University City Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in University City and surrounding areas
University City welcomes Winter 2025 with Holiday lights and neighborhood festivities around The Loop and University Circle, with highlights like Chesterfield U.S. Bank's Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo and Santa Pictures at Saint Louis Galleria nearby. The festive season includes holiday activities, markets, and parades that draw families to local shops and parks. From milk-and-cookies events to light displays, there are many things to do that make the season merry and bright for residents and visitors.
Find the best University City Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
20 eventsVictorian-era theme with miniature trains and floral displays.
Christmas Markets
12 events50-year-old festival celebrating historical holiday traditions.
Christmas Shows
7 eventsSaint Louis Ballet's iconic holiday tradition
Christmas Parties
6 eventsFestive luncheon with wine pull and silent auction
Christmas Activities
22 eventsMagical train ride to the North Pole with Santa.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Holiday Flower and Train Show
(St. Louis)
Victorian-era theme with miniature trains and floral displays.
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St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts
(St. Louis)
Five distinct holiday concerts by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.
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The Polar Express Train Ride
(St. Louis)
Magical train ride to the North Pole with Santa.
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Holiday Homecoming Electric Christmas Parade
(St. Charles)
Spectacular illuminated electric Christmas parade
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The Nutcracker by Saint Louis Ballet
(St. Louis)
Saint Louis Ballet's iconic holiday tradition
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Garden Glow at Missouri Botanical Garden
(St. Louis)
Over two million dazzling lights in an enchanted garden setting
Events Happening Soon (6)
University City Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near University City
University City Christmas FAQ
The UCity Lights Winter Celebration at The Shoppes at University Place is one of the biggest annual Christmas events, featuring festive lights, vendor stalls, and family activities. Nearby St. Louis events also attract many visitors from University City.
University City embraces community-driven holiday traditions, including neighborhood light displays and local markets that highlight artisan vendors and seasonal celebrations unique to the area’s diverse culture.
Neighborhoods near University City known for their holiday lights include the residential areas around The Shoppes at University Place and other local community streets where residents create festive displays each year.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at The Shoppes at University Place during the UCity Lights Winter Celebration and at various artisan markets hosted throughout the city during the holiday season.
Free or budget-friendly activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending free market events, and enjoying community holiday performances and outdoor walking trails decorated with holiday lights.
Family-friendly options include the UCity Lights Winter Celebration with its festive lights and activities, as well as nearby St. Louis attractions like the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Garden Glow and the Festival of Lights, which offer engaging experiences for children.