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Soldiers Memorial | All November
What's old is new again at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum. The museum has re-opened after a two year and $30 million renovation by the Missouri Historical Society. Display space has doubled and the building is now handicap accessible.10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Soldiers Memorial, 1315 Chestnut.
Makerspace Laser Engraved Holiday Decorations | All November
Ideal for kids who love to build. Families can create holiday crafts with LEDs, motors, and laser-engraved wood. This event includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the Makerspace Garage to watch the laser do its magic. Kids ages 7 or older welcome with a guardian present. Visit website for times. $10 per project, must RSVP. Saint Louis Science Center, 5050 Oakland.
Aladdin | November 7–25
All Disney classics seem to be even better live. Produced by the people that brought The Lion King to the stage, the live-action Aladdin is a spectacle of magic, comedy, and a few of Genie's tricks. Tickets start at $30. The Fabulous Fox, 527 N. Grand.
Family Night with Fredbird | November 7, 14, 28
Baseball season might be over, but we can still have fun with Fredbird. Kids under 12 can eat free at the Cardinal Nation Restaurant on Family Night, meet Fredbird, play games, and win prizes. 5-9 p.m., Cardinals Nation Restaurant, Ballpark Village, 601 Clark.
Kids CAN Help Food Drive | November 10–11
Kids under 12 can earn free admission to The Magic House by bringing donations with you. The St. Louis Area Food Bank hosts this food drive. A good deed and a fun-filled day? That's win-win situation. Visit website for more details. All Day. The Magic House, 516 S. Kirkwood.
Polar Express | November 16–December 30
Take your family on the classic storybook train ride, complete with dancing chefs, jolly elves, and warm mugs of cocoa. New this year: Build-A-Bear is at the depot with teddy bears, unicorns, moose, and reindeer your kids can make. Don't forget your PJs. Tickets start at $39. Union Station,1820 Market.
Explore the Magic | November 17
Get ready for fantastic beasts with Harry Potter and friends at Barnes and Noble. There will be kid activities, games, cosplay, LEGO building, special shopping offers, and other giveaways. 2 p.m. Free. All Barnes and Noble locations.
Great Green Adventures | November 17
Grab the family to search for sculptures in the Missouri Botanical Garden. Tykes ages 6–12 can learn that gardens are still full of adventure in the fall as they do hands-on activities, games, and story time. 10:30–11:30 a.m. or 1:30–2:30 p.m. No RSVP required, free for members, $3 per child. Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw.
Festival of Lights | November 17
The Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights at Kiener Plaza is a holiday season must. Gather around the Salvation Army Tree of Lights, then skate across the Winterfest ice rink and stay for a fireworks finale. 3–8 p.m. Free admission, skate rentals are $12 for adults and $7 for kids ages 3–15. Kiener Plaza.
Thanksgiving Day Parade | November 22
Head downtown to watch 130 parade units ranging from musical floats and giant helium balloons to local marching bands. As always, Santa Claus follows them all, wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Can't make it downtown? The parade is just as good on TV. Steps off at 8:45 a.m. Free. Parade route runs from 20th Street and Market to Broadway.
