Family events in St. Louis, MO

This exhibition presents 21 interactive installations from HYBYCOZO, created by artists Serge Beaulieu and Yelena Filipchuk, installed throughout the Missouri Botanical Garden. Monumental geometric sculptures use light and shadow to illuminate patterns that mirror the systems of the natural world, sending shifting designs across the landscape and inviting exploration and reflection. It is a first for Missouri and highlights nature’s geometry on a grand scale. Daytime viewing is included with Garden admission, and members receive free entry based on membership level. Advance daytime tickets are recommended, especially on weekends.

Enjoy a screening of the animated adventure Up (2009, rated PG) in the Buder Auditorium. The voice cast includes Edward Asner, Jordan Nagai, Christopher Plummer, Bob Peterson, and Delroy Lindo. The film follows an elderly man who lifts his home with countless balloons and heads toward South America, with an unexpected young companion along for the journey. The feature runs 96 minutes.

Settle into an easygoing, early evening farmers market at Tower Grove Park that blends a relaxed feel with plenty of buzz. Browse fresh produce and meats from local growers, pick up ready-to-eat and hot dishes, enjoy drinks, and discover handmade goods from area artisans. It is family friendly, so bring the crew, unwind in the park as the sun goes down, and make a night of it with dinner and drinks while supporting local. More than 40 vendors set up each week, and the last Tuesday market of the month features a Vintage Bazaar for treasure hunting.

A race day built for all ages and paces features a half marathon, 10k, 5k, a 1 mile option, and a kids dash for ages 10 and under. Packet pickup takes place before the start. The national anthem opens the festivities, then the races get underway. Kids dash participants gather at the start line and are guided to the starting area. After you finish, visit the registration tent for live results and awards. Registration for the half marathon, 10k, and 5k includes a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a finisher medal, with chip timing and live results for the timed distances. The 1 mile entry is untimed and also comes with a custom bib, designer shirt, and finisher medal. The kids dash is a short, untimed run for children 10 and under and includes a mini bib, a youth-sized shirt, and a medal created specifically for the dash. Children who want to run the dash without receiving swag may participate at no cost. Look forward to free finish line snacks, complimentary photos, and a friendly, family-focused atmosphere that welcomes every fitness level. Participants can chase a personal best or simply enjoy the experience. Youth pricing is available for the 5k and 10k, with entries for ages 12 and under priced at $17. Register early to ensure you receive a shirt.

Downtown Poplar Bluff comes alive for the 17th annual Iron Horse Festival, honoring the community’s railroad heritage with a day centered on local history, community spirit and family-friendly activities. Visitors can browse street vendors, catch live performances and enjoy options suited to every age group. Spectator admission is free, while fees apply to the pancake breakfast and entries for the car show. Organizers highlight it as one of the biggest community celebrations of the year. Vendor participation is noted by the organizers, and a detailed program will be announced soon.

Schlafly Library teams up with the Mississippi Valley N Scalers for a fun-filled Train Day that welcomes patrons of all ages. Explore detailed model train layouts, learn about the world of model railroading, and meet the experts who create these miniature worlds. Whether you are a lifelong rail fan or just curious, there is something for everyone throughout the day.

Holland Law Firm hosts the fourth annual Community Day at The Hub, a free family event open to the public. The focus is on bringing neighbors together, strengthening relationships, and connecting attendees with helpful resources, with all activities and offerings provided at no cost. As one of the firm’s key community initiatives, it reflects an ongoing commitment to unity, connection, and service.

A lively stretch of Macklind Ave between Devonshire and Nottingham transforms into the annual Macklind Days street festival, presented by Slyman Bros Appliances. The day features live music, a mix of food and drink vendors, a dedicated kid zone, and more. The main stage lineup includes Larceny. Families will find a Kid’s Corner hosted by Macklind Make & Play, along with a balloon artist and face painting. These activities are free thanks to The Macklind Business District, and tips for the artists and performers are appreciated. Retail and artisanal offerings include Onetime Supply Co., South City Sporting Goods, and Angelo’s Barber Collective, with many additional local makers. Food options come from ONESTO, JJ TWIGS, Southside Alchemy, and Pretzel Boy's. Other participating vendors include Princeton Heights Woodworking, F&M Printables, and Roaming Druggist Shop. This community celebration is supported by generous sponsors, including Slyman Bros. Appliances as Diamond sponsor and Azar Orthodontics as Platinum sponsor, with Silver level support from Angelo’s Barber Collective, Espresso Yourself Coffee & Cafe, Carrollton Bank, and Naeger Family Insurance Agencies.

This ticketed evening in support of Seed St. Louis features outdoor cocktails, a live auction and a raffle, plus a farm-to-table dinner prepared by Homie Hospitality. Celebrating food and the bounty grown across a network of gardens, it helps strengthen the local food system and equips residents to grow their own food. Sponsors include Burns and McDonnell, The Staenberg Group, Commerce Bank, Home State Health, Lodging Hospitality Management, Husch Blackwell, LS Power Grid, US Bank, BJC HealthCare, GPD Group, Central Reform Congregation, Congregation Shaare Emeth, Temple Emanuel, Washington University in St. Louis, Greenscape Gardens, St. Louis Composting, Saint Louis University, and Grower Sponsors Cheryl Adelstein, Melanie Bernds, Anna Dmuchovsky, Karen McClure, Anne Marie Mosher, Sue Reed, April Troxel, Brooke Roseberry, and Phyllis Young.

Boogie Chyld brings a high-energy live set to Soulard Farmers Market Plaza. Entry is free, and beer and wine will be available for purchase. Bring a lawn chair and settle in for an upbeat evening of music in the heart of Soulard.

The Levitt VIBE STL Music Series, presented by Delmar Main Street, brings free, family friendly concerts to Phillip Lucier Park in the Skinker Debaliviere neighborhood. Enjoy music on the park lawn with blankets, chairs, and picnic baskets in a relaxed outdoor setting. The series also offers opportunities for performers, vendors, and volunteers.