St. Louis Cents

Twilight Under the Train Shed--Sept 3

2010-09-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

Union Station is hosting their Twilight Under the Train Shed series again this summer. Movies are the first Friday of every month and start at twilight (around 8-8:30pm) on the Lake Stage. Last one--does that mean summer is over already?

Sept 3: Top Gun

For more information visit the Twilight Under the Train Shed website or call 314-421-6655.

Twilight Under the Train Shed--August 6

2010-08-05T07:59:00.001-05:00

Union Station is hosting their Twilight Under the Train Shed series again this summer. Movies are the first Friday of every month and start at twilight (around 8-8:30pm) on the Lake Stage. Only a couple of movies left!

August 6: Back to the Future
Sept 3: Top Gun

For more information visit the Twilight Under the Train Shed website or call 314-421-6655.

Twilight Under the Train Shed--July 2

2010-07-01T07:58:00.001-05:00

Union Station is hosting their Twilight Under the Train Shed series again this summer. Movies are the first Friday of every month and start at twilight (around 8-8:30pm) on the Lake Stage.

July 2: Ferris Bueller's Day Off
August 6: Back to the Future
Sept 3: Top Gun

For more information visit the Twilight Under the Train Shed website or call 314-421-6655.

Twilight Under the Train Shed--June 4

2010-06-03T07:56:00.001-05:00

Union Station is hosting their Twilight Under the Train Shed series again this summer. Movies are the first Friday of every month and start at twilight (around 8-8:30pm) on the Lake Stage.

June 4: Hoosiers
July 2: Ferris Bueller's Day Off
August 6: Back to the Future
Sept 3: Top Gun

For more information visit the Twilight Under the Train Shed website or call 314-421-6655.

Rose Society and Rock Garden Society shows--May 29

2010-05-28T10:52:00.003-05:00

The Botanic Garden is hopping this time of year and there are two more shows that you might be interested in.

The Rose Society of Greater St. Louis show and sale will be held in the Orthwein Floral Display Hall in the Ridgway Visitor Center on Saturday from noon to 5pm. New cultivars and old favorites are shown and sold by the area’s top growers, who are on hand to give plant care advice and share information about their organization. Remember to go before noon if you want free admission to the Garden!

For those of you with a little less green in your garden, the Gateway Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society sale is also this Saturday. The show will be held in the Beaumont Room in the Ridgway Visitor Center from 9am to 5pm. New cultivars and old favorites are sold by the area’s top growers, who are on hand to give plant care advice and share information about their organization.

Shakespeare Festival St Louis--May 28-June 20

2010-05-25T13:06:00.003-05:00

I look forward to the Shakespeare Festival every year. Even though my kids are really too little to get Shakespeare, they have a great time at the plays (especially watching the jugglers before the play!) just being outside. It's even better that it's free! In addition to the play, the Green Show which starts at 6:30pm has lots of activities and games for kids and adults to participate in.
In celebration of its 10th Anniversary, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis brings Hamlet, the pinnacle of Shakespeare’s canon, to Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park. St. Louisan and Kevin Kline Award winner Jim Butz plays the title role of the doomed young prince with a stellar cast of 18 actors, two thirds of whom are from St. Louis.

Each year the Festival produces professional Shakespeare theatre in Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park free to the public, and year-round Education Programs. The Festival’s 10th Anniversary 2010 production, Hamlet, runs May 28 through June 20, nightly except Tuesdays and June 5 (preview shows will be May 26 and 27).

For more information about the Festival and its Education Programs, visit the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis website or call 314.531.9800.

Horticultural Society and Bonsai Society Shows--May 22

2010-05-21T13:50:00.002-05:00

The Missouri Botanic Garden is hosting two shows this Saturday which cover quite a bit of ground! Both shows run from 9am to noon in the Ridgway Visitor Center and admission to the shows is included with Garden admission (remember to go before noon to get free entry to the Garden!).

St. Louis Horticultural Society sale. New cultivars and old favorites are sold by the area’s top growers, who are on hand to give plant care advice and share information about their organization in the Orthwein Floral Display Hall.

Bonsai Society of Greater St. Louis show and sale. New cultivars and old favorites are shown and sold by the area’s top growers, who are on hand to give plant care advice and share information about their organization in the Beaumont Room.

Greater St Louis Iris Society Show--May 8

2010-05-07T10:48:00.003-05:00

The Missouri Botanic Garden will be hosting the Greater St. Louis Iris Society show this Saturday. New cultivars and old favorites are shown by the area’s top growers, who are on hand to give plant care advice and share information about their organization. The show will be held in the Orthwein Floral Display Hall at the Ridgway Visitor Center. The show runs from noon to 5pm but if you want free admission to the Garden you will need to go before noon. Entry to the show is included with Garden admission.

Twilight Under the Train Shed--May 7

2010-05-06T11:42:00.002-05:00

You know summer's getting close when all of the free movies start up again. Union Station is first out with their Twilight Under the Train Shed series. Movies are the first Friday of every month and start at twilight (around 8-8:30pm) on the Lake Stage.

May 7: Rocky Horror Picture Show
June 4: Hoosiers
July 2: Ferris Bueller's Day Off
August 6: Back to the Future
Sept 3: Top Gun

For more information visit the Twilight Under the Train Shed website or call 314-421-6655.

Meramec Symphonic and Jazz Bands Concert--May 2

2010-05-01T10:08:00.003-05:00

If you like music, head to Meramec Community College for the Symphonic Band and Jazz Band spring concert. You will be amazed at the quality of musicianship from these bands, and their conductor is incredible!

From their press release:

Symphonic Band and Jazz Band Spring Concert
with special guest Mehlville High School Band
Sunday, May 2nd, 3pm
Meramec Theatre

The Meramec Symphonic Band and Jazz Band will perform their Spring Concert on Sunday, May 2nd at 3:00pm in the Meramec Theatre. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend.

The Meramec Jazz Band will begin the concert with big band favorites by Nestico, Bernstein and Menza including "Maria" and "Groove Blues". The MJB, directed by Bob Boedges, is a professional-level ensemble and features many of the bandmembers as soloists.

The Mehlville High School Band, under the direction of Tony Brown will perform two works by Gary Gackstatter, "Bridget Cruise" and "Battle of the Washita" in addition to works by Tichelli.

The Meramec Symphonic Band, under the direction of Gary Gackstatter will conclude the concert with performances of music by Sousa, Ives and Maslanka in addition to the premiere of "Here Be Dragons", a new work by conductor Gackstatter.

Also on the program will be performances by the Meramec Trombones and the Symphonic Band Percussion Ensemble.

Clydesdale Camera Day--May 1

2010-04-30T13:57:00.002-05:00

On the first Saturday of every month from 11am to 1pm you can have your picture taken with an Anheuser-Busch Clydesdale. If you've never seen one of these gentle giants in person be prepared to be amazed. They are huge and beautiful!

The picture area will be set up in the parking lot of the brewery, close to the entrance for tours. For more information, see the Anheuser-Busch website or call 314-577-2626.

Herb Days at the Missouri Botanical Garden--May 1

2010-04-30T13:46:00.003-05:00

Don't miss Herb Days at the Missouri Botanical Garden, presented by the Garden Gate Shop and the St. Louis Herb Society. Herbs are perfect for growing in small spaces like apartments and balconies, so if you've been looking to grow something this would be a great place to start!

Choose from a wide selection of potted fresh herbs, including new and hard-to-find varieties. The society’s popular cookbook, periodicals and curry powder will also be available. Herb Society members will give demonstrations and guidance on selecting, planting, growing and using herbs. The show will run from 9am to 5pm in the Orthwein Floral Display Hall. Entry to the herb show is included with Garden admission, which is free on Saturday before noon for city and county residents.

St Louis Storytelling Festival--Apr 28-May 1

2010-04-27T10:02:00.001-05:00

There's more than I could ever begin to list happening at the annual St Louis Storytelling Festival! The Storytelling Festival has been around for 30 years(!) and this year starts Wednesday, April 28, and continues through Saturday, May 1.

There are so many events that I can't even list the schedule, but know that there will be stories for adults, ghost stories, stories for the deaf, storytelling concerts and spiritual storytelling.

For the complete schedule, see the St Louis Storytelling Festival website. For more information, call 314-516-6590.

Genesis Jazz Project Concert--Apr 27

2010-04-26T13:47:00.002-05:00

I'm a big fan of jazz so I'm excited to be able to present this concert at the Touhill Performing Arts Center!

Presented by the UMSL Department of Music, the Genesis Jazz Project will be performing some of the great standards of concert jazz. Both the Big Band and the smaller Combos will be performing. Admission is free and the concert starts at 7:30pm.

St Louis Symphony Community Concert--April 25

2010-04-24T12:53:00.003-05:00

Join the St Louis Symphony in celebrating the career of conductor Robert Ray with a concert on Sunday evening at 6pm. West Side Missionary Baptist Church (4675 Page Blvd) will host the concert featuring Roland Carter as the guest conductor and the Saint Louis Symphony IN UNISON® Chorus.

In celebration of the 15th anniversary of the IN UNISON Chorus and to commemorate the final concert under the baton of Robert Ray, who is retiring at the end of this season, the 2009-10 ensemble will be joined by former members of the chorus in performing Dr. Ray's "Gospel Mass."

For more information see the SLSO Community Calendar or call 314-286-4432.

Earth Day Festival in Forest Park--April 25

2010-04-24T10:54:00.003-05:00

Don't miss this year's Earth Day festival in Forest Park! There is something for everyone--lots to do and and even more to see! Activities will take place from 11am to 6pm on Saturday, April 25, on the Muny grounds in Forest Park.

Check out the educational exhibits and hands-on activities, three stages of music and entertainment, an Earth Day Cafe with local and earth-friendly foods (available for purchase) and an All-Species Parade (dress as your favorite species and join in the fun!).

For more information, see the St Louis Earth Day website or call 314-961-5838.

Mid-America Regional Lily Society--April 17

2010-04-16T10:41:00.005-05:00

Lilies are one of my favorite flowers and I'm always blown away by how many different types there actually are. If you like lilies, don't miss the Mid America Regional Lily Society Sale at the Missouri Botanical Garden this Saturday. Admission to the sale is included with Garden admission which is free until noon for St Louis City and County residents.

New cultivars and old favorites are sold by the area’s top growers, who will be on hand to give plant care advice and share information about their organization. The Lily sale will be held in the Orthwein Floral Display Hall inside the Ridgway Visitor Center from 9am to 5pm. I should confess that I'm not so much a buyer as a looker! :)

For more information check out the Botanical Garden website or the Mid America Regional Lily Society website.

Healthy Kids Day--April 17

2010-04-16T08:51:00.003-05:00

Local YMCAs will be hosting Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 17, from 10am to 2pm. All events will take place at local YMCAs with the exception of the O'Fallon, St. Charles, and Tri-County branches which will host activities in the center court of Mid-Rivers Mall.

Healthy Kids Day will feature games for the whole family and some healthy snacks too! Take on your kids with a Wii Fit competition, watch STEPS dance performances, and bounce out the winter blahs with a bounce house. In addition, there will be aquatic relay races and games and a hit, pitch, and run activity. This is a great way to get moving this spring! Each branch is hosting its own set of activities so to find out exactly what will be available be sure to call your local branch or visit your branch website.

Also, join the YMCA that day and receive 100% off of the joining fee! (Monthly membership fees will still apply.)

For more information, see the YMCA website or call your local YMCA.

SLSO On Stage at Powell--April 7

2010-04-05T09:36:00.002-05:00

On April 7 at 7pm join the members of the St Louis Symphony Orchestra as they explore Music of the Middle East, from Israel to Kurdistan. Several guest musicians will be performing with the Symphony.

From the St Louis Symphony website:

"The popular On Stage at Powell series gives audiences a musician’s eye-view of this fabulous hall, and provides an intimate setting for both informative discussions and incredible music-making. Bring your curiosity and your questions as you sit on Powell Hall’s stage with the members of the Saint Louis Symphony as they perform with guests from the music community. Bring all your senses to enjoy this unique musical experience. On Stage at Powell is free and begins at 7 PM."

For more information see the St Louis Symphony Community Events page or call 314-286-4432.

St Louis Symphony Chamber Concert--Apr 6

2010-04-05T07:57:00.005-05:00

On Tuesday evenings you can catch selected musicians from the St Louis Symphony Orchestra performing at the Piper Palm House in Tower Grove Park. Seating is limited and is on a first-come, first-serve basis and all concerts begin at 7pm.

This Tuesday, April 6, will feature Susan Slaughter on trumpet and will feature music for brass quintet.

For more information see the SLSO Community Events page or call 314-286-4432.

Missouri Botanical Garden Children's Garden Opening--April 3

2010-04-02T08:30:00.001-05:00

Celebrate spring with the re-opening of the Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden at the Missouri Botanical Garden! This Saturday, April 3, kids can participate in a variety of activities at the Children's Garden. Activities start at 9am and go all day, but be sure to get in before noon if you want free admission (St Louis City and County residents).

Here's a brief schedule of events:

9am-noon: Make a corn husk doll at the Osage Camp.

9am-3pm: Get some cheek art from our popular volunteer face painters.

9am-4pm: Make your own Children’s Garden to remind you of your special day. Create seed packets to start your own garden from the ground up.

10am-noon & 1pm-3pm: Look for Finn strolling the Garden.

10am-2pm: Back by popular demand, watch as chainsaw artist, Joe Bathon, creates wood works right before your eyes. Discover the Power of Pollination in the Children’s Garden’s very own pollination garden. Become a tree detective and uncover what’s so neat about trees.

10am-3pm: Visit the Nature Explore Classroom and pot a plant to take home.

11am-noon: Hear about the life of Sacagawea, a courageous Shoshone woman who accompanied Lewis and Clark on the Corps of Discovery. Listen as storyteller Dianne Moran recounts the fascinating story of her amazing life and adventures.

Noon-3pm: Listen and dance to live folk music performed by the Ryan Spearman Trio.

For more information visit the Children's Garden website or call 314-577-5100.

Greater St Louis Daffodil Society Show--March 27

2010-03-26T10:16:00.002-05:00

If you want to see spring, visit the Greater St Louis Daffodil Society Show on March 27! The Missouri Botanical Garden will be hosting the show from 9am to 5pm in the Beaumont Room at the Ridgway Visitor Center (St Louis City and County residents receive free admission to the Garden until noon on Saturday). Top growers in the area will share new cultivars as well as old favorites and will be available to share plant care advice. In addition, the Society will be hosting a photography contest for amateurs, professionals and youth. Check out their website for more information.

Daffodils are one of the true signs of spring to me and this is sure to brighten away those winter blues!

For more information, visit the Greater St Louis Daffodil Society website.

Note: The show is being held both Saturday and Sunday, but admission is only free on Saturday until noon for St Louis City and County residents so I have only listed this as a Saturday event.

Horticultural Therapy Awareness Day--March 20

2010-03-19T09:57:00.002-05:00

The Missouri Botanical Garden will be sponsoring Horticultural Therapy Awareness Day to introduce visitors to the numerous physical and mental benefits that plants and gardening provide. From 10am to 3pm on Saturday, March 20, visitors can explore a demonstration healing garden, stop by stations to experience different plants and how they can impact various senses, pot a sensory plant to take home, make an arrangement of cut flowers, and watch demonstrations of ergonomic gardening tools.

All activities will be held inside the upper level of the Ridgway Visitor Center and are included with visitor admission, which is free for St Louis City and County residents until noon on Saturday (so go early!).

For more information, visit the Missouri Botanical Garden website or call 314-577-9400.

Dogtown St. Patrick's Day Parade--March 17

2010-03-16T11:06:00.005-05:00

If you're looking for a slightly more unique way to celebrate St Patrick's Day, show up at Tamm and Oakland Avenue this Wednesday, March 17! Dogtown celebrates their very own St Patrick's Day with a parade sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. The parade starts at 11:30am and will travel south to Lloyd Avenue. Participating groups include marching bands, family clans, floats, and more!

For more information visit the parade website or call 314-645-5809.

SLSO On Stage at Powell--March 17

2010-03-16T09:34:00.001-05:00

On March 17 at 7pm join the members of the St Louis Symphony Orchestra and composer Barbara Harbach as they celebrate Women's History Month and the influence of women in music.

From the St Louis Symphony website:

"The popular On Stage at Powell series gives audiences a musician’s eye-view of this fabulous hall, and provides an intimate setting for both informative discussions and incredible music-making. Bring your curiosity and your questions as you sit on Powell Hall’s stage with the members of the Saint Louis Symphony as they perform with guests from the music community. Bring all your senses to enjoy this unique musical experience. On Stage at Powell is free and begins at 7 PM."

For more information see the St Louis Symphony Community Events page or call 314-286-4432.

Lowe's Build and Grow--March 13

2010-03-12T14:04:00.001-06:00

This Saturday kids can make a free tabletop basketball game at Lowe's from 10-11am. Each participant will receive a free apron, safety goggles, a project patch, and a certificate of completion for the project. To sign up, visit Lowe's Build and Grow website.

St. Patrick's Day Parade--March 13

2010-03-12T11:03:00.002-06:00

The 41st annual St Patrick's Day parade will take place in downtown St Louis this Saturday, March 13! The parade starts at noon at 18th and Market Streets and will head east to Broadway and Market Streets. The parade will include over 120 units including marching bands, balloons, floats, and clowns. This is one parade you will not want to miss!

For more information on the parade route or other aspects of the St Patrick's Day celebration, visit the parade website.

Mask Symphony--March 11

2010-03-10T09:22:00.004-06:00

For all of you music and art lovers, the Meramec Symphonic Band will be joined by mask-maker Rob Faust in a concert that combines music and masks in creative and surprising ways. "Face: The Music, a Symphony of Masks" uses the music of conductor/composer Gary Gackstatter to animate Faust's many mask characters, combining music and visual arts.

The concert, which will also feature the Meramec Choir and Chamber Choir is Thursday, March 11th, at 7:30pm in the Meramec Theatre (building TH on the map, on the west side of the STLCC Meramec campus). The concert is free and open to the public and with Gary Gackstatter conducting promises to be an exciting and entertaining event!

Rob Faust, a native of New Orleans now living in Canada, has a background in dance, comedy, theatre and mime. He will be on the Meramec campus for two days giving workshops, which are also free to students and the public.

Wednesday, March 10th
12 Noon- Mask Presentation, HW102
1:15pm- Mask making in Meramec Sculpture Studio

Thursday, March 11th
11am- Mask Presentation, HW102
7:30pm- Concert, Meramec Theatre

For more information on Rob Faust, go to his website.

St Louis Brass Band Concert--Mar 7

2010-03-06T06:56:00.002-06:00

You won't want to miss the "Glorious Brass" concert being performed by the renowned St Louis Brass Band!

On Sunday, March 7, at 2:30pm the St Louis Brass Band will be performing in the beautiful Christ Church Cathedral. This is a great opportunity to see the Brass Band for free so don't miss out!

The St Louis Brass Band is a British-style brass band that presents family-friendly concerts of light classic and popular music. It consists of 30 brass and percussion players from the greater St Louis area.

Kids Workshops at Home Depot--March 6

2010-03-05T14:06:00.001-06:00

Head to Home Depot on Saturday, March 6, anytime from 9am to noon for their fun Kids Workshops! This Saturday kids can make a rain gauge--sure to be useful in the upcoming spring months! The workshops are designed for kids ages 5-12 and do not require any registration. Participants will also receive a kid-sized orange apron and a project pin. For more information, see the Home Depot Kids Workshops website.

Lowe's Build and Grow--Feb 27

2010-02-26T14:01:00.002-06:00

This Saturday kids can make a free "Lowebot" at Lowe's from 10-11am. The Lowebot is a car and a robot combined. Each participant will receive a free apron, safety goggles, a project patch, and a certificate of completion for the project. To sign up, visit Lowe's Build and Grow website.

Michael's Science Make-It Take-It--Feb 27

2010-02-26T08:41:00.002-06:00

On Saturday, February 27, participating Michael's stores will be hosting a free Make-it Take-it molecule project from 10am to 1pm. Kids will use the periodic table to create 3D molecule models using Crayola Model Magic. Find your nearest store location at the Michael's store locator.

St Louis French Festival--Feb 25-Mar1

2010-02-24T09:04:00.001-06:00

The St. Louis French Festival is an artistic and educational collaboration between the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, the Missouri History Museum and the St. Louis Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, with St. Louis Cathedral Concerts spearheading this endeavor. These institutions are joining forces to make February 25 through March 1 in St. Louis a memorable week filled with French culture and charm.

The St. Louis French Festival touts cultural experiences with a uniquely French flair. Events include lectures on French music, art, and architecture, concerts featuring French music, tours of the Saint Louis Art Museum French collections, a special tour of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, a theatrical presentation on the French roots of the City of St. Louis, and French wine and cheese tastings.

Most (but not all!) of the events during the St. Louis French Festival are free of charge. For the full schedule see the St. Louis French Festival website. If you haven't been to the Cathedral Basilica yet, I highly recommend you take advantage of the free guided tour (Friday, Feb 26, 4pm) of the Cathedral and the Great Cathedral Organ!

Free Auntie Anne's pretzel--Feb 20

2010-02-19T13:32:00.003-06:00

This Saturday, February 20, 2010, from 10am to 3pm, you can get a free Original or Cinnamon Sugar pretzel at Auntie Anne’s! No purchase or coupon is required; one free pretzel per person. There are several Auntie Anne's locations in the St Louis area. See their website for more info and to find a location near you!

SLSO On Stage at Powell--Feb 17

2010-02-16T09:29:00.001-06:00

On February 17 at 7pm join the members of the St Louis Symphony Orchestra and Jazz St Louis to celebrate St Louis' musical heritage. Music of Miles Davis, Scott Joplin, and others will be highlighted with Reginald Thomas on piano.

From the St Louis Symphony website:

"The popular On Stage at Powell series gives audiences a musician’s eye-view of this fabulous hall, and provides an intimate setting for both informative discussions and incredible music-making. Bring your curiosity and your questions as you sit on Powell Hall’s stage with the members of the Saint Louis Symphony as they perform with guests from the music community. Bring all your senses to enjoy this unique musical experience. On Stage at Powell is free and begins at 7 PM."

For more information see the St Louis Symphony Community Events page or call 314-286-4432.

St Louis Symphony Chamber Concert--Feb 9

2010-02-08T09:23:00.003-06:00

On Tuesday evenings you can catch selected musicians from the St Louis Symphony Orchestra performing at the Piper Palm House in Tower Grove Park. Seating is limited and is on a first-come, first-serve basis and all concerts begin at 7pm.

This Tuesday, February 9, will feature Music for String Quintet.

For more information see the SLSO Community Events page or call 314-286-4432.

PetSmart Wiener Dog Derby--Feb 7

2010-02-06T14:23:00.003-06:00

If you're a fan of wiener dogs, don't miss the PetSmart Wiener Dog Derby on Sunday, February 7!

From the website:

"Dachshund lovers and their lovable companions descend upon Soulard Market Park for the 17th annual PETsMART Wiener Dog Derby. Inclusive of a tournament bracket, winners medals, racer pictures, and local radio talent to call the race. A combination of large and small bleachers, event stage, race track, VIP area, and exhibitors make this the destination as the parade comes to an end. This event has developed into one of the most unique sporting events in the area. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. at the park and the first heat takes place at 2:00 p.m. The dachshunds race in three divisions based on age: Cocktail Wienies, Ballpark Franks, and Hot Dogs. The finals are followed by the trophy presentation ceremony in the Wiener's Circle."

Family Sundays at the St Louis Art Museum--Jan 31

2010-01-30T09:49:00.001-06:00

Come check out free Family Sundays every Sunday in January at the St Louis Art Museum!

This month it’s all about beautiful things to wear. From elaborate gold jewelry to stiff neck ruffs, or boldly patterned cloth to finely etched armor, each fashionable item tells a story. See some of the "must-haves" from throughout the ages and create an artful fashion statement of your own. Family Sundays run from 1-4pm in the Sculpture Hall.

For more information see the St Louis Art Museum website or call 314-721-0072.

Family Sundays at the St Louis Art Museum--Jan 24

2010-01-23T09:46:00.001-06:00

Come check out free Family Sundays every Sunday in January at the St Louis Art Museum!

This Sunday is a special Family Sunday. The St Louis Art Museum will be celebrating the groundbreaking of the Museum's new expansion and you are invited to participate!

From 1-4pm you can design and build a model of your own museum, inspired by David Chipperfield's model of the Saint Louis Art Museum's expansion. From 2-3pm, you can take a family tour that will explore the architectural features of both the "old" museum and the "new" expansion.

For more information see the St Louis Art Museum website or call 314-721-0072.

US Cellular Family Winter Carnival--Jan 23

2010-01-22T14:19:00.002-06:00

This Saturday features a family-friendly Mardi Gras carnival in Soulard! If you're looking for a great excuse to get outside a bit, head on over to 8th and Lafayette (in front of the Soulard Farmer's Market) for the US Cellular Family Winter Carnival!

There will be lots of activities all day including arts and crafts (in a heated tent), family-friendly performances, karaoke for the kids, St Louis Science Center activities, football skills challenges, and a huge graffiti wall that kids can decorate. The carnival starts at 11am and ends at 4pm with an interactive parade where the kids can show off their new creations!

All events are free but food will be available for purchase. For more information, check out the US Cellular Family Winter Carnival website.

Art After 5--Jan 22

2010-01-21T09:49:00.001-06:00

The St Louis Art Museum will be featuring the musical group Nigerian Brothers at their Art After 5 concert on January 22. The concert will start at 7pm in the Grigg Gallery.

Nigerian master musician Ken Okulolo and his brothers are among the few top contemporary Nigerian musicians with deep roots in African folk and highlife music. Together, they recreate the sweet, lilting sounds of their earliest village memories.

For more information see the St Louis Art Museum website or call 314-721-0072.

Family Sundays at the St Louis Art Museum--Jan 17

2010-01-16T09:43:00.001-06:00

Delmar Loop Ice Carnival--Jan 16

2010-01-15T13:21:00.001-06:00

Celebrate winter in the Loop with the Loop Ice Carnival! Check out the live ice carving demonstrations, 5K and 10K Frozen Buns runs, putt putt pub crawl, temporary tattoo scavenger hunt, a giant slide and ice slides, s’mores roast (my personal favorite--I'm a sucker for s'mores!), fire performers, live artists, performance groups and more.

Plus, don't miss out on the FREE money--collect ice cubes from stores throughout the Loop. One thousand ice cubes will have a $1 coin inside! And of course, unless you go shopping, everything is free!

Dr. MLK, Jr. Freedom Celebration--Jan 15

2010-01-14T09:38:00.001-06:00

Join the Saint Louis Art Museum on January 15 to praise the life and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year’s program celebrates women who were—and continue to be—drum majors for justice and peace. Our honorees embody the belief of Mrs. Coretta Scott King, "If the nation is to be saved, women must become its soul." The program will start at 7:30pm.

For more information, see the St Louis Art Museum website or call 314-721-0072.

COCA Pre-Ballet--Dec 6

2009-12-05T06:47:00.001-06:00

Kids ages 3-6 will explore classical ballet through this fun and free introduction at COCA. Tutus are welcome!

The workshop will be held from 3-4pm.

For more information or to register, email freeat3@cocastl.org. For registration, include the names, addresses and birth dates of those attending.

AmerenUE Thanksgiving Day Parade--Nov 26

2009-11-25T10:45:00.001-06:00

Head downtown for the Midwest’s best holiday parade featuring colorful floats, bands, storybook characters, carriages, equestrian units and Santa Claus!

The AmerenUE Thanksgiving Day Parade will wind through downtown St. Louis to kick off the holiday season starting at 8:45am. The two millionth Eagle Scout, Anthony Thomas will serve as the Honorary Grand Marshal. The parade begins at North 4th Street and Washington Avenue, proceeds South on North 4th Street to Market Street, continues West on Market Street and concludes at 14th Street.

Way of Lights--Nov 20

2009-11-19T10:35:00.001-06:00

The Way of Lights at Our Lady of the Snows Shrine is one tradition that my family does every year. The kids love to see all of the lights and it presents a beautiful telling of the Christmas story. There are also lots of fun activities to do inside and out!

Drive through 1 1/2 miles of breathtaking displays of over one million lights which focuses on the birth of Christ, the one true light of the world. Through sparkling lights, electro-art sculptures and creative displays, the Shrine celebrates the birth of our Savior. There's a free petting zoo and choir performances many nights. In addition you can tour the Christmas tree room where there are many beautifully decorated Christmas trees with a theme of "Christmas through the years." There's also an interactive children's village where kids can make ornaments and watch puppet shows!

The Way of Lights is open from 5-10pm starting November 20 and ending January 3, 2010.

Macy's Holiday Festival of Lights--Nov 20

2009-11-19T10:10:00.002-06:00

It's the start of the Christmas decorating season with Macy's Holiday Festival of Lights!

On November 20 at 6:30pm, Christmas lights are simultaneously turned on in downtown St. Louis and downtown Clayton for the official start of the holiday season. Special holiday activities starting at 4:30pm and a fireworks display after the lighting will be held at each location (Kiener Plaza in downtown St. Louis and Memorial Park in the St. Louis County Government Center in Clayton). Concluding the event in Kiener Plaza after the fireworks display will be a walking procession led by Santa up 7th Street to Macy's for the unveiling of the holiday windows.

Dale Chihuly exhibit--Nov 20-Jan 30

2009-11-19T08:46:00.005-06:00

If you missed the most recent Chihuly exhibit, you now have the opportunity to catch it again! From November 20-January 30 the Duane Reed Gallery (4729 McPherson Ave., 63108) will be hosting a Chihuly exhibit showcasing his phenomenal glass sculptures. Admission to the gallery is free.

Chihuly’s distinctive glass sculpture is represented by over 180 international museums including the Louvre, MOMA, the Whitney Museum, the Metropolitan Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. His recent exhibition at the Kew Botanical Garden in London drew in 950,000 visitors. Chihuly’s popularity also has a special art historical resonance. His work owes much to the grand tradition of Renaissance era Venetian glass, yet his work squarely sits in the modern avant-garde. Critic Donald Kuspit commented that Chihuly, with an intention to transform and deepen consciousness, was able to 'find transcendence in the medium itself. He mythologizes glass into the ideal medium of expression'. In this visionary leap Chihuly’s rare ability to conceive of sculptural glass on a monumental scale revolutionized the medium.

For more information contact the Duane Reed Gallery at 314-361-4100.

COCA Beginner Rhythm Tap Jam--Nov 15

2009-11-14T06:45:00.002-06:00

Kids ages 6-12 will explore basic tap steps, vocabulary, tempo, and musicality. Students will learn the fundamentals of rhythm through imaginative rhythm games and patterns. Tap shoes provided (pending shoe size) by COCA.

The workshop will be held from 3-4pm.

For more information or to register, email freeat3@cocastl.org. For registration, include the names, addresses and birth dates of those attending.

18th Annual St Louis International Film Festival--Nov 12-22

2009-11-11T09:57:00.001-06:00

The 18th Annual St Louis International Film Festival will be held from Nov 12-22 at various theatres in the St Louis area. The festival features screenings of films, shorts, features, documentaries and independent features from all over the world, with special emphasis on American independents, world cinema and prize-winning short subjects. The festival has achieved an official designation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as a sanctioned short subject qualification event.

While most of the St Louis International Film Festival screenings require paid tickets, there are several events and screenings that are free that might be of interest to film buffs out there.

The following events are free:

--"For the Love of Movies"/Film Criticism Seminar on Nov. 14 at Tivoli 3
--NFF Coffee With the Filmmakers on Nov. 15 at Tivoli 3
--"Ride With the Devil: Director's Cut" on Nov. 15 at Brown Hall
--Faruk Sabanovic Program on Nov. 17 at UM-St. Louis
--CinemaSpoke Reading: Broken Sinclair on Nov. 17 at Webster
--Edward Serotta Program on Nov. 18 at Fontbonne
--"Princess of Egypt" on Nov. 21 at Brown Hall
--"Tahaan" on Nov. 21 at Brown Hall
--"Egon & Donci" on Nov. 21 at Brown Hall
--"West of Pluto" on Nov. 21 at Brown Hall
--"The Hollywood Cartoon" on Nov. 21 at Brown Hall
--"Chops" on Nov. 22 at Webster
--Closing-Night Party and Award Presentation on Nov. 22 at the Moonrise Hotel

Money Smart--Oct 28

2009-10-27T08:40:00.002-05:00

The St Louis Public Library and U.S. Bank are teaming up to bring you a series of classes to help get you started on the path to financial freedom! This is the last class of the series.

Home Ownership: Buying Your First Home shows you the difference between renting or owning and the advantages and disadvantages of different mortgage options.

Home Ownership will be held on October 28 at 7pm at the Carpenter branch of the St Louis Public Library.

Boo at the Zoo Spooky Saturday--Oct 24

2009-10-23T08:52:00.004-05:00

St. John's Mercy Children's Hospital invites you to Boo at the Zoo Spooky Saturday!

Mummies and daddies are invited to bring their little ghouls and goblins to the St Louis Zoo for safe and free trick-or-treating (9am-1pm), entertainment (9am-3pm), and games and crafts (noon-4pm). You'll be able to sing and dance and enjoy special Halloween-themed goodies while you make crafts, play games, and meet costumed characters. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and participate in the costume parade at 4pm!

Note: Boo at the Zoo nights have a charge associated with them; Boo at the Zoo Spooky Saturday is FREE!

Money Smart--Oct 21

2009-10-20T07:37:00.002-05:00

The St Louis Public Library and U.S. Bank are teaming up to bring you a series of classes to help get you started on the path to financial freedom!

To Your Credit: Borrowing Basics teaches you how to build and repair your credit history.

Home Ownership: Buying Your First Home shows you the difference between renting or owning and the advantages and disadvantages of different mortgage options.

To Your Credit will be held on October 21 at 7pm at the Carpenter branch of the St Louis Public Library.

Magic House Birthday Celebration--Oct 16-18

2009-10-15T09:27:00.001-05:00

From the Magic House website:

Happy Birthday! The Magic House is 30 and loving it. To get this party started, through generous support from Target, The Magic House is having a free-for-all weekend celebration. In honor of this very special birthday, all party goers will be admitted to The Magic House FREE OF CHARGE on Friday, October 16, through Sunday, October 18!

Visitors to The Magic House have the opportunity to donate to our 30th Anniversary fund to provide free educational field trips for children from disadvantaged areas. For $2 per adult or $1.50 per child, the donation reflects our 1979 prices! There’s no need to R.S.V.P. for this magical birthday event, just stop by The Magic House and join in the festivities with fun entertainment for the whole family. Get in the birthday spirit with magicians, spectacular balloon creations, face painting, a fun birthday craft and of course ice cream and birthday cupcakes. And don’t forget your goody bag! With a $30 donation, you can purchase a goody bag filled to the brim with surprises and fun all valued at $30.

Money Smart--Oct 14

2009-10-13T07:21:00.003-05:00

The St Louis Public Library and U.S. Bank are teaming up to bring you a series of classes to help get you started on the path to financial freedom!

How to Choose and Keep a Checking Account teaches you how to choose and use a checking account and credit card responsibly.

To Your Credit: Borrowing Basics teaches you how to build and repair your credit history.

Home Ownership: Buying Your First Home shows you the difference between renting or owning and the advantages and disadvantages of different mortgage options.

How to Choose and Keep a Checking Account will be held on October 14 at 7pm at the Carpenter branch of the St Louis Public Library.

Ottertoberfest--Oct 10 and 11

2009-10-09T09:12:00.000-05:00

An Oktoberfest the whole family can enjoy: otter-related children's activities, live entertainment and more!

In honor of the fun-loving North American River Otters, the St Louis Zoo will host Ottertoberfest, a fall event featuring traditional German biergartens, live music, kids' activities and more. At the biergartens, visitors can purchase beer, root beer, bratwurst, potato salad and other German specialties. Otter-related kids’ activities include an otterific obstacle course, otter tracks and crafts, designed for ages 2-10.

Activities will run from 10am-3pm each day and include a keeper chat at the Children's Zoo (10am) and Historic Hill (1:30pm).

From noon to 3pm enjoy live music in the biergartens:
Saturday, October 10: Waterloo German Band, Joe Tucci, Charles Block
Sunday, October 11: St. Louis Czech Express

For more information on Ottertoberfest activities, please call (314) 646-4771.

Money Smart--Oct 7

2009-10-06T09:18:00.001-05:00

The St Louis Public Library and U.S. Bank are teaming up to bring you a series of classes to help get you started on the path to financial freedom!

Money Matters: Pay Yourself First will teach you how to prepare and follow a personal spending plan and how that plan feeds goal savings.

How to Choose and Keep a Checking Account teaches you how to choose and use a checking account and credit card responsibly.

To Your Credit: Borrowing Basics teaches you how to build and repair your credit history.

Home Ownership: Buying Your First Home shows you the difference between renting or owning and the advantages and disadvantages of different mortgage options.

Money Matters will be held on October 7 at 7pm at the Carpenter branch of the St Louis Public Library.

Missouri History Museum Twilight Tuesdays--Oct 6

2009-10-05T07:56:00.001-05:00

Grab your blankets and lawn chairs, pack your picnic basket and come hear some terrific music under a beautiful Forest Park sunset as the Missouri History Museum Twilight Tuesdays light up again! Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Make-and-take activities for children will be offered on the Museum's front lawn beginning at 6:00 p.m. Activities will be closed after intermission.

This week's concert will feature Boogie Chyld with a tribute to Michael Jackson and will run from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Be sure to get to the Dula Plaza (the north lawn) of the History Museum early to grab some space. Tip: If you don't care about seeing the band, you can hear the music from quite a ways away in Forest Park, so you can find a nice spot away from all of the people and enjoy the concert without getting stepped on!

For more information, call 314-454-3199 or 800-916-8212.

COCA Get Your Game On!--Oct 4

2009-10-03T07:41:00.002-05:00

In conjunction with the Timothy Hutchings exhibition in the Millstone Gallery, participants ages 6-12 will have a chance to create their own interactive sculptural game board. Join artist Rudy Zapf as she leads this free workshop through 2D and 3D design basics. Let you imagination run wild and create your own interactive game world at COCA!

The workshop will be held from 3-4pm.

For more information or to register, email freeat3@cocastl.org. For registration, include the names, addresses and birth dates of those attending.

Home Depot Kids Workshop--Oct 3

2009-10-02T10:37:00.001-05:00

Head to Home Depot from 9am to noon to create a firehouse bank at the Kids Workshop! The Kids Workshops are held the first Saturday of every month at all Home Depot stores and are designed for kids ages 5-12.

In addition to being able to take their newly-created firehouse bank home, each child will receive a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin.

Ottertoberfest--Oct 3 and 4

2009-10-02T10:11:00.002-05:00

An Oktoberfest the whole family can enjoy: otter-related children's activities, live entertainment and more!

In honor of the fun-loving North American River Otters, the St Louis Zoo will host Ottertoberfest, a fall event featuring traditional German biergartens, live music, kids' activities and more. At the biergartens, visitors can purchase beer, root beer, bratwurst, potato salad and other German specialties. Otter-related kids’ activities include an otterific obstacle course, otter tracks and crafts, designed for ages 2-10.

Activities will run from 10am-3pm each day and include a keeper chat at the Children's Zoo (10am) and Historic Hill (1:30pm).

From noon to 3pm enjoy live music in the biergartens:
Saturday, October 3: Herb Eberle Band, Joe Tucci
Sunday, October 4: St. Louis Czech Express

For more information on Ottertoberfest activities, please call (314) 646-4771.

Morganford in Motion Street Festival--Oct 3

2009-10-02T08:55:00.003-05:00

For a little more eclectic event, visit the Morganford in Motion street festival on Saturday from noon-9pm at the corner of Morganford and Juniata (just south of Tower Grove Park).

Bands performing include String Buzz, Bullet Pop, Funky Butt Brass Band, Chucker, Steve Ewing, and Javier Mendoza.

Taste of St Louis--Oct 2-4

2009-10-01T10:19:00.002-05:00

You can't beat great food to go with the great fall weather we're now experiencing! If you want to combine some good food and some good weather, head to Soldier's Memorial in downtown this weekend for the award-winning Taste of St Louis!

This year will feature both new and returning events including the International Village, Celebrity Chef appearances, and bigger and better versions of the Taste favorites: Sauce Magazine's Restaurant Row, the NewsChannel 5 Top Chef Competition, the Bud Light Tasty Band Competition and national acts on the U.S. Bank Main Stage, the ArtDimensions Village, The Charter Marketplace, and The Family Entertainment Stage.

Numerous bands are performing and there will be opportunities for hands-on art activities for kids and adults.

Admission to Taste of St Louis is free, but the tasting is not. :( According to the website, samples from the different restaurants in Restaurant Row will be $2 each.

Oldsmobile Fun Car Show--Sept 27

2009-09-26T08:45:00.003-05:00

The Museum of Transportation is not free, but you can get a great look at some beautiful old cars this Sunday at the Oldsmobile Fun Car Show. The car show will be held at the Upper Parking Lot of the Museum of Transportation from 11am-2pm.

In case you decide to stick around and visit the museum, museum admission is $6 per adult and $4 for children 5-12, seniors, and military with a valid ID. Children under 4, teachers with valid school ID, and members of the transportation museum are free.

For more information call 314-615-8668.

13th Annual Spirit of St Louis Canine Games--Sept 27

2009-09-26T08:44:00.002-05:00

For some fun with your furry friends, head out to the 13th Annual Spirit of St Louis Canine Games! Purina Farms will be hosting the event this Sunday from 8:30am to 4pm.

The canine games are open to all purebred and mixed breed dogs and their humans. No experience is necessary to participate. Events include agility, obedience/rally, conformation, tricks, training demos, lure coursing, flyball, frisbee, retrieving, harness, rescue dog parage, raffles and prizes, vendors and much more.

Strange Folk Festival--Sept 26-27

2009-09-25T13:57:00.004-05:00

From the Strange Folk Festival website:

"Strange Folk is the Heartland’s largest outdoor indie arts and crafts show. We are featuring 125 vendors from across the country along with plenty of eco-friendly craft activities, exhibits, live bands, and local cuisine under a canopy of beautiful trees! Over 10,000 folks attended last year, and Strange Folk was declared “BEST OF 2008″ in the craft show category by The Riverfront Times."

The Strange Folk Festival will be open from 10am-6pm Saturday and Sunday. There will be lots of fun activities for kids and adults, as well as live music. The Festival will be held at Community Park in O'Fallon, IL, about a 15 minute drive from downtown St Louis.

For more information, call 618-624-0139 or click here.

Green Homes Festival--Sept 26

2009-09-25T08:56:00.005-05:00

Grandel Square (between Grand Blvd and Spring Ave), the urban home of the Missouri Botanical Garden’s EarthWays Center, will be transformed into a “green street promenade” of exhibitors, vendors and children’s activities at the 8th annual Green Homes Festival, Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10am to 6pm.

Enjoy expert workshops and demonstrations as you learn how to reduce your home’s energy costs while helping to protect the planet. The event is free and open to the public, presented by the Missouri Botanical Garden’s EarthWays Center and the Missouri Coalition for the Environment.

For more information check out the festival website or call 314-577-0220.

Art Fair at the Meadows of Lake St Louis--Sept 26 and 27

2009-09-25T08:43:00.006-05:00

If you haven't gotten your art fix yet, even more art will be featured at the Art Fair at the Meadows of Lake St Louis this weekend. From 10am-6pm on Saturday and noon to 4pm on Sunday, find original artwork, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and unique hand-crafted gifts and meet the artists who create them.

In addition, at 4pm on Saturday there will be a free performance by the St Charles Symphony in Clock Tower Plaza.

The Art Fair is at the intersection of I-64/40 and Lake Saint Louis Blvd., just 15 minutes west of Chesterfield. Admission is free. For more information, visit the Art Fair website or call 636-293-6864.

3rd Annual Dancing in the Street--Sept 26

2009-09-25T08:43:00.004-05:00

Come on out to the 3rd annual Dancing in the Street, held in the Grand Center Arts and Entertainment district! This amazing event features four outdoor stages with more than 50 dance companies and 700 dancers of all ages performing from 1-9pm. If you like dance, you don't want to miss this!

Special appearances include nationally acclaimed artists Duo Adamo with their awe-inspiring aerial ballet and street performances from Bill Shannon, the 'Crutch Master'. In addition, you can learn the latest Hannah Montana dance (the "Hoedown Throwdown") with Radio Disney's Dance Team and get live performances and instruction on the music and dance of Michael Jackson.

A full schedule and map are available on the Dancing in the Street website or for more information call 314-533-1884.

Ottertoberfest--Sept 26 and 27

2009-09-25T08:14:00.004-05:00

An Oktoberfest the whole family can enjoy: otter-related children's activities, live entertainment and more!

In honor of the fun-loving North American River Otters, the St Louis Zoo will host Ottertoberfest, a fall event featuring traditional German biergartens, live music, kids' activities and more. At the biergartens, visitors can purchase beer, root beer, bratwurst, potato salad and other German specialties. Otter-related kids’ activities include an otterific obstacle course, otter tracks and crafts, designed for ages 2-10.

Activities will run from 10am-3pm each day and include a keeper chat at the Children's Zoo (10am) and Historic Hill (1:30pm).

From noon to 3pm enjoy live music in the biergartens:
Saturday, September 26: Deutschmeister Brass Band, Joe Tucci, Charles Block
Sunday, September 27: The Good Times Band

For more information on Ottertoberfest activities, please call (314) 646-4771.

Rhapsody in Bloom--Sept 26

2009-09-25T08:07:00.002-05:00

Enjoy light classical music and contemporary dance performances from 10am to 3pm this Saturday at Rhapsody in Bloom! Presented by Classic99 KFUO-FM and the Missouri Botanical Garden, Rhapsody in Bloom features may of St Louis' finest musical and dance groups.

Performance Schedule:

Ridgway Center - 2nd Floor
10am Laclede Quartet
11am Bella Corda
Noon The St. Louis Gateway Singers
1pm Five Winds Woodwind Quintet
2pm Saint Louis Symphony Ensemble

Spink Miles Sculpture Garden
10am St Louis Academy of Dance, Pazazz Performers
11am Alexandra Ballet
Noon St Louis Academy of Dance, Pazazz Performers
1pm Alexandra Ballet

For more information, see the Rhapsody in Bloom website.

Greek Festival--Sept 25-27

2009-09-24T09:52:00.002-05:00

If you were out of town over Labor Day and missed one Greek festival, you're in luck because there's another one this weekend!

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church will be hosting Greek Fest this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at their church in Town and Country. The festival runs from 11am to 9pm every day and promises to be packed with loads of fun activities and entertainment. There will be live Greek music and dancing, church tours, a movie about the history of Greece, and a kids' activity area. There will also be food available for purchase (my mouth is already watering for some amazing Greek pastries!) and vendors selling authentic Greek imports.

The church is easily accessible from I-270 and Highway 64/40.

Money Smart--Sept 24

2009-09-23T08:40:00.001-05:00

The St Louis Public Library and U.S. Bank are teaming up to bring you a series of classes to help get you started on the path to financial freedom!

Money Matters: Pay Yourself First will teach you how to prepare and follow a personal spending plan and how that plan feeds goal savings.

How to Choose and Keep a Checking Account teaches you how to choose and use a checking account and credit card responsibly.

To Your Credit: Borrowing Basics teaches you how to build and repair your credit history.

Home Ownership: Buying Your First Home shows you the difference between renting or owning and the advantages and disadvantages of different mortgage options.

Home Ownership will be held on September 24 at 7pm at the Julia Davis branch of the St Louis Public Library.

Missouri History Museum Twilight Tuesdays--Sept 22

2009-09-21T08:55:00.001-05:00

Grab your blankets and lawn chairs, pack your picnic basket and come hear some terrific music under a beautiful Forest Park sunset as the Missouri History Museum Twilight Tuesdays light up again! Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Make-and-take activities for children will be offered on the Museum's front lawn beginning at 6:00 p.m. Activities will be closed after intermission.

This week's concert will feature The Legacy Jazz Quintet honoring Miles Davis and will run from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Be sure to get to the Dula Plaza (the north lawn) of the History Museum early to grab some space. Tip: If you don't care about seeing the band, you can hear the music from quite a ways away in Forest Park, so you can find a nice spot away from all of the people and enjoy the concert without getting stepped on!

For more information, call 314-454-3199 or 800-916-8212.

Fall Equinos Sunrise Observance--Sept 20

2009-09-19T08:42:00.003-05:00

Learn about the discovery, form and function of the ancient post-circle sun calendar at the Fall Equinos Sunrise Observance at Cahokia Mounds Historic Site. Be sure to get up early, because the observance starts at 6:30am!

For more information, visit the Cahokia Mounds website or call 618-346-5160.

Lebanese Festival--Sept 20

2009-09-19T08:16:00.001-05:00

Come and enjoy a taste of the Middle East in the heart of the Midwest at the annual Lebanese Festival at St. Raymond's Maronite Catholic Church. Sunday, from 10am to 6pm, you can come and enjoy popular Lebanese dishes such as kibbie, meat pies, and baklawa, stroll through the many booths with various Lebanese items, and play games and win prizes in the kids' area.

I don't have specific cost information, but I would guess that most of the food is available for purchase.

Tower Grove Movie Nights--Sept 19

2009-09-18T14:01:00.000-05:00

Grab a blanket, pack a picnic, & bring the kids for a free fun movie in Tower Grove Park.
This week is "Lady and the Tramp" and it will be shown at Whitaker Theater at the Pool Pavilion. All of the movies start at dusk-around 8:30 PM.

Scott Air Force Base Air Show--Sept 19-20

2009-09-18T13:25:00.003-05:00

If you like airplanes you won't want to miss the annual Scott Air Force Base Air Show!

The Golden Knights, Canadian Snowbirds, and Tora! Tora! Tora! will be among the performers and there will be demonstrations by F-15s, F/A-18s and more. A schedule of flying times is available but is subject to change. In addition, many planes will be on display. You will be able to walk up close to the planes and talk to the pilots--and maybe even get their autographs!

If you aren't familiar with the Scott Air Force Base area, it's located close to Shiloh, IL, just a few miles off of I-64 (about 20 minutes east of downtown St Louis). The SAFB Shiloh and Belleville Gates will open at 9am both days and the air show will run from 11am to 5pm.

Parking and admission is free but you will need to go through security checkpoints to get onto Scott Air Force Base.

Great Forest Park Balloon Race--Sept 19

2009-09-18T09:01:00.004-05:00

The Great Forest Park Balloon Race takes to the skies on Saturday with tons of activities for the whole family!

Race day activities include a parachute team exhibition, children's entertainment area, an all British car show and a photo contest prior to the launch of the hare and hound balloons at 4:30pm.

From the website:

"Spend your day in beautiful Forest Park and help celebrate the 20th Birthday of the Energizer Bunny. The Purina Children's Entertainment area is filled with pony rides, games, and other activities for kids (not all of these activities are free, but I don't have cost information just be aware). The Entertainment Stage features a variety of local talent. During the Photo contest the public can enter the balloon field and take pictures of their favorite balloons. Prizes will be awarded for the best photographs. The Skydiving Team performs and lands in the center of the launch field. The race begins when the Energizer Bunny Balloon takes off ahead of the pack and then 70 "hound" balloons launch in pursuit. The balloon dropping a birdseed baggie closest to the Energizer Bunny Balloon will be declared the winner."

12:00pm: Festivities begin! Purina Children's Entertainment
Area & Incredible Dogs,.. Food Courts...Pony Rides...
Walgreens Health Screenings... Stages... Energizer
Bunny ears...More.
1:00pm: Entertainment Stage Opens
2:00pm: Photo Contest details
3:00pm: Skydivers
3:30pm: Opening Ceremonies
4:30pm: Energizer Hot "Hare" Balloon Launch and celebrates
20th Birthday
4:45pm: "Hound" Balloon Launch begins

9th Annual Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival--Sept 19

2009-09-18T08:39:00.005-05:00

This year the award-winning Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival recreates the music of the Las Vegas jazz scene during the 1960s. Not unlike Vegas at that time, this year's festival offers great entertainment, food and spirits along the strips of Gore, Allen and Lockwood Avenues. Listen for a dazzling array of styles and tune-in to retro sophistication born in the Las Vegas heyday that is still alive today.

Featured bands are Wild Cool & Swingin’ Orchestra, St. Louis Jazz & Blues Revue, Soulard Blues Band, Two Times True, Webster University Faculty Jazz Band, Matthew Von Doran Trio, Dogtown Allstars, Standard Time, The SteamRollers, Webster Groves High School Jazz Band, Funky Butt Brass Band. The complete schedule is available on the website.

The festival will run from noon to 11pm on Saturday in the Webster Groves Historic District.

In addition, there will be a free jazz clinic open to high school musicians and above. The clinic will be at 10am on Saturday and will be hosted by Webster University jazz faculty at the Community Music School (535 Garden Ave., Rm 11). No instrument or pre-registration is necessary and all participants will receive a free gift bag from area merchants.

For more information call 314-961-4656 or visit the festival website.

25th Annual Italian Fest--Sept 18-19

2009-09-17T13:46:00.001-05:00

Another festival!

This weekend is the 25th annual Italian Fest in Collinsville, IL. In addition to the usual festival activities, there will be a grape stomping at noon on Friday! Friday and Saturday will also feature various bands, wine judging, and Saturday will be the big parade at 4pm. If you're a fan of bocce ball, don't miss the bocce tournament at 10am at Glidden Park on Saturday.

And of course, you don't want to miss the Children's Area, complete will climbing wall, bounce house, and ponies! (Some of the children's activities may not be free.)

How to get there: Collinsville is just 15 miles east of downtown St Louis and free parking is available. In addition, in you don't want to fight the crowds, you can park at Collinsville Intermediate School and take a free shuttle to the festival.

Kirkwood's Greentree Festival--Sept 18-20

2009-09-17T08:48:00.002-05:00

As I mentioned a while back, this month is truly the month of festivals!

There will be lots of activities for the whole family at this weekend's Greentree Festival in Kirkwood. This annual community festival boasts a parade, booths, dance and music (including a whole tent devoted to Missouri fiddlers!), arts and crafts, a classic car show, a sailboat regatta, a folklife area devoted to life in the 1700-1800's, and a kids' area on Saturday and Sunday.

The parade will be held on Saturday at 10am and covers a parade route stretching 1.7 miles. The route begins at Kirkwood High School, travels east on Essex to Kirkwood Road, then south on Kirkwood Road to Argonne, and then west on Argonne, finishing at the Kirkwood Community Center.

The festival will be held in Kirkwood Park at the intersection of Adams Ave. and Geyer Rd. The festival will be open from 5-10pm on Friday, 8:30am-7pm on Saturday, and 10am-5pm on Sunday.

For more information check the website or call 314-822-5855.

St Louis Strassenfest--Sept 18-20

2009-09-17T08:38:00.002-05:00

Head west to Chesterfield for St Louis Strassenfest! This annual event celebrates the tradition of German Gemutlichkeit. Entertainment includes continuous German music on two separate stages, carnival rides, game booths, authentic German food, arts and crafts booths featuring artists, painters, RAKU pottery and much more. There will also be a children’s village with petting zoo, storytellers and jugglers.

The opening ceremony will be Friday night at 7pm on the Glockenspiel Stage. Following that will be lots of entertainment from various German musicians and dancers.

On Saturday, activities and entertainment start at noon and last until 11pm. Sunday's activities and entertainment start at noon but will end at 6pm.

The festival will be held in Central Park in Chesterfield behind Chesterfield Mall.

For more information call 636-225-1730 or visit the Strassenfest website.

Great Forest Park Balloon Glow--Sept 18

2009-09-17T08:36:00.007-05:00

If you've never made it to the Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Balloon Race, now is your chance! This is a fun-filled weekend that kids and adults love. The balloons are beautiful, both at night and during the day, and it's fun to pick a favorite and cheer it on!

The Balloon Race weekend starts with the Balloon Glow on Friday night from 7-9:45pm. This event offers spectators a breathtaking view of inflated balloons lighted by their burners. You can get up close and walk around the balloons (last year one of my sons even got to sit in a balloon!). Food and trinkets are available for purchase but if you're on a budget I'd recommend eating before you go. The event will conclude with a fireworks display beginning at approximately 9pm.

Please note that just like last year, the Balloon Glow is no longer a drive-through event. It will be held on the same field (Central Field between the Jewel Box and Steinberg Rink) as the Saturday race.

On Saturday, head to the fields again to watch the balloons lift off! I'll make a separate post detailing the schedule for race day.

For more information, call 314-993-2901 or visit the Balloon Glow website.

St Louis Symphony Forest Park Concert--Sept 17

2009-09-16T08:35:00.004-05:00

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra will kick off the Balloon Glow and Race weekend with a concert held Thursday evening in Forest Park. The concert will be on Art Hill but like many of the outdoor concerts in St Louis you will be able to hear the music from a good distance away.

The concert is starting at 7pm and will feature Ward Stare conducting many favorite symphonic pieces. The full lineup is as follows:

SMITH / Damrosch, Walter (orch): The Star Spangled Banner

COPLAND: Fanfare for the Common Man

COPLAND: Hoe-Down, from Rodeo

BEETHOVEN: Overture to Egmont

PROKOFIEV: from Romeo and Juliet, 1. The Montagues and the Capulets

TCHAIKOVSKY: from Nutcracker, III. Valse des fleurs.

RODGERS / R.R. Bennett: "Some Enchanted Evening" from South Pacific

ANDERSON: Bugler's Holiday

ROSSINI: Overture to Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville)

WAGNER / arr. Hutschenruyter: Ride of the Valkyries, from Die Walküre

MANCINI / arr. Hayman: "Moon River" from Breakfast at Tiffany's

WILLIAMS: from Star Wars, I. Main Title

SOUSA: The Stars and Stripes Forever

Constitution Day Naturalization Ceremony--Sept 17

2009-09-16T08:34:00.002-05:00

This Thursday is the annual Constitution Day Naturalization Ceremony at the Old Courthouse (by the Arch, 11 N. 4th St.). The ceremony is held in conjunction with the United States Citizenship & Immigration Service and features Constitution activities as well as the naturalization ceremony for new citizens. This would be a great opportunity for homeschoolers to explore what it means to be a citizen and to talk about the process of becoming a citizen for people who are not born in the US.

For more information call Rick at 314-655-1725 or visit the Naturalization ceremony website.

Money Smart--Sept 17

2009-09-16T07:36:00.001-05:00

The St Louis Public Library and U.S. Bank are teaming up to bring you a series of classes to help get you started on the path to financial freedom!

Money Matters: Pay Yourself First will teach you how to prepare and follow a personal spending plan and how that plan feeds goal savings.

How to Choose and Keep a Checking Account teaches you how to choose and use a checking account and credit card responsibly.

To Your Credit: Borrowing Basics teaches you how to build and repair your credit history.

Home Ownership: Buying Your First Home shows you the difference between renting or owning and the advantages and disadvantages of different mortgage options.

To Your Credit will be held on September 17 at 7pm at the Julia Davis branch of the St Louis Public Library.

Missouri History Museum Twilight Tuesdays--Sept 15

2009-09-14T08:51:00.003-05:00

This week's concert will feature Dr. Zhivegas with disco and club songs from the '70s to today and will run from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Be sure to get to the Dula Plaza (the north lawn) of the History Museum early to grab some space. Tip: If you don't care about seeing the band, you can hear the music from quite a ways away in Forest Park, so you can find a nice spot away from all of the people and enjoy the concert without getting stepped on!

For more information, call 314-454-3199 or 800-916-8212.

ParkPalooza--Sept 12-13

2009-09-11T10:20:00.003-05:00

If you haven't found anything else you'd like to do this weekend (which would be amazing) and think you could use a little time outside, rockwall climbing, reel casting, wildlife encounters, biking and kids’ crafts are just a few of the hands-on activities planned for ParkPalooza 2009 on the grounds of the Gateway Arch.

Created and hosted by the National Park Service, in collaboration with its partners Jefferson National Parks Association and Metro, this free, interactive event is designed to celebrate the fun, education and recreation offered at America’s national, state and local parks across the country.

On Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, ParkPalooza will feature 10 interactive stations representing both natural and cultural parks on the Arch grounds, and will introduce visitors to the themes and activities found in parks and public lands across the country, including:

Lost Worlds – hands-on archeology activities
Into the Woods – map and compass skills, GPS and geo-caching
The Great Outdoors – camping and backpacking skills, giant river aquarium, reel casting and fitness
Float Your Boat – water safety and conservation
Rock Climbing – climbing skills and safety on simulated rock walls
Mississippi River Trail – recreational enjoyment, conservation and fitness opportunities along the Mississippi River Trail, including a 40-foot-long floor map for visitors to “walk” the trail, and historic New Orleans jazz performances
People Powered – fitness, active living and recreation along Mississippi River Trail, including bike courses
Past Meets Present – 19th century folk-life and hands-on activities
Nature Zone – wildlife encounters and activities
Ranger Station– entrance stations with event information and more

All events are free but food and refreshments, as well as ParkPalooza-related merchandise, will be available for purchase.

Thanks, Mallory!

Edgewood's 175th Anniversary Homecoming--Sept 12

2009-09-11T08:36:00.001-05:00

Join in celebrating Edgewood Children's Center’s 175th Anniversary at their homecoming event on Saturday, September 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Edgewood’s campus in Webster Groves. Enjoy a barbecue lunch, walking tours of campus, live music and a history panel discussion led by KETC Channel 9’s Patrick Murphy. The event is free and open to the community.

For more information, call 314-919-4733.

26th Annual Great Fire Engine Rally--Sept 12

2009-09-11T08:33:00.003-05:00

Calling all kids and kids-at-heart! You won't want to miss the 26th Annual Great Fire Engine Rally this Saturday!

The event features a kids town, firefighters challenge, food, music, pump area for fire trucks, a flea market and more starting at 8:30am and lasting until 5pm. A Fire Engine Parade with over 150 fire trucks and emergency vehicles will take place at 10:00 a.m. heading north on Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard, right next to the Gateway Arch.

For more information call 314-487-9154 or visit the website.

Just Like You at the Zoo--Sept 12

2009-09-11T08:06:00.001-05:00

Join St Louis Children's Hospital at the Saint Louis Zoo and hunt for nutrition and exercise information. Children and their parents will receive a game card and visit various animals throughout the zoo to play the "Just Like You at the Zoo" game. Collect a set of six stickers and get a special prize! No registration is required and you can play all day on Saturday, from 9am to 5pm.

Urban Health Fair and Market--Sept 12

2009-09-11T06:46:00.003-05:00

On Saturday from 11am to 5pm, Lafayette Square will be hosting the 3rd annual Urban Health Fair and Market. Over 35 local holistic vendors will be present. You can experience complimentary massage, acupuncture, nervous system scans, fitness tests, and more. In addition, vendors will be selling botanical based soaps, skin care products and nutritional supplements. Learn about green options for home restoration and cleaning. You can even try out a free yoga (11am), total body pump (noon), tai chi (1pm), or zumba (2pm) class.

While you're there, enjoy music by Jane Godfrey (11am) and The Funky Butt Brass Band (1pm) and dance by Los Flamencos (3pm). Savor local and seasonal food provided by Sqwires, heart healty wines from Vino Vitae and locally brewed beer by Square One Brewery!

There will also be a Healthy Pet Market sponsored by Four Muddy Paws where you can learn more about healthy nutrition options for your pet along with free samples to try.

Children's activities include My Healthy Body, a scavenger hunt, face painting by Lyndsey Scott (may not be free), Healthy Living & Anatomy color pages, search-a-word, connect the dots , riddle pages, The Healthy Food card game, design your own “Green Grocery” bags, “What’s That Sound?” Bingo Game, and a “Build-A-Boy!” game.

For more information, call 314-762-0669.

Polish festival--Sept 11-12

2009-09-10T10:29:00.001-05:00

It is apparently the month for festivals!

Explore your Polish heritage at the Polish festival held Saturday and Sunday at the Polish Falcons Gardens (2013 St. Louis Avenue). There will be authentic Polish food and pastries as well as music and games. A Polka band will provide music Friday and Saturday night from 6:30-10:30pm (which means you're sure to see some great dancing!).

The festival is open for lunch on Friday from 11am-1pm and then dinner will be served from 4-7:30pm. Lunch/dinner will be served on Saturday from noon to 7pm. I don't have any information on the cost of the meals but I assume there is a charge for food.

Hispanic Festival--Sept 11-13

2009-09-10T10:18:00.006-05:00

This weekend is also the annual Hispanic Festival on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Soldier's Memorial Park downtown (Market and 14th). There will be live Latino bands, a Cardinals kids' corner, folkloric performers, and arts and crafts as well as food and drink available for purchase.

The schedule is packed but be sure to check out the many dance performances, the magician, and several incredible singers. Kids' activities will include face painting, games, and arts and crafts. Note that Friday night is a music night (from 4-10pm) and the only vendors that will be open for purchases are the beer vendors. Events run from 10am to 10pm on Saturday and from 10:30am to 7pm on Sunday.

Schlafly's Art Outside--Sept 11-13

2009-09-10T08:31:00.004-05:00

In addition to the St Louis Art Fair taking place this weekend, Schlafly Bottleworks will be hosting their annual Art Outside alternative art fair. Local artists will be showcasing their works and entertainment (including puppet shows!) will be provided each day. On Sunday you can even participate in yoga and meditations--beginners are welcome.

As a side note, I happen to know one of the artists exhibiting at Art Outside this weekend. Be sure to check out Gary Gackstatter's amazing pen and ink drawings if you stop by the art fair! He's a phenomenal artist and musician and a really great guy. He is also on the music faculty at Meramec Community College and is an amazing conductor.

Events run from 5-10pm on Friday, 10am-10pm on Saturday, and noon-4pm on Sunday.

For more information call 314-241-2337 or visit the Art Outside website.

16th Annual St Louis Art Fair--Sept 11-13

2009-09-10T08:30:00.002-05:00

On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday you can visit one of the best fine art fairs in the U.S. (according to the Art Fair Source Book and the Harris List) right here in downtown Clayton. At the 16th annual Saint Louis Art Fair, visual artists from across the nation will exhibit an unprecedented selection of the highest quality, original works of art. Three stages of entertainment, educational hands-on activities for children and adults, culinary treats from St. Louis’ finest restaurants and much more.

Events will run from 5-10pm on Friday, 10am-10pm on Saturday, and 11am-4pm on Sunday.

For more information call 314-863-0278 or visit the St Louis Art Fair website.

Prodigal--Sept 10-12

2009-09-09T10:21:00.002-05:00

From the Prodigal website:

On six starry, late summer nights, an extraordinary retelling of an age-old tale will unfold in Forest Park. At the surface is a fully integrated art experience, embodied by original music, dynamic light, mise-en-scène and an ensemble of dancers. And at the core is a stirring reflection on the paradoxes of life.

An unprecendented fusion of movement, music, and media that explores the parable about family and self-discovery.

Original work created and directed by Tom Brady, ANNONYArts consortium artist. Choreographed by Monica Newsam and Tom Brady.

Performances will begin at 8:30pm. It is advised to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating.
In the event of rain or storms, the performance may be delayed up to 1 hour. If the weather persists, that evening's performance will be cancelled.

All performances will take place at Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park. These performances are family-friendly!

St Louis Children's Hospital Zoo Days--Sept 10

2009-09-09T08:15:00.001-05:00

St Louis Children's Hospital has a fun activity at the Saint Louis Zoo every Thursday from September 3 through October 29. Kids and their parents can make a first-aid kit for your backpacks or diaper bags while exploring the zoo! Visit the new St Louis Children's Hospital First Aid Station by the Carousel from 9am to 3pm for more information.