Whether you’re looking for fun for the whole family or a night out on the town, St. Louis has you covered this holiday season. From movie-themed bars to meeting Santa himself, and all the reindeer games in between, something on this list will get you feeling merry and bright.
FESTIVE BARS, POP-UPS & WINTRY HANGOUTS
Art Bar at Angad Arts Hotel
Now through New Year’s Eve, Art Bar at Angad Arts Hotel is hosting the Moose Mug Lounge, a National Lampoon-inspired pop-up bar. They have a light display and movie-themed decor, along with a themed cocktail menu. Drinks include Uncle Lewis’s Old-Fashioned, Clark’s All-Nighter House-Lighter (espresso with vanilla-infused vodka and Bailey’s Irish cream), as well as other cocktails and mocktails. The Moose Mug Lounge will take over Art Bar during regular business hours; check out their website for more details.
3550 Samuel Shepard Drive, St. Louis, 314.561.0033, angadartshotel.com
Ballpark Village
Ballpark Village brings the holiday cheer with Tinsel Tavern. This pop-up runs until Dec. 28 and has food, drink and fun. For the first time, they’re offering 50% off guests’ first drink or reservation fee with a donation to Operation Food Search or the Make-A-Wish wish list this year. Every Wednesday, get to the tavern at 6:30 p.m. for free holiday trivia, and “carol-oke” kicks off at 8 p.m. on Thursdays. Check out their website for a full list of times and to make reservations.
601 Clark Ave., St. Louis, 314.797.7530, ballparkvillage.com
Calypso Spirits
Ornament is kicking off at Calypso Spirits. This red, white and green ornamental wonderland will go all out with decor, and the kitchen has crafted a limited-time food and drink menu for the experience. Tickets are $22 and include a welcoming glass of Champagne. Plus, $2 of each ticket will go to CareSTL and their efforts to shelter animals in need. New this year are reservations for Rum & Mistletoe, a pop-up within the pop-up that features a three-course dinner and signature cocktails. Ornament will run from Dec. 4 to Jan. 3; tickets can be found online.
1026 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314.448.1516, calypsostl.com
Casa Don Alfonso
The Italian eatery located in The Ritz-Carlton, Casa Don Alfonso, has lots of options for the holiday season, including the return of their Holiday Cocktail Tree. Two each of four different cocktails make up this tree that’s perfect for sharing with a group. The drinks can also be purchased a la carte and include the Silent Nightcap for a mint chocolate espresso experience, the Apres Apricot featuring Stoli vanilla vodka, Under the Mistle-Tea with Ketel One Citron, and the Very Cherry & Merry with Maker’s Mark. The restaurant will also be hosting Santa for brunch, as well as a Christmas brunch buffet and Christmas Eve and Day dinners, featuring prime beef tenderloin and mushroom raviolo. Reservations can be made here.
100 Carondelet Plaza, St. Louis, 314.719.1496, casadonalfonsostlouis.com
Cocina Latina
Festive meets global flavor at Wrapped, the collab between Foodies Eat First and Cocina Latina. The restaurant will feature extravagant decor of towers of wrapped gifts and twinkling lights. The menu is globally inspired, with inspiration from Peru to Mexico to reimagine classic holiday flavors. Reservations are $9 per person and are available for Thursdays through Sundays for dinner, plus lunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Lunches are family-friendly, and evenings are 21+. A portion of every ticket benefits Grassroots Redeeming Love, which supports tornado relief in St. Louis. Wrapped runs until Dec. 20.
508 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, 314.696.2294, foodieseatfirst.com
Edera Italian Eatery
For a cozy, private dining experience while enjoying restaurant favorites, Edera Italian Eatery has you covered. They’re offering two-hour reservations in exclusive chalets nestled away in the courtyard. The chalets come with heaters, but blankets and warm clothing are encouraged to maximize the experience. The Grand Chalet has seating for four to eight people, while the Piccolo Chalet offers intimate dining for two. A $75 deposit is required at the time of reservation and is credited toward the bill.
48 Maryland Plaza, St. Louis, 314.361.7227, ederastl.com
Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
The Four Seasons Hotel has holiday spirit through the new year. Now through Jan. 3, The Holiday Lodge transforms the Top Golf Swing Suite into a winter wonderland featuring festive cocktails, small plates and treats, and a cozy atmosphere made up of holiday music and Christmas movies. The hotel is also offering their Holiday Suite Experience: Each stay at this in-room retreat comes with either a gingerbread making kit or cocktail kit, as well as in-room movie selections and a dining credit for the perfect night in. Contact res.stlouis@fourseasons.com for reservations. Ramsay’s Kitchen will feature holiday dining experiences all season long, including a Christmas Day special with Beef Wellington for two. On New Year’s Eve, their three-course prix fixe menu will also feature Beef Wellington, chocolate caviar and more, not to mention their New Year’s Day brunch. Reservations can be made online.
999 N. 2nd St., St. Louis, 314.881.5800, fourseasons.com
Harvey’s Coffee & Cocktails
Sugar & Spice is back at Harvey’s Coffee & Cocktails for its second year. This cozy winter wonderland will have classic Christmas movies playing on the big screen, holiday-inspired drinks, plus a gingerbread house competition (materials available for purchase) for those willing to show off their skills. The competition runs all month long, and the winners of each session will be entered to win the grand prize, announced on New Year’s Eve. Tickets are available now; Sugar & Spice is every Friday through Sunday from Dec. 5 to 28. Most time slots are 21+, but the first sessions on Saturdays and Sundays are for the whole family.
2706 Olive St., St. Louis, 314.571.9921, harveysstl.com
Hidden Gem
Santa’s Speakeasy is back for its second year at Hidden Gem. This glittery pink holiday disco has eight signature drinks this year, including the fan-favorite Filthy Animal (peppermint schnapps, chocolate Bailey’s, cold brew plus a candy cane rim) and a Cuffing Season Cocoa that’s available “naughty” or “nice.” The event will also have a rotating selection of shareable snacks and sweets. Get tickets online for the pop-up that promises retro fun along with the seasonal nostalgia through Dec. 27.
3118 Locust St., St. Louis, 314.925.8931, shopgoldengems.com/pages/hidden-gem
Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton
The Le Meridien hotel in Clayton has kicked off its holiday pop-up, The Chalet. This terrace overlook provides views of downtown Clayton, as well as cozy food, drink and games. On Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy live music and build-your-own s’mores included in the admission ticket. They’ll have a special Chalet beverage menu available for purchase, with drinks like mulled wine and gooey butter hot chocolate. STL Caviar Cart will be on-site select nights, and guests also have the option of renting a timeslot for The Chalet’s curling rink. Get tickets online. Private, professional photo sessions are also available, and on Dec. 21, Reels on the Rooftop will be showing a double-feature of “Elf” and National Lampoon’s “Christmas Vacation.”
7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton, 314.890.1333, marriott.com/en-us/hotels/stlmy-le-meridien-st-louis-clayton
Noboleis Vineyards
Missouri wine country is getting into the holiday spirit with Winter Wine-derland Igloos at Noboleis Vineyards. This private seasonal experience offers vineyard views, cozy blankets and a dedicated staff member to help make your visit merry and bright. Each guest receives a complimentary sip with their reservation; choose from wine, hard cider or a cup of festive hot cocoa for guests under 21. Bring your own bites or elevate the celebration with add-ons like the Holiday Harvest Charcuterie Board or the Tinsel & Toppings package, featuring a pizza, pretzel and ornament-making kit perfect for groups. Reservations are available now through Dec. 30 and again in the New Year from Jan. 30 through March 1.
100 Hemsath Road, Augusta, 636.482.4500, noboleisvineyards.com
O-Tannen Bar
Joining the fun this year at Union Station is O-Tannen Bar, a pop-up actually inside a tree. The 45-foot tall German-style tree is hollow on the inside, perfect for keeping warm with a boozy (or not) hot cocoa and cider, along with s’mores kits available all season. Check out the website for all the details on time.
1820 Market St., St. Louis, 314.923.3900, stlouisunionstation.com
Planter’s House
The Tiki-themed Christmas bar is back. For a tropical holiday, check out Sippin’ Santa at Planter’s House, whose menu covers everything from themed drinks to food and dessert. The namesake Sippin’ Santa features aged demerara rum, amaro, lemon, orange, nutmeg and ginger, and the Sugar Plum Mai Tai riffs on an old favorite. They’ve also got merch, appetizers and entrees like Waikiki meatballs and Spam sliders. Don’t miss the pineapple upside down gooey butter cake, either. Reservations can be made online and benefit The St. Louis Community Foundation. Sippin’ Santa runs through Dec. 28.
1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, 314.696.2603, drinkchristmas.com
Public School House
Christmas is back in session at Public School House. Their Toasted Chestnut holiday pop-up runs through New Year’s, and they’ve got reservation options for groups from small to large. The special drink menu features festive cocktails and mocktails, and Oak Street Inn & Lounge has crafted a unique food menu. After their reservations, guests have access to the Winter Light Walk on the property. Toasted Chestnut will be hosting a family day on Dec. 7 too, featuring ornament making, letters to Santa (plus photos with Mr. Claus himself), access to the Winter Light Walk, surprise guests from the North Pole and more. Kids get in free with an unopened gift benefiting Marcy’s Project. See all the date and ticket options on Public School House’s website.
5546 Chestnut St., Cottleville, 636.720.1905, publicschoolhouse.com
Riverboat Cruises
All aboard The Tom Sawyer for St. Louis’ floating pop-up bar. The riverboat will stay docked to show off its festive decorations and give guests access to holiday food and drinks like Prancer’s Passion and Rudolph’s Red Fizz while they enjoy this experience on the Mighty Mississippi. Tickets are available online, but walk-ups are also welcome. The event runs from Dec. 4 to 28.
50 S. Leonor K Sullivan Blvd., St. Louis, 877.982.1410, gatewayarch.com/riverboats
Robust Bistro & Wine Bar
Visit a Winter Wine-derland this year at Robust Bistro & Wine Bar. Through Dec. 30, each night of the week features a different theme, from Aprés Ski on Mondays to Ugly Sweater Bash on Fridays. Every Saturday is Season of Sharing Night, where donations and items will be collected in support of local charities. Every evening comes with seasonal cocktails (Vodka Ginger Snow Globe, anyone?), photo ops and reindeer games. Reservations are highly recommended, and the event runs from 5 p.m. to close. The $10 ticket price comes with a complimentary glass of bubbles.
227 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314.963.0033, robustwinebar.com
Side Project Pizza
The whole family is in for fun at Side Project’s Polar Patio. The restaurant’s patio will be transformed with lights and decor to deliver holiday cheer. Pizza and beer are still a constant, but they’ll also have seasonal cocktails and children’s activities like snowflake decorating and holiday card making. Santa himself is even making an appearance on Dec. 13. Polar Patio is happening through Jan. 4; get more info online.
2657 Lyle Ave., Maplewood, sideprojectbrewing.com
Small Change
Miracle, St. Louis’ original holiday pop-up bar, returns to Small Change for its 10th anniversary. Reservations are already open for this nostalgic Christmas bar that promises to get anyone into the holiday spirit. They’ve got seasonal takes on classic drinks, like the Christmapolitan, featuring spiced cranberry sauce, and Jingle Balls Nog, which the bar also sells to-go. Miracle also has NA options and light snacks available. Proceeds from the reservation fees go toward Santa’s Helpers, Inc., which has been serving kids in St. Louis since 1968. Miracle runs through Dec. 28.
2800 Indiana Ave., St. Louis, drinkchristmas.com
Steve’s Hot Dogs
For fun for the whole family, check out Cane at Steve’s Hot Dogs in the Delmar Maker District. This candy cane wonderland has all-ages excitement, from a hot chocolate station and board games to cocktails like the spiced Naughty Nog. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Dollar$ for Delmar, which is helping rebuild the small businesses in the area after the May 16 tornado. This pop-up is presented by Foodies Eat First; check out their website for more information. Cane runs 5 to 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays.
5248 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314.335.7522, foodieseatfirst.com
The Attic Music Bar
For an immersive holiday pop-up, check out Jingle Bar, which is taking over The Attic Music Bar. They’ve got holiday lights, themed cocktails and live entertainment this December. Jingle Bar seeks to blend the warm nostalgia of the season with an energetic vibe for a unique holiday experience. Don’t miss their Cocktails and Carols on Wednesday nights or their family friendly sessions on Saturday afternoons. They’re hosting group bookings, too, and offering 15% off to groups of 20 or more. Get more info and grab your tickets online; the event runs from Dec. 4 to 28.
4247 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314.376.5313, theatticmusicbar.com
The Fountain
Foodies Eat First presents The Iced Fountain in the Delmar Maker District this year. A ticket to this mid-century retro pop-up includes a commemorative glass and access to a signature menu and drinks like the St. Louis Sapphire. The pop-up, which runs through the first week of January, will also feature themed entertainment like retro Christmas movie trivia. This event will benefit Dollar$ for Delmar, which seeks to rebuild the Maker District after the May tornado. Get your tickets online.
5242 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314.226.9269, foodieseatfirst.com
The Marquee
This event at The Marquee at New Town isn’t just a pop-up; it’s a Christmas party. Dasher’s Dive Bar has thousands of lights, 30+ Christmas trees, reindeer games, live singing, dancing and a rockstar Santa. Each ticket includes a take-home pair of reindeer antlers, plus interactive games, bar bingo and the chance to win fun prizes. Their seasonal cocktail menu includes a Mistletoe Margarita, Old Dominick Christmas Manhattan and Sugarlands Peanut Butter Moonshine served up in a “shot-ski” for friends to share. They’ll also have mocktails and a la carte food options. Check out the website for tickets.
3544 Galt House Drive, St. Charles, 314.575.2240, dashersdivebar.com
The Shack
The Shack in Frontenac is hosting its inaugural Shack the Halls this year. This Christmas pop-up will take place after normal business hours and promises kitschy decor, holiday cocktails and appetizers from The Tavern Kitchen & Bar and The Corner Pub & Grill. The $15 ticket price benefits Shop with a Cop, which The Shack has committed to donating $15,000 this year. The annual Shop with a Cop event supports the community by having the St. Louis County Police Department take families in need on shopping sprees, getting each family up to $500 worth of toys and household needs during the holiday season. The tickets are available now for reservations; the event will run through Dec. 27, Wednesdays through Saturdays, 5 to 10 p.m. Learn more about Shack the Halls online.
731 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Frontenac, 314.736.5900, eatatshack.com
The Wolf Cafe
Bling! is returning to The Wolf Cafe this year. They’re accepting seating on a first-come, first-serve basis for this cozy pop-up. Guests can expect lights and decorated trees, along with drinks like the Christmas Vacation and Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, along with specialty coffees and appetizers. Bling! will take place during regular business hours, and The Wolf Cafe’s normal menu will still be available. Reservations can be taken for parties of six or more, and Bling! is open to all ages from Dec. 2 to 31.
15480 Clayton Road, Ballwin, 636.527.7027, thewolfstl.com
Three Sixty
Both 360 Downtown and 360 Westport are hosting guests Up on the Rooftop this year, no reservations required. This snowglobe experience has views, food and drink for a unique experience overlooking the city. Festive drinks include the Fruitcake Paloma, Spiced Pumpkin Painkiller (our Drink This recommendation this month) and a Sugarplum Old-Fashioned. Each location will have its own food offerings.
Multiple locations, 360-stl.com
Train Shed
The Train Shed at Union Station has transformed into The Sleigh Shed. The restaurant’s full menu will be available alongside seasonal drinks and desserts. Don’t miss out on drinks like the Crisp Kringle, which has a base of bacon fat-washed Four Roses, or Santa’s Red Eye Fix, a coffee cocktail designed to keep him awake all Christmas Eve. They’re not taking reservations (except for large parties), so guests at this event are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis through Dec. 31.
201 S. 18th St., St. Louis, 314.923.3949, trainshed-stl.com
Work & Leisure
Work & Leisure has partnered with BradENSTL to bring back Avalanche Ski Lodge. They’ve got food from The Table, new drinks, immersive activities and more. They’re promising to take Avalanche’s fourth year to a whole new level. This pop-up runs Thursdays through Saturdays, from Dec. 3 to 28; tickets are available here. A portion of ticket sales will go toward Action St. Louis and their tornado relief efforts.
3015 Locust St., St. Louis, 314.620.3969, workandleisurestl.com
GLOW-UPS, LIGHT SHOWS & FAMILY MAGIC
Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights
The Brewery Lights are back for their 40th year, and this time, Anheuser-Busch has something special in store. The light show extends the length of the brewery, including a new light tunnel. The Budweiser Clydesdales will make an appearance at the nightly parade, and the Kid’s Winter Wonderland comes with its own DJ this year. Guests 21 and older are in for a special surprise; for the first time in almost half a century, Anheuser-Busch will be reopening The Bevo Fox Den for an exclusive speakeasy experience that requires a password each night. The den is offering elevated appetizers like teriyaki meatballs and caprese bruschetta, along with classic Anheuser-Busch drinks, live jazz, games and more. Brewery Lights runs through Dec. 30; get tickets and more information online.
1200 Lynch St., 314.577.2626, budweisertours.com
City Museum
The City Museum is serving up some Weirdly Wonderful Holidays through Jan. 4. The museum is decked out in holiday lights, and they’ve got fun on multiple floors. Kids can meet Santa while he’s preparing for Christmas in his workshop, and Mrs. Claus will be telling stories. Karaoke at Beatnik Bob’s is fun for the whole family, and adults can enjoy specialty holiday cocktails. No extra ticket is needed for admission; check out their website for all the details.
750 N. 16th St., St. Louis, 314.231.2489, citymuseum.org
Grant’s Farm
Holiday Lights are back at Grant’s Farm, and this year, guests have multiple ways to experience the fun. Guests can enjoy the light display during the Holiday Lights walk-through and drive-through events, which can be enjoyed at their leisure. The farm will have seasonal food and drink options, as well as animals in the Tiergarten. For a special treat, Mr. and Mrs. Claus are excited to have breakfast with children and families, including a buffet, family photos, and guest animal experiences.
7385 Grant Road, St. Louis, 314.843.1700, grantsfarm.com
Missouri Botanical Garden
Missouri Botanical Garden’s Garden Glow is back for another holiday season. They’ve got more than 2 million lights to dazzle and show off the gardens. This year, tickets have optional add-ons, from Dine and Glow (with a special holiday dinner at Sassafras), festive snacks and drinks available for purchase, as well as private fire pits that can warm up to 20 people. Santa Claus and The Winter Sisters will be available for guests to meet, and Garden Glow has two new, nature-inspired pieces. The Linnean Lilies, sponsored by Kathy and David Hollo, pay homage to Monet’s lilies, and the twinkling tinsel blooms can be found in Swift Family Gardens. The Beaming Butterflies, sponsored by Karen and Mike Stern, mimic the beauties found in the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Chesterfield and can be found near the Climatron. Advanced registration is highly recommended for Garden Glow; tickets can be found here through Jan. 3.
4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, 314.577.5100, missouribotanicalgarden.org
Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo has Wild Lights for the holidays this year. Along with the light displays, guests can take photos with Santa and shop at a new holiday market. Penguin & Puffin Coast will be open, along with Sea Lion Sound and the Insectarium for a warm-up. Seasonal food and drink, like turkey dinner in a cone and hot chocolate (including a 21+ option) will be available for purchase inside the park, along with special s’mores kits. The event runs after regular zoo hours from 5 to 8:30 p.m. on select nights until Dec. 28, with a sensory-friendly night on Dec. 8. Get your tickets online.
1 Government Drive, St. Louis, 314.781.0900, stlzoo.org
Winterfest
Winterfest will be in full swing through Jan. 11 in downtown St. Louis. Returning favorites include ice skating, s’mores stations and holiday drinks from Pour Decisions at the Winterfest Cafe. This year, Ed’s Food Shop and Crumbl Cookies will also be offering food and treats. Gateway Arch Park Foundation has also added private igloos with themes like Candyland and Haunted Christmas that are available for reservations. Check out a rotating schedule of free activities, new this year, in the Greater St. Louis, Inc. Lodge @ Winterfest, including spirits tastings and a DJ series from Sophie’s Artist Lounge. For all the info about dates, tickets and parking, go to the Winterfest website.
500 Chestnut St., St. Louis, archpark.org/events/winterfest
WHERE TO FIND SANTA THIS SEASON
Santa Claus will be all around St. Louis this year, ready to spread his holiday cheer.
• To make breakfast plans with him, check out SqWires on Dec. 7 and 13. Tickets include a buffet, plus hot cocoa, crafts and pictures with Santa. The family in the best set of pajamas wins a prize, too.
sqwires.com
• Mr. Claus will also make morning appearances at Union Station for Pancakes with Santa on Saturdays and Sundays, with extra appearances the week of Christmas. Grab tickets online. For a cinematic experience, Union Station is once again offering their Polar Express Train Ride, set to the soundtrack from the movie. Holiday pajamas are encouraged, and guests will enjoy a reading of the book, plus cocoa and cookies before Santa boards the train to meet the kids. Get tickets online.
stlouisunionstation.com
• If the elves are interested in something a little elevated, Casa Don Alfonso is offering a brunch perfect for kids and adults, with reservations online.
casadonalfonsostlouis.com
• The reindeer don’t need to worry, though, because Grant’s Farm will remind them of home when they make their stop for breakfast; all the details are online.
grantsfarm.com
• When the crew crosses the river into Illinois, they’ll stop at Eckert’s Belleville Farm for breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21. Save a seat on their website and check out details about the gingerbread house decorating party, too.
eckerts.com
• For photos with a sweet treat, Santa will visit five different Clementine’s locations for Ice Cream with Santa. These dates vary by location, and Mrs. Claus has promised to visit a few spots, too. Reservations are required and can be made online.
clementinescreamery.com
• Starting the first week in December, families can take a cruise with Santa, too. Riverboats at the Gateway Arch is hosting PJ’s and Pancakes with Santa in the mornings, and in the afternoons, belt out your favorite holiday songs by Caroling with Santa. Tickets for both cruises can be purchased online.
gatewayarch.com
This article appears in December 2025.