11.24.25

This newsletter is presented by

A message from deputy editor Emily Adams

This Thanksgiving week, I want to start by thanking you. I’m so incredibly grateful for this growing community of fun-loving, authentic, thoughtful St. Louis area families. It’s a privilege to be raising my kid and learning to parent alongside you in this city. As for this week, I’m making every effort to be present in the holiday at hand—but Christmas prep also begins now, and this edition is here to help:

🚢 The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are going all out this season for their holiday cruises and experiences, and we have the details below. I’ve never celebrated the holidays on the Mississippi, but after talking with the riverboats director, I already booked a ticket.

🧑‍🎄 Santa sightings are popping up all over the metro area, many of which begin this weekend. Keep scrolling for our full guide.

🎄 And for those who put up that Christmas tree the minute the turkey is gobbled, we have a wide-ranging list of cut-your-own tree farms.

🎁 I’ve also gathered up a slew of family holiday activities kicking off this weekend below, but my personal pick for the month ahead is our over-the-top December Playdate—the ultimate kids’ holiday party complete with Santa photos, holiday craft stations, a hot cocoa bar, a Blues slapshot game, and more. Tickets are just $5 per child, and all proceeds benefit local toy drives. Get your tickets here.

Wishing you a wonderful week with the ones you love.

St. Louis Family insider holiday deal: Purchase a $50 Puzzle Warehouse gift card for $25. Get the deal.

🤔 Question? Have an idea you wish we’d cover? Email me and let me know!

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Things to Do

For even more great ideas for things to do this week, subscribe to our Weekend newsletter, delivered every Thursday. And if you’re looking for classic seasonal activities, check out our below guides.

🐘 Wild Lights

Starting November 28–December 28 | 5–8:30 p.m. | Saint Louis Zoo, One Government Drive | $12–$18 (children under 2 free)

🛝 Weirdly Wonderful Holidays

November 28–January 4 | Hours vary | City Museum, 750 N. 16th | Included with admission

🚂 Holiday Happiness…Always on TRACK!

November 28–December 30 | Wednesday–Sunday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. | National Museum of Transportation, 2933 Barrett Station | Prices vary

🎼 Holidays at the Chase

November 28–December 21 | Fridays 3–5 p.m., Sundays 9–11 a.m. | The Chase Park Plaza, 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd. | Free ⭐️

❄️ Winter Wonderland Open House

November 29 | Noon–3 p.m. | Edwardsville Children’s Museum, Nickel Plate Station, 610 Troy | Included with admission

🛍️ Santa Shop

November 29 | 10 a.m.–noon | TotSpot Social, 6451 Clayton | $15.45 per child

🧸 Teddy Bear Tea

November 29–December 23 | 10 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. | The Ritz-Carlton, 100 Carondelet Plaza | $135 adults, $70 children (ages 2–12)

🎄 A Christmas Dream

November 29 | 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | The Wildwood Hotel, 2801 Fountain Place | $35

Must-see holiday light displays »

Must-shop toy stores & their top picks of the season »

Where to cut down your own Christmas tree »

A MESSAGE FROM SAINT LOUIS CHESS CLUB

Give the gift of chess: One membership, two iconic destinations

Unlock chess lessons (from beginner to advanced), events, art exhibits, and more with a joint membership to the Saint Louis Chess Club and World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries.

Gift A Membership »

FLOATING FESTIVITIES

The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch PJ's and Pancakes cruise

Celebrate the holidays on a St. Louis riverboat this season

Holiday magic hits different on the water. Families can trade sleigh bells for boat bells on the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. Known for its traditional, festive cruises, the boats will be totally transformed this season into a floating winter wonderland—with Santa, cocoa, and skyline views that make for unforgettable holiday memories.

Your waterway options this season:

🎅 PJ’s & Pancakes Cruise: A cozy morning on the water with a hot breakfast, crafts, and Santa time, all in your most festive pajamas.

🎵 Caroling with Santa: Back by popular demand. Families get one-on-one moments with Santa while he leads the singing. As director Amber Barbeau puts it, “If I were to pick any activity that’s the magic of Christmas, it would be the caroling cruise.”

🍸 Floating Sleigh pop-up bar: This adults-only offering is new this year. Think twinkly lights, over-the-top décor, and festive drinks such as Rudolph’s Red Fizz—all on a boat that stays docked for come-and-go fun.

🚢 Pro tips: Book ahead, bring a jacket for those perfect outer-deck photos, and plan to park on the riverfront. Boats are heated and stroller-friendly.

HO HO HO

The Polar Express Union Station St. Louis

Where to see Santa in St. Louis this year

From pancake breakfasts to Polar Express rides, Santa is everywhere this season—and we pulled together the ultimate guide to help you find him. Whether your kids want cocoa with Mr. Claus, a story time with his wife, or a simple mall photo, here are the can’t-miss spots for magical meet-and-greets all across the metro area.

✨ Pick Your Santa Adventure:

🍽️ Breakfast (or Supper!) with Santa