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Fun, Free Events Newsletter

Listings by AREA:
St. Louis, MO ~ STL=St. Louis
St. Charles, MO ~ SCC= St. Charles County
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Recreation Council News…

Space is still available for our INTRODUCTION TO LITE TENNIS Instructional Night, Monday, July 13 from 5-7pm at Chicken ‘N Pickle, 1500 S. Main Street, St. Charles MO 63301 (map). If you like the DEMO, sign up to attend the Lite Tennis instructional night. This new and user-friendly racquet sport combines tennis and pickleball. Lite Tennis is played with a soft, quiet, specially designed and engineered foam ball that is hit with a tennis racquet on a Pickleball / Lite Tennis court. Scoring is simplified and it’s easy to learn. Instructor, Leo Estopare, will share the joy of this game with people of all ages, all abilities, and all skill levels. Event is open to ALL! We have one court for new tennis players and another court for the more experienced tennis players. We have a few rackets to share, but bring your own racket if you have one.  Registration is Required ~ FLYER ~  Learn more about the game of Lite Tennis at www.litetennis.com

ADA Then and Now: Disability Pride Celebration and Vendor Fair, Tuesday, July 28 from 10 AM -1 PM at the Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. The Recreation Council is one of the many vendors attending this celebration of the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Visit the vendor hall beginning at 10 AM, then listen to inspirational speakers on the role of disabled St. Louisans in the ADA’s passage, the disability rights movement, future directions toward full inclusion of people with disabilities. Information at www.mohistory.org/events/stl-milestones ~ Flyer

LifeBridge is Seeking Your Input on Their Recreation Survey: Do you want to help young people with disabilities enjoy better recreational options? This is how you can do it. Follow the link and complete the survey to help LifeBridge Partnership identify what is working and what needs improvement in local recreation programs for youth with disabilities and their families. This will have a direct impact on quality of life throughout our community. LifeBridge serves people with disabilities in St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson County, Franklin County, and surrounding areas by providing recreation and enrichment activities for youth and adults with disabilities, helping them cultivate social well-being and a sense of belonging. Through this survey, LifeBridge will use community feedback to identify local needs and priorities, guide improvements to services, and earmark future investments in accessible recreational programs. Begin Survey Here

For People With Disabilities…

The Magic House Sensory-Friendly Event (STL), Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 8:30am-9:30am at The Magic House in Kirkwood, MO. The Magic House and KEEN St. Louis invites families and friends to enjoy a sensory-friendly playtime designed to provide children with disabilities a sensory-friendly opportunity to enjoy The Magic House without the crowds. Register for The Magic House on July 11, 2026

ZOO Sensory Friendly Morning (STL), Sunday, July 19 from 8-11am at the St. Louis Zoo in Forest Park. This special morning gives families and individuals with sensory needs a chance to enjoy all the Zoo’s regular offerings with lower crowd capacity, sensory bags (limited quantity), a calming cart, trained Zoo staff to help and various quiet zones.  Free – Reservations Are Required

Saint Louis Crisis Nursery Annual Conference: Hope in Action (STL), Friday, July 24 from 8:30am-12:30pm at The Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, Missouri 63110 (map). Join us as we dive into  current challenges and opportunities impacting children and families across Missouri, take a deeper look at building protective factors, delivering trauma-informed care to strengthen community engagement, and explore prevention efforts. Information ~ FREE, but REGISTRATION is Required

Fun, Free Events for Everyone…

This week’s Screen-Free Summer Challenge from St. Louis magazine: Pick one red, white, or blue activity and be fully there for it. Yes, that means resisting the urge to take 47 blurry fireworks photos you’ll never look at again. Put the phone down; it’s a party!

City Soccer Pop Up Soccer Events, July 1-19 across the Metro area. Nearly every day in July, City Soccer will be a nonstop celebration of soccer including watch parties, street soccer, community mini-pitch openings, youth tournaments, and more. Hosted at multiple locations, like the Forest Park, Kirkwood, O’Fallon YMCA, Westport Plaza, Fairgrounds Park, Black Jack, and U-City, these events and activities will be dedicated to making soccer more accessible for fans of all ages and backgrounds. Information ~ Where to watch the World Cup in St. Louis

Clayton Neighborhood Block Party (STL), Thursday, July 9 from 5-7pm at Wydown Park, 7619 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, Missouri 63105 (map). Celebrate summer with a red, white, and blue-themed neighborhood gathering featuring a live DJ, patriotic activities, classic lawn games, and food and beverage vendors. 5–7 p.m. Free. Information

Great Rivers Greenway Sunsets and Snow Cones (STL), Thursday, July 9 from 5:30-7:30pm Centennial Greenway: Warson Park. Celebrate your regional network of greenways by grabbing a free snow cone on your favorite greenway at sunset. No registration required, just come beat the heat with an icy treat. Repeats on July 23 & 30, August 6 & 13 on various Greenways in the metro area. Information ~ Great Rivers Greenway Facebook Page

Touch a Truck (STL), Friday, July 10 from 9am-1pm at North County Recreation Center, 2577 Redman Road, 63136. Kids can climb, explore, and discover all kinds of big rigs, from fire trucks to dump trucks and more. More Touch a Truck Events are scheduled for July 31 and August 14 at various locations. Facebook Posting

Let Them Eat Art (STL), Friday, July 10 from 5:30-9:30pm at CNB Park, 7300 Manchester Rd, Maplewood, MO 63143.  Celebrate over two decades of creativity, community, and whimsy at Maplewood’s most magical summer event and a lively tribute to Bastille Day. This year’s event will feature over 60 artists demonstrating their craft and selling their work, along with roaming performers, live music, and engaging activities for all ages. Food vendors will be available along Manchester Road for food and drink purchases. Information

2026 Movie Nights at Westport Plaza: CARS (STL), Friday, July 10 from 6-9 PM at Westport Plaza, 111 Westport Plaza Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146 (map).  Enjoy an outdoor showing in our family-friendly green space at the Plaza. Movie concessions will be available, plus 90 minutes before the movie there will be face painting. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. Admission is FREE! Movie begins at 7pm. More movies scheduled for July-September. Information

Family Nights in Brentwood Park (STL), Friday, July 10, 2026, 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm at 2924 Brazeau Avenue, Brentwood, MO 63144. Join us on select evenings this summer for even more fun in the park, featuring local food trucks, refreshing drinks, live music, and free entertainment for all ages. Food trucks and activities begin at 5:30 PM, with featured music acts taking the stage at 7:00 PM. Explore the park, visit our newest playground, and grab your lawn chairs for a night of free summer fun and music. Repeats on August 14. Information

Summer Family Fun at the Missouri History Museum (STL), Fridays, July 10, 17, 24, 31 from 10am-1pm at the History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. Enjoy a variety of family activities, including crafts, performances, storytelling, scavenger hunts, and more. The Summer Family Fun series is great for children ages 2–12. On July 10, explore the beauty of West African culture in St. Louis. On July 17,Get rollin’ on the The Mighty Mississippi.  On July 24, discover the beauty of Vietnamese culture in St. Louis. On July 31, Celebrate Summer with songs, stories, and activities all about having fun in the sun. Information

July is Parks and Recreation Month

O’Fallon Parks & Recreation Pop Up Activities (SCC): July 13, 16, 23, 27, 30, & 31 – FREE, but registration is requested due to limited space ~ We are so excited to celebrate everything that makes our city such a vibrant, strong, and resilient place to live. O’Fallon Parks & Recreation has a fun lineup of free activities planned for everyone, no matter your age or ability. This year’s free Parks & Recreation Month activities include:

  • Family Yoga Class – July 13th, noon at Dames Park
  • Splash Pad Social – July 16th, 10:30 a.m. at Brendan’s Playground
  • Art in the Park (Keychains & Friendship Bracelets) – July 23rd, 10:30 a.m. at O’Day Park
  • Family Fun Kickboxing Class – July 27th, noon at Dames Park
  • Splash Pad Social – July 30th, 10 a.m. at Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center
  • Messy Mania – July 31st, 6 p.m. at Sports Park

St. Charles County Parks: Where the Wild Things Play: Parent-Child Nature Days (SCC), Saturday, July 11 from 10 am–1 pm at Indian Camp Creek Park, 2679 Dietrich Road, Foristell, MO, 63348. This is a FREE program, but Registration is Required. Nature is the ultimate playground and it plays a big role in helping kids grow strong, confident, and curious. Children ages 6–11 head outdoors to explore natural spaces alongside their peers, supported by light-touch supervision that encourages independence and discovery. While kids are off adventuring, parents and guardians can join a ranger-led hike to slow down, explore the trails, and reconnect with the natural world. Event repeats on Saturday, Aug. 8, Sept 6, & Oct 4 at Matson Hill Park. St. Charles County Parks Facebook

Watermelon Festival (SCC), Saturday, July 11 from 7:30AM – 1:00PM on North Main Street in Historic Saint Charles, MO 63301. The Saint Charles Market is hosting our annual summer favorite market, the Watermelon Festival! Watch contestants at the watermelon eating contest or just grab a locally grown melon from one of our vendors. With free books, hands-on crafts, live music, and a rotating lineup of kid-focused activities, the St. Charles Farmers Market is turning Saturday shopping into a family tradition. Mark your calendar for the Peach Festival on July 25. Flyer ~ Market Information  City Events Information

National Police Collectors Show (SCC), July 11 & 12 from 9am-3pm at the St. Charles Convention Center, One Convention Center Plaza, 63303. Enjoy a premier annual event for law enforcement memorabilia enthusiasts, bringing together collectors from across the country to share their passion, trade, and showcase collections. Since 1985, this tradition has fostered lasting friendships, with many attendees reconnecting each year at the show. Free entry to browse vendor tables. Information

Gateway Festival Orchestra Concerts (STL), Sundays, July 12, 19, & 26. see schedule below. Whether you love an evening picnic or enjoying soaring symphonies in the cool air conditioning, the Gateway Festival Orchestra (GFO) is thrilled to be your St. Louis summer soundtrack with our completely free, family-friendly, symphony concerts that are open to everyone. No tickets required. Free parking is available at the Danforth University Center garage. MAP with wheelchair/ADA accessibility at the WashU Quadrangle MAP ~ The Outdoor Experience: Symphony Under the Stars, July 12 & 26 at 7:30pm at Washington University Brookings Quadrangle  The Indoor Experience: July 19 at 4pm at 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity Ave, University City, 63130. Information

Family Nights at The Magic House (STL), Friday, July 17 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

Outdoor Movie at St.Charles County Park: Zootopia 2 (SCC), Saturday, July 18 at 8:30 p.m. at Veteran’s Tribute Park, Weldon Spring, 63304. Lay out your blanket or bring a camp chair as we enjoy a movie under the stars on a giant outdoor inflatable screen. Free popcorn will be provided. Drinks and candy will be available for purchase. Dress for the weather and bring bug spray and a small cooler with drinks. This free program is for all ages. Information

Maryland Heights Fun in the Park (STL), Wednesday, July 15 from 5:30-6:30pm at Vago Park, 24 Monima Dr, Maryland Heights, MO 63043. On July 15, enjoy a princess meet and greet with the annual Hot Diggity Dog party. Information

 

Outdoor Concerts & Repeating Events….

Summer concert series for every day of the week:  Read Now »

St Charles Area…

St. Charles, Beale Street Concert (SCC), Wednesday, July 8 from 6-8pm at Streets of St. Charles, 1520 South 5th Street, St. Charles, MO, 63303.  Enjoy music by Hollywood 5. Bring your lawn chair for a live local musical entertainment (no outside food or beverages). Concerts monthly on Aug 12, Sept 9 and Oct 14. Information

St. Charles Municipal Band Concert (SCC), Thursday, July 9, 16, 23, 30 and weekly through August, 2026 from 7:30-8:30 pm at Frontier Park, 500 S Riverside Dr, St Charles, MO 63301. Pack a lawn chair or blanket, and enjoy a free outdoor performance by the St. Charles Municipal Band. Free. Information

The Meadows at Lake St. Louis Summerfest Music Series (SCC), Fridays, July 10, 17, 24, 31 & weekly through September 2026 from 6:30-8:30pm at The Meadows at Lake Saint Louis, 20 Meadows Circle Dr, 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. On July 10, enjoy singer Michael Marciano performing rock, blues, pop, reggae, rockabilly, motown & more. Information

Frenchtown Hot Summer Nights (SCC), Saturday, July 11 from 7-10pm on Second Street, St. Charles, MO 63301. Join us for a summer of hot music, great times with friends and good food and drinks. Enjoy our first concert featuring “Rock Party Night” featuring the J-Berrys. More concerts on Aug 8 & Sept 12.  Information

Jazz at the Riverside (SCC), Sunday, July 12 at 7:30pm at Frontier Park, 222 S. Riverside Drive, St. Charles, MO 63301. Listen to the swinging sounds of the St. Charles Big (Jazz) Band performing on the Jaycee Stage in Frontier Park on the Banks of the Missouri River. Performances include popular music including Swing, Bebop Jazz, Pop, Show Tunes, Contemporary Jazz, and vocals from the Great American Songbook. Repeats Aug 9, and Sept 6. Information

O’Fallon, MO Jammin’ Summer Concert Series (SCC), Tuesday, July 14 with music by “Garden Party” playing Golden Oldies. More concerts on July 21, 28, Aug 4 & 11.  Information

St. Charles Music on Main (SCC), Wednesday, July 15 from 5-7:30pm on 100-200 blocks Join us for  Music by “Sometimes a Fantasy: a Tribute to Billy Joel”.  Bring your lawn chairs to this free outdoor concert. Food & Drink available to purchase. Concerts monthly through September. Information

New Town Sunday Morning Concert (SCC), Sunday, July 12 from 10am-12 noon at the New Town Amphitheater, 3312 Rue Royale, Saint Charles, MO 63301. NOTE: This concert happens alongside the adult triathlon so expect road closures. Bring your lawn chair to enjoy a variety of music by “Ed & Darren”. More free concerts through September 19. Information ~  New Town Events Listing

Cottleville Twilight Tuesdays (SCC), Tuesday, July 21 from 6-8:30pm at Legacy Park, CWS Rotary Amphitheatre, 5490 Fifth Street, Cottleville, MO 63304 (map). Join us for “Drawl County Band” playing country favorites. One more concert on Aug 25. Information

St. Louis Area…

Downtown St. Louis Lunchtime Live Concert (STL), Wednesdays, July 8, 15, 22, & 29 from 1:30 am – 1:30 pm at the Old Post Office Plaza in Downtown St. Louis, 801 Locust Street, 63101. Take a break from work and join us for lunch outdoors on the Post Office Plaza. This event features live music and food trucks, PLUS, it is FREE to attend. Purchase food from the food trucks or brown bag it. Dates for August & September are not posted yet. Information

Botanical Gardens Whitaker Music Festival (STL), Wednesday, July 8, 15, 22, 29 from 5-9 PM at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Gates open at 5pm with a concert at 7pm. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on and are welcome to bring their own picnic supper or purchase dinner on site. Admission to the Garden is FREE after 5pm during the festival. Last concert of the season is July 29. Information

Faust Park Summer Concert Series (STL), Thursdays, July 9, 16, 23, & 30 & weekly through August 11, 2026 from 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm at Faust Park, 15025 Faust Park Drive, Chesterfield, MO, 63017. This outdoor concert series features talented local musicians. Gates open at 5:30 pm, bingo at 6 pm, concerts from 7-9pm. Concessions and Food Trucks will be available for food and drink purchases.  Website ~ Facebook

Ferguson Summer Concerts at Plaza 501 (STL), Friday July 10 from 7-9pm at The Plaza, 501 S. Florissant Rd, 63135. Enjoy the music of Griffin & The Gargoyles. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers (no glass) to enjoy music outdoors. Final concert of the summer scheduled for Sept 11. Information

Des Peres Summer Concert (STL), Friday, July 10 from 7-9:30pm at Des Peres Park, 12325 Manchester Road, 63131. Join the City of Des Peres for the music of Breakdown Shakedown along with food trucks where you can purchase food. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and coolers (alcohol is allowed but NO GLASS).  Information

New Listing: Florissant: Music Under the Stars at St Ferdinand Park (STL), Saturday, July 11, 18, & 25 from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm at St. Ferdinand Park,  Enjoy an evening listening to live music “under the stars!” Bring your lawn chairs or picnic blankets. A variety of food trucks will be available, but bring your own beverages. Event starts at 6pm, music begins at 7pm. Admission to concerts is FREE. More concerts on Aug 1, 8, 15, & 22. Information

Chesterfield Amphitheater Sounds of Summer Tribute Band Concerts (STL), Saturday, July 11 & 16 from 6-10pm at the Chesterfield Amphitheater, 631 Veterans Place Drive, Chesterfield, MO, 63017. On July 11, enjoy a tribute to Huey Lewis.The Music of Chicago has been rescheduled for July 16 after severe weather forced the cancellation of the June show. Admission is FREE to both concerts. More tribute concerts on July 25, August 14 & 22. Information

Maryland Heights Summer Concerts (STL), Friday, July 17 from 7-9pm at Vago Park, 24 Monima Dr, Maryland Heights, MO 63043. Enjoy music this month by “Trilogy” playing a variety of favorites. More concerts on Aug 14 & 28. Information

Benton Park Summer Concert Series (STL),  July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, 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. Information

Tower Grove Park, Sauce Magazine’s Food Truck & Live Music Fridays (STL), no July dates; Event returns on Aug 14 & 21, Sept 18, & Oct 2, 2026. Information

The Metro STL/SCC area is hopping with activity. Check out these listings of more events you can explore:

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.

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…

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…