Oh, There's No Place Like JCMO for the Holidays

It's that special time of year: sparkling lights, cozy beverages, and fun family activities. Surround yourself with the magic of the season with these holiday events in JCMO. 

Mayor's Tree Lighting - December 5

Join JC Parks for entertainment, refreshments, and a visit from Santa Claus at the 19th annual lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas tree! Entertainment will begin at 5:30, and the tree lighting will occur at 6:30 p.m.

Capital City Festival of Lights - November 30 - December 25

Load up the car and head to Binder Park for a magnificent mile-long display of lights and whimsical holiday displays! The holiday-themed displays depict everything from Santa Claus and his elves to choreographed lights synced to music. $20 per vehicle, or $35 per bus/trolley/limo.

Candlelight Tours of the Missouri Governors Mansion - Friday, December 6

Experience the glow of the holidays at the Candlelight Tours of 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 6

Gather your favorite people and head to downtown Jefferson City for Downtown Living Windows! Carolers, dancers, and live reindeer spread holiday cheer during this beloved JCMO tradition.

Jefferson City Jaycees Christmas Parade - Saturday, December 7

Get swept up in holiday cheer at the annual Jefferson City Jaycees Christmas Parade! The heart of downtown will fill with holiday cheer as local bands play your favorite carols and dozens of festive floats travel High Street. Come early to snag your spot - and don't forget a bag to catch your share of the candy!

Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Gingerbread Maus House - December 11, 13, 17, & 19

Enjoy the festive Carnahan Memorial Gardens, decorated and lit for the holiday season. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit the Gingerbread Maus House, which will be open to the public on December 11, 13, 17, and 19 evenings.

Santa Saturdays at Busch's Florist & Greenhouse - November 30 & December 14

🎄 Visit Santa at Busch's Florist & Greenhouse from 10 a.m. -1 p.m. during one of the Santa Saturday events on November 30th and December 14

🍪Complimentary milk & cookies are provided as well as coloring pages for the kiddos - Snap pictures for FREE with Santa in the beautiful historic greenhouse!

🎁 New, unopened toys are welcome for the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation drop box at the front of the shop. These toys will be donated to local families in need this holiday season.

❤️Handicap-accessible entrance on Dunklin Street under the garden tent!

Capitol Caroling - December 10

Join in the holiday tradition at the Jefferson City Public Schools Capitol Caroling event in the Missouri State Capitol Rotunda. Performances include traditional holiday numbers and special selections by the symphonic band, high school orchestra, and high school choirs.

Skate with Santa - December 14

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. Drop some Christmas list hints while taking a lap with the man in red.