Edition: St. Louis Adventure

Quintessential St. Louis

Author: Dianna Lucas

Culture, Fun, & Fireworks

The Lewis & Clark Bicentennial celebrates its two-year run with a final national signature event called Lewis & Clark: Currents of Change (314-454-5753, Riverfront), on September 22-24.  The event commemorates the return of the Corps of Discovery after its famous expedition to search for a northwest passage and explore enknown territory.  Activities include tours of historic sites in Missouri and Illinois, reenactments of the expedition's return, hands-on exhibits, and events celebrating the region's Native American Culture.  A formal public ceremony on the reverfront will mark the close of the Bicentennial with a colorful flag procession of all the Native American tribes Lewis and Clark encountered.  The Grand Finale is the Riverfront Extravaganza, beginning with family entertainment at 6 p.m. and concluding after dark with a fireworks display.  

MO Wine, Please

Missouri Wine Country is the place to enjoy the fruits of the heartland and music throughout the autumn.  Fall festivals are in full swing during September, while Oktoberfest takes center stage in October at the wineries dotting the region just west and south of St. Louis.  Enjoy a sampling of over 100 wines without leaving town at the annual St. Louis Wine Festival, October 13-15 in Forest Park.  

Up, Up, and Away

The 34th annual Great Forest Park Balloon Race takes flight September 15-16.  Festivities begin the evening of the 15th with the opportunity to be dazzled by a romantic glow as the burners are lighted and the balloons inflated.  Forest Park remains open just below the World's Fair Pavilion for close views on foot or just driving by.  On race day, there will be family entertainment beginning at noon, opening ceremonies at 3:30 p.m., and the balloon launch at 4:30 p.m.  All events are free.