How do you plan to ring in 2025? Regardless of your vibe, The St. Louis American has options upon options for consideration.
Maybe you have loved ones in town and want to show them around the city. The “Neon Nights” celebration at Kiener Plaza will be a good fit. This family friendly event features live DJ sessions, fire dancers, and light shows starting at 4 p.m. and will culminate with a fireworks show. DowntownSTL.org reports this fireworks show will have a “monumental Arch view,” making it the perfect backdrop for family photos.
For those looking for festivities with grown folks fun, there’s plenty to be had. The Casino Royale New Year’s Eve Event at 21c Museum Hotel is aiming to be the most luxurious. Festivities begin at 9 p.m. and the night will combine casino gaming with gourmet dining, live music, curated cocktails, and interactive art installations. This event is uniquely targeted toward the creative community in St. Louis. Featured artists and performers include DJ J*TR3Y, Rezz, Brock Seals, Joanna Serenko, Mercy, Alayna Lovely, a surprise house band and other special surprises from the creative lineup. For tickets, visit www.tickettailor.com/events/umojaproductions/1500663
House of Soul will be kicking off INTIMACY, their New Year’s Eve R&B Experience with DJ Homicide and DJ Kidd Boogie, at 9 p.m. The popular club and live music venue is located at 1204 Washington Avenue.
The Marquee (1911 Locust Avenue) will continue its New Year’s Eve tradition by ringing in 2025 with an opportunity for club regulars to kick it in grand fashion. The party starts at 10 p.m. and will feature DJ Climate on the tables.
Jamming into 2025
If live music is more your New Year’s Eve jam, there are a few shows to choose from. Grammy nominated R&B veteran Raheem DeVaughn is performing two shows at City Winery.
“I love St. Louis, can’t you tell,” DeVaughn told The American back in March ahead of his performance at Stifel Theatre.
DeVaughn is a familiar face in St. Louis, often performing in our city at least twice a year. St. Louis music fans have high expectations, but he has proven himself to be a true crowd pleaser over the years.
“I try to be true and authentic to what it is I like to hear or see,” DeVaughn said. “I keep that in mind with everything I do – whether it’s making music or performing on stage. If I can’t enjoy it, then I don’t think the people are going to like it.”
He’ll also perform two shows on December 30 in case you want to catch him live, but are booked and busy for December 31st. Visit citywinery.com for tickets.
Victor Goines & Friends will be swinging into the new year with two shows at Jazz St. Louis’ Steward Center. They will be performing classic standards and a few originals. Tickets are available at jazzstl.org
The Dirty Muggs, a favorite among homegrown bands, will be in concert at the Clayton Hotel at 7:30. The black tie event includes an open bar and discounted rates on room and St. Louis legend DJ Charlie Chan on the ones and twos. Tickets can be purchased through www.stubhub.com
The last laugh
One of the biggest festivities, which has also become a tradition of sorts, allows revelers to cackle their way into the new year.
St. Louis native, and King of Comedy, Cedric The Entertainer will be headlining this year’s New Year’s Comedy Jam at Chaifetz Arena. The show starts at 8 p.m. on December 31st. He will be joined by fellow King of Comedy D.L. Hughley, Deon Cole and Earthquake.
“I’m St. Louis’ own,” Cedric told The American last year ahead of a book signing and discussion for his critically acclaimed debut novel Flipping Boxcars. “It’s always good to come home and share what you do with the people who supported you first.” Visit https://www.boxofficeticketsales.com/ for more information on the comedy show.
In St. Louis, the love for Cedric goes beyond the stage because he continues to give back through a variety of platforms. His benefit shows for SSM St. Mary’s Health eventually led to the Rosetta Boyce Kyles Women’s Pavilion. He regularly presents scholarships and facilitates other philanthropic efforts through The Kyles Family Foundation.
If you miss his act, Cedric is ending his night at the Ignite 2025: New Year’s Eve Party at Live by Loews. The party goes from 7 p.m. until 1 a.m. More details about the party can be found at https://www.loewshotels.com/live-by-loews-st-louis-missouri/discover/happenings
Living It content is produced in partnership with Regional Arts Commission.
