St. Louis County

Aaron Likens, an accomplished public speaker, author and avid blogger, was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at age 20 and now works as the Easter Seals Midwest Autism Ambassador. He speaks frequently to parents and others to advocate early intervention services and to help others understand autism and the autistic mind.

Learn about nocturnal animals at the 6th annual Tails of the Night at the Wildlife Rescue Center. The Center treats more than 500 native nocturnal animals yearly, such as bats, foxes, opossums, raccoons and flying squirrels. You'll learn about the live of these seldom-seen neighbors from the volunteers and staff who care for them.

You can also take an audio tour of the wildlife rehabilitation facility and learn about the mission of the Wildlife Rescue Center. then grab your flashlight and head out to the nature trail.

Join Spielberg Fitness and Junior Stars Cycling for the Cyclocross Color Fun Ride. The is a hybrid of an all-terrain biking adventure and color fun run.

No previous experience is needed. The color run ride includes a bike course full of obstacles, colored dust, bubbles, squirt guns, silly string and more. 

Registration includes an event t-shirt. The first 10 people to register get a free water bottle. Registration opens at 9:15 a.m.; the ride starts at 10 a.m. Free, but a $10 donation is suggested. Sponsored by Spielberg Fitness.

Celebrate Star Wars Reads Day at various branches of the St. Louis County Library and St. Charles County Library.

Talkin' Trash, performed by Metro Theater Company, tells the story of Sam (played by Nicolas Tayborn), a young boy obsessed with trash and recycling. "It's a play about community, friendship and our relationship with 'stuff,'" said Nicholas Kryah, who was inspired to write the play by Sam Klein, a boy from St. Louis who was so fascinated by trash that he had his own recycling company by age 12.

Preschool age children will enjoy story time, crafts, games and activities based on fun themes that promote socialization and sharing. Dress to get messy for this morning of outdoor Halloween fun.

A snack will be provided, and a parent must stay with the child for the entire event. Cost per child is $6 and registration is required. 

For ages 2 to 5. 10 to 11 a.m. at Paul. A. Schroeder Park in Manchester.

More information: manchestermo.gov

Calling all incoming and current middle school students across the St. Louis area! The Lodge Des Peres will host the 1st annual Glow Swim Pool Party on Oct. 9. Bring your brightest neon glow sticks and swim attire and enjoy music, giveaways and neon fun while the waves are on!

Glow Swimming is a one-of-a-kind night experience at The Lodge. Grab your neighbors and friends for the coolest pool party in town. 

6 to 9 p.m. Regular admission to The Lodge applies. Cost is free for Lodge members, $6 for Des Peres residents and $8 for non-residents.