Sweltering humidity aside, summer might be the best time to live in St. Louis. On any given day, there are a plethora of events to attend, most of them free! Amidst the pools, ball games, and fireworks displays, there are also endless arts events that are just as fun as they are enlightening. Here is a collection of my family’s favorite ways to engage with the arts during the summer.
Performances
Children’s Performance Series at the Tower Grove Park Stupp Center
This performance series specifically designed for children is a highlight of our summer! Each week brings a different performance making it an engaging weekly stop. Just bring a picnic blanket and some snacks, and you’re set for a fun morning. Afterward, you have your pick of playgrounds and outdoor amenities at Tower Grove Park.
When: Fridays at 10 am, June 10 – August 12, 2022
Cost: FREE
In My Granny’s Garden Roving Production by Metro Theater Company
Metro Theater Company always puts on creative and meaningful performances for young audiences. This summer, they are performing in multiple locations across the city. Perfect for children ages 0-8, this 40-minute performance about growing your own food is a great way to expose your children to theater.
When: June 3-12, EarthDance Organic Farm School OR June 16-26, Eckert’s Belleville Farm
Cost: Party of 2 Pod, $48 with some dates. Pay As You Wish
Mary Poppins at the Muny
Is it even summer in St. Louis without the Muny? The Muny is back this summer, and their family-friendly performance is the ever-popular Mary Poppins. By taking advantage of the free seats or purchasing low-cost tickets, this is an affordable way to expose your family to musical theater.
When: July 5-13
Cost: Tickets start at $18 or FREE when utilizing the free seats
Films
Art Hill Film Series
After a two-year hiatus, the Art Hill Film Series is back! With a summer-friendly theme of “Game On!” this year’s line up includes some films about our favorite sports. I’m particularly excited about the showing of The Sandlot on July 29. Don’t miss the food trucks and other entertainment that usually begin prior to the 8 pm showtime.
When: July 8 (A League of Their Own), July 15 (Love & Basketball), July 22 (Bend It Like Beckham), and July 29 (The Sandlot)
Cost: FREE
Movie Nights in Francis Park
If you’re looking for a less crowded movie night option with more kid favorites, this series in Francis Park might be for you. Each month, watch one of Disney’s new hits for the first (or 100th!) time. With free snacks, a playground, and Rockwell Beer Garden nearby, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
When: June 10 (Luca), July 8 (Moana), August 5 (Encanto), 7:30 pm
Cost: FREE
Visual Arts
Webster Arts Fair
Experience local artisans, musical performances, food, and art activities for kids at the annual Webster Arts Fair. This free festival is another event that everyone in the family will enjoy. If you’re looking for hands-on art activities for the kids while you’re there, be sure to attend on Saturday or Sunday when those are up and running by local arts organizations.
When: June 3 (6-9 pm), June 4 (11 am-8 pm), June 5 (11 am- 4 pm)
Cost: FREE
Family Workshops at Laumeier Sculpture Park
Laumeier Sculpture Park is a hidden gem in St. Louis for family-friendly arts engagement. While it’s fun to visit any day for free during the summer to enjoy the artwork and the gorgeous outdoor campus, they also host family workshops. With fun themes, this is a great way to get engaged in a hands-on way with works of art.
When: June 18 (Construction Zone), July 16 (Printed and Inked), August 20 (Mudworks)
Cost: $35-45 for children ages 4-12 and a grown up
Family Day with CAM, The Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and the Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries
Hosted twice a year, the Family Day hosted by three Grand Center Arts District organizations is a don’t miss event. This year it falls on Father’s Day and Juneteenth, making it a perfect celebratory occasion. With hands-on art activities, performances, food, and an appearance by the Bubble Bus, this is an easy way to get introduced to all that these organizations have to offer year round.
When: June 19, 12 – 3 pm
Cost: FREE
