Looking for exciting adventures and memory-making attractions this holiday season with your family? Look no further than Benton County, Missouri. Located within a 200-mile radius from most major Missouri cities, Benton County offers a delightful escape to the Ozarks, with a calendar full of family-friendly traditions, charming towns and family-friendly events.
Brought to you in partnership with Benton County Tourism Commission.
So grab your sweaters and gloves, your sense of adventure, and get ready to create lasting memories.
NOVEMBER
22-Lights of Warsaw: The event takes place around the historic Warsaw community building and Drake Harbor and includes over 141 light displays, a full lit tree, and 32 acres of lights you can visit from November 22nd through New Year’s Day. Plus you can take a boat ride to view the lights displayed throughout the harbor.
23-Cole Camp Christbaumfest: Over 50 quality crafters, music, Santa and Mrs. Claus and more.
DECEMBER
6-Cole Camp Christkindlmarket: This is a family-friendly event featuring shopping in stores, hot apple cider, food trucks, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, wagon and carriage rides, carolers, living windows and more!
1-Cole Camp German Christmas Concert: Community Concert choir of mixed voices performing songs in German.
6-7-Kaysinger Christmas: Visit the pioneer village decorated for Christmas! Stroll the candle lit trails between the historical buildings and duck inside to warm your mittens by an open fire. Immerse yourself in an 1800’s style Christmas with warm food, cider, and hot chocolate for the kid in all of us.
14-Lincoln Christmas Parade, Craft Fair & 4H Soup & Chili Supper: Enjoy the spirit of the season with the Christmas Parade on Main Street , Craft Fair at the Lincoln School and the Benton County 4-H/FFA Youth Fair will be hosting a Free Will Donation Chili/Soup Dinner in the school Cafeteria.
14- Hallmark Christmas in Warsaw: If your fall tour ran a bit late and you happen to be braving winter-y Missouri roads, make sure to drop by for Warsaw Hallmark Christmas. Early riders can catch Santa himself for a warm breakfast to start the day along with ornament crafts for the kids. There are many other things to do as well, from a downtown open house to a live nativity scene and a Christmas parade which will be kicked off by the Mayor lighting the tree on the square. You’ll also have a chance to swap your motorcycle’s horsepower for real horses on a lovely carriage ride.
Beyond the events:
In addition to the festive events, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy Benton County during the holiday season. Here are a few more things to add to your itinerary:
- Holiday Shopping at Family-Owned Shops:
Take some time to explore the charming, family-owned shops and boutiques throughout the quaint towns of Cole Camp and Warsaw’s downtown areas, as well as the Hwy 65 corridor of Lincoln. You’ll find unique gifts, handmade crafts, holiday décor, and more – perfect for ticking off your gift list while supporting local businesses. Many of the stores will feature special holiday promotions and unique seasonal items.
- Quilt-lovers dream:
If you’re a fan of quilting or looking for a unique holiday gift, Warsaw is home to some charming quilt shops that are a must-visit. These cozy, family-owned stores offer an impressive selection of high-quality fabrics, from traditional prints to modern patterns, as well as quilting supplies, notions, and tools for both seasoned quilters and beginners. Many of the shops also feature hand-crafted quilts and other textile art, showcasing the talent and creativity of local artisans. During the holiday season, these shops often offer special discounts or host quilting-related events and workshops, making it the perfect time to explore and perhaps even take home a one-of-a-kind piece of handmade art.
- Dining at Cozy Local Restaurants:
After a day of exploring the lights and festivities, enjoy a warm meal at one of Benton County’s local restaurants. From cozy cafes to family-friendly diners and more upscale dining options, you’ll find delicious comfort food to fuel your holiday adventures. Many places offer seasonal treats like homemade pies, hot cocoa, and other festive favorites. - Explore Historic Sites:
Take some time to stroll around Warsaw’s historic district. From the iconic community building to the beautiful Drake Harbor, you can soak in the charm of this picturesque town while enjoying the holiday decorations. Don’t forget to take in Cole Camp’s german heritage and historic German Immigrant Memorial.
Holiday Treats:
Stop by local bakeries and sweet shops for some holiday-inspired treats like gingerbread cookies, pies, and candy canes to sweeten your visit. You might even find special seasonal flavors at the local ice cream shops or cafes.
