free things to do with kids in St. Louis

Christmas Eve provides a backdrop to explore the arrival of four spirits sent from beyond to teach a miserly Scrooge about the interconnectedness of people and the importance of kindness, compassion, and community. This free performance is geared toward kids in grades kindergarten through grade 5.

Explore the cosmos with fun activities and experiences at Family Fun Night: Explore Outer Space at the St. Louis County Library. Members of the St. Louis Astronomical Society will join in for some out-of-this-world fun. Free for all ages. 

Join the Contemporary Art Museum, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and the Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries for the free Family Day Block Party. This free event includes live performances and art activities for kids at each location in the Grand Center Arts District.

Want to know what it's like to live in space? Kids ages 6-11 can learn about the different ways astronauts have adapted every day tasks like eating and sleeping in the microgravity of space with special activities. 

Kick off your summer with a party celebrating reading! These free celebrations include face painting, shaved ice, a climbing wall and lots more for all ages.

Kids can explore construction trucks, a fire truck, ambulance, police car, bucket truck, combine, tractors, and lots more at the O'Fallon, Ill., Community Park Touch a Truck.

Play Date Theater is a great way to introduce young children to the art of theater. Kids learn theater etiquette while being entertained by performers who understand the interests and abilities of young children. The performance is free. No reservations are required.