Fun, Free Events

Autism Awareness Dance (STL), Saturday, April 25 from 4-8pm at Schlafly’s, 1520 Washington Ave, St. Louis MO 63103. Autism Ally Foundation proudly presents an Autism Awareness Dance in St. Louis, Missouri, designed to celebrate inclusion, self-expression, and community connection for individuals with autism and their families. This free autism-friendly event welcomes people of ALL abilities into a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space. Everyone is welcome to come dance the afternoon away with us! Information ~ Flyer

Marshall’s Outdoor Block Party (STL), Saturday, April 25 from 9-11 am at We Rock the Spectrum – Fenton, 2075 Bentley Plaza, Fenton, MO 63026. This is more than just a character visit. This is a chance for kids and families to learn, connect, and build confidence in real-life situations. Visit with Marshall the dog, and the firefighters from Fenton’s Firehouse. Outdoor activities are FREE. Indoor activities costs $25 per child. and includes an awesome black light party, fire room escape simulation, gym activities, and more. The Recreation Council will be there so stop by our vendor booth to say hi. Information

FREE Parent Workshop: Understanding Your Sensory Child (SCC), Wednesday, April 29 from 7:00-8:30PM at Leaps & Bounds, 324 Jungermann Road, St. Peters, MO 63376, We’ll break down what’s really going on with your child’s sensory system and share practical, realistic strategies you can start using right away at home. Whether your child is constantly on the move, avoids certain textures, struggles with regulation, or has big reactions, this seminar is for you. Register HERE

Saturday Explorers: Astha A Capella (STL), Saturday, May 2 from 2-3pm at the Weber Road Library branch, 4444 Weber Road, St. Louis, MO 63123 (map). Saturday Explorers is a monthly program designed specifically for adults with disabilities. Caregivers are welcome. Contact Lauren Budde at 314-994-3300 or lbudde@slcl.org at the library with questions. Information

Partner News…

Great Rivers Greenway needs YOUR help to help communicate accessibility on the greenways! We know that the 140 miles of greenways in our region vary in their elevation, steepness, grade. We want to make sure we’re doing everything we can to communicate that information to everyone who needs it in a way that works best for them. If the steepness of paths or sidewalks matters to you, please fill out this interest form by Monday, April 27th. We’ll let you know by Wednesday, April 29th if you’ve been chosen to participate in the focus group on Monday, May 4th from 5-7pm where we’ll be presenting specific ideas for how to best communicate slope in print, digital, and in-the-field materials, and we welcome your candid feedback on this topic. Hybrid meeting at the Great Rivers Greenway office in the City Foundry (ADA accessible) OR on Zoom. All participants receive $50 VISA gift card, dinner, and childcare provided in person. If you have any questions about this opportunity, please contact Marla McDonnell at 314-655-1316 or MMcDonnell@grgstl.org.

Midwest Disabled Water Ski Association – Skier slots are going fast – Register soon: Summer Splash REGISTRATION. Missouri Disabled Water Ski Association (MDWSA) can’t wait to get back on the water, see familiar faces, and welcome new friends to the lake for another unforgettable summer. We provide a safe, fun and extremely memorable water ski experience. SLOTS FILL QUICKLY! Learn more about MDWSA.

St. Peters Disabled Person Locator Program: The St. Peters Disabled Person Locator program provides essential information about residents in the St. Peters area who have specific medical or developmental conditions so that when officers encounter individuals with these conditions, identifying the person and reaching a caregiver is faster. This secure database is included within an existing system, so there is no additional cost to the City of St. Peters participating citizens. Information

Boone Center, Inc. Inclusive Manufacturing Summer Camp (SCC), Applications OPEN NOW…Program happens from July 13–August 7, 2026 at BCI’s vocational training center at 16010 Spencer Road in St. Peters, MO. This FREE career exploration experience opens doors to future careers for high school students with disabilities. Boone Center, Inc. (BCI) is a nonprofit dedicated to creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and is now accepting applications for its Inclusive Manufacturing Summer Camp. The instructor-facilitated camp is designed for high school students with intellectual or developmental disabilities who are interested in exploring hands-on learning in the manufacturing industry. APPLY HERE ~ Information ~ FLYER

Parents Supporting Parents (SCC): One of our Rec Council parents is creating network to support working parents with child care needs and asked us to share this message: “Many parents find themselves in a bind when they can’t leave their children with disabilities unattended because the child is too old for daycare but too young for adult services. My name is Lindsay and I’m a parent who wants to connect with other parents living in the St. Charles area who are in the same situation and want to discuss creating a network of parents who are willing to share childcare duties. This could happen both during the summer and the school year. If you are interested, contact Lindsay at Dandeliondogs@hotmail.com or 470-222-1008.”

EARTH DAY and Other Free Events for Everyone…

St. Charles Parks Arbor Day Celebration (SCC), Friday, April 24, 10am-12 noon with tree identification hike at 11am at Wapelhorst Park Shelter 1. Staff are commemorating the start of the City’s 20th year as a Tree City USA-recognized municipality by planting new park trees and giving away free tree saplings for guests to take home (while supplies last). Register for a free walking tour HERE with Park Horticulturist to identify trees and answer any questions you may have along the way. Free to attend & open to all ages. Event Information

Earth Day Festival at the Muny in Forest Park (STL), April 25-26 from 11am-5pm both days at the Muny grounds in Forest Park. The St. Louis Earth Day Festival features 200 sustainable vendors, entertainment, local food, hands-on activities, and inspiration for sustainable living and reducing waste. Whether you are coming for the food, the music, the activities, or the people watching, we PROMISE you will leave a little more inspired about real progress being made to preserve our planet and a little more connected to those on the front lines. Information

Tons of Transportation (STL), Saturday, April 25 from 9-11am at the Center of Clayton, 50 Gay Ave, Clayton, MO 63105. BEEP! BEEP! Come see different vehicles from police, fire, public works, parks and recreation and construction and more. Kids will be able to climb in and explore each vehicle. Parents, don’t forget your cameras. This event will take place in the upper parking lot at the Center of Clayton. FREE. Information

The Hispanic STEM Festival (STL), Saturday, April 25 from 10am-2pm at Deer Creek Park, 3200 N Laclede Station Rd, Maplewood, MO 63143, (map). We are bringing together the best of culture and curiosity. From high-tech experiments to the rhythm of traditional dances. Culture and science intersect at the Día del Niño STEM Block Party. This family-friendly celebration lets visitors engage with science activities while grooving to the beat of traditional dances. hispanicfestivalstl.com ~ FLYER

Sappington House Country Craft Festival (STL), Saturday and Sunday April 25-26, 2026 from 9 am-3 pm at Historic Sappington House, 1015 Sappington Rd, St. Louis, MO 63126. Discover a cache of treasures from the silly to sublime at our open-air fair featuring antiques, arts and crafts, books, garden and home décor, jewelry and original handmade items by talented vendors. Enjoy live old-time music and activities. Free admission and parking at Crestwood Elementary School (map). In case of severe inclement weather, the fair will be rescheduled for June 27-28. Information by phone 314-822-8171 or Website ~ Flyer

 Big Truck Day (SCC), Sunday, April 26 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at Kinetic Park, 7801 Town Square Avenue, Dardenne Prairie, MO, 63367. With construction wrapping up at St. Charles County Kinetic Park, it’s time to get up close and personal with the big trucks that made it all possible. Come check out the massive machinery and more on Truck Day. This free program is fun for all ages. Information

Bach Festival Free Concerts (STL), Sunday, April 26 at 3 pm at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 110 N Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63124. Celebrate the timeless genius of J.S. Bach at the 2026 St. Louis Bach Festival. More free concerts scheduled for May 3 & 8. Information

Pop-Up Fashion Show (STL), Tuesday, April 28 from 5-7pm at Hearth & Soul, 9640 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63124. Check out new fashion creations from Lindenwood students and alumni designers. Autism Speaks is the April Hearth and Soul non-profit partner. Free, but Registration is Required

APOLLO 1 Movie Screening (SCC), Thursday, April 30 at 12 noon at The Lindenwood Theater, 2300 West Clay, Saint Charles, MO 63301. APOLLO 1 is the personal story of three exceptional astronauts who came together in America’s race for the Moon: Gus Grissom, Ed White and Roger Chaffee. It’s a story of jeopardy, adventure, tragedy and recovery, as told by those closest to the crew. Tickets are not required for this free, public event. Information

Route 66 Centennial Festival (STL), April 30-May 3 (various hours) at the MO History Museum in Forest Park. Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 at the Missouri History Museum during this four-day festival exploring the Mother Road’s stunning natural scenery, quirky roadside attractions, complex history, and impacts on communities across the St. Louis region. Activities for the whole family include live music, a vintage car display, storytelling, history talks, and a screening on Friday night of the movie, Cars. Check out the website for dates and times of each activity. Information

Sauce Magazine’s Food Truck Friday: Season Kickoff (STL), Friday, May 1 from 4-8pm at Tower Grove Park, 4257 Northeast Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110. Bring a picnic dinner or buy an entrée from one of our food truck vendors and enjoy an evening at the park with friends, fun, live music and over 20 food truck options. Event repeats May 29 and through the summer. Information

The Greater St. Louis Book Fair (STL), Friday-Sunday, May 1-3 (various hours) at Queeny Park: 550 Weidman Rd, Manchester, MO 63011. Come browse this enormous sale of hardback and paperback books, records, CDs, DVDs, comics and more. Many of these items can be purchased for prices as low as a couple of dollars. Proceeds benefit education and literacy efforts in the St. Louis Metro area. Admission is FREE Friday through Sunday. Information

Whiskers & Wags Pet Expo & Adoption Event (SCC), Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at Civic Park, O’Fallon, MO. Join us for a celebration of pets at O’Fallon’s annual pet-focused expo and adoption drive. Bring your four-legged friends and shop vendor booths for incredible pet products like pet food & treats, toys and wearables, crates and beds and other can’t-miss deals. Grab a bite to eat to share with your furry pals, and enjoy pet-themed events, activities, demonstrations and more. Information

Spring Migration Bird Walk, Guided Hike (STL), Saturday, May 2 from 9am-10:30pm at Laumeier Sculpture Park, Kranzberg Education Center, 12580 Rott Rd, St. Louis, 63127. Learn how to spot birds by sight and sound while exploring why Laumeier Park’s grounds are an important stop along their journey across Missouri. Hike includes unpaved areas, slopes, narrow trails, and will be near wildlife and plants. Wear hiking shoes, sunscreen and bug spray. FREE, but registration is required. Call 314-615-5278 or Register ONLINE

Chicken N Pickle Kids Crew: Spring Balloons & Bloom Bash (SCC), Sunday, May 3 from 10am-12noon at CNP 1500 South Main, St. Charles, MO 63303. Free Kids brunch, free kids Spring Balloons & Bloom Bash, free balloon artist fun, free bingo! Fun for the whole family!*FREE Tickets needed for kids ages 12 & under only* Join us for CNP Kids Crew: Sign up here

WorldFest (STL), Sunday, May 3 from 12:00–5:00 p.m. at the Saint Louis Music Park in Maryland Heights, 750 Casino Center Drive, Maryland Heights, Missouri 63043 (map).Experience a world of culture right here in Maryland Heights at a free, one-day celebration of global diversity featuring live performances, international cuisine, cultural demonstrations, crafts and family-friendly activities. Children can explore the world through our interactive World Passport Program, visiting stations to learn about different countries and cultures. Information

Overnight Camp Registration and Voucher Funding: Our ST. CHARLES OFFICE HAS OFFICIALLY STARTED A WAITING LIST FOR FUNDING. We are still taking applications for overnight camps and community recreation programs and your request will be put on a waiting list in case money comes free. Funds are first come, first serve with program dates required. ST. LOUIS CITY AND COUNTY both have funds available for all programs. Complete an application HERE for the county where you live.

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.

The 2026 Summer Opportunities Guide is now available to view and print: Find the PDF version HERE

St. Louis Magazine publishes a guide to local summer camps. From arts to athletics, there are many local offerings to keep your child active and entertained while continuing their development outside of the school year. Check out our 2026 Local Summer Camp Guide to find the right camp for your child. Camp Guide Here

BluePrint4 is a search engine to help you search for Summer Day camps and after-school programs in the St. Louis Metro area. www.blueprint4.com

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: Calendar ~ Activity Descriptions
• St. Charles County Winter Activity Guide for upcoming events through April.
• 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
• 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