Do you dream of dancing sugar plum fairies and a large rosy-cheeked man dressed in red coming down your chimney long before Schlafly stops selling their famous pumpkin beer? Well, you’re in luck. It’s Christmas season!
And Christmas is made even more special when you live in St. Louis with all of the wonderful activities it has to offer. I’ve created a list of the my favorite St. Louis holiday activities.
St. Flags St. Louis
I’ve been saying it for years -Six Flags should put on a holiday event like Silver Dollar City. They finally listened! Well, probably not to me specifically, but to the many people who visit the popular theme park each year. Already a family friendly place, a festive Six Flags is sure to please!
Find out more on the Six Flags website
Brewery Lights at Anheiser Busch
The beer giant puts on an impressive holiday display each Christmas and offers treats for everyone in the family including fire pits for roasting s’mores, and of course samples of popular beers for those over 21 years of age. This year the beer giant is offering a ice skating rink and skate rentals are available for a donation. Skate rental proceeds benefit the St. Louis Blues Alumni Association, which raises money for local charities. Oh, and be sure to get festive photos with the famous Clydesdale horses while you’re visiting!
Check out all of the activities they offer on their website. Note: you may have to enter your birthday to prove you’re over the age of 21. There isn’t anything inappropriate on the site, other than the references to beer (and let’s face it, you’re probably not going to be interested in visiting the site anyway if you have a problem with imbibing).
Santa’s Magical Kingdom
Bring the family for a driving tour of our very own North Pole look-a-like conveniently located in Eureka, complete with over 2 million twinkling lights. Carriage and train rides are also available if you’d prefer to get a more interactive experience.
Oh and if your kids are Ninja Turtle fans, and how could they not be, they will love the heroes in a half shell scattered throughout the park directing traffic. Bonus points if you can find all 4!
Find out more about Santa’s Magical Kingdom
Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo
Lions, Tigers, and Polar Bears! As if being the world’s best zoos isn’t enough, our animal friendly sanctuary decks the halls with tons of holiday lights. Get into the Holiday spirit with Christmas lights and animal sights!
Check out the Zoo’s calendar of holiday events
Missouri Botanical Garden Glow
You may not think of our Botanical Garden as a winter activity but the grounds are transformed to a glimmering treasure of holiday lights. Do not miss the special events including caroling, visit from Santa Claus, and photography sessions.
Find out the date of events here
St. Louis Symphony Holiday Concerts
Listening to Christmas music on the radio is one thing, experiencing the live renditions of our favorite melodies is a whole other thing. We are fortunate to have one of the best symphonies in the country in the St. Louis Symphony and they do not disappoint with their holiday lineup. From the familiar Nutcracker, to moving Gospel, to the powerful sounds of Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Symphony, there is something for everyone’s musical taste! Don’t miss it.
Check out the different concerts that are scheduled and get tickets here.
Holiday Magic and the Polar Express at Union Station
You’ve seen the movie and read the book, now you can experience the Polar Express in person! Your magic train ride will allow your family to tour the ‘North Pole!’
Ice Skating in Steinberg Ice Rink at Forest Park
Strap on your blades, grab your scarves and head over to Forest Park to skate at the largest outdoor ice rink in the Midwest! You can skate all day (no need to leave for food!). Their Snowflake Cafe has sandwiches, snacks, burgers, soda, hot chocolate, beer and wine to give you the energy to stay on your skates! Remember to bring cash since they do not take credit or debit cards.
Visit the Steinberg website for more info.
Skiing or Inner Tubing at Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley is one of the only places to ski or snowboard in the Midwest and is worth the trip! Located in Wildwood, you’ll find a variety of hills for skiing and snowboarding for all levels. For fun without the need for skill, you can check out their Polar Plunge for an inner-tube plummet experience!
Find out more at http://www.hiddenvalleyski.com/.
Did I miss any of your favorite things to do around St. Louis for the holidays? Share them below!