Get ready for a vibrant and activity-filled weekend in the Gateway to Fun! From August 22nd to 24th, 2025, St. Louis comes alive with a diverse array of events catering to all interests. Drawing from various local event listings, including guides similar to those provided by KidsOutAndAbout.com and FOX 2 Now, this guide offers a curated selection of the weekend’s highlights.
Friday, August 22: Arts, Animals, and Evening Tunes
Friday kicks off with a celebration of arts, nature, and music, offering a perfect start to your weekend. Whether you are a local or a visitor, there are numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in the St. Louis culture. As noted by the City of St. Louis Office of Special Events, the city actively promotes such diverse programming to enhance the community experience.
Free Art and Amazing Animals
Begin your day with Free Fridays at The Saint Louis Art Museum, open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Explore diverse collections and exhibitions without spending a dime. Later, head to the World Bird Sanctuary for the WOW Amazing Animal Show, a short but engaging presentation from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM. According to the World Bird Sanctuary’s official schedule, this show is a consistent favorite, showcasing the organization’s commitment to wildlife education.
Sunset Concert Series in St. Peters
As evening approaches, make your way to St. Peters for the Sunset Concert Series, commencing at 6:30 PM. Enjoy live music in a relaxed outdoor setting, a perfect way to unwind after a busy week. This event aligns with similar outdoor concert series highlighted by Do314, emphasizing the region’s vibrant music scene.
Shakespeare in the Park and Downtown Summer Nights
Don’t miss the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s free outdoor performances of “The Tempest,” running in various parks until August 25th. This beloved annual event brings classic theater to the community. In downtown St. Louis, “Downtown Summer Nights” continues with a market night on August 22nd, offering a chance to browse local vendors and enjoy the city’s ambiance. Explore St. Louis promotes these events as key attractions for both tourists and locals alike.
Saturday, August 23: Markets, Music, and Community Fun
Saturday is packed with activities ranging from farmers’ markets to community events and outdoor cinema. Start your day with fresh produce and local goods, and end it with music and a movie under the stars.
Farmers’ Markets Galore
Start your Saturday with a visit to one of the many farmers’ markets in the area. The Saturday Tower Grove Farmers’ Market is open from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM, offering a wide variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors. Alternatively, check out the Lake Saint Louis Farmers & Artists Market, running from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, or The Saint Charles Market, open from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM. These markets are community hubs, supporting local farmers and artisans, as noted by local business directories.
Music Under the Stars and Community Workshops
In the evening, enjoy the Music Under the Stars – Florissant Summer Concert Series from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. If you’re looking for something more educational, Building Futures offers a Free Saturday Workshop from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This workshop is designed to provide valuable skills and knowledge to participants, aligning with Building Futures’ mission of community empowerment.
Back-to-School Carnival and Street Food Festival
Families can enjoy the “Welcome Back-to-School Carnival & Health Fair” from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, offering fun activities and health resources for the upcoming school year. For food enthusiasts, the St. Louis Street Food Festival at Ballpark Village is a must-visit, showcasing a diverse range of local food vendors and culinary delights. According to Ballpark Village’s event calendar, this festival is one of their most popular events, drawing large crowds and offering a taste of St. Louis’ vibrant food scene.
Schlafly Sunset Cinema and Downtown Tunes
As night falls, the Schlafly Sunset Cinema Series presents “Honey I Shrunk the Kid” at 6:00 PM at the Schlafly Bottleworks. This outdoor movie screening is a perfect family-friendly activity. Simultaneously, Dr. Jagus will be performing at Downtown Summer Nights in Kiener Plaza from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, providing a lively soundtrack to your Saturday evening.
Sunday, August 24: Festivals, Art, and Final Performances
Sunday brings a mix of cultural festivals, artistic exhibitions, and concluding performances, offering a fulfilling end to your weekend. Whether you’re interested in global cultures, visual arts, or musical theater, there’s something for everyone.
Animal Encounters and Cultural Celebrations
Start your Sunday with another WOW Amazing Animal Show at the World Bird Sanctuary from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM. Then, immerse yourself in the Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park. This major event celebrates various countries and cultures with music, food, dance, and shopping. The Festival of Nations, as highlighted by local cultural organizations, is a cornerstone event promoting diversity and international understanding in the St. Louis region.
Art in Fairview Heights and Theatrical Finale
Venture across the river to Fairview Heights, Illinois, for the Midwest Salute to the Arts, a large arts festival featuring over a hundred artists. This event offers a chance to appreciate and purchase unique artworks. Back in St. Louis, The Muny concludes its 2025 season with “Jersey Boys.” This final performance is a must-see for musical theater enthusiasts, marking the end of another successful season at this renowned outdoor theater.
Artistic Explorations
For a more intimate experience, consider the Madrina Silk Road Dinner Series or the “Renata Cassiano Alvarez: Passage” exhibition at Laumeier Sculpture Park. These events offer unique cultural and artistic perspectives, providing a thoughtful conclusion to your weekend.
Weekend Highlights
The weekend of August 22-24, 2025, in St. Louis promises a diverse range of experiences. From free museum visits and outdoor concerts to cultural festivals and theatrical performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check event websites for the most up-to-date information and enjoy all that St. Louis has to offer.
