Fun, Free Events Newsletter

Listings by AREA:
St. Louis, MO ~ STL=St. Louis
St. Charles, MO ~ SCC= St. Charles County
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Spotlight on our Community…

Fall has arrived! Are you looking to take a stroll or play with the kids? Work up a sweat on a hike or while playing a sport? Appreciate art or history? Just enjoy nature? There’s a park for that, as highlighted in this expansive guide of more than 50 metro area parks. The best parks in the metro St. Louis/St. Charles area

A Hidden Gem: Rayburn Park in Crestwood Zipline Playground (STL): 746 Rayburn Avenue, Crestwood, MO 63126.  Rayburn Park is a 3.3-acre neighborhood park featuring a hilly, shaded landscape and play areas designed for children of all ages. With two distinct playgrounds and a paved walking path, it offers a welcoming space for families to enjoy the outdoors. This small friendly little park that includes a playground with a zipline swing, a little tyke playground, walking trails, and shady picnic tables. Open 6am-9pm. Information ~ Rayburn Park Reel

Past Spotlights HERE

Events For People with Disabilities…

The Black Cat Coffee Cafe Project Pop-Up Café (SCC), Saturday October 10 from 9 am – 12 noon at Francis Howell North High School, 2549 Hackmann Rd. St. Charles MO 63303, (map), Please enter through Door #27 (side bus lot door). The Black Cat Coffee Cafe Project is a pop-up mobile cafe that supports young, motivated workers with disabilities to gain valuable vocational experiences. Join us at this pop-up host location and enjoy the menu of breakfast food and drinks. There is no charge; this is a cash “tips only” event.  Information ~ Flyer

The Freddie Ford Family Foundation: Sensory-Friendly Trunk-or-Treat (STL), October 16 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Jewish Community Center in the upper back parking lot past the Arts and Education building, located at 2 Millstone Campus Drive, Creve Coeur, MO 63146. The event will include candy, games, activities, and a movie. There will be a prize for the best family costume, funniest costume and most unique costume.  An RSVP is required to attend. Information

We Rock the Spectrum in Fenton, Trunk or Trick (STL), Saturday, October 17 from 4-7pm at 2075 Bentley Plaza , Fenton, MO, United States, Missouri 63026. Join us for a sensory-friendly, allergy-friendly Trunk-or-Treat designed for families with children who have allergies or sensory needs. Friends, family, and advocates are all welcome. What to Expect: No candy, but sensory toys galore, Vote on your favorite trunk, Exciting raffle baskets, Costume Contest,  Arts & Crafts, Blacklight Party, Ms. Rachel Character Visit, and lots of vendors handing out tricks. Please RSVP:  Information

Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis: Application for a FREE Standard Bike is now open. If your child is under the age of 21, lives within one of the 30 counties we serve in the STL region, and has a physical or developmental disability, they qualify to receive a free standard bike. Bikes give children freedom and independence to explore the world around them and interact with family and friends. Ready to ride? Learn more about our application requirements and our Bikes for Kids program by visiting: varietystl.org/bikes-2026

Fall Sensory Swim (STL), Saturday, October 17, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. at the Maryland Heights Indoor Aquatic Center. Slow down, splash around and enjoy the water at your own pace. Fall Sensory Swim provides a quieter, low-stimulus environment with reduced noise and plenty of room to float, splash and move comfortably. A cozy chill-out zone in the Celebration Room will also be available with coloring, sensory toys and comfortable spaces to unwind when it’s time for a break. No pre-registration is required, but participants must be Community Center members or purchase a day pass. All children must be accompanied by an adult.  Information ~ Maryland Heights Parks and Recreation Facebook Post

Fun, Free Events for Everyone…

Romeo & Zooliet (STL), Last chance: Thursday, October 8 at 6:30 pm [Audio description & ASL interpretation available]; Friday, October 9 at 11 am; Saturday, October 10 at 2 pm & 6:30 pm; Sunday, October 11 at12 pm & 4 pm. Location: Shakespeare Glen in front of the Art Museum in Forest Park. Romeo & Zooliet is a family-friendly outdoor production that tells the story of zoo animals who put on their own version of Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet.” Information

St. Louis Book Club at the Library (STL), October 8 from 6-7pm at Prairie Commons Branch, 915 Utz Land, Hazelwood, MO, 63042. Each month, parents and kids come together for a shared experience centered on community, early literacy, and kid-friendly fun. This free event is ideal for children ages 3–8, and advanced registration is required for all children. October 8 book is This is Orange by Rachel Poliquin. Reserve your spot for November 12 at the Daniel Boone Branch with the book Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet and December 10 at Parkview Branch with the book A Gift of Dust by Martha Brockenbrough. Reserve your spot for OCTOBER 8 here

Artisan Day at The Historic Daniel Boone Home (SCC), Thursday, October 8 from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm at The Historic Daniel Boone Home, 1868 Highway F, Defiance, MO, 63341. On the second Thursday of the month through November, tour the historic Daniel Boone Home for FREE. Docents will be available to answer questions, and all levels of the Home will be open to explore. Stay and tour the Historic Village. Event repeats on Nov 12. Information

O’Fallon, MO Food Truck Fright (SCC), Friday, October 9, 2026 from 6-8:30pm at Dames Park, 387 Dames Park Dr, O’Fallon, MO 63366. Additional Entertainment includes character visits, live DJ music, and an outdoor movie on the athletic field at 6:45 p.m. “How To Train Your Dragon” (2025 Live Action). Information

Guided Walking Tour of Chain of Rocks Bridge (STL), Friday October 9 from 12 noon-2pm at Mississippi Greenway at Chain of Rocks Park, 10840 Riverview Dr, St Louis, MO 63137. Join us for a slow-paced, two-mile guided walking tour to learn about the nature, history and culture along this greenway. Free, but pre-registration is required. Register here

Soulard Oktoberfest (STL), October 9 & 10 daily in Soulard Farmers Market Park, 730 Carroll St, St. Louis, MO 63104. Admission to Soulard Oktoberfest at Soulard Farmers Market Plaza is free and open to the public. Entry into the beer/wine tent is limited to ages 21+ and requires a ticket to be purchased. Free festivities include live music, authentic German food and drink available for purchase. Events at Soulard Farmers Market Plaza run from 4pm to 11pm on Friday and 11am to 10pm on Saturday. Soulard Oktoberfest

Legends & Lanterns Opening Weekend (SCC), October 10 & 11 from 11:00 am – 8:00 pm on Main Street in Historic St Charles, 63301. This annual festival is a “spirited” journey through Halloween history with costumed characters creating mischief along Main Street. The festival runs on Saturdays and Sunday through October 25 with activities for all ages, live music, ghostly guests, and a Pumpkin Glow on October 23 & 24. Information

International Food Festival (SCC), Saturday, October 10 New Town Amphitheater, 3312 Rue Royale, Saint Charles, MO 63301. Experience the flavors and traditions of cultures from around the world at the City of Saint Charles’ first International Food Festival. Enjoy authentic international cuisine, cultural performances, artisan vendors, and unique merchandise in a vibrant market-style atmosphere that celebrates the diversity of our community. Information

St. Charles County Police Department Trunk or Treat (SCC), Saturday, October 10 from 10 am – 1 pm at 101 Sheriff Dierker Court, O’Fallon MO, 63366. Police vehicles, K9s, Community Partners & lots & lots of candy. Information

Manchester Park: Day of the Dead Celebration and Outdoor Movie, Coco (STL), Saturday, October 10 from 6-9pm at  Schroeder Park, 359 Old Meramec Station Road, 63021. Join Manchester Parks and the Venezuelan Association for Día de Los Muertos, a celebration of departed loved ones. Food and drink is available for purchase starting at 6 pm along with free activities and historical information, followed by the movie Disney-Pixars Coco at 7 pm. Come be part of an event that honors memory, celebrates life, and brings community together through culture, cinema, and cuisine. Information

Pumpkin Painting at Ace (STL), Saturday, October 10 from 11 am-1 pm at 1140 Meramec Station Road, Ballwin, Missouri 63021. Join us for our popular FREE pumpkin decorating event. We provide the pumpkins and supplies so kids just need to bring their creativity and enthusiasm! See last year’s masterpieces and more details on our Facebook Page

Read, Play and Grow (STL), Saturday, October 10 from 10am-12 noon at Anne O’C. Albrecht Nature Playscape in Forest Park (map). Join us for Read, Play, Grow, a “come and go as you please” outdoor event in Forest Park. We’ll fill the Nature Playscape with books, puppets, flannel boards and flannels. Grab a blanket, grab a book and connect with nature as we come together to enjoy the simple pleasure of reading with your child. Ideal for caregivers of children ages 0–5.  Information

Florissant Old Town Fall Festival (STL), Sunday, October 11 from 10am-5pm in Olde Towne Florissant, Rue St. Francis, 63303. Join us for a day of lively music, craft and food vendors, pony rides (fee), a dog show, and a car show. Information ~ Flyer

St. Louis VegFest (STL), Sunday, October 11 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at World’s Fair Pavilion at Forest Park. Vegfest is an event that encompasses all things vegan. Visit with over 70 vendors, listen to speakers in the main pavilion, enjoy entertainment, try yoga for free, and check out the kids’ activities.Information

Italian Heritage Parade and Festa (STL), Sunday, October 11 from 12:30-5 pm with a parade beginning at Botanical & Macklind and ending at Berra Park where the Festa begins. Join us for a day of joyful, one-of-a-kind celebration bursting with food, family, music, live music, games, activities, and plenty of good, old-fashioned fun.  Information

Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration (STL), Monday, October 12 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm in Queeny Park, 550 Weidman Road, 63011. Celebrate the day with demonstrations, educational information, and activities honoring indigenous knowledge and culture. Admission is FREE! Information

Manchester (MO) Parks and Recreation Family Stargazing Night (STL), Wednesday, October 14 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Fussner Field, 910 Hazel Avenue, 63021. Explore the wonders of the night sky with our friends from the St. Louis Astronomical Society who will guide you through the stars, planets, and other celestial sights. This free program is held. there are no restrooms available onsite. Information ~ Manchester Parks Facebook Page

Delish on Delmar (STL), Friday, October 16 from 5-9pm on the Delmar Loop in University City, 63130.  A fun mix of food festival, makers market, and block party. Plus join 3rd degree glass for our anniversary party and a glass blowing competition where you are the judge. Two great events in one.  Delmar Delish Information ~ Information

Westport Plaza OctoberFest (STL), October 16 & 17 at Westport Plaza, 63143. Join us for the ultimate Bavarian bash. We’re filling the plaza with everything you need for a perfect fall weekend: flowing bier, authentic food, and live music that will have you dancing all night long. Information ~ Check out all the October events at Westport

KVC Trunk or Treat, (STL), KVC Missouri Webster Groves 330 N Gore Ave, Webster Groves, Missouri, KVC Missouri Webster Groves for a fun-filled Trunk or Treat featuring family-friendly activities, games, music and special character appearances. KVC Missouri is a nonprofit team that’s passionate about strengthening families, preventing child abuse and neglect, and helping people achieve mental wellness. KVC Trunk or Treat,

St. Charles Harley-Davidson Trunk or Treat Fall Fest (SCC), Saturday, October 17 from 2:00-4:30 PM at 3808 West Clay, St. Charles MO 63301. Bring the little ones dressed in their favorite costumes for a fun afternoon filled with trunk-or-treating, FREE face painting, and FREE hot chocolate! We can’t wait to celebrate Halloween with you and the kids! Bring your decorated vehicle and candy to be a part of our fun afternoon. Information

Powder Valley Nature Center Trek or Treat Critter Crawl (STL), Saturday, October 17 from 3:30 – 5:30 pm at Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, at 11715 Cragwold Road (map) in Kirkwood, near the intersection of I-270 and I-44.  The MO Department of Conservation invites visitors of all ages to put on their favorite Halloween costumes and bring candy buckets for stroll down the Tanglevine Trail to learn about bats, owls, snakes, & spiders. Tanglevine Trail is a mostly flat, paved trail that runs approximately 1/3 of a mile and is both stroller and wheelchair friendly. The trail should take around 30 minutes to complete. Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.  Register HERE.

BARK Ranger Event: Pet Parade (STL), Saturday, October 17 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 parade of pets around the Arch. Costumes aren’t required, but highly encouraged. The group will meet at 10 am outside of the Gateway Arch visitor center entrance. All dogs are required to be on a leash. Information

Props & Pistons (STL), October 17 from 9 a.m.–noon at the Spirit of St. Louis Airport, Spirit Sky Club, 604 Spirit Airpark East. FREE! Cars and planes will share the tarmac plus collector cars, exotics, hot rods, and classics alongside aircraft and open hangars, giving visitors an unusually close look at both. Families can also check out Cars & Creepies, where kids can sit inside exotic supercars, along with hands-on animal encounters from The Reptile Room STL; costumes are welcome. Admission is free, with proceeds raised during the event benefiting Chesterfield-based Wings of Hope, which provides free medical air transportation to patients who need specialized care. Information

St. Louis Prehistoric Life Show at the Saint Louis Science Center (STL), Saturday, October 17 from 9:30am-4:30pm at the Science Center, 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110 (free parking at the Planetarium). Families are invited to crack open rocks, identify mystery fossils, meet paleontologists and paleoartists, swap toy dinosaurs, and explore thousands of prehistoric finds. The show will spread across six spaces on the Science Center’s lower level, with roughly 100 participants coming from across Missouri, the Midwest, and beyond. Participating organizations range from Mastodon State Historic Site and the Missouri Dinosaur and Paleontology Center to the University of Missouri and local fossil-hunting groups. SLPLS Website ~  Information

Teen Night at the YMCA (SCC), Saturday, October 17 from 7:00-9:00pm for ages 11-16 at St Charles YMCA, St. Charles Family YMCA, 3900 Shady Springs Lane, St. Peters, MO 63376. Cost: It’s free! Come hang out after hours at the St. Charles YMCA to enjoy food, snacks, and hanging out with friends. Information

Maryland Heights Fall Family Fair (STL), Saturday, October 17 from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at Vago Park Enjoy a fun-filled day of free family activities at Vago Park! The event will feature an all-day petting zoo, pony rides, bounce houses, plus hayrides and face painting available for free! Take a “Paint-a-Pumpkin” to go, starting at 11:00 a.m. (Available while supplies last.) Don’t miss the crowd-favorite Kids’ Costume Contest, kicking off at noon sharp! Food trucks will be on-site with delicious food and drinks available for purchase. A pop-up market will also be available all day. Stay tuned for more details! Information

Harvest Festival at Tower Grove Park (STL), Sunday, October 18 from 11 AM – 5 PM in Tower Grove Park, 4257 Northeast Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110. This single-day event brings the region’s best, uniting a diverse lineup of local makers, handicraft artisans, gourmet food trucks, craft breweries, and live music. Come to eat, shop, and celebrate.  Information

Chesterfield Fall Festival (STL), Saturday, October 17 from 1-6pm at the Chesterfield Amphitheater, 631 Veterans Place Drive, Chesterfield, MO, 63017. Don’t miss this exciting day that includes food vendors, craft and market vendors, carnival rides, a pumpkin patch and hayride, live music by Box of Chocolates and Russo & Co. and so much more. Information

Sababa Festival (STL),Sunday, October 18 from 11am-5pm at 40 South Central Ave, Clayton, 63105. St. Louis’ Jewish Arts & Culture Festival, bringing contemporary Jewish culture to life through music, food, art, family experiences, and community.  Information

Bowlero Lakeside (Valley Park, MO) Family Fest (STL), Sunday, October 18 from 11am – 2pm at Bowlero Lakeside, 1254 Dougherty Ferry Road, Valley Park, MO, 63088. Enjoy a special event menu with passed appetizers and drink samples for all ages, plus a free game of bowling for every guest and a $10 arcade card for kids 16 and under. Stick around for a DJ, face painting, balloon art, and two $50 gift card giveaways throughout the afternoon. Bring the whole family. One free game of bowling per guest, plus one $10 arcade card per child 16 and under. Bowling subject to lane availability. Information

Check out these links for more fun and festivals in the Metro area (some charge entry fees):

 

Outdoor Concerts….

The Meadows at Lake St. Louis Summerfest Music Series (SCC), Thursday, October 8 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 15, & Nov 1, 2026. Information

Downtown St. Louis City Lunchtime Live Outdoor Concerts (STL), Wednesdays October 14, 21, 28 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


Advertising this super cool October event because it might fill up: FAMILY CAMP OUT NIGHT & STARGAZING EVENT (SCC), October 24-25 from 3pm (Oct 24)-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

 


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…

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.

Footnotes…