A crackling fire, toasty treats, and the aroma of fresh pine and gingerbread hearken memories of generous hearts and a blissful nostalgia of holiday cheer. As snowflakes flutter, capture the wonder of the season through these festive outings to herald in the New Year and make your evenings merry and bright.
For sights and sounds:
Winter Wonderland at Tilles Park: Nothing compares to a drive–or better yet, a horse-drawn carriage ride–through the magnificent park in Ladue. The 35th annual tradition boasts over a million twinkling lights of jumping reindeer, cheerful elves, and joyful snowmen for a fanciful mirage of color amid the delightful melody of yuletide favorites.
Garden Glow: Missouri Botanical Garden glistens as you float across spectacular pathways featuring sparkling installations throughout the gardens, landscape, and symbolic buildings. Enveloped in dazzling scenes from every angle, a myriad of idyllic photo opportunities abound. If the wind bites, savor hot cocoa and s’mores by hovering over one of the many enticing fire pits.
Festival of Lights: On Friday and Saturday nights through December 26th, Kiener Plaza awakens in a fabulous lighting extravaganza with an animated projection show surrounded by seasonal music and the grand Salvation Army Tree of Lights. Snatch the flavor of the Gateway to the West under the backdrop of the iconic Arch and share your glorious photos with family and friends afar.
WonderLights Christmas: Glide your vehicle around the tremendous racetrack graced by the legends of NASCAR and IndyCar at World Wide Technology Raceway for a high-tech adventure. The lights dance in synchronicity to both contemporary and traditional melodies.
U.S. Bank Wild Lights: Whistle a happy tune with the lions, tigers, and bears in the fairytale wonderland at St. Louis Zoo, situated at the top of the list for The Best Zoo Lights display in the country by USA TODAY 10Best.
Chanukah on Main Street of St. Charles: Sponsored by Chabad Jewish Center of St. Charles County, this memorable 15-minute program kindles an enormous menorah to commemorate the eight-day Jewish holiday from December 10-17th in Berthold Square.
For locally-owned shopping:
Nestled a short distance from campus, Central West End offers boutiques with a stylish flair. The Left Bank Books, opened in 1969 by graduate students from WashU, offers an array of culturally diverse titles and unique gifts in the warmth of a quintessential, old-fashioned bookstore. Visit La Belle Histoire, 10denza, Holliday, Enchanting Embellishments, and Fauxgerty for eye-catching items.
The city of Clayton celebrates the ambiance of the season with the appealing allure of its charming storefronts. Evoking a whimsical spirit, Happy Up Inc. retails creative and innovative games, gadgets, toys, puzzles, and more for young and old alike. Sweet boutique caters to a variety of tastes with collegiate apparel, monogrammed specialties, and an assortment of personal gifts and embellishments for the home or dorm.
Historic St. Charles beams with enchantment as you meander along the cobblestone streets lined with evergreen garlands, inviting door wreaths, and the joyous harmony of Victorian carolers. Here you will find a haven brimming with quaintness for tea aficionados and antique lovers. Abigail’s Apparel, 2 Simple Sisters, the Flower Petaler, Holiday House, Riverside Sweets, and Serendipity Gifts display collectibles in their troves of treasures and trinkets.
For cherishing the moment:
Adorned with incredible holiday decorations, St. Louis’ historic Union Station nightly hosts a remarkable 3D show on the Grand Hall’s barrel-vaulted, 65-foot ceiling. When you journey to the outdoor atrium, memories await with themed activities, restaurants, and a sky-high ferris wheel. Don’t miss the spectacular fire, water, and light show in the center lake.
As a time treasured tradition, Steinberg Outdoor Skating Rink delivers a captivating escape to experience your Hallmark movie moment under the lights of Forest Park.
Happy Holidays from The Lou!