🎄 Merry Moves: A Chess-Inspired Holiday Pop-Up in Saint Louis

Merry Moves is the ultimate over-the-top, holiday-themed pop-up experience transforming the Saint Louis Chess Campus in the Central West End. This unique event adds a fun chess twist to your seasonal celebrations, making it a must-visit destination for Saint Louis holiday activities.

🗓️ Event Dates and Operating Schedule

Merry Moves runs from Friday, November 28, 2025, through Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

(Note: Merry Moves is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 & 25.)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 “Nice Hours” for Families and Kids (WCHOF)

Daytime activities (generally 10 AM/12 PM to 5 PM) are hosted at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries (WCHOF). Tickets for Nice Hours are $5 per person and are perfect for families and children. They include:

• Hot chocolate, cookies, and holiday treats.
• Hands-on activities and crafts.
• Guests can enjoy playing on chess sets available throughout the space.
• Viewing the WCHOF exhibitions (free regular business hours admission applies).

🍸 “Naughty Hours” for Adults (Kingside Diner)

Evening hours (generally 4 PM to 10 PM) convert to “Naughty hours” at Kingside Diner, featuring a festive cocktail lounge for adults.

• Tickets cost $15 per person and include one complimentary drink ticket (additional drinks available for purchase), soft drinks, and light appetizers.
• Kingside Diner

Planning a holiday party?Email [email protected] for more information on private event bookings!

📸 A Kitschy Winter Wonderland for Social Media

The Saint Louis Chess Campus is transformed into a kitschy winter wonderland, complete with floor-to-ceiling holiday decorations. It’s the ideal backdrop for taking and sharing selfies and season’s greetings, establishing it as one of the most Instagrammable holiday spots in Saint Louis!