As November ushers in cooler temperatures and holiday lights begin to sparkle, Downtown St. Louis is readying itself for the return of Winterfest, a beloved holiday tradition set against the majestic Gateway Arch. Running from November 23 to December 31, 2024, Winterfest promises to once again draw thousands of visitors from across the Midwest.
Perfect for families and festive travelers alike, Winterfest offers a wide range of seasonal activities. Highlights include ice skating beneath a canopy of 100,000 lights, roasting s’mores by cozy fire pits, and enjoying heated igloos with personalized food and drink service. Visitors can sip hot chocolate and winter-themed cocktails while experiencing special events like holiday karaoke nights, princess and superhero meet-and-greets, gift markets, and a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration, complete with fireworks.
Located in Kiener Plaza, the festival opens with the third annual Winterfest 5K, leading runners through Gateway Arch National Park. The day's festivities will culminate with the Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights, featuring the lighting of the Salvation Army Tree of Lights and a vibrant fireworks display.
St. Louis's wealth of attractions enhances the appeal of Winterfest. Renowned for its abundance of free cultural sites and museums, Downtown St. Louis offers affordable activities for all types of visitors. Other nearby attractions, like City Museum and St. Louis Union Station, will also host their own holiday experiences, adding to the downtown charm.
Presented by Bank of America and World Wide Technology, and produced by the Gateway Arch Park Foundation in partnership with the St. Louis Blues, Winterfest continues to grow as a top winter destination for holiday travelers. Hotel deals and travel packages are set to launch in October, making it easy for visitors to plan their holiday getaway.
