St. Louis

Come face-to-face with mermaids at the St. Louis Aquarium during Mermaids on the Mississippi. Mermaids will swim the aquarium, and dive in shark canyon with the sharks, rays, sea turtles and other underwater creatures.

Explore the Saint Louis Zoo in the evenings at the Chinese lantern festival Animals Aglow! Animals Aglow returns to illuminate the Saint Louis Zoo for the second year with dozens of new, towering lanterns and light displays. 

Play Dates follow a monthly theme that invites close looking, hands-on art making, and safe, creative play. Plus, you'll enjoy performances from guest artists that get everybody moving!

Gather at the outdoor amphitheater in Tower Grove Park for a summer of fun children's performances by beloved local entertainers. The free interactive shows are part of the Children's Performance Series, introducing children to the performing arts in a fun interactive way. Storytellers, musicians, dancers and more will encourage kids to clap along and be part of the experience.

The St. Louis African Arts Festival, held in Forest Park, celebrates the rich and diverse cultures of Africa and African people. Children's activities include storytelling, arts and crafts, mask-making and educational workshops. In conjunction with the festival, the Saint Louis Zoo will have special activities focused on a different African animal each day.

Moms, grandmas and great-grandmas can enjoy free admission at City Museum on Mother's Day. Bring the kids for a special mom-themed craft project at Art City, then swing by the Cabin Inn or Beatnik Bob's to enjoy a Mom-mosa or a sweet treat at the Overflow Cafe.

Bring your babies and toddlers to this free story time at the Missouri History Museum.