When the holidays roll around, it is easy to reminisce about what the cityscape looked like growing up. It had a particular kind of magic which was emphasized by merry decorations and high spirits. You have probably heard from parents and grandparents that the city has always had notable splendor during the holidays, and these photos prove just that:

1. A snow-covered Locust Street, 1895.
Missouri History Museum/Wikimedia Commons
This sleepy scene depicts shoppers buzzing about. To the right of the photo is the Mermod and Jaccard's jewelry store, which is made notable by a prominent clock. This location was the jewelers' most famous, up until about two years after this photo was taken. In 1897, a fire ravaged the premises, destroying the structure while its vaults were filled with holiday gifts. What a crummy start to the holiday season!
2. A look down Twelfth Street, 1916.
Missouri History Museum/Wikimedia Commons
3. Olive Street decked out in decor, 1928.
Vintage St. Louis/Facebook
4. Looking east down Cherokee Street, circa 1940.
Vintage St. Louis/Facebook
5. Crowded Downtown streets at Christmastime, circa 1967.
Vintage St. Louis/Facebook
6. Catching up with Santa at the Crestwood Plaza, circa 1970.
Vintage St. Louis/Facebook
7. Locals tackle holiday shopping at River Roads Mall, 1970.
Dwaynep2016/Wikimedia Commons
8. A festive mural at 6th and locust, 1980.
[Downtown St. Louis, 791.172) The State Historical Society of Missouri, Photograph Collection
9. A holiday carriage ride, 1980.
[Downtown St. Louis, 791.171) The State Historical Society of Missouri, Photograph Collection
10. Santa arrives via riverboat, 1980.
[Downtown St. Louis, 791.167) The State Historical Society of Missouri, Photograph Collection
He's making a list, he's checking it twice, but the reindeer are sick so a riverboat will suffice!

The city has always felt festive and magical during the holidays, even if we don’t end up with the white Christmas we’d been hoping for. What do you remember most about St. Louis holidays of years past? Share your stories in the comments!

For more festive fun, you have to visit these 14 Christmas towns.

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