With fall on its way out, the holidays are fast approaching—and so are all the exciting holiday events happening around St. Louis, Missouri. Our real estate agents love taking part in the festivities every year, watching the community come together to celebrate the season of giving.  

If you're in the area over the next few weeks, you've got the chance to be part of something special. Check out these six holiday events happening near our St. Louis homes for sale for festive fun your whole family will enjoy.

6 Holiday Events to Celebrate in St. Louis 

Festival of Lights 

500 Chestnut St., St. Louis, MO 63101 

The Festival of Lights is one of St. Louis' first festive events of the year. Serving as the official start of the city's holiday season, it features: 

• Performances from local musicians and artists 
• Photo opportunities with Santa and his friends 
• A vendor's market with food trucks 
• A petting zoo with real reindeer 

At the end of the night, city officials will light the Salvation Army holiday tree and coordinate a spectacular fireworks display.  

The festival is scheduled for November 22nd from noon to 8:30 p.m. in Kiener Plaza. It's free to visit, but bring some cash if you plan to shop or have a snack.  

Thanks-for-Giving Parade 

11 N. 4th St., St. Louis, MO 63102 

Dozens of local businesses and organizations sign up to take part in St. Louis' annual Thanks-for-Giving Parade, one of the city's biggest fundraising events of the year. 2025's procession will feature more than 120 participating floats and performance groups, including dancing groups, marching bands, and musical acts.  

The parade will begin at the Old Courthouse at 2 p.m. on November 22nd and proceed down Market Street. Donations to the St. Louis Area Foodbank are encouraged but not required. 

Weirdly Wonderful Holidays 

750 N. 16th St., St. Louis, MO 63103

Join the City Museum as they celebrate Weirdly Wonderful Holidays this winter. After taking a look at the museum's cheery decorated exterior, head up to the 3rd floor to enjoy: 

• Holiday Karaoke on a real stage 
• Harmony Holiday Circus, a holiday-themed version of the museum's usual acrobatics and juggling shows  

There are two more kid-friendly attractions on the 4th floor: 

• Santa's Workshop, a meet-and-greet where kids can sit down and chat with St. Nick himself as he works on his holiday preparations 
• Storytime with Mrs. Claus, a fun story circle where kids can listen to holiday tales 

This event runs from November 27th to January 4th during the museum's normal operating hours.  

Polar Express Train Ride 

201 S. 18th St., St. Louis, MO 63103 

Board the Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis' Union Station this holiday season and set off on a magical journey toward the North Pole.

While cozying up with hot chocolate and cookies, you'll listen to the movie soundtrack and a live reading of the classic story that inspired the film. When you reach your destination, you'll be greeted by Santa and receive a festive sendoff before returning to Union Station.  

The attraction runs from November 14th to December 30th with several trips scheduled each day. Tickets cost anywhere from $20 to $150 each, depending on the date and seating arrangements.

Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden 

4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110 

Nature lovers and holiday light enthusiasts alike will love Garden Glow, a festive light show held at the Missouri Botanical Gardens. In addition to 2 million sparkling holiday lights, you'll also enjoy: 

• New nature-themed light installations and animated scenes 
• A holiday flower and train show featuring working model trains running through dioramas decorated with vibrant winter blooms 
• The chance to meet Santa and the Snow Queen 

The Glow is open from 5 to 9:30 p.m. each evening from November 15th to January 3rd. It's closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Tickets cost $24 for adults and $12 for kids aged 3 to 12. Discounts are available for Garden members, and half-price children's admission will be offered on November 18th to 20th, November 24th and 25th, and December 1st and 2nd.  

St. Charles Christmas Traditions 

230 S. Main St., St. Charles, MO 63301

Attending St. Charles Christmas Traditions feels like stepping into a holiday storybook. During this festival near our St. Charles homes for sale, the city's historic Main Street is transformed into a traditional holiday village filled with fun seasonal exhibits and costumed performers. Some highlights include: 

• Legends of Christmas, a performance event featuring iconic holiday figures from different time periods and cultures 
• Holiday Food Hall of Fame, a display dedicated to festive foods from around the globe 
• "A Christmas Carol" Stroll, a mini-event that invites guests to experience the classic Dickens story in a whole new way 
• Photos with Santa (only on opening day, closing day, and on weekends) 

The main event runs Friday through Sunday from November 28th to December 24th. "A Christmas Carol" Stroll runs every Wednesday evening from 6 to 8:30 p.m.  

Festive Cheer Awaits in Your New Home in St. Louis 

Holiday events are great fun, but everyone knows the best holiday memories are made at home. Get in touch with our team today to find the perfect local home to make all your holiday dreams come true.