It’s that special time of year: sparkling lights, cozy beverages, and fun family activities. Whether you’re searching for Christmas events in Jefferson City, a place to meet Santa, or a drive-through light display, JCMO has a holiday tradition for every age. Surround yourself with the magic of the season with these Jefferson City holiday events.

 

Santa Saturdays at Busch’s Florist & Greenhouse

November 29, December 13 & 20 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Busch’s Florist & Greenhouse, 620 Madison St.

Visit Santa in Jefferson City at the beautiful historic greenhouse at Busch’s Florist & Greenhouse. Families can enjoy:

  • Complimentary milk and cookies, plus coloring pages for the kiddos
  • Free photos with Santa
  • A Marine Toys for Tots drop box at the front of the shop. New, unopened toys are welcome and will be donated to local families in need.
  • A handicap-accessible entrance on Dunklin Street under the garden tent
 
Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting

December 4 | Entertainment at 5:30 p.m., lighting at 6:30 p.m.
Rotary Centennial Park, 102 Bolivar St.

mayor's xmas tree

Join JC Parks for entertainment, refreshments, and a visit from Santa Claus at the 19th annual lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas tree.

 

Candlelight Tours of the Missouri Governor’s Mansion

Friday, December 5 & Monday, December 8 | 6-8 p.m.
Missouri Governor’s Mansion, 100 Madison St.

santa and mrs claus at gov mansion

Experience the glow of the holidays at the Missouri Governor’s Mansion. Guests can view the executive residence by candlelight, adorned with sparkling lights and lush greenery.

 

Downtown Living Windows

Friday, December 5 | 6-9 p.m.
Downtown Jefferson City

living windows

Gather your favorite people and head downtown for this beloved JCMO tradition. Carolers, dancers, and live reindeer spread holiday cheer.

 
Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Gingerbread Maus House

December 5, 8, 10, 12 & 15 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Carnahan Memorial Garden, 101 Jefferson St.

Enjoy the festive Carnahan Memorial Garden, decorated and lit for the holiday season. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit the Gingerbread Maus House, which is open to the public on these evenings.

 

Capital City Festival of Lights

December 6-26 | 6-9 p.m.
Binder Park, 5840 Rainbow Dr.

festival of lights

Load up the car and drive through a magnificent mile-long display of lights and whimsical holiday scenes at Binder Park. Displays range from Santa Claus and his elves to choreographed lights synced to music.

  • Cost: $20 per vehicle, or $35 per bus, trolley, or limo

 

Jefferson City Jaycees Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 6 | 4:30 p.m.
Downtown Jefferson City (High Street)

Get swept up in holiday cheer at the 86th annual Jefferson City Jaycees Christmas Parade. Local bands play favorite carols as dozens of festive floats travel High Street. Come early to snag your spot, and bring a bag to catch your share of the candy.

 

Capitol Caroling

December 9 | 7 p.m.
Missouri State Capitol, 201 W. Capitol Ave.

capitol caroling

Join the Jefferson City Public Schools Capitol Caroling tradition in the Missouri State Capitol Rotunda. The symphonic band, high school orchestra, and high school choirs perform traditional holiday numbers and special selections.

 

Skate with Santa

December 13 | 1-4 p.m.
Washington Park Ice Arena, 711 Kansas St.

Santa is making an appearance at Washington Park Ice Arena. Join him for a lap around the rink to help him work up an appetite for all those cookies and milk, and drop a few Christmas list hints along the way.