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.)

| Day | Merry Moves Operating Hours |
| --- | --------------------------- |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |

***

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

Daytime activities (generally 10 AM/12 PM to 4 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

### 📸 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!

Purchase Tickets Here

Planning a holiday party? Email events@worldchesshof.org for more information on private event bookings!