The wreaths are hung from the courthouse to the Mississippi River, the trees are lit and we’re just waiting for you. If you haven’t set your holiday plans or you’re looking for something different, we invite you to spend Christmas in Cape Girardeau.

Not convinced yet? Here’s why this river town is the second best place to visit during the holidays (next to the North Pole, of course).

1. We EAT, drink and get merry

   Cape’s dining selections are unmatched by any other town its size. More than 130 restaurants boast everything from burgers at a hole-in-the-wall diner to fine red wines at an elegant eatery. And there’s no better way to chase away the chill outside than with a cup of specialty cocoa or coffee made from beans grown around the world.

   This time of year, many local restaurants offer exclusive seasonal dishes – the kind that make Scrooge go from “bah humbug” to “YUM!” Click here for a complete list of options.

2. We LIGHT up the town

   Let’s face it – the inner kid in all of us can’t get enough Christmas lights and decorations. That’s why they’re an integral part of Cape Girardeau’s holiday festivities. The downtown district is decked to the max with greenery, banners on every streetlight and impeccable window displays adorning storefronts. Just park and walk for a close view, or drive through local neighborhoods for even more twinkling fun.

   Cape County Park North’s Holiday of Lights Display is open for free drive-thru tours each evening – featuring everyone from Santa to Mickey Mouse.

3. We’re OLD-FASHIONED

   If you miss Christmases past – the kind with popcorn strings and stockings on the mantel – Cape Girardeau’s the perfect place to recapture your holiday joy. Start with our Christmas Country Church Tour on Dec. 13 and 14, spanning 33 historical houses of worship across three counties. And don’t miss a candlelight tour of the fully decorated Glenn House – Cape Girardeau’s premier historical home.

   Find out how to create your own vintage Christmas.

4. We SHOP the night away

   From the downtown district to Siemers Drive, Cape Girardeau is packed with every kind of store imaginable – clothing, electronics, sporting goods, pet supplies and tons more. Dozens of stores make finding the perfect gift for everyone easy – even those hard-to-buy-for relatives. This time of year, you’re likely to be surrounded by live music as you browse, and you may even run in to Santa himself.

   Discover local stores offering items you may not find anywhere else. 

5. We welcome the WHOLE FAMILY

It’s hard for every member of the family to agree on what qualifies as fun. That’s why Cape Girardeau offers many options for quality togetherness – from the Discovery Playhouse children’s museum to the indoor Ultimate Air Trampoline Park. Plan your family-friendly holiday adventure.

And don’t forget about two of the most anticipated holiday events of the year – both designed for children. The Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt starts at 6:30 pm on Friday, Dec. 14, and Breakfast with Santa is served at 8:30 am on Saturday, Dec. 15.

Nothing beats Christmas in Cape Girardeau, but the fun doesn’t end after the holidays. Learn more about this bustling river town.