Photography by Micah Usher
Wild Lights at Saint Louis Zoo in 2017.
Wild Lights | All December
Once a year the Zoo is open a little later with one million twinkle lights and festive animal-themed displays. Kids can make a craft, play games, and listen to holiday carolers. Admission includes a ride on the carousel, the Polar Express 4-D Experience, and free parking. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $8, Saint Louis Zoo, Government Drive.
Winterfest Ice Rink | All December
Take your family skating under the Arch at Kiener Plaza this holiday season. Theme nights every Thursday, and kids can learn to play hockey every Sunday morning. Free. Skate rentals start at $7. See website for hours. Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut.
Garden Glow | All December
Take an evening stroll through your favorite garden as it's filled to the brim with twinkle lights. Admission includes the Gardenland Express indoor train display. 5–10 p.m. $18 for adults and $10 for kids, check website for discount nights. The Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw.
E. Desmond Lee Holiday Train Display | All December
Hop aboard for a trip into the past and visit the great Famous-Barr Christmas train display. Visiting this massive, five-level train layout at the downtown department store was a holiday tradition for generations of St. Louis kids--and still is, thanks to the museum. Included with admission. National Museum of Transport, 3015 Barrett Station.
Art Museum Family Sundays | Every Sunday in December
Get hands-on at the Art Museum every Sunday. Kids can make a piece of original art, then take a quick tour of the museum to find similar works in the gallery. 1–4 p.m. Free. Saint Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts.
Christmas Traditions in St. Charles | Every Weekend Until Christmas
Celebrate an old fashioned Christmas season on Historic Main Street with carolers, carriage rides, costumed holiday characters, and an international Santa Parade every weekend. Free admission, see website for times. Christmas Traditions, South Main Street, St. Charles.
Science Illuminated | Every Wednesday–Sunday in December
Light up the night with science at the Saint Louis Science Center. The outdoor GROW exhibit has been lit with cutting edge holiday lights displays. Families can learn about fiber optics, circuits and electricity; make a s'more and get a holiday photo. 5:30–8:30 pm. $6 for members, $8 for non-members. Free parking. Saint Louis Science Center, 5050 Oakland.
Jamhuri Day | December 15
Celebrate Kenyan's culture and Independence Day at The Magic House's Kenya's Kids exhibit. Kids can watch a performance by F4KIDZ African Performing Arts, participate in fun traditional activities, and make a beaded bracelet to take home. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Free with admission. The Magic House, 516 S. Kirkwood.
Krampus Haunted Christmas | December 15
Brave teens and older kids can experience a darker holiday spirit, complete with evil elves and Santa Claws at The Darkness. Open one night only. You can grab a holiday photo with Krampus. 7–10 p.m., $25. The Darkness, 1525 South 8th.
Winter Getaway | December 27-29
Take a break at the local history museum with make-and-take crafts inspired by current exhibits, family films, story time, and Winter Wonderland performances, including—“Let it Snow” to “Let it Go!”—by The Sheldon. 10:30 am–1:30 p.m. Free. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell.
