Explore St. Louis
There’s a whirlwind of activity happening in the St. Louis region this weekend. Whether you want to celebrate Independence Day early or have some cultural experiences before partaking in hot dogs, beer and fireworks, we’ve got an event to entertain you.
For more ways to enjoy Fourth of July in St. Louis, check our roundup of spirited celebrations.
A Glimpse of Indigenous Culture Through Art
June 29
Join Tamara Schenkenberg, curator of the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, for a free tour of Faye HeavyShield: Confluences, a career-spanning exhibition featuring a selection of Faye HeavyShield’s drawings and sculptures, including two new commissions that respond specifically to landscapes and histories of the greater St. Louis area. Known for her repetitive use of objects and writing to create large-scale – often minimalistic – site-specific installations, the multidisciplinary artist draws on her Kainai heritage, the environment and personal memories for her pieces.
Mandela: The Official Exhibition
Until August 3
The Saint Louis Science Center is currently showing Mandela: The Official Exhibition, taking guests on a journey through the life of the iconic freedom fighter and political leader. An immersive and interactive experience, the exhibition features previously unseen films and photos alongside more than 150 historical artifacts and personal effects on loan from the Mandela family as well as museums and archives worldwide.
JB Blast
June 30
Returning to Jefferson Barracks Park, JB Blast is the biggest Fourth of July celebration in St. Louis County. The free, family-friendly event boasts food trucks, live entertainment and, of course, a firework show. Bring your blankets, picnic baskets and coolers, and get there early to secure your spot at the Veterans Memorial Amphitheater. Gates open at 5 p.m., live music begins at 7 p.m. and fireworks ignite at 9:15 p.m.
Heritage & Freedom Fest
July 1 to 4
On July 1 and 2, a carnival kicks off the Heritage & Freedom Fest in O’Fallon, Missouri. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rides, games and traditional foods such as corn dogs, funnel cakes, cotton candy and popcorn. The Heritage & Freedom Fest prides itself on bringing national recording artists to the St. Louis area for free concerts, as well. This year, Chris Lane, Restless Road, Mark Perkins and Nick Gusman and The Coyotes will grace the main stage on July 3, while rock band 38 Special, along with Root Mod, Tommy DeCarlo and Dazed n Confused STL will keep the party going on July 4. In honor of the Fourth of July, O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest also includes one of the largest – and most colorful – parades in the region. The patriotic procession will begin at the corner of Main Street and Civic Pride Drive on July 4 at 9:30 a.m. Then, stick around for the Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular, which enthralls spectators of all ages.
Saint Charles Riverfest
July 2 to 4
The charming atmosphere and riverfront location of Saint Charles make it an ideal place to celebrate Independence Day. Riverfest features three days of festivities – think live music, scrumptious snacks, cold drinks and spectacular fireworks. Spending the holiday with kids? Riverfest also has a carnival and other children’s activities.
While you’re out and about in the area, make sure to share your photos with us using #ExploreStLouis, and you could be featured on our social pages.
