Is that Santa’s sleigh we hear? The holiday season in Cape Girardeau has arrived with festive events for all ages! Whether you’re here to see the lights, meet Santa, or hunt for candy canes, there’s something magical waiting for you. Mark your calendars and gather your loved ones to make the most of these upcoming events:
Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Cape Girardeau
📅 November 29, 2024 | 5 PM
📍 Vasterling Suites Courtyard
Old Town Cape’s 30-foot Christmas tree has quickly become a holiday destination for crowds in Cape Girardeau and surrounding areas. On the Friday following Thanksgiving, spectators gather at the corner of Broadway and Fountain Street to sing Christmas carols, watch illuminated aerial acrobatic performances, enjoy warm beverages and treats, and of course, watch Santa Claus light the tree. The tree then remains lit throughout the Christmas season until the beginning of the New Year.
Parade of Lights
📅 December 1, 2024 | Dusk
📍 Downtown Cape Girardeau
The streets of downtown Cape come alive with the glow of holiday floats and twinkling lights during the annual Parade of Lights. The parade begins at the intersection of Broadway Street and West End Boulevard (Capaha Park entrance), continues east down Broadway toward the river, then turns right onto Main Street, ending at 43 S. Main (Hutson’s Big Sandy Furniture parking lot). The theme for 2024 is “Christmas Magic in Downtown Cape Girardeau.” Bundle up, bring your blankets, and find a cozy spot along the parade route to watch this dazzling display of holiday spirit. Keep an eye out for Santa—he’s sure to make an appearance!
Holiday Open House
📅 December 6, 2024 | 5 PM
📍 Downtown Cape Girardeau
Get a jump start on your holiday shopping while supporting local businesses! During the downtown Cape Holiday Open House, shops open their doors with special sales and festive decor. Don’t miss horse-drawn carriage rides in the market lot at 35 S. Spanish Street, warm up by the fire pits, and enjoy holiday tunes while crossing gifts off your list!
Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt
📅 December 13, 2024 | 6:30 PM
📍 Shawnee Park Center
Calling all kids (and kids at heart)! The Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt is a fun, family-friendly event where participants search for candy canes in the dark. Bring a flashlight and your holiday spirit for a night of excitement and sweet treats.
Breakfast with Santa
📅 December 15, 2024 | 10 AM
📍 Rusted Route
What’s better than pancakes? Duh, pancakes with Santa! Join us at Rusted Route for a morning of delicious breakfast and quality time with jolly old St. Nick. Don’t forget your camera—Santa will be taking pictures and listening to all the holiday wish lists!
This season, Cape Girardeau is the place to be for holiday fun. We hope these events will fill your heart with joy and your calendar with memorable experiences.