🎄 Top 10 Things to Do in the St. Louis Area for the Holidays (2025 Guide)

Looking for holiday fun in the Greater St. Louis area? Whether you're a local or visiting family, this city shines bright during the festive season. From dazzling light displays to cozy winter markets, here are the top holiday experiences not to miss in 2025.

1. 🎆 Garden Glow at Missouri Botanical Garden

Location: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO
Why go: Walk through more than 1 million dazzling lights spread across the historic gardens, with fire pits, seasonal treats, and photo ops at every turn.
Best for: Families, date nights, Instagram-worthy moments

2. ⛸️ Steinberg Skating Rink in Forest Park

Location: 400 Jefferson Dr, St. Louis, MO
Why go: The largest outdoor ice-skating rink in the Midwest, open daily—even on holidays! Skate under twinkling lights with cocoa in hand.
Best for: Teens, couples, active families

3. 🎭 A Christmas Carol at The Fabulous Fox Theatre

Location: 527 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO
Why go: This annual production brings Dickens’ classic to life with jaw-dropping sets and heartfelt performances in a beautifully decorated historic theater.

4. 🚂 Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo

Location: 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO
Why go: The zoo turns magical at night with themed light displays, fire pits, and winter snacks.

A festive hit for younger kids.
 

5. 🎁 Holiday Markets at Union Station

Location: 1820 Market St, St. Louis, MO
Why go: Browse artisan gifts, enjoy holiday train rides, and take in the 3D light show in this beautifully restored train station.
Bonus: Union Station also hosts the Polar Express ride for families with kids.

6. 🍫 Polar Express Train Ride

Location: St. Louis Union Station
Why go: A magical, interactive ride straight from the pages of the beloved book. Kids wear PJs, meet Santa, and sip hot chocolate.
Ideal for: Young families

7. 🕯️ Candlelight Concerts by Fever

Location: Varies – churches, museums, and historic spaces
Why go: Hear live string quartets perform holiday classics in candlelit settings. Romantic, elegant, and unforgettable.
 

8. 🛍️ Christmas Traditions in Historic St. Charles

Location: Main Street, St. Charles, MO
Why go: A storybook Christmas experience with Victorian carolers, horse-drawn carriages, and Santa sightings along cobblestone streets.
Don’t miss: The Santa Parade every Saturday.

9. 🎡 Winterfest at Kiener Plaza

Location: Downtown St. Louis near the Gateway Arch
Why go: Ice skating, igloos, holiday vendors, and a light-up Arch backdrop make this a must-do for city holiday vibes.
Perfect for: Visitors and locals alike

10. 🕎 Hanukkah & Multicultural Celebrations at The Magic House

Location: 516 S. Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, MO
Why go: Inclusive, educational fun for families with young kids. Interactive exhibits celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and more.

🎁 Bonus: Best Neighborhoods for Holiday Lights in St. Louis

• Candy Cane Lane (6500 Murdoch Ave)
  • Tilles Park Winter Wonderland (9551 Litzsinger Rd)
  • Lafayette Square & Central West End homes
  
  

Final Takeaway: Your 2025 Holiday Bucket List Starts Here 🎄

Whether you’re looking to glide across an outdoor rink, take magical train rides, or stroll through old-world Christmas villages, the St. Louis region has something festive for everyone. Bookmark this guide and make the most of the most wonderful time of the year!

Planning Tip: Many of these events require tickets or reservations in advance—especially weekends in December. Book early to avoid missing out.

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If you're also considering buying or selling a home during the holiday season, I'm happy to help you make the most of the timing. 🎁 Let's chat!