St. Louis hosts hundreds of festivals and events throughout the year. Ethnic festivals, art fairs, theatrical presentations, sporting events and music festivals—all are included in the calendar below. Find out what's going on during your visit, or plan your next trip to St. Louis around one of our unique events.
This annual celebration of authors, books and ideas offers participants the opportunity to learn about a vast array of topics: cooking, economics, family, fiction, history, music, religion, sports, and more. Participants also have the option to meet the author and have a book signed at the conclusion of each event. Festival speakers include: Dennis Ross, diplomat for Middle East peace relations; Leigh Steinberg, famed sports agent; Janice Kaplan, former editor-in-chief of Parade magazine; David Gregory, formerly of Meet the Press; the esteemed Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks; and Jonathan, Jesse and Faye Kellerman, a family of fiction writers. A schedule of author programs can be found at http://www.stljewishbookfestival.org/NovemberFestival3.html, (314) 442-3299
This film festival showcases the very best in cutting-edge features and shorts from around the globe. http://www.cinemastlouis.org
This show and sale featured works include paintings, fibers, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, basketry, woodcarvings, theorems, photography, art glass, and Folk art. 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (7); 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (8) https://www.facebook.com/ArtattheShawNatureReserve, (636) 544-1014
Focusing on the birth of Jesus, this unique celebration of Christmas features a mile-and-a-half drive with over one million lights, electro-art displays, and life-size biblical statues taking visitors on a scriptural Journey to Bethlehem. Tree and wreath displays; camel, donkey and pony rides; petting zoo; Lego display; and a children's play area add to the festivities. Activities are held 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday. On Family Night Tuesdays you can experience the lights aboard a horse-drawn wagon and enjoy discounts on activities. Rides start at 6:00 p.m. with rides every 1/2 hour until 9:00 p.m. Activities, restaurant & gift shop closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year's Day. The outdoor light display will remain on. http://wayoflights.org, (618) 397-6700
Experience something new and exciting this holiday season. Your family will truly believe in the spirit of Christmas on board THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station. Real trains head to the North Pole while Chefs serve delicious hot chocolate and Elves lead sing-along carols. Every child will receive a special gift from Santa and listen to the classic story of The Polar Express. Share the magic of Christmas with your family. There are three classes of service on The Polar Express -- Coach, First-Class and Premium. Coach tickets start at $39; First-Class at $59; and Premium at $75. Premium tickets are sold in groups of four tickets only. Passengers in Premium and First-Class cars receive a Polar Express mug. Exact dates, fares and excursion times are available by calling 314-942-6942, or by visiting www.STLPolarExpressRide.com. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride.