St. Lou is….Home for the Holidays

Story by: Guest Contributor

First posted on 11-10-2008

It’s holiday time again, and St. Louis has all sorts of unique treasures to share with visitors and residents alike. Check out what’s new with some old friends at area attractions or shop ‘til you drop at the fabulous assortment of boutiques, gift shops and top name department stores.

Get your first glimpse of the Big Guy at the Salvation Army Tree Lighting and Santa’s Arrival Party on November 14 at St. Louis Mills (5555 St. Louis Mills Blvd., 314-227-5900, http://www.stlouismills.com/). Welcome the jolly old elf to town as he makes his grand entrance on a Robertson Fire District fire engine, then enjoy a “Polar Express Christmas Show” by the Patt Holt Singers, Rudolph and Mrs. Claus, plus cookies and hot chocolate while they wait. Visit with Santa, register for prizes, and join in the parade to the lighting of the Salvation Army tree at 5 p.m.

Enjoy all the holiday trappings in one spot at the Missouri Botanical Garden (http://www.mobot.org). The Garden is decking the halls with their annual holiday wreath exhibition, November 21, 2008 - January 4, 2009. The festive display features unique creations by some of the area’s finest floral designers. The annual holiday flower and train show “Gardenland Express” chugs through November 26 to January 4, 2009. Santa will be at the Garden in his sleigh, December 13-14, for “Christmas Carols in the Garden.” Chestnuts will be roasting on an open fire and gingerbread houses will be on display. Then on December 21, it’s the “Chanukah: Festival of Lights” celebration. There will be festive Israeli music and dance, a menorah-lighting ceremony, and Chanukah merchandise available from local vendors and in the Garden Gate Shop. “Kwanzaa: Festival of the First Fruits” kicks off on December 30, complete with storytelling, craft and jewelry displays, and authentic African drumming and musical performances. From November 25 through December 31, the Tower Grove House will be decorated in all its holiday finery.

Wondering what to do with all of that family free time between holidays? Take a free Winter Getaway at the Missouri History Museum, December 27, 2008 - January 2, 2009. There’s something different - and free - to do every day, from “Felix the Penguin’s Family Tour” to storytelling to make-and-take crafts. Check out “Happy Feet” the movie, puppet shows, magicians and more - activities vary by day, so visit http://www.mohistory.org for a complete schedule of programs.

November 29 marks the opening of the new George Washington Carver exhibition at the History Museum. Created by The Field Museum in collaboration with Tuskegee University and the National Park Service, the exhibit features historical artifacts, rich imagery, audio-visual programs, and interactive displays. Find out how Carver went from slave to scholar, learn about his pioneering of natural product development, and why he was known as the people’s scientist. “Listening to the Still Small Voice: The Story of George Washington Carver,” a special performance suitable for all ages, is offered November 28 - 30. The show features Paxton Williams as Carver and illustrates the story of a man who was born into slavery in Missouri, yet went on to become one of the most remarkable scientists in history.

The Way of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows (http://www.snows.org/) lights up the nights from 5 - 10 p.m., November 21, 2008 through January 4, 2009. The grounds sparkle with illuminated displays and indoor activities include the Children’s Village, Puppet Show, Christmas Tree and Wreath Display, Community Choirs and more. In nearby Kimmswick (http://www.gokimmswick.com), the annual Christmas Open House takes place on November 22, along with the Old Fashioned Christmas Festival and House Tour.

Santa arrives in style at Plaza Frontenac (http://www.plazafrontenac.com) on November 28. Ol’ Saint Nick pulls into town via horse and carriage at 9:30 a.m., and he’ll be greeted by The Caroling Party in classic Victorian holiday dress. After a few traditional carols, Santa will set up shop in his cozy “living room” set, where kids of all ages can pose for photos and enjoy some wish list conversation. From November 22 to December 12, the upper level of Plaza Frontenac will feature a dazzling display of gingerbread houses. The tasty abodes are created by top local chefs, area bakeries and L’Ecole Culinaire culinary students. The houses are part of a silent auction to benefit Lydia’s House, which helps abused women and their children.

Back by popular demand, “Santa vs. the Snowman” will run in the Saint Louis Science Center’s (http://www.slsc.org) OMNIMAX® Theater, November 28, 2008 through January 4, 2009. The wacky holiday movie tells the heartwarming story of a lonely Snowman who wages war on Santa because he is jealous of the attention Santa receives during the holidays. Needless to say, things turn around and a good time is had by all.

Gateway Riverboats (http://www.gatewayarchriverboats.com) is hosting a number of Christmas Cruises throughout the holiday season. The two-hour cruises feature a DJ playing holiday favorites and a dinner buffet. Check out the Web site for dates and details. Plus, you can ring out the old year with a riverboat cruise along the mighty Mississippi River. The boats are heading out on the Big Muddy armed with a DJ, party hats and noise makers for a New Year’s Eve party from 9:30 p.m. - 1 a.m., December 31. Open to adults 21 and over only, there will also be an open house bar and a champagne toast at midnight. Reservations required.

Attention holiday shoppers: you can find great food and great gifts on a great street this season - just “Look to Locust.” Locust Avenue (http://www.shopdowntownstl.com) is home to shops that can handle gifts for everyone on your list - and they’ll even help you justify buying a little something for yourself! From UMA’s contemporary and stylish home accessories and Charm Boutique’s great selection of designer and artist jewelry to Salt of the Earth’s European and Mexican treasures to the newest arrival - Left Bank Books, you’ll find everything you need all in one block.

Take a step back in time and enjoy holidays past with the St. Louis Historic Holiday Candlelight Tour 2008 (http://www.campbellhouse.org) on December 4. Six of St. Louis’ most treasured historic attractions - the Campbell House Museum, Historic Samuel Cupples House, DeMenil Mansion, Eugene Field House, Scott Joplin House, and The Old Courthouse - will deck their halls in holiday finery and welcome visitors from 3 - 8 p.m. Free shuttle buses are available and a buffet dinner at the DeMenil Mansion can be purchased.

Mannheim Steamroller is headed to St. Louis at the Fox Theatre (http://www.fabulousfox.com), December 5 - 6. “The Christmas Music of Mannheim Steamroller by Chip Davis,” will feature the band’s unmistakable sound in an extravagant multi-media show that will be an experience the whole family will enjoy. But wait - there’s more!! The fabulous Rockettes are kicking their way into the Fox Theatre for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, December 11 - 28, 2008. A cast and crew of nearly 100 people return to St. Louis to deliver a holiday show experience you won’t forget. Children of all ages will be enchanted by the show, which features everything from dancing teddy bears and wooden soldiers who come to life to flying reindeer and the spectacular footwork of the fabulous Radio City Rockettes.

The Grinch returns to South Grand, and he’s looking to have breakfast with you. Grand South Grand (http://www.southgrand.org) welcomes The Cranky One back for another “Whoville Breakfast with YOU!” on December 6 from 8:30 -10:30 a.m. at MoKaBe’s Coffee House. This family-oriented breakfast features a children’s menu and photos with the Grinch. Proceeds from photo purchases go to the Guardian Angel Settlement/Hosea House.

Get into some hands-on artistry with “Gathered & Bound,” a workshop with Michael Shaughnessy at Craft Alliance (http://www.craftalliance.org) on December 6. Shaughnessy’s work, which is on display at the gallery in Grand Center, features the use of hay as a medium. In this workshop, the artist will share his process of working with hay and twine. Speaking of art, The Firecracker Press (http://www.firecrackerpress.com) will host a holiday show on December 6 in conjunction with the Cherokee Print League. The show, which takes place at five Cherokee Street locations - The Firecracker Press, All Along Press, Snowflake, City Art Supply, and Fort Gondo Compound for the Arts - will consist of hand-printed work from local artists and include an evening reception with live music, food and drink, and more.

Enjoy free carriage rides from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in December at Westport Plaza (http://www.westportstl.com). Rides begin from the front of the St. Louis Bread Company. On Saturday, December 13, Santa Claus arrives at 11 a.m. Kids can get a free picture made with Santa, along with a goodie bag, cookies and hot cocoa. Plus, a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration will take place on December 31. An early evening fireworks display will take place at 6 p.m. (for those who may have nodded out by midnight), as well as free carriage rides.

For the ultimate family-friendly, alcohol-free New Year’s Eve party, don’t miss “First Night® St. Louis 2009: Kaleidoscope (http://www.firstnightstl.org)." Ring in the new at the Grand Center Arts & Entertainment District from 5:30 p.m. - midnight and enjoy a winter celebration chock full of visual and performing arts, musicians, storytellers, dancers, magicians, actors, puppeteers and visual and media artists. The first batch of fireworks launch at 9 p.m., and the Grand Fireworks wrap up the night - and the year - at midnight.

Here’s a sampling of additional holiday happenings in St. Louis. For information on area hotels, restaurants, and attractions, click on http://www.explorestlouis.com/ or call the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission at 1-800-916-0040.

Holiday Zootique
Nov. 13 - Dec. 24
The Saint Louis Zoo
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(314) 781-0900
http://www.stlzoo.org/

Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre: The Christmas Killer
The Lemp Mansion Restaurant & Inn
Nov. 14 - Jan. 3
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m.
(314) 664-8024
http://www.lempmansion.com/

Anheuser-Busch Brewery Christmas Lights Display
Nov. 16 - Jan. 2
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
(314) 577-2000

Santa’s Magical Kingdom
Nov. 16 - Jan. 6
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
(636) 938-5925
http://www.eurekachamber.us/

Macy’s Holiday Festival of Lights
Nov. 21
Kiener Plaza in downtown St. Louis
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
(314) 436-6500
http://www.christmasinstlouis.org/

St. Louis County Holiday Tree Lighting
Nov. 21
St. Louis County Memorial Park
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
(314) 615-7086
http://www.christmasinstlouis.org/

Tilles Park Winter Wonderland
Nov. 21 - Jan. 1
Tilles County Park
5:30- 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday; Saturdays for carriage rides only
(314) 615-7275
http://www.stlouisco.com/parks/

Holiday Champagne Stroll
Nov. 23
Clayton, MO
Noon - 5:00 p.m.
(314) 725-2622
http://www.ci.clayton.mo.us/

Vienna Boys Choir Holiday Concert
Nov. 24 - 25
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
8:00 p.m. (24); 2:30 p.m. (25)
(314) 533-7662
http://www.stlcathedralconcerts.org/

This Wonderful Life
Nov. 26 - Dec. 28
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis
Loretto-Hilton Center
(314) 968-4925
http://www.repstl.org/

Ameren St. Louis Thanksgiving Day Parade
Nov. 27
Downtown St. Louis
8:45 a.m.
http://www.christmasinstlouis.org/

Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Nov. 28
Scottrade Center
3:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.
(314) 531-7887
http://www.scottradecenter.net/

U.S. Bank Wild Lights
Nov. 28 - Dec. 14
The Saint Louis Zoo
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday - Sunday
(314) 781-0900
http://www.stlzoo.org/

Great Russian Nutcracker
Nov. 30
Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center
University of Missouri-St. Louis
(314) 534-6622
http://www.touhill.org/

The Christmas Sweater
Dec. 1
The Fox Theatre
7:30 p.m.
(314) 534-1111
http://www.fabulousfox.com/

Loop Holiday Walk
Dec. 6
The Loop Neighborhood
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
(314) 725-4466
http://www.visittheloop.com/

Cherokee Antique Row Cookie Spree
Dec. 6 - 7
Cherokee Antique Row
11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(314) 678-0161
http://www.cherokeeantiquerow.com/

Soulard Holiday Parlour Tour
Dec. 6 - 7
Soulard neighborhood
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
(314) 621-6226
http://www.soulard.org/

Harry Connick Jr., A Holiday Celebration
Dec. 7
The Fox Theatre
7:30 p.m.
(314) 534-1111
http://www.fabulousfox.com/

Christmas at the Cathedral
Dec. 7
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
2:30 p.m.
(314) 533-7662
http://www.stlcathedralconcerts.org/

St. Louis Ballet: The Nutcracker
Dec. 12 - 14
Edison Theatre
Washington University
7:00 p.m. (12-13); 3:30 p.m. (13); 3:00 p.m. (14)
(314) 935-6543
http://www.edisontheatre.wustl.edu/

Saint Louis Symphony Orchestral Program: El Niño (A Nativity Oratorio)
Dec. 13 - 14
Powell Symphony Hall
8:00 p.m. (13); 3:00 p.m. (14)
(800) 232-1880
http://www.slso.org/

Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour
Dec. 14
Lafayette Square Neighborhood
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
(314) 772-5724
http://www.lafayettesquare.org/

A Gospel Christmas Concert
Dec. 18 - 19
Powell Symphony Hall
7:30 p.m.
(800) 232-1880
http://www.slso.org/

Christmas with Amy Grant and Vince Gill
Dec. 19
Scottrade Center
8:00 p.m.
(314) 531-7887
http://www.scottradecenter.net/

The Manhattan Transfer
Dec. 19
Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center
University of Missouri-St. Louis
8:00 p.m.
(314) 516-4949
http://www.touhill.org/

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra Holiday Celebration
Dec. 19 - 21
Powell Symphony Hall
2:00 p.m. (19 & 21); 7:30 p.m. (20)
(800) 232-1880
http://www.slso.org/

The Little Fir Tree
Dec. 20, 22 - 23
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis
Loretto-Hilton Center
(314) 968-4925
http://www.repstl.org/