Whether you’re here to stroll blooming gardens on a balmy spring day or to soak up Christmas magic in December, you’ll find a diverse array of fun things to do in St. Charles year-round for all ages. Ready to plan your trip? Here are the best things to do in St. Charles, MO, in every season!
Spring Highlights
There’s no better way to usher in spring than at Main Street in Bloom, where businesses on Main Street are adorned with floral displays and visitors enjoy live music, performances, a parade, and a Maypole dance to celebrate spring. Listen to Irish music, watch as Irish dancers wow the crowds, and enjoy Irish food and beer at Missouri River Irish Fest. On the hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures? Stop into the monthly St. Charles Flea Market for artwork and crafts from St. Charles’ most talented vendors. It’s also a great place to enjoy outdoor live music in St. Charles during the spring.
Looking for something more low-key? Simply stroll through the beautiful parks or hike along the Katy Trail for a perfect spring day. Don’t forget to pack a picnic basket! Many local restaurants also offer a delicious Easter brunch in St. Charles for the entire family.
Summer Must-Dos
As the historic riverfront city bustles with energy all summer long, Main Street is home to a free summer concert series, Music on Main, where you can put on your dancing shoes and enjoy the live music. Roam the St. Charles Market on Saturday mornings for farm-fresh goods like locally grown veggies and homemade breads, or enjoy special market days like the Watermelon Festival.
As the largest festival in St. Charles, Festival of the Little Hills features more than 300 craft booths with handmade goods for the entire family. This beloved family-friendly festival includes food and beverage booths, live music, and a Kid’s Corner. Parking is available at numerous free parking lots throughout the city, or you can hop aboard the festival’s free shuttle service.
Fall Favorites
As the weather turns pleasantly cool, visitors can enjoy seasonal Halloween fun and gorgeous fall foliage hikes near St. Charles, such as at the Katy Trail or any of the local parks.
Halloween events in St. Charles, include Legends & Lanterns®, a family-friendly event that takes you on a journey through Halloween history. The annual Trick-or-Treat on Main Street is another kid-approved favorite, where you and your littles can dress in your Halloween best as you trick-or-treat throughout the historic district. Main Street will be illuminated with hundreds of glowing pumpkins during Pumpkin Glow. Be sure to head to Augusta in Historic Missouri Wine Country to visit Centennial Farms & Orchard for hayrides and pumpkin picking as well!
Of course, fall isn’t complete without a St. Charles Oktoberfest celebration and annual fall festivals like the Augusta Harvest Festival, featuring gourmet seasonal goods.
Winter Magic
Christmas events in historic St. Charles are plentiful. St. Charles Christmas Traditions® spreads holiday spirit with Victorian carolers and a delegation of global Santa figures dressed in the cultural attire of their home countries. Walk along Historic Main Street to catch a glimpse of twinkling Christmas lights.
Warm up at one of the many cozy cafes throughout St. Charles, like Magpies Cafe (serving up winter comfort foods) and Frontier Perk Cafe (specializing in hand-crafted pastries and gourmet coffee). Be sure to stick around for New Year’s Eve, where you’ll find a roaring good time. No matter which season you visit, you’re sure to enjoy the year-round magic found only in St. Charles, MO!