When the winter chill rolls in and the Gateway Arch gets a touch of frost, St. Louis transforms. This historic city, a blend of brick-lined charm and grand ambition, lights up for the holidays with a magic that is uniquely its own. It’s a place where you can skate with a view of a national icon, sip a beer under a canopy of lights at a world-famous brewery, and then walk through a garden of glowing art.
If you’re looking for a Midwest holiday getaway that perfectly balances cozy traditions with spectacular, big-city displays, St. Louis is your destination.
Here is your 2025-2026 guide to the best holiday lights, festive markets, and fun in St. Louis.
🎄 1. The Holiday Lights: STL’s Dazzling Displays
This is where St. Louis truly outshines the competition. The city’s world-class attractions host some of the most impressive light displays in the country.
Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo
When: Select nights, Nov. 22 – Dec. 30, 2025 This is a family-favorite tradition for a reason. The zoo transforms into a glittering wonderland with over a million lights. You can wander through themed areas, enjoy festive foods, and visit some of the (chilly-weather-loving) animals. It’s a whimsical, sprawling experience. Pro Tip: Tickets sell out on popular nights, so book in advance!
Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden
When: Nightly, Nov. 16, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026 If “Wild Lights” is pure family fun, “Garden Glow” is pure art. The Missouri Botanical Garden, already stunning, becomes a work of glowing modern art. Millions of lights are artfully placed to highlight the garden’s unique features, from the Climatron to the traditional Japanese Garden. It’s a breathtaking and romantic walk.
Winterfest at Kiener Plaza
When: Nov. 23, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026 What’s more magical than ice skating with a view of the glittering Gateway Arch? Winterfest, powered by Ameren, turns downtown into the city’s holiday hub. The centerpiece is the ice rink, but it’s also a destination for lights, music, and festive “igloo” rentals.
Brewery Lights at Anheuser-Busch
When: Select nights, Nov. 15 – Dec. 30, 2025 It doesn’t get more “St. Louis” than this. The historic Anheuser-Busch brewery drapes its 19th-century brick buildings in over a million lights. It’s a free, drive-thru-or-walk-thru experience that feels like a classic postcard. You can also purchase packages to get a commemorative glass, enjoy s’mores, and, of course, see the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.
🎁 2. The Markets: Shop Local, Sip Warmly
From huge indoor bazaars to traditional outdoor pop-ups, St. Louis has your holiday shopping covered.
Winter Market at Armory STL
When: Weekends, Nov. 29 – Dec. 22, 2025 Head to the massive new Armory STL in Midtown for one of the city’s biggest holiday markets. This sprawling indoor venue hosts dozens of local artists, craft-makers, and food vendors. It’s the perfect place to find a unique, STL-made gift, grab a festive cocktail, and escape the cold.
Schlafly Holiday Market
When: Saturday, December 7, 2025 For one day only, the Schlafly Bottleworks hosts a fantastic local market. It’s a favorite for “foodie” gifts, featuring local farmers, bakers, and artisans. Grab a special holiday-release beer and browse for unique presents.
Cherokee Street Print Bazaar
When: Saturday, December 7, 2025 For the art lover, this is a must-do. The artist-run shops and galleries along Cherokee Street host a massive, one-day bazaar featuring screenprints, letterpress, art, and more from over 100 local artists.
✨ 3. The Festive Fun: Unforgettable STL Traditions
Beyond lights and shopping, these are the experiences that make a St. Louis Christmas.
The Polar Express Train Ride at Union Station
When: Select dates, Nov. 15 – Dec. 30, 2025 Put on your pajamas and board a real train for a journey to the “North Pole.” St. Louis Union Station, already a destination with its Aquarium and Ferris Wheel, hosts this magical, family-focused event based on the beloved book. Hot chocolate, carols, and a visit from Santa make this the hottest ticket in town for families.
Ice Skating at Steinberg Rink
When: Open all season, starting Nov. 15, 2025 A beloved tradition for generations. Steinberg Rink in Forest Park is the largest outdoor ice skating rink in the Midwest. It’s open every day, including holidays, and you can skate under the stars until late. Grab a snack and hot chocolate from the Snowflake Cafe to warm up.
Ameren Thanksgiving Day Parade
When: Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025 This is the official kickoff to the holiday season in St. Louis. Stake out a spot on Market Street to see massive helium balloons, festive floats, marching bands, and, of course, the arrival of Santa Claus to ring in the Christmas season.
From the high-art glow of a garden to the nostalgic roar of a holiday train, St. Louis offers a rich, warm, and brilliant holiday experience. So grab your scarf, and get ready to discover the magic of Christmas in the Gateway City.
What’s your favorite St. Louis holiday tradition, or what are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments!
