or enjoy some holiday entertainment. Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for children.
December 3-4, 2011
Downtown St. Louis
Home for the Holidays
The small town of Elsah, Illinois, is known as the "village where time stood still." Elsah's historic charm is certainly on display during the holidays. Visitors can tour homes decorated for Christmas from 3 p.m. to 5:45 p.m., do a little shopping and attend the lighting of the village Christmas tree at 6:30 p.m. Home tour tickets are $15.
December 3, 2011
Elsah, Illinois
