If you’re stationed at Scott AFB, Illinois, in the greater St. Louis area, you’ll find plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit and even make time for family fun during the holiday season.
Scott AFB and the surrounding communities are tapping into creative ways to bring you a taste of holiday cheer. Some are on base, while others are a little bit of a drive, but you'll easily find holiday fun for the whole family!
1) Historic Belleville Events
The city of Belleville is offering a variety of holiday activities: concerts and gingerbread, movies and markets, parades and parties, walks and workshops, and more. The annual Belleville Christkindlmarkt, the Horse-drawn Trolley Rides, and the Old Belleville Historical Luminary Walk are always special holiday events!
Visit Belleville.net for the latest information and dates.
2) Dollar Sundays at Stars & Strikes Bowling Center
If you're already hearing cries of "I'm bored!" during the holiday vacation, pack up the whole gang and head out for some relaxing fun for the entire family. Located conveniently right on base, the Stars & Strikes Bowling Center has deemed every Sunday as Family Fun Day. Games, shoes, hot dogs, French fries, and sodas are all just $1 each.
Call 256-4054 for any questions or more information.
Photo from Canva
3) Campfire Rec
Gather ‘round the virtual campfire for spooky, adventurous, and funny stories from Scott AFB Outdoor Recreation. With 100 episodes to choose from, grab your popcorn and hot cocoa and settle in for some fun from home!
4) Arts & Crafts
In November and December, the Scott AFB Arts & Crafts Center is offering plenty of classes and ideas to flex your creative muscles. Take a class on tapestry weaving, create a giant "snowflake" with your kiddos, or simply stop by to replenish your own crafting supplies!
For more details, call (618) 256-6033.
5) Children's Holiday Party at Scott AFB Library
The Children's Holiday Party will be held on December 7 at the Scott AFB Library from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Children will be able to choose a free book to take home, participate in making winter crafts, and enjoy a snack. There's also an opportunity to take a family photo, so be sure to wear the matching sweaters!
Of course, kids won't want to miss out on visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus or sending a letter to the North Pole. For more information about this free event, call (618) 256-5100.
6) Breakfast with Santa
On December 2, join the Scott AFB’s Youth Programs for their annual Breakfast with Santa. Kids can ride the huge Toboggan Slide, sip on hot cocoa, and even join in a snowball fight! Enjoy a special breakfast, and Santa will be present to give out gifts and stockings.
There will be a Santa’s mailbox, so bring along your letters to Santa! Cost is $8 to enjoy all activities. Space is limited, and reservations are required beginning Nov. 1 or until filled. For more details, call (618) 256-5139.
7) An Old Fashioned Christmas at Campbell House and Magic Chef Mansion
Join the "two jewels of historic preservation in St. Louis" for a holiday open house. The Campbell House and Magic Chef Mansion will be all decked out for the holidays and open for tours on December 1 and 2. Tickets are $40 in advance with limited reservations available at the door. The Campbell House was built in 1851 and the Magic Chef Mansion in 1908, both being beautifully restored and displaying period furniture and artwork.
Magic Chef Mansion
8) Holiday and Christmas Shows in St. Louis
Enjoy ballet, theatre, or music? There's something for you! Visit the St. Louis Theatre website for information on shows like:
- Mannheim Steamroller
- St. Louis Ballet performance of "The Nutcracker"
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra
- Cirque Musica
- and more!
9) Candy Cane Hunt
The City of Chesterfield Parks, Recreation, & Arts is hosting a candy cane hunt where kids will be grouped by age with their own areas to hunt. There will be a special holiday guest appearance, free hot chocolate, and a holiday craft. Cost is $10 for ages 2-12. 
10) Toasted Chestnut Christmas Bar & Winter Light Walk
A little further out in Cottleville, MO, you may find it worth the drive to visit this Christmas pop-up and winter light experience at the Public School House. Several levels of tickets are available and include everything from specialty cocktails to exclusive seating. Check out the website for more details.
There are plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit while you're stationed at Scott AFB, whether right on base or a bit further afield. Whatever you decide to do, have a happy holiday season!
