Century-Old Churches. Timeless Christmas Splendor.
‘Tis the season for one of Missouri’s most beloved Christmas traditions: the Christmas Country Church Tour! During this event, dozens of century-old churches across Southeast Missouri open their doors and invite visitors to stop by and celebrate the season in this self-guided free tour. Enjoy Christmas music, complimentary refreshments, stunning decorations, and live performances while you explore some of Missouri’s oldest and most beautiful churches. Each church is unique. You might visit a beautiful, but simplistic one-room sanctuary lit by candlelight, or perhaps a chapel with awe-inspiring architectural feats. Despite their differences, each sanctuary is united in joyful purpose. They usher in the yuletide just as they have for over a hundred years – with warmth, generosity, and tidings of comfort and joy.
The self-guided Church Country Tour takes place over in December and is completely free to participate in. It is also customizable! Visit one or two, or make a weekend out of it to visit the more than 40 participating churches on the list. The tour works like an open house – during event hours, each church will offer guests different things, but all will have a greeter present to welcome visitors. To help plan your tour, download the digital brochure or view the online map of all participating churches. You may also stop by the Perry County Heritage Tourism center for a printed version to help plan your visit.
Please note: Given the age of the buildings, some churches are not ADA-compliant. Others may not have electricity and operate by candlelight. Additionally, portions of the tour may take you down country roads that are not hard-surfaced. Please review the brochure to check the specifics of each location.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the tour is self-directed and open to anyone who wishes to join!
Many of the tour locations are, but some are not. Please review the tour brochure to plan a visit that best suits the needs of your group.
The Christmas Country Church Tour is free to all. If you would like to make an (optional) donation, there will be a collection spot at each church.
You can download a digital version or come visit us at the Perry County Heritage Tourism center for a free map and brochure:
508 N. Main Street
Perryville, MO 63775
Our Facebook group is an excellent resource for keeping up with the Country Christmas Country Church Trail! Here you’ll find photos, insights, and stories of Christmas celebrations of yore.
For any media inquiries or questions regarding the Christmas Country Church Tour please call (573-517-2069) or email Trish Erzfeld, the director of Perry County Heritage Tourism.