Events in the 'Lou
We could call some of them Free-vents.
There's some things going on around here. And if there's not a way to do it free, there's very often a coupon to be had. Here's a few of our faves...
- The Muny
- Welcome to America's oldest and largest outdoor musical theatre. Another Forest Park fave that's getting some major updates, the Muny actually offers 1,500 first come, first served free seats in the back nine rows of the venue for every show. Gates typically open at 7 p.m., so arrive early to procure a spot. Check for rainouts and dress for the weather, cause you're gonna feel it.
- St. Louis Shakespeare Festival
- Seems at some point every late May to early June I find myself again #InTheGlen, a beautiful natural amphitheater in Forest Park just across from the Art Museum enjoying the works of The Bard. Seriously, I've never missed a year since they started in 2001. And, outside of the historical Shakespearean purist in me, I'm never disappointed. Incredible and highly functional sets along with some terrific, and often hilarious, acting make this a freebie worth staying up late for. (A word of advice... Even if it's warm that day, bring a jacket and maybe some long pants or a blanket. You might be surprised how quickly a place called Forest Park can cool down when the sun's gone in.)
- Greater St. Louis Rennaissance Faire at Wentzville
- Another annual event for me and mine since its 1998 inception. Step
back in time to 16th century Lyon, France and enjoy artisans, vendors,
food and drink, performances and, best of all, jousting on horseback. Under newer management, the former spring event is moved to September/October. Check their site for promotions and special themes for each weekend.
- Theology At the Bottleworks
- Looking for a place just to talk about stuff that matters? With a different significant topic each time, this is a fantastic once a month public discussion where we have just one rule: Be respectful. That's it! Come share your view and learn about others' at one of the best conversations in town. TATB meets every third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in Maplewood's Schlafly Bottleworks Crown Room, and there's never a charge to attend.
- Explore St. Louis Events Calendar
- So you've exhausted everything else on this site and want something new to do in the 'Lou? Check out what's happening on this site, especially their well kept events page. You never know what you might be missing.
Seasonal Fun
These holiday related outings come but once a year.
- Fair St. Louis
- (July, Independence Day Week - The Arch/Downtown)
Back in the day, this was a week-long event called the V.P. Fair. But as memory of the Veiled Prophet began to fade, we've since crammed the excitement into 3 days of big name music acts, brilliant explosions and more, all for free, all near our favorite national monument. Note that things are a bit shuffled around for 2022, with some events at Ballpark Village or Kiener Plaza, so be sure to check the site for those details. (Guys, Sammy still wants his moment under the Arch! And he did say he'll play FOR FREE. Stop teasing with his image on the site and make that dream come true!)
- Legends & Lanterns
- (October - St. Charles, MO)
From your first step onto the historic brick streets of old town St. Charles, you'll see just why this is the perfect locale for a "spirited journey through Halloween history." Meet creepy characters in storied settings while enjoying some family friendly fun at this priceless and popular event. Street and lot parking are always free as well.
- The Darkness, Creepyworld & Lemp Brewery
- (September/October/November - Downtown St. Louis/Valley Park, MO)
Okay, so we like our haunts. This haunt team makes year round updates to terrorize anyone brave enough to enter one of their three dastardly destinations. The Darkness (inside which I just happen to appear in a zombie vid or two, thanks to my pals at Pale Night Productions), takes up two levels of an old downtown factory. Creepyworld brags multiple themed attractions, and the tunnels beneath our famed Lemp Brewery are open for terror touring. Chop the ticket price of terror with coupons available on their site.
- St. Charles Christmas Traditions
- (November/December - St. Charles, MO)
This month-long Christmas festival is another held near the banks of the Missouri River in historic old town St. Chaz. You'll see carolers, Santas from many countries, and other historical Christmas characters roaming the brick streets as you stroll past inviting shops and restaurants. Some may pass out collectible cards with details of their various traditions and history, and all welcome photographs. Have yourself a merry little Christmas in a time now past. -
- St. Louis Earth Day Festival
- (April - St. Louis, MO)
We always enjoy this rain or shine 2 day festival held on and around the Muny grounds in Forest Park. Get lots of tips on recycling, plant care, how to attract certain creatures and more, and lots of free stuff like reusable bags, eco bulbs, garden seeds and trees. Recent rains may make it muddy (hey, it IS Earth Day, after all), so appropriate footwear is in order.
Don't forget to check the weather before you go.
Cause you just never know.
