Listings by AREA:
St. Louis, MO ~ STL=St. Louis
St. Charles, MO ~ SCC= St. Charles County
Email us to receive this e-newsletter weekly: stchascounty@recreationcouncil.org
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New Feature! Spotlight on Recreation in our Community…
Kids Club St. Louis Gym opens in St. Peters (SCC): If your child has recently decided every couch cushion is a climbing wall and every piece of furniture should be jumped off of, Kids Club St. Louis would like to offer an alternative. The new concept from Cheer St. Louis gives kids ages 0–10 a place to climb, balance, tumble, run, play, and generally burn off some of that seemingly endless energy, all inside the cheerleading facility’s padded gym. The program offers toddler movement classes, athletic-development sessions, and ninja obstacle courses, along with open gym, birthday parties, camps, and Parents Night Out events. Open gym: Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m., for ages 0–8. Admission is $10 per child or $15 per family with two or more children. Children younger than 1 are free with another paid child. Parent involvement is required for children age 3 and younger. Advance registration isn’t required, although registering ahead can make check-in faster. Read more in Read More in this STL Magazine Article.
Past Spotlights HERE
Recreation Council News…
Focus on Friendship: A Photo Hike for People with Disabilities and their Caregivers
DATE: Saturday, October 3, 2026
TIME: 1 – 3 pm ~ FLYER
LOCATION: Busch Greenway, Duckett Creek Trailhead (more information)
WHO: Children and adults with disabilities and their support providers to assist if needed
BRING: full water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, hat, jacket, camera or cell phone (for pictures only), snacks
WEAR: dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes good for walking
Please RSVP: www.recreationcouncil.org/nature-photo-hike-fall-2026/
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Recreation Council want everyone to discover the joy of friendship, nature, and nature photography. First, we will get to know each other with some games and activities. Then our group will take a leisurely stroll down a beautiful paved path that is easy for all hikers and wheelchair users. The hike is less than 2 miles and is flat, paved, and shaded with a lovely stream flowing alongside the path. Come enjoy the chirping birds, gently bubbling water, fall colors on the trees, and the warmth of the sunshine peeking through the forest canopy. We will stop many times along the path to take photos and just immerse our senses in the peaceful glow of nature. LEAVE YOUR HEADPHONES, & MEDIA AT HOME so you can fully experience the beauty of this natural trail. There is ample parking and a “johnny on the spot” but no running water toilets or drinking fountains. Please note that the trail is a little difficult to find if this is your first visit. Google does not clearly take you to the trailhead.Make sure to look at the maps before you come so you know how to get here.
FestAbility (STL), Sunday, September 20 from 10am–3pm at the MO History Museum. FestAbility is back! Celebrate the Disability community in St. Louis with a day of accessible, family-friendly activities and entertainment. Join us to enjoy a Disability Pride Parade at 10:30 am led by Fleur de Noise to kick off the event. Stay at the MO History Museum for resource tables, a community art activity hosted by Artists First, a chance to meet Duo Dogs touch therapy dogs, a little free library book giveaway table, a sensory room provided by St. Louis Arc; voter registration, performances, and fun for all. Food is available for purchase at Amighetti’s on the Museum’s upper level, and Scoops of Joy will be on the Imo Family Plaza with ice cream and kettle corn. Stop by the Recreation Council vendor table to say hi to Randy and grab some of our swag! Information ~ Flyer ~ Agenda
Events For People with Disabilities…
National Inclusion Project: Conversation Corner on Afterschool Activities (Virtual): Friday, September 18 at 2 pm, Online. Back to school should mean back to friends, back to play, and back to fun — not back to worries about exclusion. Join our free, Zoom discussion about inclusion during out-of-school time. From afterschool programs, to sport teams, to rec leagues, to community groups, and more! Let’s talk about ways to strengthen inclusion after the bell rings. Families, program staff, educators, providers, advocates, and allies are encouraged to attend, participate, and invite others. This is a welcoming space to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others navigating inclusion in out-of-school time. Come as you are. Ask what’s on your heart. Register HERE
Harbor Unlimited Baseball Bonanza Day (SCC), Saturday, September 19 from 9 am–12 noon at Olde Towne Park – Pavilion A, 1 Park Street, St. Peters, MO 63376. Baseball at its finest…Savannah Banana style! Come prepared for on-field antics, music, entertainment and loads of fun. Bring whatever you want to swing… a broom, tennis racket, skillet, cookie sheet, etc. Register HERE ~ Flyer
The Freddie Ford Family Foundation Inclusive Gaming Group Event (STL), Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon at the Clark Family Branch of the St. Louis County Library, located at 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043 (map). This event features group gaming on the Nintendo Switch, various activities, snacks, and refreshments. All ages are welcome to attend, but registration is required and limited to 20 participants. The Freddie Ford Family Foundation is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization that educates people on the needs of children on the autism spectrum and promotes inclusion. We host many free events throughout the year. Information
FestAbility (STL), Sunday, September 20 from 10am–3pm at the MO History Museum. FestAbility is back! Celebrate the Disability community in St. Louis with a day of accessible, family-friendly activities and entertainment. Join us to enjoy a Disability Pride Parade at 10:30 am led by Fleur de Noise to kick off the event. Stay at the MO History Museum for resource tables, a community art activity hosted by Artists First, a chance to meet Duo Dogs touch therapy dogs, a little free library book giveaway table, a sensory room provided by St. Louis Arc; voter registration, performances, and fun for all. Food is available for purchase at Amighetti’s on the Museum’s upper level, and Scoops of Joy will be on the Imo Family Plaza with ice cream and kettle corn. Stop by the Recreation Council vendor table to say hi to Randy and grab some of our swag! Information ~ Flyer ~ Agenda
The Next Chapter: Independence for Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum (STL): The Next Chapter is a series of programs designed to help young adults on the Autism Spectrum build practical life skills while promoting civic awareness and community engagement to support greater independence. This series is supported by the Urban Libraries Council Civic Makers Lab for Adults (18-24) grant Join us for these next 2 free events:
- The Next Chapter: Public Transit 101: Saturday, September 26, 12:00 p.m. at the Clark Family Branch of the St. Louis Library: Build confidence using Metro Transit by learning how to navigate the St. Louis bus and Metrolink system. Participants will also discuss transportation accessibility and share ideas for improving community access. Attendees will have the chance to win a free 30-day Metro Transit pass. This program is supported by the Urban Libraries Council Civic Makers Lab for Adults grant. For adults ages 18-24. Registration required.
- The Next Chapter: Cooking for Independence, Wednesday, September 30, 6:00 p.m. at Operation Food Search, 1644 Lotsie Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132. Build practical cooking skills by preparing a simple recipe alongside Chef Jason at Operation Food Search, then explore community access to healthy food through a guided discussion. This program is supported by the Urban Libraries Council Civic Makers Lab for Adults (18-24) grant. For adults. Registration required.
Tri My Best Adaptive Triathlon Fun Zone (STL), Sunday, September 27 from 8:30 am – 12 noon at Washington University Danforth Campus. St. Louis Children’s Hospital’s Tri My Best, hosted at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), is an adaptive triathlon for children with cerebral palsy and similar movement disorders. Stop by the Recreation Council vendor table at the TMB Fun Zone to say hi and enjoy activities including games for kids, face painting, food trucks, and more. www.trimybest.com
Fun, Free Events for Everyone…
St. Louis Hispanic Festival (STL), September 18, 19, & 20 from 10 am-10pm in Historic Soulard, 7th and Lafayette Street, 63104. Come enjoy a 3 day event filled with live music, bands, folkloric dancers, Latin food, crafts, and community resources. Information
Family Night at The Magic House (STL), Friday, September 18 from 5-8pm at The Magic House, 516 S. Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, MO 63122. These special nights enable a family (up to two adults and four children) to visit the Museum at no cost. Space is limited. Information
Third Friday at 3rd Degree Glass: It’s the Great Pumpkin (STL), Friday, September 18 from 5-9pm on the Delmar Loop in University City, 63130. One of our most popular Third Degree Glass (TDG) when our studio artists will have all the glass gourds & pumpkins your little heart desires out & ready to shop. Plus, the 8:15 pm demo is always an amazing show as we make our GIANT glass pumpkin. Information

Great Forest Park Balloon Race (STL), September 18 & 19 in Forest Park. One of the most magical events of the year lights up the field with a hot air balloon GLOW on Friday night, followed by the U.S. Army Golden Knights Skydiving Team and a fireworks finale. Come back on Saturday as the hot air balloons take off for the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. Both glow night and race day will feature performances from DJ Reggie along with food trucks, inflatables, and sponsored events. Information
Kirkwood Greentree Festival (STL),September 18–20 daily at Kirkwood Park, 111 S. Geyer Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122. Join us for three days of live music, a hometown parade, artisan arts and crafts, family activities, delicious food, Folklife traditions, dog events and the community spirit that makes Greentree one of Kirkwood’s most treasured traditions. FREE ADMISSION. Information
The Saint Louis Art Fair (STL), September 18, 19, & 20 along the streets in Clayton, 63105. The Saint Louis Art Fair in Clayton MO celebrates 33 years this fall. The free annual event is known for bringing together more than 150 impressive artists from all over the country. Be sure to check out the fest’s Independent Artist Stage to catch up-and-coming musical acts from around the region. Information
St. Louis Lebanese Festival (STL), September 18, 19, & 20 at St. Raymond’s Maronite Cathedral, 931 Lebanon Dr, St Louis, MO 63104. Join us for this fun filled week end where the Lebanese hospitality, traditions, cuisine, live music & dabki and much much more are on full display for all ages to enjoy. Flyer ~ Facebook Event-Information
Frizz Fest: The Region’s Largest Black Beauty Festival (STL), September 19 from 12 noon-7 pm at Tower Grove Park. Celebrate Black culture, creativity, and hair at this natural beauty festival, complete with food and business markets, live performances, kids’ activities, a wine garden, and hair shows and demos. Entertainment, Shopping, Food Trucks, Art Installations, Youth Zone, and More. Free, Family Friendly and Open to All. Bring blankets and lawn chairs to hangout. Information
BARK Ranger Event: Scavenger Hunt (STL),Saturday, September 19 from 10-11 am at the Gateway Arch, meet at the entrance plaza. Grab your pup and friends, and join Gateway Arch National Park Rangers for a scavenger designed for you and your paw-tner to work together. The game will take you all around the 91-acre national park grounds. The event is FREE for you and your furry friend. Events will be canceled or rescheduled in case of inclement weather.Mark your calendar for October 17 Halloween pet parade. Information
Celebrate Wildwood (STL), Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. (parade) to 9:15 p.m. (fireworks), and a whole lot of activities and music in between. Location: Village Green (next to City Hall), 16860 Main Street, Wildwood, MO, 63040 (map). The day includes a parade, opening ceremonies, 3 concerts, and fireworks. Celebrate Wildwood Information
Zootoberfest (STL), September 19-20 at the St.Louis ZOO, starting at 11 am both days at the Schnucks Plaza at the center of the Zoo. On September 19, enjoy Zootoberfest at Night from 5 to 8 p.m. with FREE PARKING after 4 p.m. on a first come first served basis. Music, dancing, and Oktoberfest-style fun with kid-friendly activities. Free to attend with food and beverages available for purchase. Mark your calendar for Sept 26 for Pajama Party.Information
Cops & Bobbers (STL), Saturday, September 19 from 9-11am at Chesterfield Central Park, 16365 Lydia Hill Drive, Chesterfield, MO 63017 (map). Families, grab your fishing poles and fish alongside members of the Chesterfield Police Department during this FREE family-friendly community event. Please bring your own fishing poles. Bait will be provided. Information
Pollinator Palooza (SCC), Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm at Weldon Springs Site Interpretive Center, 7295 MO-94, St Charles, MO 63304 (map). Join us for an educational pollinator festival! Discover how we can all help Missouri’s pollinators and support pollinator habitat in our own backyards. Enjoy kids’ crafts, games, educational activities and native garden demonstrations. Native plants, arts and crafts, food and more will be available for purchase from local vendors. Don’t miss this fun, FREE, family event. No reservations required. For questions contact us at WSInterpretiveCenter@lm.doe.gov or call 636-300-2601. Information ~ Flyer
Augusta Harvest Festival (SCC), Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm in Historic Wine County, Augusta, MO. September is one of the most magical times to visit Missouri Wine Country. The park opens at 9:00 am for festival activities including; pony rides, petting zoo, extreme tropical dual lane dry slides, craft vendors, pie contest, and live music by “Texas Giants”. The Harvest Parade, with this year’s theme “Happy 250th Birthday America” starts at 10:00 am at The Harmonie Verein and works its way to the town square. Information
Lucky Strike St. Peters, Lucky Launch Party (SCC), 8070 Veterans Memorial Parkway, St. Peters, MO 63376. Information

DobsonFest Astronomy Celebration (SCC), Saturday, September 19 from 4-9 p.m. at Broemmelsiek Park’s Astronomy Site, 1593 Schwede Road, Wentzville, MO 63385. John Dobson’s life mission was to show planets, stars, and galaxies to everyone and developed an inexpensive telescope that is simple to use. Thousands of people have made their own Dobsonian telescopes following his design. The Astronomical Society of Eastern Missouri (ASEM) is celebrating his life with activities for all ages, free telescope viewing at night, safe solar viewing during the day, food trucks, and experts to help you get to know the night sky. Information
Saint Charles Fair (SCC), Sunday, September 20 from 11am-5pm at Blanchette Park, 1900 W. Randolph Street, 63301. Guests will enjoy carnival games, face painting, balloon animals, live music, food, drinks, and a variety of contests. Activities include Carnival Games, Face Painting, Balloon Artist, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo, Hay Rides. Information ~ Flyer
O’FallonFall Into the Arts Festival (SCC), Sunday, September 20 returns with its largest artist lineup yet to O’Day Amphitheater (1100 O’Day Park) on September 20. Cultural Arts Commission members learned Wednesday that the free event will feature 31 juried artists (up from 23 last year), along with live music, artisan food vendors, and performances by the O’Fallon Theatre Works troupe. Information
Movie Nights at Westport Plaza: The Rookie (STL), Friday, September 25 from 6-9 PM at Rawlings Green Space at Westport, 111 Westport Plaza Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146 (map). Enjoy an outdoor showing of this baseball themes movie based on the true story of Jim Morris who debuted in Major League Baseball at age 35. Activities begin at 5:30pm and movie begins at 7pm. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. Admission is FREE. More events are scheduled for Oct.Information
Oktoberfest in Historic St. Charles (SCC),September 25-27 daily in Frontier Park, 500 S. Riverside Drive, 63301. Raise your steins and grab your pretzels! It’s the 40th year of Oktoberfest in Historic St. Charles. Every fall, Main Street and Frontier Park come alive with the sounds of oompah bands, the aroma of bratwurst and funnel cakes, and the cheers of friends old and new. Information ~ Facebook
Dardenne Prairie Day 2026 (SCC), Saturday September 26 from 12 noon-10pm at Dardenne Prairie City Hall Park, 2032 Hanley Rd, Dardenne Prairie MO 63368. Vendor fair and demos in the afternoon, music by School of Rock at 4:30 and Well Hungarians at 6pm, followed by fireworks at 9:00pm (weather dependent). Information
Maplewood Route 66 Celebration (STL), Saturday, September 26 from 3-8pm in Historic Maplewood, 7601 Manchester Road, 63143 (map). Spend the afternoon soaking up nostalgic charm and good old-fashioned fun along the historic Mother Road. Explore Vintage Row featuring retro vendors and throwback finds, check out the car show, and enjoy live music, tasty food & drinks, and shopping with Maplewood’s local businesses. Information
National Hispanic Heritage Month, Free Fishing Day (STL), Saturday, September 26 from 10am-1pm at Carondelet Park Boathouse Lake, 3900 Holly Hills Drive. The MO Department of Conservation celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month with a free fishing day. Fishing permits will also be waived for the day. MDC will provide bait and fishing equipment, but participants are also welcome to bring their own. MDC staff will help beginners learn the basics of fishing, fishing locations, permits, equipment, parks, conservation programs, and outdoor recreation opportunities that are available for free. Enjoy educational touch tables featuring mammal furs and facts about common animals in the area plus free snow cones while they last. The event is open to all ages and all abilities. Information

St. Louis Hills Art in the Park (STL), Sunday, September 27 at Francis Park, Eichelberger Street & Donovan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63109 (map). The St. Louis Hills neighborhood is rich in architecture and home to beautiful Francis Park, provides the backdrop for Art in the Park. Family, friends and neighbors enjoy art, music and food surrounding the majestic lily pond at the center of the park. Information
Advertising this super cool October event because it might fill up: FAMILY CAMP OUT NIGHT & STARGAZING EVENT (SCC), October 24-25 from 3pm (Oct 23)-10am (Oct 25) at Kochanski Multi Sport Field in Legacy Park in Cottleville, MO. Pull out your camping gear, join a group campfire, gaze at the stars through telescopes, and spend the night on the field. Tom’s Coffee Truck will be there and the Astronomical Society of Eastern Missouri will have telescopes set up. Plan to take guided group walks in the park. Cost: FREE! Register here ~ Flyer
Outdoor Concerts….
St Charles Area…
The Meadows at Lake St. Louis Summerfest Music Series (SCC), Thursdays, September 17 & 24 from 6:30-8:30pm at The Meadows at Lake Saint Louis, 20 Meadows Circle Drive, Lake Saint Louis, MO, 63367. FREE admission for humans, and well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and your dancing shoes. More concerts on Oct 8, 15, & Nov 1, 2026. Information
Bench Racers (SCC), Live music every Friday, Saturday, & Sunday in September. Come out to see the newest outdoor social venue located at 1801 N. 2nd Street, St. Charles, MO 63301. Food and beverages available for purchase. Information ~ Facebook
St. Peters Sunset Concerts (SCC), Saturday, September 19 from 4-9 PM at 370 Lakeside Park, 63376. Enjoy a double header with music by Breakdown Shakedown, & That 80s Band starting at 4pm. Enjoy these free outdoor concerts around beautiful lake 370 with food trucks. Sept 19 is final concert of the season. Information
New Town Concerts (SCC), Saturday, September 19 from 7-10pm at the New Town Amphitheater, 3312 Rue Royale, Saint Charles, MO 63301. Enjoy the music of “Trixie Delight.” Bring your lawn chair and picnic dinner. One more free concert on Sept 26 with dance, pop, and hip hop hits by “Just in Time.” Information ~ New Town Events Listing
Weldon Spring Concerts & Food Truck Nights (SCC), September 23 at 6pm at Weldon Spring City Park at 5401 Independence Rd, Weldon Spring MO, 63304. Join for the final concerts of the season with Live Music by Trixie Delight. Bring your family, friends, and a lawn chair and enjoy some great live music. Last concert of the season. Information
Dardenne Prairie Summer Concert (SCC), Saturday September 26 from 6:30 – 9:30 PM at City Hall Park, at 2032 Hanley Road, Dardenne Prairie, 63368. These free outdoor concerts provide a great way to enjoy the summer with family and friends. Music this month by ”Well Hungarians.” Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Concessions will be available for purchase. Final concert of season is Sept 26. Information
Live Music Nights at Chicken N Pickle (SCC), Friday, September 18 & 25 from 7–10 PM at CNP, 1500 South Main Street, St. Charles, 63303. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner, meeting friends for happy hour, or making a night of it with pickleball and yard games, live music is the perfect soundtrack to your evening. Repeats in October. Information
St. Louis Area…
Thursdays Concerts at the History Museum (STL), Thursday, September 17 & 24, & Oct 1 from 6-8pm at MO History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. Join us for the fall concert season at the Missouri History Museum! This popular, free outdoor concert series on the Imo Family Plaza brings a lineup of spectacular shows from local musicians. Grab your blankets and lawn chairs, pack a picnic, and listen to music under a beautiful Forest Park sunset. Some of the area’s best food trucks will also be on hand each week. Information
80’s for Parties on the Plaza (STL), Thursday, September 17 from 5-9pm at Westport Plaza, 111 West Port Plaza Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146. Party like it’s 1985 at the season finale of Parties on the Plaza. Head to Westport Plaza for 80’s Rock Night featuring the band “Members Only”. Enjoy iconic hits, big energy, free admission, and nonstop nostalgia. Information
Benton Park Summer Concert Series (STL), Sunday, September 20, from 2 pm to 8 pm at Benton Park, Pestalozzi Street, 63118 (map) features free Sunday afternoon outdoor performances at Benton Park (Arsenal St. & Jefferson Ave.) in St. Louis. Hosted by the Benton Park Neighborhood Association (BPNA), the shows typically run from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with food, drinks, and local merchandise available for purchase. Repeats on October 18. Information
Maplewood Summer Concert Series (STL), Wednesday, September 23 at Ryan Hummert Park, 2400 Sutton Blvd., 63143 (map) from 6:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. Come listen to the sounds of “Just a Blur” with neighbors and friends. FREE to attend. Final concert of the season is on Sept 23. Information
Downtown St. Louis City Lunchtime Live Outdoor Concerts (STL), Wednesdays, September 23 & 30 from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at the Old Post Office Plaza in Downtown St. Louis, 800 Locust, between 8th and 9th Streets. Lunchtime Live brings you outdoor activities, live music, and food trucks during lunchtime , PLUS, it is FREE to attend. Purchase food from the food trucks or brown bag it. Information
Recreation Council & Partner Reminders…
Missouri Department of Conservation FREE nature classes: Visit these links to find all the class listings: MDC’s Free Classes & Programs Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events here: Sign Up for MDC News.
Search for more Activities in your part of town…
- Events in the Metro Area (BEST OVERALL SITE): www.stlouiscalendar.com
- Metro St. Louis-St. Charles, MO attractions: www.explorestlouis.com
- Around Town for Teenagers: www.explorestlouis.com
- Festivals, Music, Art in the Metro: www.stlouisarts.org/music-festivals
- Discover St. Charles: www.discoverstcharles.com/events
- St. Charles County Parks: Activity Descriptions
- St. Louis County Parks: Calendar ~ Activity Descriptions
- Explore St. Louis, MO: www.stltoday.com/events
- STL Magazine Family Fun: www.stlmag.com/family
- Kids Out and About: www.saintlouis.kidsoutandabout.com
- Fun 4 STL Kids: www.fun4stlkids.com/calendar
- Missouri Department of Conservation – www.mdc.mo.gov/events
- Michael’s Craft Store classes: www.michaels.com/classes
- Virtual Events: www.eventbrite.com
- Best Hiking Trails around St. Louis / St. Charles Metro area: www.hikingproject.com
- Free places to visit by STL Today: www.graphics.stltoday.com/maps/essential-st-louis
Footnotes…
- MO Department of Conservation Fishing Programs for Everyone
- MO Department of Conservation FREE nature classes: MDC’s Free Classes & Programs
- Program Providers for People with Disabilities
- Community Resources for People with Disabilities
- Recreation Council Facebook Page
- View this Newsletter as a WEBPAGE
- If you want to receive this newsletter weekly to your inbox, send your email address to stchascounty@recreationcouncil.org

