Saint Louis Events and Festivals

(Saint Louis, Missouri - MO, USA)

The social diary of St. Louis comes with a number of well-supported annual festivals. These events often reflect the city's French roots and Catholic heritage, while various performing arts venues host regular shows. Opened in 1929 and capable of accommodating audiences of some 4,500 people, the Fox Theater is especially noteworthy and resides on the North Grand Boulevard, within the Grand Center area of Midtown.

St. Louis boasts a long association with the world of music - both jazz and rock 'n' roll. A number of famous musicians were born in the city and have been known to perform here over the years, with Chuck Berry being a regular sight on the stages of local clubs over the decades. Acclaimed American jazz musician Miles Davis also has strong ties with the city.

The party-loving spirit of St. Louis is clearly apparent in its numerous lively annual events and things to do, which often celebrate the arts, music, dance and film. Artisans and craftsmen showcase local art throughout the year at many of the city's arts-based celebrations. The St. Patrick's Day Parade is a notable highlight, followed by the Spirit of St. Louis Marathon in April, the Annual Storytelling Festival in June and then PrideFest each July.

National Public Holidays

• 1st January - New Year's Day
• Third Monday in January - Martin Luther King Day
• 12th February - Lincoln's Birthday
• Third Monday in February - Washington's Birthday
• Last Monday in May - Memorial Day
• 4th July - Independence Day
• First Monday in September - Labor Day
• Second Monday in October - Columbus Day
• 11th November - Veterans Day
• 4th Thursday in November - Thanksgiving
• 25th December - Christmas Day

Calendar of Festivals and Events 2014 / 2015

January

• Mr. Toad's Orchid Adventure - late January to mid-March, exotic orchid festival featuring characters from Wind in the Willows. Held at the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

February

• Soulard Mardi Gras - mid to late February, festivities include wine tasting, parades, cook-offs and the Mayor's ball.
• St. Louis Boat and Sportshow - mid-February, the show features competitions, workshops, mobile aquariums, boat displays and more.

March

• Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade - March 11th, huge parade, marching band, food, drink and general festivities.

April

• Spirit of St. Louis Marathon - early April, a host of running events spread over two days culminating in the 26-mile Spirit if St. Louis Marathon. Other events include a half marathon, children's fun run and various fitness events.

May

• Annual St. Louis Storytelling Festival - early May, storytellers gather for this free event.
• Paint Webster - this free event is held on the second Saturady of May in Webster Groves, the art competition invites regional artists to use their talents to paint an on-site scene. Prizes are awarded at the end of the day.

June

• PrideFest - late June, this festival aims to raise awareness of issues surrounding sexuality with entertainment, food, drink and guest speakers.
• Metro East Pride Festival - a street fair held on the third Saturday of the month in Belleville, Illinois approximately 25 minutes east of St. Louis
• Art and Air Fair - early June, Webster Groves' fine arts fair features exhibits a variety of art, food stalls and music performances.

July

• Fair St. Louis- early July, a major St. Louis event featuring airshows, fireworks, entertainment, food, music and more.

August

• Annual Moonlight Ramble - mid to late August, featuring a moonlit bicycle ride through St. Louis.

September

• Saint Louis Art Fair - early September, this large art fair takes place at Clayton's Business District and features an array of artwork and handicrafts in a range of materials including glass, metal, ceramics and wood. There's also sculpture, mixed media, digital art, music events, poetry readings and more.
• Great Forest Park Balloon Race - mid-September, colorful fun with stunning evening balloon glows and exciting races.
• Blues Heritage Festival - Labor Day weekend, with many notable blues artists and a great party atmosphere.

October

• EarthWays Energy Festival - mid October, environmentally friendly festival, green demonstrations, displays and more.

November

• Way of Lights Christmas Display - mid-November to January, beautiful Christmas displays to enhance the festive season.
• Thanksgiving Day Parade - late November, parade and festivities in downtown St. Louis at the Kiener Plaza.

December

• Wild Lights at St. Louis Zoo - throughout December, festive lights and festivities at the St. Louis Zoo.
• Annual Cherokee Antique Row Cookie Spree - early December, held at the Cherokee-Lemp Historic District.