Christmas only comes once a year, so make the most of it by traveling to four-season state of Missouri. Let the "show me" state show you yuletide attractions that make Missouri a delightful place to enjoy an activity-filled holiday season. Besides the attractions and festivals in St. Louis and Branson, visitors may also wish to tour the Mississippi River town of Hannibal, which is the hometown of Mark Twain (Samuel Clemmons), and the Kansas City area, where Harry Truman was born in nearby Independence.
Celebrate Christmas in St. Louis. The festivities start with the Macy's Holiday Festival of Light in the city's downtown. The festival includes the lighting of the city's Christmas tree, fireworks, music and an appearance by Santa Claus.
You and your family can shop for gifts at the Holiday Magic show at America's Center. A wide variety of merchants, such as Homemade Gourmet, St. Louis Rams and Avaeli Couture Jewelry Designs display their wares at the show, where you can also take your photo with Santa, enjoy a train ride or watch a musical act perform.
Out-of-town visitors will find many pleasing accommodations in downtown St. Louis that are close to the festivities. Consider America's Best Value Inn, Crowne Plaza Hotel and the Drury Inn and Suites, all within walking distance of America's Center.
You could also stay at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark and dine at the Market Street Bistro & Bar, both of which have sponsored past Christmas in St. Louis festivities. Other dining choices that are close to the downtown action are Caleco's Bar & Grill, Charlie Gitto's Pasta House and McMurphy's Grill.
Have yourself an Ozark Mountain Christmas in Branson, 4-1/2 hours south of St. Louis. Load the kids in the car and drive through the Festival of Lights, a mile-long road festooned with over 100 electric luminaries. The city also provides an Adoration Parade that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and ends with the lighting of a nativity scene. The parade features non-religious elements as well.
The website Explore Branson.com calls the city the "live music show capital of the world" and Christmas is no exception. In 2010, visitors could see Andy Williams perform Christmas classics at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre, Johnny Mathis performing with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra at the Mansion Theatre or watch "The Miracle of Christmas" at the Sight & Sound Theatres.
There are many places to shop for gifts, such as the boutiques at Winter Wonder Landing by the city's waterfront. Kids can meet Santa Claus and two of his reindeer at the Titanic Museum attraction or visit with Santa aboard the Santa Train.
Visitors can stay at the Big Cedar Lodge that offers an Ozark Mountain Christmas Package. This includes a two-night stay, a wagon ride throughout the property to admire the holiday lights display, a family keepsake photo and a commemorative Christmas ornament.
If you are looking for a special Christmas dinner, you can dine on prime rib, chili, gingerbread and fruit dumplings at the Silver Dollar City theme park. The city's official website, Explore Branson.com, has information on lodging discounts that is continually updated.
