From early January to mid-February, Soulard Mardi Gras shakes St. Louis out of its winter doldrums with colorful parades, a wiener dog derby, a Creole food fair and more. Soulard neighborhood restaurants and bars participate in the Cruzan Rum Taste of Soulard , another popular February event where you can sample signature culinary creations, many of the Cajun and Creole variety.
St. Louis warms up to spring with the St. Louis Storytelling Festival in early May, when both professionals and amateurs celebrate the art of tale spinning. Presentations of The Bard's plays are given during the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis , held at Forest Park from early May to late June. These free outdoor performances include dance, music and a plot synopsis.
May also celebrates another art form at the Art Fair at Laumeier . On Mother's Day weekend nearly 150 artists travel to Laumeier Sculpture Park to sell their works among the park's outdoor sculptures. You'll see a range of media, including clay, paper, wood, jewelry, glass and photography. Musical performances and art demonstrations enhance the festive atmosphere.
Fourth of July festivities send sparks flying during Fair Saint Louis in Forest Park , held over the July 4 weekend. The celebration attracts huge crowds of revelers with big-name entertainment, an air show, a parade and fireworks.
Festival of Nations at Tower Grove Park is an August favorite. For 2 days St. Louisans honor and celebrate the city's ethnic diversity as the park becomes a showcase for traditional music and dance performances, fashion, craft displays and cuisine representing dozens of ethnic cultures.
Several events close out the summer, beginning in late August or early September with the 3-day Japanese Festival , held at the Missouri Botanical Garden. This time of year also brings the 2-day Big Muddy Blues Festival at Laclede's Landing. The Mississippi river provides a backdrop for performances by blues bands and other artists. In the suburb of Clayton, the Saint Louis Art Fair attracts artsy types for 3 days of art and entertainment. The Great Forest Park Balloon Race takes place in mid-September.
Soulard Oktoberfest , held in mid-October, is a celebration of German heritage that includes hearty fare like bratwurst, schweinshaxe and strudel, live music on four stages, dancing and a beer tent. There are also crowd-pleasing contests for bratwurst eating, stein holding and the strongest barmaid.
The Christmas holiday season kicks off in late November with Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park, which features thousands of twinkling lights.
See all the AAA recommended events for this destination.