Celebrate the festive spirit of Springfield with our detailed guide. For Springfield natives and visitors alike, this guide reveals the city's holiday magic.
Popular events this season include the enchanting Old Capitol Holiday Walks, where visitors can enjoy beautifully decorated historic sites and local entertainment. Features of the Downtown Springfield Inc. Holiday Walks include a variety of shopping opportunities and delightful holiday displays that bring the community together. And the timeless classic, The Nutcracker, is something you definitely don't want to miss. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Springfield
- Old Capitol Holiday Walks
- Downtown Springfield Inc. Holiday Walks
- The Nutcracker
- Springfield Jaycees Holiday Lights Parade
- Santa Visits
- Gingerbread House Decorating
- Sidewalk Prophets Christmas Concert
- Tidings of Comfort and Joy (Taylorville)
- Printed Cards and Gift Wrap Workshop
- A Calvary Christmas
See these and even more events listed below!
Springfield Holiday Light Displays
Springfield Jaycees Holiday Lights Parade
What to Expect:
Over 70 years of continuous holiday light displays.
Description:
The Springfield Jaycees Holiday Lights Parade is a long-standing tradition featuring a lighted Christmas parade through downtown Springfield, showcasing community spirit and festive lights.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Springfield Jaycees Holiday Lights Parade
Springfield Holiday Markets and Shopping
Old Capitol Holiday Walks
What to Expect:
Dazzling lights and local shopping in historic downtown Springfield.
Description:
Downtown Springfield's Old Capitol Holiday Walks feature dazzling lights, local shops, and holiday magic. The event includes ice skating, Santa visits, and special performances. It is a month-long celebration of the holiday season with unique gifts and special treats available at downtown businesses.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Old Capitol Holiday Walks
Downtown Springfield Inc. Holiday Walks
What to Expect:
Dazzling lights and local shopping in charming downtown Springfield.
Description:
Downtown Springfield Inc. Holiday Walks feature local shops, farmers market, and special events like Santa visits and tree lighting, celebrating the holiday season with community traditions.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Downtown Springfield Inc. Holiday Walks
Springfield Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
The Nutcracker is a classic ballet where Clara and her Nutcracker Prince embark on a thrilling adventure from a lavish Christmas party to a battle with the evil Mouse King, followed by a journey through the Enchanted Forest and the Land of Sweets.
Where: Springfield | More Info: The Nutcracker
Santa Visits
What to Expect:
Personalized Santa visits with photo opportunities.
Description:
Meet Santa Claus at the Springfield Opera House, where families can enjoy a special visit with the jolly old elf. The event offers a delightful opportunity for children to share their wishes and take memorable photos.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Santa Visits
Sidewalk Prophets Christmas Concert
What to Expect:
Family-friendly Christmas concert with original songs and classic holiday tunes.
Description:
Sidewalk Prophets' Great Big Family Christmas is a heartwarming celebration where the band performs Christmas classics and original songs, creating beautiful memories with loved ones.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Sidewalk Prophets Christmas Concert
A Calvary Christmas
What to Expect:
Heartfelt worship and joyful celebration.
Description:
A Calvary Christmas is a celebration of worship and praise, featuring Christmas-themed services and festivities.
Where: Springfield | More Info: A Calvary Christmas
Caroling at the Carillon
What to Expect:
Family-friendly holiday celebration with caroling and festive activities.
Description:
Gather around a roaring bonfire to sing Christmas carols accompanied by the beautiful music of the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon. The Trinity Wind Ensemble will provide interludes, and complimentary snacks and drinks will be available.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Caroling at the Carillon
Annual Christmas Card Lane
What to Expect:
Live performances by local artists and cultural institutions.
Description:
The Mayor's Tree Lighting Holiday Show is an annual event in Springfield, Missouri, where Mayor Ken McClure officially lights the 48-foot holiday tree in Park Central Square. The event features live performances by local artists, including the Springfield Ballet and Little Theatre, as well as free ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and Santa's arrival. Children can participate in Holiday Storytime, and attendees can enjoy free treats and take selfies with Santa.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Annual Christmas Card Lane
Springfield Other Holiday Activities
Gingerbread House Decorating
What to Expect:
Whimsical gingerbread creations of toys and games.
Description:
The Gingerbread in Toyland exhibit features gingerbread creations of favorite toys and classic games, crafted by local bakeries, residents, and families, set within a whimsical holiday scene.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Gingerbread House Decorating
Printed Cards and Gift Wrap Workshop
What to Expect:
Hands-on linocut carving and printing workshop for families.
Description:
Create your own personalized holiday decorations by designing and printing vintage-style bauble prints, then stringing them together to make a unique festive garland. This workshop is perfect for families with children aged 8 and above, offering a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your holiday decorations.
Where: Springfield | More Info: Printed Cards and Gift Wrap Workshop
Tidings of Comfort and Joy
What to Expect:
A community-driven holiday dinner with a focus on genealogical connections.
Description:
The Tidings of Comfort and Joy Dinner is a special event hosted by the Christian County Illinois Genealogical Society, featuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere where attendees can come together to share in the spirit of the season. The event includes a delicious meal and opportunities to connect with fellow community members.
Where: Taylorville | More Info: Tidings of Comfort and Joy
Sweets With Santa
What to Expect:
Santa-themed sweets event with a variety of treats.
Description:
Join Santa at Allerton Park Retreat Center for a delightful afternoon of sweets and holiday cheer, featuring a variety of treats and festive atmosphere.
Where: Monticello | More Info: Sweets With Santa
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Decatur (37 miles)