University City Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

The Saint Louis Zoo transforms into a magical winter wonderland for Chesterfield U.S. Bank's Wild Lights. Visitors can wander through a dazzling display of over one million twinkling lights, explore themed areas, and enjoy new attractions like visits with Santa Claus and a festive Holiday Market. It's a perfect opportunity...

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Maplewood Christmas Tree Walk! This beloved event kicks off with caroling, Santa's arrival, and the lighting of the town Christmas tree. Wander through downtown Maplewood, enjoying merchant open houses, festive treats, and live entertainment. Don't miss the enchanting carriage rides and a...

Step into a magical Victorian-era wonderland at the Holiday Flower and Train Show. Marvel at over 2,000 poinsettias and a stunning array of seasonal blooms, all artfully arranged within the Emerson Conservatory. This enchanting event features charming miniature trains and structures, creating a captivating landscape that brings the past to...

Step into a magical winter wonderland at the Missouri Botanical Garden's Garden Glow. This spectacular event features over two million dazzling lights, transforming the iconic gardens into an enchanted landscape. Discover new and expanded light installations, captivating holiday animations, and interactive features that invite participation. Special evenings cater to adults...

Experience the magic of Winter Wonderland, a free community event featuring Santa & Mrs. Claus and The Grinch. Enjoy live caroling, a balloon twister, and a delightful Vendor Village. The Ferguson Community Center will be aglow with 'Lots of Lights,' creating a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Experience the magic of Winterfest at Kiener Plaza, a beloved annual celebration in St. Louis. Glide across the ice, warm up with s'mores by the fire, and enjoy the dazzling spectacle of over 100,000 lights. This year features heated igloos, live music, character meet-and-greets, and a spectacular New Year's Eve...

Experience the magic of the season with Holiday Lights at Grant's Farm, offering multiple enchanting ways to celebrate. Choose from a festive drive-through, a leisurely walk amongst dazzling displays, or a cozy meal. Highlights include visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a spectacular light show, and the charming animals of...

Step into an enchanted world at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House for Winter Jewels. This magical event transforms the Tropical Conservatory into a wonderland filled with elaborate fairy gardens, home to the guardians of the jewel-toned butterflies. Embark on a treasure hunt through the Animal Exhibit Hall and discover...

Experience the magic of the Collinsville Light-Up Parade and Christmas at Collins House. This beloved annual event features a dazzling parade through Uptown Collinsville, culminating in festive celebrations at the Historic Collins House. Enjoy food and drink specials, a tree lighting ceremony, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, bonfires with...

Experience the festive spirit of Collinsville's "Christmas at Collins House" and "Light Up Parade." This beloved annual event features a dazzling parade with a "Christmas Stories" theme, followed by enchanting festivities at the historical Collins House. Enjoy holiday treats, a tree lighting ceremony, and a special visit from Santa and...

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with the Great Rivers Choral Society's "Silver Glow: A Christmas Celebration." This special concert series features the talented voices of the GRCS performing festive holiday music. Experience the joy and warmth of the season through beautiful choral arrangements.

O'Fallon's Celebration of Lights transforms Fort Zumwalt Park into a dazzling winter wonderland. This beloved annual event showcases a spectacular drive-through light display, featuring creative scenes funded by local organizations. For a more immersive experience, opt for enchanting trolley rides, festive hayrides, or charming train rides on select dates. Don't...

Step back in time at the Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll, a cherished tradition at O'Fallon's Celebration of Lights. Wander through a mile of dazzling holiday lights in Fort Zumwalt Park, meet Santa Claus, and enjoy live music. Local non-profits will offer unique gifts and festive treats. Don't miss the spectacular fireworks...

Discover unique, handmade treasures at the Timothy Lutheran Church Christmas Market. This annual community event offers a wonderful opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts and soak in the festive holiday spirit. It's the perfect place to connect with local artisans and find something special for everyone on your list.

Step back in time for a Victorian Christmas at the Oakland House Museum's Santa House. Visitors can enjoy a festive atmosphere, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and capture memorable photos. Delight in puppet shows and warm cookies, with a gift shop available. Proceeds support the Oakland House Museum.

Discover unique, locally-made treasures at the Holiday Pop-Up Shop, hosted at the beautiful Laumeier Sculpture Park. This festive event brings together talented area makers to showcase their handcrafted goods, perfect for finding special holiday gifts. Enjoy delicious food and warm beverages while soaking in the cheerful atmosphere, complete with cozy...

Step back in time at the St. Charles Christmas Traditions festival, a beloved 50-year celebration that revives the magic of holidays past. Wander through a historic district alive with yuletide nostalgia, where international Santa figures share their customs and Victorian carolers fill the air with timeless melodies. Experience the taste...

Step into a festive European wonderland at the Belleville Christkindlmarkt. This authentic German Christmas market brings the charm of Nuremberg to Illinois, featuring unique handcrafted items from international vendors and delicious traditional German food and beverages. Experience the magic of the holiday season with a delightful taste of Germany right...

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of an authentic German Christmas Market. Discover unique European and handcrafted treasures from a variety of vendors, and indulge in delicious traditional German food and beverages. Experience a taste of Germany right in Belleville.

Belleville transforms into a winter wonderland with a packed schedule of holiday events. Explore the authentic German Christkindlmarkt, meet Santa, and enjoy a festive parade. Experience the magic of free horse-drawn trolley rides, a gingerbread 5K, and a charming cookie stroll. Discover unique gifts and seasonal delights throughout the season.

Discover the charm of the Edwardsville Winter Market Festival, a vibrant celebration of the holiday season. Browse unique gifts from local artisans, savor festive treats, and enjoy live music. Children can meet Santa Claus before the magical tree lighting ceremony, creating cherished memories for the whole family.

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Saint Louis Ballet's enchanting production of The Nutcracker. This cherished tradition unfolds at the Touhill Performing Arts Center, featuring breathtaking choreography, stunning costumes, and Tchaikovsky's timeless score. Witness the magical journey of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince, from a festive party scene to...

Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's spectacular concert series. From the majestic sounds of Handel's Messiah to the heartwarming score of 'Home Alone' performed live, there's a festive performance for everyone. Experience seasonal favorites, gospel legends, and a dazzling New Year's...

Opera Edwardsville presents a magical holiday concert featuring the celebrated soprano Christine Brewer and pianist Craig Terry. This special performance promises an evening of festive music and artistic excellence, perfect for embracing the holiday spirit.

Join the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce for their annual Holiday Festival and Luncheon. This festive event features a delightful party atmosphere with an array of food and drinks, opportunities to browse vendor offerings, and exciting chances to win prizes through a wine pull and silent auction. It's a perfect way...

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a heartwarming holiday gathering. Indulge in delicious milk and cookies while creating cherished memories with these beloved holiday figures. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and enjoy a touch of Christmas magic.

Capture the magic of the holiday season with a visit to Santa at the Saint Louis Galleria. They offer opportunities for families to take cherished photos with Santa Claus. Walk-ups are welcome daily, but booking a time slot online is recommended to secure your spot and potentially receive exclusive perks.

All aboard for a magical St. Louis holiday tradition! The Polar Express Train Ride returns to St. Louis Union Station, offering families an enchanting journey to the North Pole. Interact with Santa, his elves, and beloved characters as you enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and a reading of the classic story....

All aboard for a magical journey to the North Pole on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station. This cherished holiday tradition brings the beloved story to life with characters, hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas...

Join Santa Claus for a magical morning at The Magic House! This special event includes a delightful pancake breakfast, complete with a spectacular pancake-tossing show. Families can capture cherished memories with professional photos alongside Santa. Attendees also receive exclusive early access and playtime in the museum's engaging exhibits before the...

St. Charles transforms into a winter wonderland for the Holiday Homecoming, culminating in the spectacular Electric Christmas Parade. This beloved Midwest event kicks off the holiday season with dazzling lights, festive floats, and the joyous presence of Santa Claus. Explore local shops during the Holiday Shop Crawl and immerse yourself...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at A Night of Christmas. This festive event promises a delightful atmosphere for all to enjoy. Details about specific activities and attractions will be announced soon, so check back for updates on this enchanting holiday celebration.

Experience the magic of the O'Fallon Illuminated Holiday Parade, a cherished community tradition. Over 75 illuminated floats and marching units will light up the streets, culminating in the official O'Fallon Tree Lighting. Following the parade, enjoy a free Sponsor Expo & Santa Party with treats, crafts, and entertainment for the...