Christmas Magic Awaits in Hermann
There is something magical about Christmastime in Hermann, Missouri. Twinkling lights glow against the historic red brick buildings, familiar carols drift through downtown, and festive traditions bring a little cheer to the season. Maybe it’s the music, the decorations, or simply the chance to slow down and savor the season. Whatever it is, a visit to Hermann can be just the thing to jumpstart your Christmas spirit and remind you what makes this time of year so special.
In Hermann, the holiday cheer has a way of building with every passing day. Throughout November and December, the calendar fills with festive gatherings, Christmas lights, holiday music, and traditions that bring the season to life. Whether you’re looking forward to a favorite holiday tradition or hoping to create some new memories, there are plenty of reasons to make Hermann part of your holiday plans.
Kick Off the Christmas Season in Hermann!
The holiday spirit arrives early at Old Vine Kitchen Emporium & Chapter 3’s Christmas Open House, Friday-Sunday, November 6-8. You’ll find rows of books for every age and interest, classic toys, and other holiday gift ideas as the season gets underway. It’s a festive way to ease into the holidays and enjoy a little Christmas inspiration.
Hermann’s official Holiday Kick-Off brings more holiday fun on November 14 from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, including pictures with Santa, music, and a live radio broadcast with 102.5 KEZK (St. Louis’ Official Christmas Station). Also, the Deutschheim Verein will be there with German ornaments and smokers, House on the Hill cookie molds, rolling pins, and cookies.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the holiday lights begin to take center stage. Starting November 25, pack the family into the car and take a self-guided Hermann Twinkle Tour. Maps detailing participating businesses and homes will be available at the Visitor Information Center at Amtrak the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
Then, on Saturday, November 28, one of Hermann’s beloved holiday traditions brings the community and visitors together for the Christmas Tree Lighting and Children’s Lantern Walk. We heard Santa will be at the Hofgarten after the tree lighting! On the same day, the Sounds of Starkenburg Concerts, Christmas Market, and Soup & Dessert Luncheon offer another way to celebrate and will give you a jump start on Christmas shopping, with Christmas music featuring the historic Pfeffer pipe organ, musicians, and vocalists at the Historic St. Martin’s Church Museum in Starkenburg.
All Aboard With Santa
Santa will be traveling from St. Louis to Kansas City on the Missouri River Runner on December 5 and returning to St. Louis on December 6, making stops in Hermann both days. Board or get off at any stop along the route. Those aboard can get their pictures taken with Santa, do crafts, and get a special treat from old Saint Nick. Book your seats early. We hear Santa has an incredibly busy schedule to keep before his big night. When you get off the train in Hermann, be sure to grab a St.. Nick’s Scavenger Hunt at the Visitor Information Center.
Experience a Traditional German Christmas in Hermann
Hermann’s German heritage gives the holiday season a special old-world character, and December brings opportunities to experience Christmas traditions inspired by days gone by.
At the Weihnachtsfest at Deutschheim State Historic Site, visitors can step into a recreation of a 19th-century German Christmas and offers a glimpse into how Christmas was celebrated by generations of Hermann’s immigrants. The German Bake Sale at Historic Hermann Museum, held on the first two weekends in December, celebrates German Christmas baking traditions with holiday treats and history tours.
Enjoy traditional Christmas markets during the 1st and 2nd weekends in December. On Saturday & Sunday, December 5-6, Stone Hill Winery will have their Kristkindl Market, where you can browse 28 vendors featuring hand-crafted goods, unique gifts and seasonal goodies while enjoying live music throughout the weekend. Warm up with mulled wine, hot chocolate or wine by the glass, and enjoy festive favorites like bratwurst, potato leek soup, and more! And there’s even more to enjoy throughout the weekend, with live music both days and a special visit from Santa on Sunday.
The following weekend, December 12-13, the Festhalle at the Inn at Hermannhof transforms into Christkindlmarkt. This charming event blends old-world charm with local flair. Visitors can experience the magic of the season while enjoying locally produced wines, artisanal crafts, and delicious treats.
These markets have been a place for communities to gather, celebrate and share the warmth of the holiday season with festive food, drinks and unique hand-crafted gifts. It’s a chance to experience Christmas traditions from another era and discover more about Hermann’s German heritage, traditions, and history along the way.
Make Merry Memories in Hermann
Of course, Christmas traditions aren’t only about looking back. They’re also about spending time together, enjoying favorite activities, and finding a little holiday cheer.
Find inspiration for your yuletide decorating during the Hermann Holiday House Tour on Saturday, December 5, where beautifully decorated homes and historic sites open their doors for a festive afternoon. Don’t miss the Christmas Tablescapes at the Rotunda the first two weekends in December, a dazzling showcase of creative holiday tables that range from cozy country to elegant and refined.
Two Wine Trail events are happening this holiday season for visitors ready to sample some of the region’s best wines. The Holiday Fare Wine Trail on Saturday and Sunday, November 21-22 will open with a new progressive dinner-style format that features festive food and wine pairings to sip and sample on the Hermann Wine Trail. Then, on Saturday, December 12, the Say Cheese Wine Trail makes its return. Sip and sample wine and cheese pairings, from the classic to the creative.
On December 4, 11, and 18, the Hermann Trolley Christmas Tour Series offers a festive way to experience Hermann during the holidays. Looking for some family fun? Jingle in Your Jammies on December 11 brings a unique Christmas adventure with five special stops throughout downtown. That same evening, the Showboat Community Theatre hosts a screening of The Polar Express for a little holiday movie-night magic.
Music lovers can mark Sunday, December 13 for the FReSH Rain Christmas Concert at the Showboat Community Theatre, featuring a gospel group from St. Louis. And for a holiday outing with a sweet treat, the Hermann Cookie Walk, December 18–19, invites visitors to stop at participating downtown shops and collect Christmas cookies along the way.
With festivities ranging from historic tours and music to family activities and seasonal treats, it’s easy to find something that suits your idea of holiday fun.
Keep the Christmas Spirit Alive in Hermann
One of the best things about Christmastime in Hermann is that the festivities unfold over several weeks, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season. Come for a cherished tradition, discover a new favorite activity, or simply take an evening drive to enjoy the holiday lights. However you choose to celebrate, Hermann offers a warm welcome so you can enjoy the season and make a few Christmas memories of your own.
Ready to plan your holiday visit? Explore the full Christmastime in Hermann event calendar for dates, details, and ticket information, and start making plans to add a little Christmas magic to your calendar.
