The holiday season in St. Louis is pure magic — streets glow with twinkling lights, cheerful carols fill the air, and families bundle up for a night of festive fun. If you’re searching for holiday things to do near me or wondering where to find the best Christmas drive-thru near me, look no further than Santa’s Magical Kingdom — Missouri’s most enchanting light show and family tradition, returning November 14, 2025.

From the comfort of your car, you’ll cruise through millions of dazzling lights, whimsical displays, and classic holiday scenes that bring out the childlike joy in everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong St. Louis local or planning a winter getaway, here’s why Santa’s Magical Kingdom belongs at the top of your list this Christmas season.

Experience the Magic of Christmas at Santa’s Magical Kingdom

Located in Eureka, Missouri, just outside St. Louis, Santa’s Magical Kingdom transforms the landscape into a glowing winter wonderland each year. As soon as you enter, you’re greeted by dazzling tunnels of light, festive music, and animated displays that fill the air with Christmas cheer.

Families can look forward to:

• Over four million lights shining in spectacular arrangements.
• Beloved holiday characters like Santa, Frosty, and Rudolph lighting up the night.
• A drive-thru experience that’s warm, safe, and perfect for all ages.
• The chance to meet Santa himself at Kringle’s General Store.

It’s more than a light show — it’s a holiday tradition that captures the magic of the season. After your drive, stop for cocoa, explore the gift shop, or take photos under the sparkling displays that make every visit unforgettable.

Plan your visit now: Tickets & Hours | Plan Your Visit

The Heart of a Missouri Holiday Tradition

What started as a simple community display has grown into one of Missouri’s most beloved Christmas attractions. For decades, Santa’s Magical Kingdom has brought families together, inspiring smiles, laughter, and memories that last a lifetime.

Each year, new light features are added — keeping the magic fresh while maintaining the traditions families love most. From the famous twinkling tunnel to Santa’s sleigh and reindeer soaring overhead, every scene feels like a page from a Christmas storybook.

Generations of visitors have turned this holiday experience into an annual tradition. Parents who first visited as kids now return with their own families, proving that the spirit of the season truly lives on through shared joy and glowing lights.

Things to Do for Christmas in St. Louis

While Santa’s Magical Kingdom is the highlight of the holidays, there’s plenty more to see and do in the St. Louis area to make your winter getaway even more magical. Here are some festive favorites for locals and visitors alike:

Ice Skating at Forest Park

Grab your skates and hit the ice at the Steinberg Skating Rink, one of the largest outdoor rinks in the Midwest. Glide beneath strings of twinkling lights while sipping hot cocoa — a St. Louis holiday classic.

Garden Glow at Missouri Botanical Garden

Wander through the Missouri Botanical Garden as it comes alive with its famous Garden Glow event. Thousands of lights illuminate trees, plants, and ponds, creating a peaceful and romantic holiday experience.

Holiday Markets & Events

Explore seasonal shopping and community events around the city. St. Louis hosts Christmas concerts, plays, and local markets that capture the spirit of the holidays. Check out the Explore St. Louis Events Calendar for more upcoming activities this winter.

From family outings to cozy date nights, these Christmas events in St. Louis perfectly complement your visit to Santa’s Magical Kingdom.

A Drive-Thru Experience Like No Other

When you search xmas lights show near me or drive-thru Christmas lights Missouri, one name shines brightest — Santa’s Magical Kingdom. The drive-thru experience is what makes it so special.

You can enjoy every twinkling display from the comfort of your car — ideal for families with young kids, grandparents, or anyone wanting to stay cozy while soaking in the lights. Each stretch of the route offers something new — shimmering tunnels, animated displays, Santa’s workshop, and heartwarming nativity scenes that remind everyone of the true meaning of Christmas.

This experience is both spectacular and serene — a rare combination that keeps guests returning year after year.

Meet Santa and Make Holiday Memories

After completing the drive, make your way to Kringle’s General Store, a cozy hub of warmth and holiday cheer. Here, you can:

• Meet Santa Claus and take photos the kids will treasure forever.
• Shop for ornaments, gifts, and holiday keepsakes.
• Sip hot cocoa and enjoy cookies while soaking in the joyful atmosphere.

The Kringle’s Store is the perfect place to wrap up your night — a blend of nostalgia, tradition, and pure Christmas spirit.

Family Traditions That Last a Lifetime

Every light, every laugh, every shared moment inside Santa’s Magical Kingdom adds another page to a family’s holiday story. Parents who once visited as children now bring their little ones to experience the same twinkling joy — proving that some traditions never fade.

It’s this sense of continuity — of love, light, and community — that makes the Kingdom more than just a destination. It’s a holiday homecoming for all who visit.

Winter Activities in St. Louis for Every Age

If you’re extending your visit, St. Louis offers plenty of winter activities beyond the light shows:

• Carriage Rides through downtown or Forest Park for a romantic, old-fashioned evening.
• Hot Cocoa Cafés around The Loop or Soulard — local shops that add peppermint or cinnamon for a festive touch.
• Museums and Indoor Play Areas — ideal for kids when it’s too chilly to stay outdoors.

Whether you’re spending a weekend or just one magical night, St. Louis shines with possibilities during the holiday season.

Plan Your Visit — Opening November 14, 2025

The countdown is on! Santa’s Magical Kingdom opens its gates on November 14, 2025, and runs nightly through early January.

To make the most of your experience:

• Visit on weekdays for shorter lines.
• Buy tickets online in advance to save time at the entrance.
• Bring blankets, cocoa, and a Christmas playlist — it makes your drive even more special.

Check the latest updates and hours here.

Experience the Joy of the Season

At its heart, Santa’s Magical Kingdom isn’t just about lights — it’s about joy, connection, and tradition. As you drive under glowing arches and wave at Santa’s sleigh, you’ll feel the kind of holiday magic that words can’t quite capture.

Make this Christmas unforgettable.
Santa’s Magical Kingdom opens November 14, 2025 — Plan Your Visit Today!

Q1: When does Santa’s Magical Kingdom open for 2025?
A: The 2025 season begins November 14, 2025, and runs through early January.

Q2: Where is Santa’s Magical Kingdom located?
A: It’s in Eureka, Missouri, just off I-44 — about 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Inside Yogi’s Bear Jellystone Park St. Louis Eureka.

Q3: How long does the drive-thru take?
A: The full route usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and photo stops.

Q4: Can I meet Santa?
A: Yes! Visit Kringle’s General Store to meet Santa, take photos, and shop for unique gifts.

Q5: Are pets allowed?
A: Friendly pets are welcome to ride along — just keep them safely inside the vehicle.

Q6: How can I get tickets?
A: Ticket information is available here.