St. Charles County, MO December 2025

ENTERTAINMENT

HOLIDAY POP-UP BARS UP ON THE ROOFTOP

SHOPPING

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

FOOD + BEVERAGE

RESTAURANT TOUR

HOLIDAY MEALS

DECEMBER

Holiday

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to relive the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions that bring us closer together.

In our family, one tradition we’ve held onto is making home-made hot chocolate and driving around town to see the best light displays while listening to holiday music.

This month, we’re celebrating the Giving Season with stories that warm the heart and inspire the spirit. Step into the sparkle of Up On The Rooftop, a holiday pop-up bar where the 360 rooftop transforms into a glittering winter wonderland. Then discover Luxury In Motion with NAS Transportation, redefining comfort, reliability and first-class local travel, perfect for all your festive outings. And don’t miss our Holiday Gift Guide, featuring creative gifts they won’t expect, thoughtfully curated to help you shop local and share something truly special.

While this season shines brightly, we also recognize it can be a challenging time for some, those who may be grieving, lonely or in need. As a community, let’s come together to extend kindness and compassion. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity lights up our city in its own beautiful way.

From our hearts to yours, may your holidays be filled with love, peace and the joy of giving.

Cheers

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Gordon Montgomery

gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Kelley Lamm

kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dr. Beth Templin, Mel Boban, Kelley Lamm, Julie Brown Patton, Stacey Dixon

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

George Carr, Tom Paule, Nick Heger, Ashley's Portrait Co., John Evert, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Proverbs 3:5-6

“It’s their turn to be spoiled.”

— Shahid Imran, Founder

At Hampton Manor of St. Peters, we understand that choosing a senior living community is a decision made with your heart as much as your head.

This November, we invite you and your family to experience care with compassion in a place that feels like home.

Whether you’re seeking assisted living, memory care, or independent living, our team is dedicated to providing personalized support that preserves independence and promotes connection.

• Delicious, chef-prepared meals

• Engaging daily activities and social events

• Secure, welcoming spaces with safety and comfort in mind.

• Transparent care plans — you only pay for what you need.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Get Your Daily ExerMoves

Advice Editorial: A New Book Inspiring Adults To Age With Energy And Independence

ARTICLE BY DR. BETH

Most people want to stay strong and independent as they age, but too many believe decline is inevitable. I’ve spent my career helping people see aging doesn’t have to mean slowing down. In my new book, Get Your Daily ExerMoves, I bust the biggest myths about aging and show how movement, not medication, is key to staying healthy and independent.

At HouseFit, we created the ExerMoves approach to make exercise both safe and effective for aging adults. Every routine's designed to build strength, improve balance and boost confidence, no matter the diagnosis or starting point. My hope is simple: to inspire others to move with purpose, take control of health and age boldly on their own terms.

Get Your Daily ExerMoves now available on Amazon.

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

Holiday Gift Guide

ADVICE EDITORIAL: CREATIVE GIFTS THEY WON’T EXPECT

The holidays roll around so fast, and the overwhelm of gifting arrives with it. These gift ideas take the typical gift cards, lotion sets and candle collections up a notch with created and thoughtful touches that will wow recipients. The holidays call for a little bit of luxury, after all.

WOMEN:This holiday season, skip the predictable presents and surprise the women in your life with gifts that feel truly special. These ideas span experiences, keepsakes and thoughtful every items that she’ll adore.

1 . Masterclass subscription for cooking, writing or photography | 2. Cashmere travel wrap  | 3 . Concert tickets | 4. Subscription to a specialty tea or coffee service | 5. Weighted silk eye mask | 6. Letterpress stationery set  | 7. Wireless earbuds with a matching leather case | 8 . Private cocktail class or perfume blending session | 9. Statement serving bowl

COUPLES: Give couples the gifts that bring them closer together this holiday season. These ideas offer shared experiences, cozy comforts and personalized touches that celebrate partnerships. From events that will create memories to custom keepsakes and date night essentials, this list will spark ideas for those special duos. These are especially thoughtful for newlyweds or newly engaged couples that are starting their new lives together.

map to track their travels together | 5.

for backyard movie nights | 6.

with albums to create a year of memories together | 7.

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Wine subscription

Holiday Reads

For Young Hearts

Author Kelley G. Lamm

by Kelley G. Lamm

Olive the bulldog doesn’t want to go to Paw Academy today, not today, no way! Her tummy rumbles with worry about Tully, the new dog who stomps and thuds with every step. Olive is sure he’s a big, bad bully — until she learns that things aren’t always what they seem. With help from her brother, Louie, Olive discovers the power of courage, kindness and empathy. This charming rhyming story encourages young readers to face fears and embrace differences. Find Olive’s adventures at OhOliveTheBulldog.com.

ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM

Three Local Authors Share Stories Filled With Courage, Kindness And Love

The holidays are the perfect time to cozy up with great stories, and these three locally written children’s books will bring joy, laughter and heartwarming lessons to every home.

A Bad Day of Baseball

by Paige Hulsey

Jack dreams of a perfect baseball game, but instead, everything goes hilariously wrong! From wild plays to unexpected lessons, Jack learns about teamwork, resilience and finding joy even on the toughest days. Inspired by Paige’s own family memories at the ballpark, this story reminds readers that showing up and trying your best is what truly matters. Available at PaigeHulsey.com, Main Street Books, Neighborhood Reads (Washington, Missouri) and Amazon.

Gertrude Goes to the Ballpark

by Jeremy Housewright, EdD

Take a delightful trip to Busch Stadium with Gertrude, a lovable English bulldog, as she cheers for the St. Louis Cardinals and makes new friends along the way. Inspired by Jeremy’s real-life bulldog and love for baseball, this heartwarming tale blends two hometown passions — dogs and the Cardinals! Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. This season, share stories that celebrate courage, friendship and fun, because a “perfect” gift starts with the turn of a page. "Locally written, loved by kids everywhere."

ZOFIA DAY JEWELRY

Designed by Lisette Polnys in Los Angeles, Zofia Day jewelry is designed for those unwilling to let the magic of life pass by unnoticed.

SPECIALTY PROVISION BOX

Perfect for grazing, gifting, or elevating any gathering. This box is designed for those who savor the art of hosting.

SHINOLA WATCHES

American made in Detriot, Shinola pieces are thoughtfully crafted, inspiring people to live well & be confident.

ONNO CANDLES

High-quality luxury candles, mouth-blown & hand-shaped glass crafted in Belgium.

Motion LUXURY IN

ARTICLE BY STACEY DIXSON

BY JOHN EVERT

After a night of yuletide festivities, ensuring a safe arrival is of highest priority. Enter NAS Transportation, one of St. Louis area’s premier providers of luxury transportation. Nadine Azar co-owns NAS transportation with her husband, Fadi. The business began nearly a decade ago when they relocated to St. Louis. Nadine got her start building her luxury transportation clientele in New York City driving

for Uber Black, a premium driving service that requires drivers meet more rigorous standards than typical transportation service providers.

“My clients wanted me specifically to drive them. They liked that I was a woman, and that I provided an experience where they felt safe. It felt good to know my clients trusted me,” Nadine recalls. “You could see the relief on clients’ faces when they saw the driver they knew. In St. Louis, clients know we’re local; they recognize the driver and the vehicle.”

She says NAS Transportation, however, is a step above Uber Black. Comfort and luxury are hallmarks of the company, providing premium service in their black Escalade, Navigator or BMW X7.

“We have students we take to school every day,” Nadine says. “When you see a person pop in their ear buds and fall asleep, you know they feel secure.”

NAS Transportation serves area professionals as well as families. Even when traveling across the country, Nadine arranges transportation with trusted providers that she has personally vetted for trustworthiness.

A hard-earned privilege that NAS Transportation enjoys is the ability to provide a VIP experience for events in the area due to front-door accessibility that other services cannot. Nadine states proudly: “Even when a venue is blocked off to traffic, we have gained the trust and professional courtesy to have been given permission to bring our clients right to the front entrance."

During the year, popular client destinations include Busch Stadium, Enterprise Center and Lambert International Airport. During the holidays, families book so they can enjoy the festive lights without having to drive. Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights currently are an in-demand location because parking can be difficult. Nadine says NAS Transportation provides a seamless service where the entire experience is simple and predictable.

636.627.9607

NASTrans.com

Senior living at Clarendale of St. Peters is anything but traditional. Why? We encourage and celebrate the independence of residents instead of focusing solely on their limitations. All are welcome to be themselves and make the most out of life.

To learn more or schedule a visit, call 636-242-6096 or visit ClarendaleOfStPeters.com.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 10 DuBray Drive | St. Peters, MO 63376 em ClarendaleOfStPetersLIFE@ClarendaleOfStPeters.com We’re redefining senior living with independence at the forefront.

Discover an integrated environment between independent living and assisted living, where residents share amenities, life-enriching experiences, and many laughs. It’s the perfect balance of freedom and support.

RESTAURANT TOUR

For Holiday Meals

Make Room For GIO Modern Italian, The Brass Rail Steakhouse, Erio’s Ristorante

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

HOLIDAYS ARE TRULY MAGICAL AT GIO MODERN ITALIAN!

GIO's husband and wife co-owners' dynamic duo, Giovanni "Gio" and Jessica LaFata, say they deck the halls like no one else, with Christmas trees and festive décor filling every corner of the restaurant at 138 Chesterfield Towne Center.

"Guests can sip on our seasonal sips, soak in the sparkling surroundings and join us for one of our favorite traditions: Supper with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 4:30-8:30 p.m.," says Jess.

Families are invited to visit with Santa, enjoy holiday balloon art and indulge in a festive pre-fixe dinner that features GIO favorites. Guests are invited to bring an unwrapped toy to donate and receive a holiday treat. All donations benefit families staying at the local Ronald McDonald House locations, with meals and deliveries made by the restaurant's family. Reservations for this special event can be made at  GioStL.com/reservations or by calling 636.536.3788.

The LaFatas opened the Chesterfieldbased Sicilian restaurant and pizzeria during 2013, originally naming it Vito's in the Valley. They updated the name during 2023 with a “new look, new feel and new name," as they indicated after a decade of growth that they were “growing into ourselves."

Jess adds: "We also offer a variety of holiday dining packages for lunch, brunch, dinner and happy hour, which are perfect for families, friends and coworkers celebrating the season together. From cozy gatherings to lively company parties, we love helping guests make their holidays unforgettable."

SAVORY MEALS, BOURBON COLLECTION, AUTHENTIC SERVICE AWAIT AT THE BRASS RAIL STEAKHOUSE!

Founded in 2012, The Brass Rail is widely known for their classic American menu featuring scratch-made foods, aged steaks, seafood, pasta and specialty drinks. However, owner/partner April Hammer says they're also well-known for their "crazy-awesome staff," eager to serve everyone at 4601 Highway K, in O'Fallon.

Some diners say they intentionally treat themselves during the holidays to The Brass Rail's intricately prepared, smoked chicken wings and/or Maryland-style melt-in-your-mouth crab cakes, which were voted “Best in Missouri.”

Additionally, April says they're set up to host larger groups and parties in any of their three private dining rooms. "We also offer full-service catering and private event experiences, really aiming to make the experience extra special for our guests."

She reminds that their gift cards are super popular and an easy way to check friends and family off of shopping lists.

Dial 636.329.1349 with questions.

ERIO'S RISTORANTE WELCOMES GUESTS TO FOOD IN A FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE DURING THE SEASON!

As an intimate, friendly restaurant owned and operated by Joe Creach and his brother Andrew, Erio's at 951 Jungerman Road in St. Peters offers tasty, comforting meals.

Joe invites everyone to come in to pause and relax during the hecticness of the busy holidays, as they make everything fresh, "everything the old-fashioned way" for guests.

In addition to special pastas and pizza, the menu offers steak, veal, chicken, fish and panni (sandwiches). Dolci (desserts) at Erio's include Joan's cheesecake, tiramisu, murder by chocolate cake, cannoli, brownie sundae, spumoni ice cream and lemoncello. The ristorante offers full liquor service with mixed drinks, cocktails, wines (by the bottle, carafe or glass) and beer.

Call 636.928.0112 for catering business groups or special events.

From the twinkling lights of Christmas to the soulful reflections of Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, December is full of fun, festivities and food! In addition to time-honored traditions, there are also quirky holiday quirks to celebrate, such as the annual National Chocolate Covered Anything Day on Dec. 16.

Discover how the Academy inspires children to become confident, courageous, compassionate leaders with a lifelong love of learning!

JOIN US!

Philippine’s Playgroup: Tuesday, December 2 & 16 Be Part of the Heart Open House: Sunday, February 1 Scan the QR code for more info.

ash1818.org | 636-946-6127 | admissions@ash1818.org 619 N. Second St. | St. Charles, MO 63301

A Classic Concept with A Modern Twist

By Caroline Raposo

Elevate his holiday this year with timeless gifts from Men’s Modern General Store. Explore premium beard care, heirloom-quality pocket knives, American-made EDC and watches that define modern craftsmanship. Sip a flight of bourbon from small distilleries in our lounge. Our store is curated with sophistication and grit for the man who values style, substance, and the story behind what he uses everyday.

Finally a store to find the perfect gift for the well-deserving men in your life.

HOLIDAY Pop-Up Bars ON THE ROOFTOP

Now through Dec. 30, festive team members at 360 Westport are hosting what's considered one of the best seasonal, pop-up holiday bars in the St. Louis metropolitan region.

Blaise Pstoret, director of restaurants at Lodging Hospitality Management and 360 Westport general manager, says guests can enjoy seasonal cocktails and a glittering holiday atmosphere. "We provide a whimsical holiday cocktail pop-up experience with extreme, extravagant décor and delicious seasonal drinks, small plates and more," he adds.

Enjoy Up On The Rooftop from 360’s menu, an elevated menu fusing many cuisines, such as Lobster arancini, smoked salmon chips, Bulgogi lettuce wraps, birria tacos, steaks au poivre and roasted chicken with tarragon pan sauce.

Delight in an overview of West St. Louis County holiday lights from 360’s top-of-skyline experience. 360's other location is One S. Broadway. All patrons must be age 21 or older.

360 Westport Hours of Operation:

• Sundays and Mondays 4-11 p.m.

• Tuesdays through Thursdays 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.

• Fridays through Saturdays 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.

314.576.7100

360-STL.com/Westport

360-STL.com/Downtown

Catch Sizzling Seasonal Spirit Within The 360 Decked-Out Bar With Glittering Decorations

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

DECEMBER 1ST-24TH St. Charles Christmas Traditions

Main Street St. Charles | 6:00 PM

Attractions include A Christmas Carol Stroll, Legends of Christmas, photos with Santa and a Santa Parade each Saturday and Sunday at noon. Friday hours: 6-8:30 p.m.; Saturdays noon to 8:30 p.m.; Sundays noon to 5 p.m.; Christmas Eve 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DECEMBER 5TH-6TH, 12TH-13TH Christmas

Candlelight 2025

Historic Daniel Boone Home | 6:00 PM

Experience thousands of candle-lit lanterns, observe past Christmas traditions, enjoy warm apple cider; hear storytellers; tickets are $10 each through St. Charles County Parks; Village is located at 1868 Highway F in Defiance; Village only tours 6-10 p.m.; Boone home and village tours sold out. Times: Fridays (Dec. 5 and 12) 6-10 p.m.; Saturdays (Dec. 6 and 13): 4:30-8:30 p.m.

DECEMBER 5TH-6TH

Merry Makers Market

Foundry Art Center | 5:00 PM

This event at 520 N. Main Center showcases regional makers, designers and artists selling handmade items; also a Mini Makers Market for shoppers 12 and young. Hours are Friday 5-8 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

DECEMBER 6TH

St. Charles Regional Chamber's 15th Annual

Santa's North Pole Dash

Frontier Park | 8:30 AM

Imagine nearly 1,500 Santas running through the streets of Historic St. Charles. Participate in a 5K Run or 1 Mile Walk; register at RunSignup.com; awards and activities after the race at 500 S. Riverside Drive. For questions, call 636.946.0633 or email megan@ StCharlesRegionalChamber.com. Visit  SantasNorthPoleDash.com for additional details. The associated race/ walk finisher medals make wonderful holiday ornaments, too.

DECEMBER 6TH

35th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

St. Peters City Hall | 6:30 PM

This indoor, 2-hour event will feature Santa, music and activities, including a countdown to the lighting of the tree. Enjoy acoustic guitar arrangements from the Childbloom Guitar Program of St. Charles County. Carols sung by The Butch Wax Singers. Warm up with Travelin’ Toms Coffee Truck that will have hot chocolate and coffee available to purchase.

DECEMBER 7TH

Santa At The Skate Park

Kinetic Park, Dardenne Prairie | 11:00 AM

Photo opportunity with Santa; hot beverages and candy cane available for purchase; free to attend but attendees are encouraged to bring canned items for donation to St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank; parental consent and helmets required to ride. The event is located at 7801 Town Square Ave., and ends at 2 p.m.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

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Smooth acceleration. Intuitive technology. A cabin that’s as quiet as it is refined. The Lincoln Corsair makes every errand, school drop-off, or winery weekend feel extraordinary. Discover how perfectly it fits your life.