Wondering what to do this month or this weekend in Springfield, Missouri? Check out big events are going on in December 2024 to shows and concerts to where to see Christmas lights and other holiday events. To see a full events calendar click here.
Gardens Aglow
Gardens Aglow returns for its sixth season at the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden with more than 200,000 festive lights and beautiful features. Bring the whole family to walk the botanical-themed light festival.
Online Tickets: $6/Age 13 and older, $4/Kids 3–12.
At the gate: $8/Age 13 and older, $5/Kids 3–12. Age 2 and under are free.
When: Nov. 29–30. Dec. 1, 6–8, 13–15, 18–23, 26–29, 2024
Address: 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield
Springfield Little Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol: The Musical”
Celebrate the holiday season with “A Christmas Carol,” a heartwarming musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' cherished classic. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his transformative journey from a miserly recluse to a symbol of holiday spirit. Discover the true meaning of the season in a joyous celebration of redemption and compassion the whole family will enjoy!
When: Dec. 1, 6–8, 2024
Where: 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield
Related Post: Must-See Christmas Shows Around the Ozarks
JINGLE!
Photo courtesy of Jingle!
Attend the all-new Jingle! experience for the first time in Ozark, Missouri. Start your visit at one of the four exciting holiday-themed neighborhoods: JINGLE! Village, Polar Park, Aprés-Ski, and The North Pole; or wander through the park as you delight in all JINGLE! has to offer. Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit with an experience you and your loved ones won’t soon forget!
When: Dec. 1, 5–8, 12–15, 18–23, 25–30, 2024
Where: 4400 N. 19th St, Ozark
Bass Pro’s Santa’s Wonderland
Photo courtesy of Bass Pro Shops
Experience the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Wonderland at the original Bass Pro Shops in Springfield, the ultimate outdoor store! Enjoy a complimentary photo with Santa and participate in a variety of free activities for kids in Santa’s Workshop.
When: Until Dec. 24, 2024
Where: 1 Bass Pro Dr, Springfield
Celtic Angels Christmas
Experience an Irish Christmas with Celtic Angels Christmas. This spirited show, crafted by Dublin Native Louise Barry, includes dynamic vocals, world-class Irish step dancing from The Celtic Knights, and the lively music of the Trinity Ensemble. Get ready for an evening of festive cheer, toe-tapping tunes, and the warmth of Irish tradition!
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2, 2024
Where: 325 Park Central E, Springfield
Storytime with Scuba Claus
“Tis the SEAson at Wonders of Wildlife, where Scuba Claus is making a splash this holiday! Enjoy festive lights, hot cocoa, and a special reading a holiday story by Mrs. Claus. Watch as Scuba Claus and his helper, Peppermint the Elf, dive into a fish-filled aquarium, bringing Christmas cheer to all!
When: Dec. 3, 6, 10, 13, 17–19, 2024
Where: 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield
Related Post: Where To See Santa This Year
Cassidy Station–Reindeer at the Farm
Celebrate the holiday season at Cassidy Station with an evening full of festive fun for the whole family! Glide on the outdoor ice skating rink, wander through the Christmas tree farm, and warm up by the fire pits with hot coca and s’mores. You’ll even get a chance to meet a live Reindeer!
When: 4 p.m.–7 p.m. Dec. 4, 2024
Where: 5176 N. Fremont Road, Nixa
“The Christmas Post” at Stained Glass Theatre
“The Christmas Post” is a musical comedy that brings a Norman Rockwell painting to life! Reminiscent of the days when The Saturday Evening Post graced American homes, this fast-paced Broadway-style show delivers a heartfelt message about the true meaning of Christmas.
When: Nov. 7–Dec. 14, 2024
Where: 1996 W. Evangel St., Ozark
$100 & Under Holiday Market
The $100 & Under Holiday Market, hosted by the Springfield Regional Arts Council, is a festive tradition during December’s First First Friday Art Walk. This annual event brings together 30 local artists, offering a unique selection of affordable and one-of-a-kind pieces.
When: 5 a.m.–8 p.m. Dec. 6, 2024
Where: 525 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy, Springfield
Candy Cane Lane At Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park
Drive through Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park and enjoy the dazzling farm-themed holiday displays with more than 100,000 lights. Tickets are $5 per vehicle with no buses or limos due to height restrictions and sharp turns.
When: Dec. 6–8, 13–15, 20–22, 2024
Where: 3825 W. Farm Road 146, Springfield
Related Post: Where To See Christmas Lights Around The Ozarks
"Once on This Island" at the Fox Theatre
On a vibrant Caribbean island, a young girl is saved from a strom by four gods–Asaka, Agwé, Erzuliw, and Papa Ge. Once on this Island is a powerful tale unfolded by Caribbean rhythms, capturing themes of Black joy, sorrow, colonization, and love’s resilience. This Tony-Award winning musical beautifully shows that even the simplest stories can inspire and heal.
When: Dec. 6–8, 12–15, 2024
Where: 157 Park Central Square, Springfield
42nd Annual Nixa Junior High Craft Show
Explore over 200 craft and food vendors, plus a bake sale, at the 42nd Annual Nixa Junior High Craft Show! Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with Santa while you’re there.
When: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 7, 2024
Where: 205 North St., Nixa
Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s In The Mood Holiday Concert
Get into the holiday spirit at Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s traditional Holiday Concert. Featuring the Mid-American Singers performing beloved secular and sacred songs, including selections from Handel’s Messiah.
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7, 2024
Where: 525 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy, Springfield
The Coziest Little Market
The Coziest Little Market on C-Street is the perfect place to kick off your holiday shopping! This weekly market features cozy gifts from local artists, free candy, coupons for local business, and plenty of holiday cheer. Admission is free.
When: 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Saturdays from Nov. 16–Dec. 21, 2024
Where: 321 E. Commercial St., Springfield
Winter Market at Cassidy Station
Embrace the holiday spirit at Cassidy Station’s Winter Market. Browse unique gifts from local vendors, enjoy cookie decorating, and ice skating! Don’t miss a visit with Santa and the chance to find the perfect Christmas tree! Entry is $5 per person, kids 12 and under free.
When: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 7 2024
Where: 5176 N. Fremont Road, Nixa
Save the Date: The Mystery Hour Holiday Spectacular
The Mystery Hour returns to the historic GIlloz Theatre for a special holiday spectacular! Host Jeff Houghton brings Springfield’s beloved night talk show back to its roots with a big, festive celebration full of improvised fun, tinsel, and eggnog.
When: 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. Dec. 13, 2024
Where: 325 Park Central E., Springfield
Blippi: Join the Band Tour
Get ready for a musical adventure with Blippi: Join the Band Tour! Blippi, Meekah, and their dancing and singing buddies will be joined by live musicians to explore the world of music. From sounds and rhythms to instruments, all through your favorite Blippi songs. Grab your drumsticks, tune up your guitars and get ready to dance along in this high-energy, family-friendly show!
When: Dec. 13, 2024
Where: 525 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy, Springfield
Springfield Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Photo courtesy of the Springfield Ballet
Experience this classic at the historic Landers Theatre, Springfield Ballet’s The Nutcracker follows Clara and her Nutcracker prince as they journey from a grand Christmas party to a daring battle with the evil Mouse King.
When: Dec. 19–23, 2024
Where: 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield
Girls Gone Bible Live!
Enter the world of Girls Gone Bible Live! Hosts Angela Halili and Arielle Reitsma bring you genuine, unfiltered conversations on faith, relationships, and the ups and downs of the Christian journey.
When: Dec. 21, 2024
Where: 325 Park Central E, Springfield
Silver Dollar City's Old Time Christmas
Photo courtesy of Silver Dollar City
For an award-winning lights display, Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas® is a four-time winner and reigning title-holder of a “USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice” poll for the nation’s Best Theme Park Holiday Event!
When: Nov. 2–Dec. 30, 2024
Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson
Drive-Thru Christmas Lights Tour at Big Cedar Lodge
Photo courtesy of Big Cedar Lodge
Drive through Big Cedar Lodge’s sprawling property all lit up for the holidays. See thousands of twinkling Christmas lights and displays along your journey while marveling at Table Rock Lake, driving over waterfalls, and crossing bridges. Hot chocolate, s’mores on a stick, and twinkling souvenirs are available for purchase. Reservations are highly recommended as drive-up availability is not guaranteed. Cars and SUVS are $35 admission while mini buses are $60 admission.
When: 5–10 p.m. Until Dec. 30, 2024
Where: Big Cedar Lodge/Top of the Rock Entrance
New Year’s Party at Pythian Castle
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at the exclusive Gatsby themed party at Pythian Castle. Begin your night in the lobby, followed by a delicious two-course dinner in the ballroom. Head to the basement with a secret code for prohibition-style games. For dessert, make your way to the theater and enjoy dancing, aerial performances, and a champagne toast. Reservations required.
When: 7:15 p.m.–12:45 a.m. Dec. 31, 2024
Where: 1451 E Pythian St, Springfield
Home for the Holidays at Big Cedar Lodge
Photo courtesy of Big Cedar Lodge
Experience true Christmas magic on the Big Cedar Christmas light tour. Bring the family, grab a complimentary cup of hot chocolate and enjoy a beautiful 25-minute tram tour around Big Cedar. Take in over 1 million spectacular Christmas lights while listening to holiday music. If you’re in the mood for more fun, check out Big Cedar’s Holiday Fun guide for more events leading up to Christmas. Tickets start at $25 for overnight guests and $30 for day guests. The last tour is on Dec. 30.
When: Nov. 8, 2024–Jan. 5 2025
Address: 190 Top of the Rock Road., Ridgedale
Nature at Night at Top of the Rock
Photo courtesy of Top of the Rock
Experience the Ozarks after dark at Top of the Rock for a 2.5-mile journey through Nature at Night. Enjoy this unique light tour experience with awe-inspiring displays resembling historic Native American scenes along with traditional holiday vignettes. Sip on hot chocolate and cider, and be surrounded by twinkling lights and a festive spirit while connecting to the great outdoors.
When: Nov. 8, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025
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