The St. Louis area has 14 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Garden Glow in St. Louis on November 14 to Weirdly Wonderful Holidays in St. Louis, which runs through January 3. 6 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Missouri, part of our guide for every state.
The short version
- 14 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in St. Louis for 2026, in St. Louis, Kirkwood and St. Charles
- First: Garden Glow, St. Louis, November 14. Runs latest: Weirdly Wonderful Holidays, St. Louis, through January 3
- Free: The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314, Schlafly Winter Party, Winter Celebration, Jingle Bell Sing-Along, Polar Express Pajama and Movie Night and Winter Party
- Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Missouri Christmas train rides page.
St. Louis Christmas events for kids at a glance
- Kids’ Christmas events
- 14 confirmed for 2026
- Cities
- St. Louis, Kirkwood and St. Charles
- Season
- November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027
- Free events
- 6
- Kinds of events
- Santa visit, holiday crafts, holiday lights and story time with Mrs. Claus
- Last checked
Plan your December
When each St. Louis Christmas event for kids happens
The first is Garden Glow in St. Louis on November 14; the last runs to January 3. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.
- Garden GlowSt. Louis · Nov 14 to Jan 2
- Weirdly Wonderful HolidaysSt. Louis · Nov 19 to Jan 3
- The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314St. Louis · Nov 21
- Holiday Happiness FestivitiesKirkwood · Nov 27
- Saint Charles Christmas TraditionsSt. Charles · Nov 27 to Dec 24
- Wild LightsSt. Louis · Nov 27 to Dec 30
- Story Time with Mrs. Claus and SantaKirkwood · Dec 1 to Dec 20
- Visits with SantaKirkwood · Dec 4 to Dec 6
- Breakfast with SantaKirkwood · Dec 6 to Dec 20
- Schlafly Winter PartySt. Louis · Dec 12
- Winter CelebrationSt. Louis · Dec 14
- Jingle Bell Sing-AlongSt. Louis · Dec 19
- Polar Express Pajama and Movie NightSt. Louis · Dec 21
- Winter PartySt. Louis · Dec 21
Look inside the book
Story time with Santa in St. Louis? Bring Rally home.
Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.
Rally Takes the Train
Eight pages from the book
Turn the page
That's 8 of 25 pages
See who’s waiting at the station
Grandmommy and Papa are at the last stop. Get the full hand-painted book, $16.99 on Amazon.
See the full bookPage 1 of 8
Like it so far? See the full book
25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.
Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.
Christmas events for kids in St. Louis
9 confirmed events for kids in St. Louis, soonest first.
St. Louis: Garden Glow
Holiday lightsMissouri Botanical Garden · St. Louis
- Host
- Missouri Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110
- When
- Sat November 14 (5 to 9:30 pm) and Mon November 30, 2026
- Cost
- $6 to $25, varies by date
- Ages
- All ages
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Garden Glow lights up the Missouri Botanical Garden from opening weekend on November 14 and 15 through January 2, 2027, from 5 to 9:30 pm on event nights. The garden is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Expect musical light shows, holiday treats, photo opportunities and fire pits you can rent for your group.
Families with children who prefer calmer outings should look at Sensory Night on Monday, November 30, which offers a quieter, less crowded visit with sensory maps, modified displays, calming corners and a visit from Santa Claus. Attendance that night is limited and advance tickets are required. Tickets are sold by date online at mobot.org/glow and range from $6 to $25, so picking your night early can save money. The Jingle and Mingle night on November 20 is for adults 21 and up.
Parent tip: Book early since prices vary by date; Sensory Night on Nov 30 is capped and needs advance tickets.
See dates and details from Missouri Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: Weirdly Wonderful Holidays
Story time with Mrs. ClausCity Museum · St. Louis
- Host
- City Museum (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- City Museum, 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103
- When
- Thu November 19, Fri November 20 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat November 21 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun November 22 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri November 27 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat November 28 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun November 29 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri December 4 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat December 5 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun December 6 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri December 11 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat December 12 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun December 13 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri December 18 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat December 19 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun December 20 (11 am to 5 pm), Mon December 21 (11 am to 5 pm), Tue December 22 (11 am to 5 pm), Wed December 23 (11 am to 5 pm) and Thu December 24 (11 am to 5 pm), 2026
- Cost
- Included with general admission
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
City Museum's Weirdly Wonderful Holidays fills the building with decorations on every floor and lights up the historic facade, MonstroCity and the Rooftop when weather permits. On select dates, kids can visit Santa's Workshop on the 4th floor to share their wishes, hear Mrs. Claus read during her storytime, and spot Jack Frost roaming the museum. Holiday karaoke for all ages runs on some evenings on the 3rd floor.
The season runs November 19, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Santa's Workshop and Mrs. Claus Storytime are scheduled November 20 to 22, November 27 to 29, December 4 to 6, December 11 to 13 and December 18 to 24, with Santa from 11 am to 5 pm and storytime from 11 am to 4 pm. Everything is included with general admission or a member pass, though Rooftop access may cost extra.
Parent tip: Plan a weekend visit to catch Santa and Mrs. Claus, and check the museum's hours page before you go. Food and drinks are sold separately.
See dates and details from City Museum (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314
Holiday story timeFreeSt. Louis Public Library · St. Louis
- Host
- St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Carondelet Library, 6800 Michigan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63111
- When
- Saturday, November 21, 2026, 10:30 am to 3 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Best enjoyed by ages 2 to 7
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Live at SLPL brings Ballet 314 to the Carondelet Library for a short, sweet demonstration of The Nutcracker & The World's Fair, the company's reimagined take on the holiday classic inspired by a St. Louis children's book. Children hear the story, get up and dance along, and meet the characters afterward.
The library recommends the program for ages 2 to 7, and it is free with two sessions on the same Saturday. Music and sound play a big part, with some bright colors and loud moments, and kids will be close together in a shared space. A Friday, Nov 20 session also runs at the Julia Davis Library for families on the north side.
Parent tip: Children sensitive to sound may want to sit near the back. Pick the 10:30 am or 2 pm session to fit nap time.
See dates and details from St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: Wild Lights
Holiday lightsSaint Louis Zoo · St. Louis
- Host
- Saint Louis Zoo (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Saint Louis Zoo, 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110
- When
- Friday, November 27, 2026 to Wednesday, December 30, 2026 (select nights; Santa nightly through Dec 23; sensory-friendly night Dec 7), 5 to 8:30 pm
- Cost
- $19 general admission, $16 Zoo members, free for children under 2
- Ages
- All ages; free for children 0 to 23 months
- Sign-up
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Wild Lights turns the Saint Louis Zoo in Forest Park into an evening holiday stroll with more than one million twinkling lights. Santa is back by popular demand, and families can meet him and take pictures every night through December 23. Admission also covers the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D film, the carousel, the Primate House, the Herpetarium, Penguin and Puffin Coast and other select indoor exhibits, and little ones can make a craft to take home.
The event runs on select nights from November 27 to December 30, 2026, from 5 to 8:30 pm with last entry at 8 pm and no timed entry. Tickets are $19, or $16 for Zoo members, and children under 2 are free. A sensory-friendly night on Monday, December 7 adds sensory maps, quiet areas and trained staff. Parking on the Zoo lots is free while space lasts.
Parent tip: Popular dates can sell out, so buy tickets online ahead of time. The last entry to see Santa is 8:15 pm and the queue moves at its own pace, so arrive early in the evening.
See dates and details from Saint Louis Zoo (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: Schlafly Winter Party
Holiday craftsFreeSt. Louis Public Library · St. Louis
- Host
- St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Schlafly Library, 225 N Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1 to 3 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Schlafly Library hosts a holiday season party in its auditorium with live music from the Landolfi String Duo. Families can make festive crafts designed for all ages while enjoying refreshments, and the library also sets out virtual reality equipment and other games for kids and grown-ups to try.
The party is Saturday, December 12, 2026 from 1 to 3 pm at Schlafly Library on North Euclid Avenue in the Central West End. It is free and open to all ages, and no registration is listed. It is an easy drop-in outing for a December weekend afternoon. Children can take their crafts home, and grown-ups can enjoy the music while the kids explore the games. Families are welcome to come and go as their schedules allow.
Parent tip: Drop in any time during the two hours. Accessibility accommodations can be requested by calling the library at 314-241-2288.
See dates and details from St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: Winter Celebration
Holiday craftsFreeSt. Louis Public Library · St. Louis
- Host
- St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Cabanne Library, 1106 Union Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63113
- When
- Monday, December 14, 2026, 4 to 7 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ideal for ages 2 to 18 and their families
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Cabanne Library celebrates the start of winter with a drop-in open house for families. Kids and teens can make crafts, and everyone can enjoy snacks and hot chocolate. The program is designed for ages 2 to 18 along with their families, so siblings of different ages can come together.
The open house is Monday, December 14, 2026 from 4 to 7 pm at Cabanne Library on Union Boulevard. It is free and no registration is listed. The library notes that the historic building is not wheelchair accessible, with 13 steps to enter and 20 stairs to reach the restrooms, and accessible parking is not available. Families can drop in at any point during the three hours, which makes it an easy stop after school or work on a weeknight.
Parent tip: The building has stairs at the entrance and to the restrooms, so leave the stroller in the car. Call 314-241-2288 with accessibility questions.
See dates and details from St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: Jingle Bell Sing-Along
Holiday showFreeSt. Louis Public Library · St. Louis
- Host
- St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Schlafly Library, 225 N Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108
- When
- Saturday, December 19, 2026, 10 to 11 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 0 to 5
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Schlafly Library in the Central West End hosts a Mini Music Jingle Bell Sing-Along created especially for infants, toddlers and young children up to age 5. Friends from Mini Music St. Louis lead the group in playing musical instruments, dancing and singing holiday songs, and the whole family is encouraged to join in.
The sing-along is Saturday, December 19, 2026 from 10 to 11 am. It is free and no registration is listed. The library notes that music and instruments are heavily featured, the room may be close quarters, and there may be bright colors and loud sounds. Accessibility accommodations can be requested by calling 314-241-2288. It is a gentle, playful way to introduce the youngest children to holiday music, and grown-ups are encouraged to sing and dance along rather than watch from the side.
Parent tip: Best for babies through preschoolers. Little ones sensitive to noise may want to sit near the edge of the room.
See dates and details from St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: Polar Express Pajama and Movie Night
Holiday eventFreeSt. Louis Public Library · St. Louis
- Host
- St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Divoll Library, 4234 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63107
- When
- Monday, December 21, 2026, 4:30 to 6:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ideal for ages 12 and under
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Divoll Library invites families to a pajama movie night featuring The Polar Express. Kids can come in their PJs, sip from a hot cocoa bar and snack on popcorn while they watch the holiday classic together. The program is aimed at children 12 and under, and families are welcome to attend together.
The movie night is Monday, December 21, 2026 from 4:30 to 6:30 pm at Divoll Library on North Grand Boulevard. It is free and no registration is listed. The library notes the program may involve close quarters with other guests, bright colors and loud sounds, and accessibility accommodations can be requested by calling 314-241-2288. Families with younger children are welcome too, and it makes a cozy way to start the last week before Christmas without spending anything.
Parent tip: Come in pajamas and bring a blanket or pillow for comfort. It is the Monday of winter break week, a good fit for an after-school outing.
See dates and details from St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)St. Louis: Winter Party
Holiday craftsFreeSt. Louis Public Library · St. Louis
- Host
- St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Walnut Park Library, 5760 W Florissant Ave, St. Louis, MO 63120
- When
- Monday, December 21, 2026, 3:30 to 5:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ideal for families
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Walnut Park Library throws a winter party for families during the week before Christmas. Everyone can warm up with hot cocoa and take a turn at family karaoke, and kids can make seasonal crafts to keep for themselves or wrap up as gifts for someone special.
The party is Monday, December 21, 2026 from 3:30 to 5:30 pm at Walnut Park Library on West Florissant Avenue in north St. Louis. It is free and no registration is listed. The library notes that crafts may involve sticky glue and strong smells, the room may be busy, and accessibility accommodations can be requested by calling 314-241-2288. It falls at the start of winter break, so it works well as an afternoon outing once school is out.
Parent tip: A handy last-minute gift stop, since kids can make a craft to give. Dress kids in clothes that can handle glue.
See dates and details from St. Louis Public Library (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in Kirkwood
4 confirmed events for kids in Kirkwood, soonest first.
Kirkwood: Holiday Happiness Festivities
Santa visitThe National Museum of Transportation · Kirkwood
- Host
- The National Museum of Transportation (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- The National Museum of Transportation, 2933 Barrett Station Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122 (near St. Louis)
- When
- Friday, November 27, 2026, 11 am to 2 pm
- Cost
- Included with museum admission
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The National Museum of Transportation opens its holiday season on the day after Thanksgiving with Holiday Happiness Festivities. Santa Claus visits from 11 am to 2 pm, and families can take their own photos with him, since no photographer is on hand. Live reindeer are in Thompson Park during the same hours, and both are included with museum admission.
The museum is home to a large collection of locomotives, rail cars and vehicles, so a Santa visit pairs well with time exploring the grounds and the Creation Station play area. Hours for the Creation Station, the miniature train and the Holly Jolly Trolley vary through the holidays, so check those schedules before your visit. The museum is in Kirkwood in west St. Louis County, and the festivities fall on Friday, November 27, 2026.
Parent tip: On busy days the Santa line forms outdoors, so dress the kids for the weather and bring your own camera.
See dates and details from The National Museum of Transportation (opens in a new tab)Kirkwood: Story Time with Mrs. Claus and Santa
Story time with Mrs. ClausThe Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum · Kirkwood
- Host
- The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- The Magic House, Story Time Theater, 516 S Kirkwood Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122 (near St. Louis)
- When
- Tuesday, December 1, 2026 to Sunday, December 20, 2026 (daily at 11 am and 2 pm), 11 am
- Cost
- Included with museum admission
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Mrs. Claus visits The Magic House in Kirkwood from the North Pole to read winter stories in the museum's Story Time Theater. With one of Santa's elves, she leads festive songs and dances, including a Jingle Bells and Rudolph sing-along, and children shake jingle bells along with the show. Afterward kids can make reindeer antlers and snowman puppets at hands-on craft tables.
Story times run December 1 to 20 at 11 am and 2 pm and are included with regular museum admission. They are part of the museum's month-long Holiday Magic celebration, when the exhibits are decorated and lit, the Winter Wonderscape play area adds an Elves' Workshop, Snow Maze, Ice Castle Slide and Santa's Sleigh, and the Gingerbread Cafe serves kid-friendly food. The museum keeps extended hours during the holiday season.
Parent tip: No separate ticket is needed, so plan your visit around the 11 am or 2 pm show and check the museum's special holiday hours page before you go.
See dates and details from The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)Kirkwood: Visits with Santa
Santa visitThe Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum · Kirkwood
- Host
- The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- The Magic House, Winter Wonderscape, 516 S Kirkwood Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122 (near St. Louis)
- When
- Fri December 4 (3 to 5 pm), Sat December 5 (9:30 am to 5 pm) and Sun December 6 (11 am to 5 pm), 2026
- Cost
- $10 donation per group
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
For one December weekend, Santa welcomes families into his sleigh at The Magic House for a private visit of up to six people per group. The visits happen inside the Winter Wonderscape pop-up exhibit, and families take their own digital photos, so there is no photo package to buy. The $10 donation supports the museum's Access for All initiative, which helps more children experience The Magic House.
Santa is in on December 4 from 3 to 5 pm, December 5 from 9:30 am to 5 pm, and December 6 from 11 am to 5 pm. No advance registration is needed. Just stop by during Santa's hours and make the donation when you arrive. Because the visits are private, little ones who are shy around crowds get a calmer moment with Santa, and families can take as many photos as they like during their turn.
Parent tip: Bring a phone or camera since you take your own photos. Groups are capped at six people per visit.
See dates and details from The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)Kirkwood: Breakfast with Santa
Breakfast with SantaThe Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum · Kirkwood
- Host
- The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- The Magic House, 516 S Kirkwood Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122 (near St. Louis)
- When
- Sun December 6, Sun December 13 and Sun December 20, 2026, 8:30 to 10:30 am
- Cost
- $25, members $20
- Ages
- Registration required for adults and children age 1 and up
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Magic House hosts its annual Breakfast with Santa on three December mornings. A Chris Cakes pancake flipper tosses pancakes through the air for children to catch, and a professional photographer takes photos with Santa, with prints available at the breakfast plus a digital option. Families also get private playtime in the museum from 8:30 to 10:30 am and all-day admission to The Magic House.
Breakfast reservation times are 8:30, 9:30 and 10:30 am on December 6, 13 and 20. Tickets are $25, or $20 for members, and registration is required for adults and for children age 1 and up. Reservations are made by table with a minimum of six attendees, and fees are nonrefundable and nontransferable. The pancake toss makes this a lively, noisy morning that young kids tend to love.
Parent tip: Tables require at least six people, so plan to book with another family or a group, and pick an early seating to make the most of private playtime.
See dates and details from The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)Christmas events for kids in St. Charles
1 confirmed event for kids in St. Charles, soonest first.
St. Charles: Saint Charles Christmas Traditions
Santa visitGreater St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau · St. Charles
- Host
- Greater St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Historic Main Street, Saint Charles, Main St, St. Charles, MO 63301 (near St. Louis)
- When
- Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (Fridays 6 to 8:30 pm, Saturdays noon to 8:30 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm, opening day noon to 8:30 pm, Christmas Eve 11 am to 2 pm)
- Cost
- No admission price listed; the sensory-friendly experience is free
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Saint Charles Christmas Traditions brings the historic Main Street district to life with costumed Legends of Christmas, from Santa Lucia to Ebenezer Scrooge, a delegation of Santas from around the world, Victorian carolers and hot roasted chestnuts. Kids can meet Santa himself at the Historic KATY Train Depot in Frontier Park on opening day, Saturdays, Sundays and Christmas Eve, with professional souvenir photos available.
The 2026 festival runs November 27 to December 24. Hours are noon to 8:30 pm on opening day and Saturdays, 6 to 8:30 pm on Fridays, noon to 5 pm on Sundays, and 11 am to 2 pm on Christmas Eve. A separate A Christmas Carol stroll runs Wednesday evenings. The festival also offers a free sensory-friendly experience for guests who are sensitive to crowds and noise.
Parent tip: Saturdays draw the biggest crowds, so a Sunday afternoon is easier with little ones. Santa is not there on Fridays.
See dates and details from Greater St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau (opens in a new tab)Looking further afield? Our Missouri Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Kansas City, MO. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.
A story for the drive home
A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.
A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.
Buy on AmazonSt. Louis Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask
What Christmas events for kids are in St. Louis in 2026?
We confirmed 14 Christmas events for kids in St. Louis for 2026 on each host’s own page: Garden Glow in St. Louis (November 14), Weirdly Wonderful Holidays in St. Louis (November 19), The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314 in St. Louis (November 21), Holiday Happiness Festivities in Kirkwood (November 27), Saint Charles Christmas Traditions in St. Charles (November 27), Wild Lights in St. Louis (November 27), Story Time with Mrs. Claus and Santa in Kirkwood (December 1), Visits with Santa in Kirkwood (December 4), Breakfast with Santa in Kirkwood (December 6), Schlafly Winter Party in St. Louis (December 12), Winter Celebration in St. Louis (December 14), Jingle Bell Sing-Along in St. Louis (December 19), Polar Express Pajama and Movie Night in St. Louis (December 21) and Winter Party in St. Louis (December 21). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.
What Christmas events for kids are in St. Louis, Missouri?
For families in and around St. Louis, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Garden Glow (Nov 14 to Jan 2, 5 to 9:30 pm, $6 to $25, varies by date); Weirdly Wonderful Holidays (Nov 19 to Jan 3; Santa and Mrs. Claus on select dates, 11 am to 5 pm, included with general admission); The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314 (Sat, Nov 21, 10:30 am and 2 pm, free); Wild Lights (Select nights, Nov 27 to Dec 30, 5 to 8:30 pm, $19 general admission, $16 zoo members, free for children under 2); Schlafly Winter Party (Sat, Dec 12, 1 to 3 pm, free); Winter Celebration (Mon, Dec 14, 4 to 7 pm, free); Jingle Bell Sing-Along (Sat, Dec 19, 10 to 11 am, free); Polar Express Pajama and Movie Night (Mon, Dec 21, 4:30 to 6:30 pm, free); Winter Party (Mon, Dec 21, 3:30 to 5:30 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the St. Louis section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in Kirkwood, Missouri?
For families in and around Kirkwood, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Holiday Happiness Festivities (Fri, Nov 27, Santa and reindeer 11 am to 2 pm, included with museum admission); Story Time with Mrs. Claus and Santa (Daily, Dec 1 to 20, 11 am and 2 pm, included with museum admission); Visits with Santa (Fri Dec 4, 3 to 5 pm; Sat Dec 5, 9:30 am to 5 pm; Sun Dec 6, 11 am to 5 pm, $10 donation per group); Breakfast with Santa (Dec 6, 13 and 20, seatings 8:30, 9:30 and 10:30 am, $25, members $20). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Kirkwood section of this page.
What Christmas events for kids are in St. Charles, Missouri?
For families in and around St. Charles, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Saint Charles Christmas Traditions (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Nov 27 to Dec 24, no admission price listed; the sensory-friendly experience is free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the St. Charles section of this page.
Are there free Christmas events for kids in St. Louis?
Yes. 6 of the 14 events here are free: The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314 in St. Louis, Schlafly Winter Party in St. Louis, Winter Celebration in St. Louis, Jingle Bell Sing-Along in St. Louis, Polar Express Pajama and Movie Night in St. Louis and Winter Party in St. Louis. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.
Where can kids see Santa in St. Louis this December?
Santa appears at Garden Glow in St. Louis (November 14), Weirdly Wonderful Holidays in St. Louis (November 19), Holiday Happiness Festivities in Kirkwood (November 27), Saint Charles Christmas Traditions in St. Charles (November 27), Wild Lights in St. Louis (November 27), Story Time with Mrs. Claus and Santa in Kirkwood (December 1), Visits with Santa in Kirkwood (December 4) and Breakfast with Santa in Kirkwood (December 6). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.
Where are there Christmas story times for kids in St. Louis?
Holiday story times on this page: Weirdly Wonderful Holidays in St. Louis, The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314 in St. Louis and Story Time with Mrs. Claus and Santa in Kirkwood. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.
Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in St. Louis?
Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Breakfast with Santa in Kirkwood (Dec 6, 13 and 20, seatings 8:30, 9:30 and 10:30 am). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.
Which St. Louis Christmas events are best for toddlers?
These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Jingle Bell Sing-Along in St. Louis (Ages 0 to 5).
Are there kids' Christmas events in St. Louis on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?
Yes: Garden Glow in St. Louis (through January 2), Weirdly Wonderful Holidays in St. Louis (through January 3), Saint Charles Christmas Traditions in St. Charles (through December 24) and Wild Lights in St. Louis (through December 30).
How much is Garden Glow in St. Louis?
$6 to $25, varies by date. Garden Glow is on Sat November 14 (5 to 9:30 pm) and Mon November 30, 2026 at Missouri Botanical Garden. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Weirdly Wonderful Holidays in St. Louis?
Included with general admission. Weirdly Wonderful Holidays is on Thu November 19, Fri November 20 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat November 21 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun November 22 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri November 27 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat November 28 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun November 29 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri December 4 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat December 5 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun December 6 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri December 11 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat December 12 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun December 13 (11 am to 5 pm), Fri December 18 (11 am to 5 pm), Sat December 19 (11 am to 5 pm), Sun December 20 (11 am to 5 pm), Mon December 21 (11 am to 5 pm), Tue December 22 (11 am to 5 pm), Wed December 23 (11 am to 5 pm) and Thu December 24 (11 am to 5 pm), 2026 at City Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314 in St. Louis?
Free. The Nutcracker & The World's Fair with Ballet 314 is on Saturday, November 21, 2026, 10:30 am to 3 pm at Carondelet Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Holiday Happiness Festivities in Kirkwood?
Included with museum admission. Holiday Happiness Festivities is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 11 am to 2 pm at The National Museum of Transportation. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Saint Charles Christmas Traditions in St. Charles?
No admission price listed; the sensory-friendly experience is free. Saint Charles Christmas Traditions is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (Fridays 6 to 8:30 pm, Saturdays noon to 8:30 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm, opening day noon to 8:30 pm, Christmas Eve 11 am to 2 pm) at Historic Main Street, Saint Charles. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Wild Lights in St. Louis?
$19 general admission, $16 Zoo members, free for children under 2. Wild Lights is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Wednesday, December 30, 2026 (select nights; Santa nightly through Dec 23; sensory-friendly night Dec 7), 5 to 8:30 pm at Saint Louis Zoo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Story Time with Mrs. Claus and Santa in Kirkwood?
Included with museum admission. Story Time with Mrs. Claus and Santa is on Tuesday, December 1, 2026 to Sunday, December 20, 2026 (daily at 11 am and 2 pm), 11 am at The Magic House, Story Time Theater. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Visits with Santa in Kirkwood?
$10 donation per group. Visits with Santa is on Fri December 4 (3 to 5 pm), Sat December 5 (9:30 am to 5 pm) and Sun December 6 (11 am to 5 pm), 2026 at The Magic House, Winter Wonderscape. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Breakfast with Santa in Kirkwood?
$25, members $20. Breakfast with Santa is on Sun December 6, Sun December 13 and Sun December 20, 2026, 8:30 to 10:30 am at The Magic House. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Schlafly Winter Party in St. Louis?
Free. Schlafly Winter Party is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1 to 3 pm at Schlafly Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Winter Celebration in St. Louis?
Free. Winter Celebration is on Monday, December 14, 2026, 4 to 7 pm at Cabanne Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Jingle Bell Sing-Along in St. Louis?
Free. Jingle Bell Sing-Along is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 10 to 11 am at Schlafly Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Polar Express Pajama and Movie Night in St. Louis?
Free. Polar Express Pajama and Movie Night is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 4:30 to 6:30 pm at Divoll Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Winter Party in St. Louis?
Free. Winter Party is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 3:30 to 5:30 pm at Walnut Park Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Are there Christmas train rides for kids in St. Louis?
Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our St. Louis Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.
How do you confirm these events?
We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.
