Christmas in ILASCO
Friday, December 5th
5pm to 8pm

Mark your calendars for the Historic Downtown Hannibal Christmas Church Tour!

December 5, 2025 from 5-8pm.

YOU START BY PICKING UP YOUR TOUR MAP IN ILASCO at our Research Center & Archival Library building (Al's Tavern if you're from here) located at 10998 Ilasco Drive, Hannibal, MO (down HWY 79 past the Mark Twain Cave)

Here you will:

1.  pick up your map

2.  grab some soup to-go from our SOUP SUPPER (a fundraiser for HOLY CROSS) for a donation of $5

3.  Tour  the 2 churches in ILASCO.

There is no charge for the church tour. All we ask is that you delight in the Christmas spirit. It’s a great way to kick off this holiday season.

Wait until you see them decorated for Christmas and glowing at night.

Follow Historic Downtown Hannibal & Historic Ilasco to find all of the information you need in the coming months.

You have to eat!  Plus we do not allow anyone to leave ILASCO hungry.  Choose from 5 different soups made fresh by The Women of ILASCO.  The cup fits in your car cupholder making it easy to grab dinner while you are on your journey to the 10 churches.  

Your $5 donation per cup of soup goes to the Holy Cross Chapel Association.

Come Hear the Tale of La Befana!

Gather ‘round, friends, and let the magic of Christmas fill the air as we invite you to meet La Befana, the enchanting figure of Italian folklore. Right here in ILASCO from her cozy cottage in the hills of Italy, this delightful (and oh-so-kind) Christmas witch will share her heartwarming story that is sure to tug at your heartstrings.

La Befana is a symbol of generosity and love. Every year, on the eve of Epiphany, she embarks on a magical journey across the globe in search of Baby Jesus. With her broomstick in one hand and a bag of gifts in the other, she travels from village to village, bringing joy and surprises to children everywhere.

Her tale is one of compassion, reminding us of the true spirit of the season-the joy of giving, the warmth of family, and the magic found in every small act of kindness. Children and adults alike will be captivated by her story.

Join us for an unforgettable experience as she weaves her charming narrative and brightens the eve for our little ones with special gifts and surprises.

We hope La Befana becomes an ILASCO Christmas tradition for you and your family as we celebrate the spirit of Christmas together!

The Hannibal Music Academy & Performance Hall will be one of the stops on our Church Tour.  There you will able to hear the sweet sounds of Christmas music being played LIVE at 901 Broadway.  

Be sure to check out Hannibal's Victorian Christmas every weekend from Thanksgiving to Christmas!

Our Christmas light display this year will officially be lit the evening of December 5th for this event.  You may continue to enjoy it until Epiphany. Many thanks to, friend of ILASCO, Carol Grothe, for donating the funds to make our light display happen.  Huge thanks to Hawes Design & Build for the custom lights and hanging.