As the holiday season approaches, the city of St. Louis transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with festive lights, decorations, and of course, magical Christmas markets. If you're looking for a unique and enchanting holiday experience, St. Louis has plenty to offer. From traditional German-style markets to modern, trendy events, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 Christmas markets to visit in St. Louis, each offering a unique blend of holiday cheer, local artisans, and delicious food and drink.
1. Christkindlmarkt
Located in the heart of downtown St. Louis, Christkindlmarkt is a traditional German-style Christmas market that's been a city staple for over 15 years. This festive event features over 100 vendors selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and other unique gifts. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of German-inspired food and drink, including glühwein, bratwurst, and schnitzel.
When and Where:
Christkindlmarkt takes place from late November to December 23rd in the Kiener Plaza, located at 500 Chestnut St, St. Louis, MO 63101.
2. Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park
For a more modern take on the traditional Christmas market, head to Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park. This festive event features a variety of local artisans, food vendors, and live music performances. Visitors can also explore the park's beautiful winter wonderland, complete with over 100,000 lights and decorations.
When and Where:
Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park takes place from late November to December 30th in Tilles Park, located at 9551 Litzsinger Rd, St. Louis, MO 63124.
3. Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden
The Missouri Botanical Garden's annual Garden Glow event is a must-visit during the holiday season. This magical event features over one million lights and decorations, as well as a variety of festive food and drink options. Visitors can also explore the garden's beautiful winter landscape, complete with ice skating, s'mores roasting, and live music performances.
When and Where:
Garden Glow takes place from late November to December 23rd at the Missouri Botanical Garden, located at 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110.
4. Soulard Holiday Market
For a more laid-back and local holiday market experience, head to the Soulard Holiday Market. This event features a variety of local artisans, food vendors, and live music performances, all set against the backdrop of the historic Soulard neighborhood.
When and Where:
The Soulard Holiday Market takes place on select weekends in December in the Soulard neighborhood, located at 7700 S Kingshighway Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63119.
5. U-City Winter Market
Last but not least, the U-City Winter Market is a modern and trendy holiday event that's not to be missed. This event features a variety of local artisans, food vendors, and live music performances, all set against the backdrop of the vibrant University City neighborhood.
When and Where:
The U-City Winter Market takes place on select weekends in December in the University City neighborhood, located at 6601 Delmar Blvd, University City, MO 63130.
As you can see, St. Louis has a wide range of magical Christmas markets to explore this holiday season. Whether you're looking for a traditional German-style market or a more modern and trendy event, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why not bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and experience the magic of St. Louis' Christmas markets for yourself?
If you're interested in learning more about St. Louis' Christmas markets or want to share your own holiday experiences, we'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
What is the best time to visit St. Louis' Christmas markets?
+The best time to visit St. Louis' Christmas markets is during the week or early in the morning, as the weekends and evenings tend to be busier.
Do I need to buy tickets to attend St. Louis' Christmas markets?
+Most of St. Louis' Christmas markets are free to attend, but some events may require tickets or have specific admission requirements.
Can I bring my dog to St. Louis' Christmas markets?
+Some St. Louis Christmas markets are pet-friendly, but it's always best to check with the event organizers beforehand to confirm their pet policy.