The St. Louis Christmas Carols Association brings the magic of the season to life by uniting volunteers in joyful song across neighborhoods and public spaces—spreading cheer and raising funds to support local charities that help children thrive.
Donations received by our caroling groups get distributed the following spring to area children’s agencies. We are dedicated to filling the St. Louis area with holiday cheer, as every joyful note helps support basic needs and educational programs. Thanks to the warmth and dedication of our carolers, we’ve been able to brighten the season—and the future—for countless children and families.
Our Legacy
The St. Louis Christmas Carols Association began in 1911, when William H. Danforth and a group of friends decided to bring joy and good will to their neighbors by caroling outside their homes. Initially, they did not plan to collect money, but found listeners gave money when they sang. Being philanthropic businessmen, they donated the funds to the Children's Aid Society, the organization's first beneficiary, to help underserved kids throughout the following year. Over the years, the number of recipients has grown; in 2022, our caroling collections supported 25 metro St. Louis area children's agencies!