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
Celebrating the history, culture, and people of Japan, the Japanese Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the largest and oldest festivals of its kind in the United States. Your family can enjoy guided walking tours, bonsai, cooking, martial arts and origami demonstrations, sumo wrestling, and special activities for kids.
See the Zoo's California sea lions perform acrobatic and athletic feats, including Olympic-style dives on a high-diving platform, flipper walks, frisbee tosses and plenty of surprises. While on stage with the sea lions, the Zoo's trainers explain sea lion behavior and positive-reinforcement training, in addition to the need for conserving the sea lion's ocean habitat.
See the Purina Incredible Dog Team perform extraordinary feats of athleticism and skill right here in St. Louis at Union Station this summer! Free performances are happening Thursdays through Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Union Station's Performance Plaza in front of the St. Louis Wheel.
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!
Bring your babies and toddlers to this free story time at the Missouri History Museum.