10 Things To Do In (And Around) Columbia, Missouri At Christmas

1. Get a free photo with Santa at Bass Pro Shops.

WHAT: Step into a Winter Wonderland and even meet the big guy himself! Grab a free photo with the kids, check out the activities center complete with weekly craft demonstrations, and even snag some free goodies during Bass Pro’s regular giveaways.

WHEN: Saturday, November 16 – Tuesday, December 24, 2019

WHERE: Bass Pro Shops in Columbia (3101 Bass Pro Drive)

Find more information here.

2. Tour the Living Windows Festival in the District.

WHAT: Add some interactive (and free) fun to your Christmas shopping this year by attending the Living Windows Festival in downtown Columbia. Experience live holiday performances in the windows of your favorite local shops, all while enjoying holiday treats, carolers, open houses, and more.

WHEN: Friday, December 6, 2019 from 6 to 8 PM

WHERE: The District in Downtown Columbia (11 South 10th Street)

Find more information here.

3. Visit The Crossing Magic Tree.

WHAT: Come take in The Crossing’s 85-foot sycamore illuminated by nearly 200,000 lights. Each light is intended to represent almost every person living in Boone County and remind us that each member of our community matters to God and is made in His image. On Friday nights, enjoy food trucks, hot drinks, and photos.

WHEN: The Magic Tree is lit and open to the public every day, Monday through Sunday from 5 PM to 10 PM starting Friday, November 29 // Friday Night Experience hours: December 6, 13, and 20 from 5 PM to 10 PM

WHERE: The Crossing in Columbia (3615 Southland Drive)

Find more information here. 

4. Chill at the Candy Cane Crib at Logboat Brewing Co.

WHAT: 2019 marks the ten-year anniversary of Logboat’s infamous Candy Cane Crib. Don’t miss this special chance to enjoy the usual amenities of this local brewery while soaking in the spectacular light show surrounding you.

WHEN: Wednesday, November 27 – End of Christmas season

WHERE: Logboat Brewing Co. in Columbia (504 Fay Street)

Find more information here.

5. See the lights and Budweiser Clydesdales at Warm Springs Ranch.

WHAT: “Come for the lights. Stay for the incredible display of holiday spirit and the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales.” This open house event includes a beautiful light show, the chance to meet some of the most famous horses in the country, and for guests 21 and older, complimentary beverages. Reservations are required.

WHEN: Every Thursday through Sunday from Friday, November 29 – Sunday, December 29, 2019 from 5 to 8 PM

WHERE: Warm Springs Ranch in Boonville (3118, 25270 MO-98)

Find more information and make reservations here.

6. See the Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol,” at Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre.

WHAT: Bah Humbug! Enjoy seeing the timeless and meaningful Charles Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol,” now in its sixth year at the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre. This play is suitable for audiences of all ages. Matinee and evening showings are available.

WHEN: Thursday, December 12 – Sunday, December 22, 2019

WHERE: Lyceum Theatre in Arrow Rock (114 High Street)

Find more information and purchase tickets here.

7. Rock out to “The Trans-Siberian Orchestra Experience: The Prophecy” at Jesse Auditorium.

WHAT: Get in the Christmas spirit with the iconic holiday rock music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Performed by The Prophecy, now in their 13^th touring season, this powerful night is sure to start your holiday off on the right foot.

WHEN: Tuesday, December 3, 2019 at 7 PM

WHERE: Jesse Auditorium in Columbia (801 Conley Avenue, Building 2)

Find more information and purchase tickets here.

8. Watch your favorite holiday movies at “Christmas Brew ’n View” at The Blue Note.

WHAT: Every year, the Blue Note transforms into the North Pole, complete with holiday-themed drink specials and movies shown on the big screen. Relax with friends and get in the holiday spirit by watching some Christmas classics: Elf, Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, Gremlins, and Christmas Vacation.

WHEN: Wednesday, November 20 at 7PM // Thursday, December 12 at 7PM // Thursday, December 19 at 7:30 PM // Saturday, December 21 at 7:30 PM

WHERE: The Blue Note in Columbia (17 North 9^th Street)

Find more information and purchase tickets here.

9. Chop down your own Christmas tree at Starr Pines Tree Farm.

WHAT: Take in the beautiful scenery, then take your pick of the Scottish pine trees home with you. Sleds and hay rides are available, as well as complimentary hot apple cider. Guests can also enjoy shopping in the famous Starr Pines barn for gifts of all kinds.

WHEN: Open every day Thanksgiving through Christmas from 9 AM until dark

WHERE: Starr Pines Christmas Tree Farm in Boonville (21298 Pleasant Hill Road)

Find more information here.

10. Attend a meaningful Christmas Eve service.

WHAT: Add meaning to the holidays by attending a Christmas Eve service with The Crossing. You can expect to experience a simple service with lessons and carols, a practical message, and a memorable candle-lighting.

WHEN: Monday, December 23 at 5:15 and 7 PM // Tuesday, December 24 at 1, 2:45, and 4:30 PM

WHERE: The Crossing in Columbia (3615 Southland Drive)

Find more information here.

Find more ways to celebrate Christmas in Columbia and free content offers on our full Christmas website. Click below to check it out.

PHOTO CREDIT: Main image (The Columns): Mizzou News  / Bass Pro: Bass Pro Shops / Living Windows: Columbia Tribune / Candy Cane Crib: Candy Cane Crib Facebook / Warm Springs Ranch: KOMU / A Christmas Carol: Inside Columbia / Trans-Siberian Orchestra: USA Today / Christmas Brew ‘n View: Elf Holiday Brew ‘n View at The Blue Note Facebook / Starr Pines Farm: Starr Pines