Discover Missouri, one adventure at a time. Find your next favorite spot in the Show-Me State!
When the holidays hit Mid-Missouri, the whole region leans in—twinkling lights on every street, pop-up markets in town squares, and the kind of cozy traditions that make you want to linger. It starts with crisp air and golden leaves, pumpkin patches and harvest festivals, then rolls into tree lightings, lakeside parades, and candlelit mansion tours. From Columbia’s Magic Tree to small-town carriage rides, it’s a season packed with charm, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments that feel personal and local.
Mid-Missouri Holiday Lights
•Magic Tree (Columbia): A single tree wrapped in thousands of colorful lights, creating a glowing landmark that draws families, photographers, and visitors from all over.•Capital City Festival of Lights (Jefferson City): A drive-through light display at Binder Park featuring animated scenes, holiday music, and festive decorations.
•Lake Ozark Christmas Parade: A lively parade along the lakefront with decorated floats, marching bands, and Santa’s grand entrance.
•Veterans United Light Show (Columbia): A massive synchronized light display set to music, hosted by Veterans United Home Loans. Free to the public—it's a local favorite for families.
•Shelter Gardens Light Walk (Columbia): A peaceful stroll through a botanical garden lit with soft holiday lights and accompanied by seasonal music.
•Candy Cane Crib (Columbia): Hosted by Logboat Brewing, this quirky and colorful display features over 14 miles of lights wrapped around the brewery grounds. A local favorite for evening strolls and selfies.
•Christmas Lights in the Park (Moberly): Rothwell Park transforms into a glowing wonderland with over 150 lighted displays. The annual tree lighting ceremony kicks it off, and the drive-through format makes it easy for families to enjoy.
Season of Thankfulness
• Send a hand-written note to someone you appreciate• Call your parents
• Leave a kind comment on a local business’ social account
• Donate canned goods and gently used clothing
• Volunteer at your local foodbank
• Offer to rake leaves for a neighbor
• Leave a small treat or thank-you for your mail carrier or delivery driver
• Take a quiet walk to reflect on the year
Historic Charm with a Holiday Twist
•Arrow Rock Holiday Homes Tour: Historic homes in Arrow Rock are dressed in period holiday décor, offering a glimpse into 19th-century celebrations.•Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tours (Jefferson City): Missouri’s Governor’s Mansion opens for evening tours featuring elegant decorations and candlelit ambiance.
•German Christmas Market (Hermann): A traditional market with handmade gifts, mulled wine, German treats, and old-world holiday charm.
•Boonville Festival of Trees (Boonville): Hosted in the historic Thespian Hall, this event showcases elaborately decorated trees, each with its own theme, often tied to local history or businesses.
