LIST: Holiday events in St. Louis for the introverts; things to do without crowds

ST. LOUIS - The holiday season can come with many wonderful yet often overstimulating and even stressful elements. It can easily become too much to bear when encountering extended family that may push buttons with political or personal questions or purchasing the perfect gift for someone yet staying within budget.

But there is still hope of enjoying the holiday season, especially for those overwhelmed with increased social interaction during this time of year.

While St. Louis has plenty of holiday events with loud, bustling crowds, here are some ways to enjoy this magical season with a quieter, less crowded experience.

Enjoy a Christmas movie at the Skyview Drive-In Theater

Stay in the comfort of your own car and watch animated Christmas classics on Saturday, December 7 at the Skyview Drive-In Theater in Belleville, Illinois. Tickets can be purchased in advance at bellevillechamber.org

Drive around town for Holiday Light Hopping

Visit the Holiday Light Hopping website and find magically decorated homes for your viewing pleasure around St. Louis. Hop in the car with some hot cocoa and go for a cruise as you decompress and enjoy the various festive homes.

Try Soda Fountain's 'Holiday Freak Shake'

Drawing inspiration for the holiday classic movie, "Elf" with Will Ferrel, the Soda Fountain will add 'freak shake' Breakfast at Buddy's to the menu for the holiday season. The Maple Syrup-flavored shake comes with candy-cooked spaghetti noodles, a fudge Pop-Tart, Mini M&M's and much more perfectly resembling Buddy the Elf's breakfast creation.

Go back in time for a Spirited Holiday Past Tour

Join the Bellefontaine Cemetery on Sunday, December 7 for "A Spirited Holiday Past" tour, visiting holiday-decorated historic sites, museums, and historic St. Louis homes. Many of the tour stops will feature entertainment such as a costumed skit, music, or an activity.

The tour will bring guests along for a trip into the past and how the holidays were celebrated throughout history. For tickets, visit the Bellefontiane Cemetery website.

Drink tea at the Mary Engelbriet Holiday Pop-Up

Known for artwork featured on greeting cards, children's books, calendars, and much more, Mary Engelbriet's work is known for its unique whimsical touch.

Ring in the holidays for a festive holiday pop-up event featuring Engelbriet's work, find the perfect gift, and even grab a cup of tea from Big Heart Tea.

Enjoy Candlelight concerts at The Link Auditorium

Take in the ambiance of hearing live holiday music amidst candlelight at The Link Auditorium. On December 13, experience the "Christmas Special Featuring 'The Nutcracker' & More'" with performances of various holiday classics. Tickets can be purchased online.

Experience 'Christmas with C.S. Lewis'

Sit back and relax as you hear stories presented by C.S. Lewis and various recollections as he hosts a group of Americans Christmassing in England at his home. Experience "Christmas with C.S. Lewis" at the Westport Playhouse. Showtimes and tickets can be found on metrotix.com