BRRRR…Baby, now it’s REALLY cold outside! Except for the brave folks who love to watch eagles, you’ll have to enjoy some indoor fun while we wait for Jack Frost to head back north. Enjoy one of these fun, free events.
Listings by AREA:
St. Louis, MO~STL=St. Louis
St. Charles, MO ~ SCC= St. Charles County
Email us to receive this e-newsletter weekly: [email protected]
Recreation Council News…
Bingo Fundraiser, Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Doors open at 5:30pm; Bingo begins at 6:15pm.
THIS WON’T BE YOUR ORDINARY BINGO NIGHT!
Join the Recreation Council for an evening of BINGO fun while raising money to offset the cost of youth and adults to attend camps and recreation programs of their choice. The evening includes 10 rounds of BINGO with CREATIVE games, a 50-50 raffle, and prizes for the winner of each game. Event is located on the second floor of the main building in the indoor rooftop room. Share our Bingo Flyer ~ RESERVE YOUR SEAT HERE
Online Summer Program Listing: Visit our listing of Summer 2025 programs including specialized and traditional programs, overnight and day camps, adult adventures, and specialized summer events. Recreation Council Voucher Funding: If you need funding through the Recreation Council to offset the cost of your selected program, fill out the Recreation Council Voucher Application
News for People with Disabilities…
Variety’s 2024 Adventure Day Camp, St. Louis, MO: FREE Specialized Day Camp for ages 4-20. Registration for Summer Camp 2025 Opens January 13, 2025. Campers are allowed to attend camp for ONE week only. Six camp weeks from June 2-July 18, 2025. At camp, Variety Kids are empowered to form new friendships, try new things, grow in self-esteem, and explore the world around them with independence and confidence. Each camper is paired with a counselor “buddy” to ensure their needs are met each day. The location of Camp changes each day to accommodate different activities and adventures, all within the St. Louis region. For information, contact Amy at [email protected] or 314-720-7719. Information
The Sensory Friendly Event at The Magic House is CANCELLED tomorrow, January 11, 2025 due to poor road and weather conditions.
The Magic House kindly rescheduled our event to Saturday, January 25. Please re-register for that even so we know how many people to expect. Click here: JANUARY 25 The Magic House Registration Stay safe and we will see you in a few weeks.
Sensory-Friendly Event at The Magic House (STL), Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 8:30am-9:30am at the Magic House, Kirkwood, MO. The Magic House is opening early for KEEN families and friends to enjoy sensory-friendly playtime. This is designed to provide children with disabilities with a sensory-friendly opportunity to enjoy The Magic House without the crowds. Families are welcome to stay once The Magic House opens to the public, but they must arrive by 9:30am for free admission. Admission is FREE.
East Missouri Autism Project (EMAP) and the Family Flexible Assistance Program Funding (FFAP) Announcement: “The East and Northwest Missouri Autism Projects have transitioned to the Family Flexible Assistance Program (FFAP) effective January 1, 2025. Individuals and families who reside in these regions will have an opportunity to apply for funding for the remainder of fiscal year 2025 (January – June 2025). Applications open at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 for individuals and families who reside in these regions will be able to submit an application for FFAP funding on the East Missouri Autism Project (EMAP). Visit the Family Flexible Assistance Program webpage for the latest Program Guidelines, Frequently Asked Questions, webinars, and more.” Camps and Community Classes are on the approved list of services but funding is not guaranteed.
Sensory-Friendly Morning at the City Museum (STL), Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM at the City Museum, 750 N 16th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103. Climb, slide, jump, and play in the many unique areas the museum has to offer. To ensure this event is sensory-friendly, lighting and audio adjustments will be made where able, trained Easterseals staff will be on hand until 10:30 AM, and registration is limited. Complimentary parking will be available until 9:30 AM in the City Museum lot, located at 16th and Delmar and enclosed by cement serpents. After 9:30 AM, parking will be $15 per vehicle. Additional parking is available in the surrounding area. Registration is $1 for everyone three years and older: Register HERE
Freddie Ford Foundation Parent Autism Support Group Meeting – 1/25/25: Join the Freddie Ford Family Foundation for their parent support group meeting January 25, 2025 from 2:30 p.m. at the Clark Family Branch of the St. Louis County Public Library located at 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63131. Children are welcome to attend. There will be no formal childcare so please bring a favorite device or toy. Our speakers will be from St. Louis Arc, sharing information about their resources and programs. Register Here ~ Flyer
Harbor Unlimited & Gateway Disabled Ski Program Adapted Skiing Event (STL), Sunday, January 26, 2025 from 9am-12noon at Hidden Valley Ski area in Eureka, MO. Click HERE and Register by January 17. People of all ages with disabilities and their families are invited to come try adapted skiing. Person with disability skis for free, but family members must purchase a lift ticket and ski rental. Information
Looking for a Trivia Night in February? Here’s an event from one of our very own Recreation Council participants raising funds for his school: Date: February 1, 2025
Cost: $250 table of 8 or $35 per person
Location: Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, St. Louis, MO
FLYER HERE
Disability Rights Legislative Day (Jefferson City, MO), Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at the Missouri State Capitol, 201 W Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Boxed lunches and t-shirts will be provided to those who register by January 17. Hosted by the Missouri Developmental Disability Council, gathers self-advocates, family members, legislators, and statewide officers to participate and have their voices heard. The day features a one-hour rally and opportunities to meet with legislators. Emmaus will provide bus transportation from the corporate office in St. Charles and St. Peters UCC in Washington, MO. Click this link to Register for February 26. If you can’t attend DRLD, there are more Advocacy Days in January, March, April, and May – Information Here
Pathways to Independence is looking for St. Charles County residents to join their programs: Before joining Pathways, St Charles resident Ava struggled to connect with others. But through her journey, she’s discovered new ways to grow her confidence. “I had a hard time making friends,” Ava shared, “but now I find it easier by asking get-to-know-you questions—practicing what we learn at Pathways.” Her favorite events? “I really like our hiking trips, craft nights, and going places in the community. I’ve made a bunch of new friends […] I’m even better at remembering people’s names now!” Ava’s story is a testament to what’s possible when you find your people. “There are so many good people at Pathways, and everybody is so nice!” If you’re neurodiverse and live in St. Charles County, Pathways to Independence could be the community you’ve been looking for. Ready to start building connections and confidence? Visit ptistl.org/scc and take that first step today.
Pujols Family Foundation Rhythm of Life Music Therapy (STL): This FREE 10-week music program is for people with Down syndrome, age 18 and older. It promotes creative expression and social interaction through music. This session meets on in person on Monday nights from January 27-April 7, 20125 at Maryville University’s Main Campus, 650 Maryville University Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141. There are two sessions available at either 6:00pm or 7:00pm. Enrollment is free. RSVP is REQUIRED: Contact Becca Lang at 314-878-2105. Website
Events for Everyone…
Art Tour—Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (STL) Fridays & Saturdays, January 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 & Feb 1, 2025 from 1–2 pm at MO Art Museum. The history of art is full of elaborate banquets and celebrations involving food. On this guided tour, keep the abundance of the holidays going and discover different representations of festive hospitality, tableware, guests, and decorations. FREE tours begin at the welcome desk in Sculpture Hall on a first come, first served basis. Event Schedule
JCPenney Kids Zone (SCC), Saturday, January 11 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at JCPenney at Mid Rivers Mall, St. Peters, MO 63376. Kids drop by the mall to create a Yeti or Penguin bookmark (while supplies last). Kids also receive a collector’s pin, and a special lanyard to hold their Kids Zone pins. Information. Event repeats on Feb 8 with new craft.
Family Saturday, Open Studio (SCC), (map). This free event for all ages invites you to create an art project inspired by featured artist Ben Bradshaw. Drop in on a Saturday in January to view Ben’s wonderful work in the Main Gallery and then create your own colorful abstract masterpiece. Instructions, inspiration, and supplies will be provided. Information
Stitch ‘n B***h – Fiber Arts Club (SCC), Thursday, January 16, 2025 from Foundry Art Centre, St. Charles, MO (map). Stitch ‘n Bitch with us during the Foundry’s new FREE fiber crafts club. Bring your stitching project from knitting, to embroidery, to crochet and beyond. This is not a class, but a crafters club to meet others interested in fiber arts. If you need accommodations for this program, please contact the Foundry as soon as you are able. Event repeats on February 20, March 20, April 17, & May 15. Information
Dardenne Prairie Resident Events for Seniors (SCC): Board Game Days, January 17; Bingo, Feb 7. Events repeat monthly. Residents get seats first, non-residents are waitlisted unless a seat is available. January Newsletter ~ Website ~ 2025 Event Listing
Third Friday at Third Degree Glass: January “Reignition” (STL), Friday, January 17 from 6-10pm at Third Degree, 5200 Delmar Blvd, St Louis, MO, 63108. Queen Elsa isn’t the only person who can let it go. Bring all of your bad habits, missed opportunities, and grudges to Third Degree in the new year and LET – THEM – GO. Write them down on paper, and participate in our annual ceremonial burning in the hot shop. Information
Magic House Free Family Night (STL), Friday, January 17 from 5-8pm. These special nights enable a family (up to two adults and four children) to visit the Museum at no cost. (This is not a sensory sensitive event.) Information
Eagle Watch Event (SCC), Saturday, January 18 from 10am-1pm at Riverside Landing, 101 Riverport Lane, St. Charles, MO, 63301 (map). Bald Eagles flock to Missouri in the winter months and Riverside Landing in St. Charles is the perfect place to watch them! Join our Park Rangers at the park’s scenic overlook where spotting scopes and binoculars are provided. Child-friendly eagle activities and a toasty campfire add to a perfect family outing. Information
Mardi Gras Family Winter Carnival & Shoebox Float Gallery (STL), Saturday, January 18 from 12noon-3pm at Lift For Life Elementary School, 1920 South 7th Street, St. Louis, MO 63104. This is a FREE kid-friendly, family event featuring face painters, making your own mask, cape, crown and noise makers, free popcorn, and more. See website for info on how to make your own Showebox Float. This is an alcohol-free event. Admission is FREE. Website
Family Sunday: Cards, Coins, and Other Magic (STL), Sunday, January 19, 2025 from 1–4 pm at the Art Museum in Forest Park, One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park, St. Louis, Missouri 63110. Step into a world where art and magic collide. Artists of all ages are invited to explore the magical qualities of creativity through hands-on art making and dazzling performances of card and coin tricks. Information
MLK Day Celebrations and Events:
Dr, Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at MO History Museum (STL), Jan 17, 18, & 20, 2025 beginning at 10am at MO History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. throughout the holiday weekend. Families are invited to join youth, activism workshops, meaningful conversations on race and social justice, storytelling, movement, and craft workshops. Information
Selections from Selma the Musical: The Untold Stories (STL), Sunday, January 19, 2025 from 2–3:30 pm at Art Museum in Forest Park, One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park, St. Louis, MO 63110. A historical-fiction, musical theater presentation by Infecting Change Theatre Company will be performed in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. After the performance, there will be a conversation and Q&A with playwright J.P. Haynes, cast members, and political strategists. Information
PERFORMERS NEEDED: Recreation Council Evening of Entertainment: A Competitive Spotlight on Abilities, Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Ladue Horton Watkins High School. This evening’s showcase includes music, dancing, poetry reading, magic, comedy, and more. Performers Apply HERE
Recreation Council’s Annual Meeting and Recognition Ceremony, Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at the Lodge in Des Peres, MO Mark your calendars and nominate an individual for a recognition. Nominations are due no later than February 24, 2025 by emailing the nomination form to [email protected].
Search for more Activities in your part of town…
Here are a few links to continue your search for fun in the metro area. Some places charge entry fees, so check on costs before you go.
- 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: www.sccmo.org ~ Facebook ~ Calendar ~ Activity Guide
- St. Louis County Parks: Registration ~ Activity Guide
- St. Louis County Parks: www.stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/parks
- 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
Resources…
Click HERE to see fee-based programs for people with disabilities
Click Here to see Community Resources for People with Disabilities
Click Here for the Recreation Council Regional Fall 2024 Newsletter
Like and Follow us at www.facebook.com/reccouncilstl
View this newsletter as a web page HERE
Need Funding for a Recreation Program? Click here for information about our voucher programs for people with developmental disabilities in St. Louis and St. Charles.
Event information is updated weekly. www.recreationcouncil.org/anytime-activities
If you want to receive this newsletter weekly to your inbox, send your email address to [email protected]
