Downtown St. Louis Festival of Lights & Kiener Plaza Tree Lighting

About this adventure

The Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights is Downtown St. Louis's signature holiday kickoff celebration at Kiener Plaza, directly framed by the iconic Gateway Arch. This full-day festival features live children's stage performances, holiday character meet-and-greets, free cookie decorating, face painting, and festive food trucks. The evening culminates in the ceremonial illumination of the majestic 40-foot Salvation Army Christmas tree, followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the city skyline and the grand opening of the Winterfest outdoor ice skating rink. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Flat, spacious paved urban plaza with seamless ADA ramps, making double strollers and wagons effortless to maneuver. • Restrooms & Facilities: Heated public restrooms with baby-changing tables are available on site and at the adjacent Gateway Arch Visitor Center. • Parking: Ample covered garage parking with elevator access is located directly adjacent at the Kiener East and Stadium East garages. • Age Suitability: All ages welcome; free admission makes it an accessible kickoff for all families.