St. Charles, Missouri, is known for its historic brick Main Street, but during the holiday season, the unique street transforms into a holiday scene from a classic Hallmark movie. This past long weekend marked the first snowfall in St. Charles, which only added to the holiday atmosphere. Main Street was carefully dusted in a blanket of white snow, making the area feel even more nostalgic. The holiday feel did not stop there; horse-drawn carriages, twinkling lights, greenery draping the lamp posts, festive characters, and classic small-town cheer create the perfect holiday scene for many events happening in the month of December in St. Charles and the surrounding areas.
For over half a century, St. Charles Christmas traditions, including community light shows and Lindenwoods’ very own Winterfest and Holiday Concert, have brought a full calendar for students, friends, and families to celebrate the holiday season.
St. Charles Christmas Traditions®
Historic Main Street, St. Charles
Nov. 28 – Dec. 24, Fri. 6-8:30 p.m., Sat. 12-8:30 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m.
St. Charles began its annual Christmas Traditions on Nov. 28, turning Main Street into “a place where Christmas past comes to life.” This annual Christmas tradition offers not only the history of Christmas but also storytelling and fairytale characters. Visitors are able to stroll through Main Street under the glow of gas lamps and experience Victorian carolers, international holiday ambassadors with collectable cards, the aroma of roasted chestnuts, and Christmas folklore. The historic buildings and a current fresh layer of snow give the entire festival a classic old-fashioned charm reminiscent of a holiday movie scene.
Each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through from now until Christmas Eve, visitors are able to enjoy seasonal entertainment and holiday shopping along the Missouri River. Santa will also be making his annual appearance by hosting visitors at the Historic KATY Train Depot located in Frontier Park on Opening Day, Saturdays, Sundays, and Christmas Eve.
On Wednesday evenings, you can find Main Street transformed into “A Christmas Carol” from London in the 1840s. The culture represents a retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale. A free sensory-friendly experience is also available for any guests who may be sensitive to sounds, lights, or crowds.
Winterfest at Lindenwood University
Heritage Side of Campus
Dec. 7, 4-8 p.m.
Lindenwood University will welcome all students, families, and community members to share its annual Winterfest celebration from 4-8 p.m. on Dec. 7th. The event will be located on the Heritage Side of Campus, which will be illuminated by 3,000 lights, creating a festive holiday atmosphere, this year even more magical with this season’s first snowfall. Winterfest is free admission and open to all ages.
Guests can enjoy caroling by Lindenwood’s own a cappella group, Voices Only, along with enjoying cookie decorating, holiday craft stations, and storytime with Mrs. Claus. Families will also have the opportunity to take photos in a real sleigh and visit with Santa to share Christmas wishes. Attendees are also encouraged to bring new, unwrapped gifts that will be donated to the Salvation Army. Any who donates will receive a free Winterfest event T-shirt, while supplies last.
Lindenwood Holiday Concert
J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts, Lindenwood Theater
Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m.
Lindenwood’s Music, Dance, and Theatre departments will be hosting their 2nd Annual Holiday Concert at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts. The performances will feature various dance numbers, holiday music, and seasonal scenes designed to celebrate the holiday spirit.
Celebration of Lights
Fort Zumwalt Park, O’Fallon
Nov. 28 – Dec. 30, Mon-Fri. 6-9:00 p.m.
Estimated Cost: $16 per vehicle
The Celebration of Lights returned to Fort Zumwalt Park in O’Fallon on November 28th, an 18-minute drive from campus, for its annual drive-through holiday light display. This holiday event offers themed scenes that are designed by local organizations, businesses, and artists.
This display is closed on Dec. 1, 7, 8, 9, and 15th to vehicles and entirely closed on Dec. 25th.
The park is open, however, on Dec. 7, 8, and 9 for pedestrians as they host the Old Fashioned Holiday Stroll. The park will be offering fireworks over the park’s lake, visits from Santa and his reindeer, and warm holiday treats for purchase. ‘
With many traditions returning to St. Charles, Lindenwood University, and the region, they offer a full lineup to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you are visiting the area or are local, visiting these holiday events promises to bring a nostalgic Christmas experience that promises warm memories, bright lights, and is filled with holiday magic.
