Top 5 events in St. Louis this weekend: November 29–December 1

Winterfest | November 23–January 26 

Here, skates hit the outdoor ice rink under the view of the Gateway Arch. Peruse through the Winter Market filled with local small businesses. New this year: You can reserve a heated igloo in the new Igloo Village. Enjoy cozy seating, blankets, and food from Sugarfire WinterFest Cafe. Free admission. Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut.

Ameren Thanksgiving Day Parade | November 28 

From 20th Street all the way down to Broadway in Downtown St. Louis will be the 35th annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. Up bright and early will be floats, helium balloon figures, St. Louis marching bands, antique cars and firetrucks, and more. Santa Claus will also make a guest appearance and one group of lucky parade-goers may just get to hop on Santa’s sled for a ride through the parade. Can’t make it? Catch the parade on KMOTV-Channel 4. Free. 20th Street, St. Louis. 

Thanksgiving Soul Jam | November 30 

Collaborative groups including The Dramatics, The Whispers, Bloodstone, Enchantment, and Blue Magic will play such classics such as “In the Rain,” “It’s A Love Thing,” “Sunshine,” and more. Dating back as far as the 1960s, the group’s performance is sure to spur nostalgia. Tickets $44–$146. Stifel Theatre, 1400 Market.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze | November 29–30 

Have you ever seen performances from snowmen, penguins, candles, and reindeer? At this holiday spectacular, trapeze artists, reimagined versions of classic Christmas jingles, dance numbers, original musical performances, and colorful winter costumes take stage. Tickets $30–$109. Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand.

St. Louis, A Musical Gateway: Africa | November 30 

The event celebrates multicultural communities and the culture of African music, featuring unique instruments featured hail from West Africa as well as the Middle, South and Southeast parts of Africa. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free. The Sheldon, 3648 Washington.