The annual ThurtenE Carnival at Washington University brings together the university and greater St. Louis communities for three days of rides, cultural performances, food booths interactive games and more. Rides are geared toward all ages.
It is the largest and oldest student-run carnival in the nation and is open to all.
Carnival hours are:
Friday, April 14 from 4 to 8 p.m. (unlimited wristband night)
Saturday and Sunday, April 15 and 16 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
General admission is free, and tickets for rides and special performances are available on-site.
Held on the campus of Washington University near Francis Olympic Field. Net proceeds benefit ArchCity Defenders, a holistic legal advocacy organization that supports universal access to healthcare, housing, educational and employment opportunities, and shared public spaces.
More information: thurtene.org
The city of O’Fallon, Mo., throws a fantastic, family-friendly celebration at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex over the 4th of July holiday weekend.
Join the celebration in Chesterfield on the 4th of July, with a petting zoo, pony rides, a Kids Zone with inflatables & slides, food trucks, live music, fireworks and lots more at the Chesterfield Valley Athletic Complex.
Year after year, Webster Groves Community Days continues to be one of the largest Independence Day community celebrations in the area, including one of the most popular 4th of July parades.
Take your family to watch birds of prey fly right over your head, meet the wonderful bird ambassadors of the World Bird Sanctuary up close and much more.
Riverfest 2026 features fireworks over the river, a carnival, live music, craft and food vendors, and lots of fun kids activities.