
Give your kids a truly international experience at Chinese Culture Days at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Become immersed in traditional Chinese arts, music, culture and cuisine at the Garden on Saturday and Sunday, May 15 and 16.
You may want to arrive by 11 a.m. on Saturday for a grand parade led by a dazzling 70-foot, 24-legged dragon winding through the crowd (this is meant to dispel bad luck and evil spirits). Traditional martial artists, lion dancers, gongs and drums follow to welcome good luck for the Year of the Tiger. The parade will be repeated again at 2 p.m. both days.
Other activities include guided tours of the Grigg Nanjing Friendship Garden, also known as the Chinese Garden, lessons in the ancient martial art of T’ai Ji, tea tastings and traditional Chinese music.
Chinese Culture Days runs from until 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for children (ages 3 to 12) and Garden members.
By Amy Burger, Events Blogger for SmartParenting
Amy Burger is a mom, freelance writer and communications professional with nearly 20 years experience working in St. Louis. Her work has appeared in numerous publications and media outlets including STL Parent, Missouri Life magazine, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Town & Style and kdhx.org, among others. When she's not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two beautiful girls at home in Kirkwood.
Delight in brilliant, colorful light displays with spectacular photo opportunities throughout the Zoo during Wild Lights. Walk through two tunnels with dazzling lights, and enjoy themed displays featuring snowflakes, candy canes, gumdrops, penguins, polar bears, tigers, giraffes and much more at this St. Louis family-favorite holiday tradition. New this year: Visits with Santa!
The Grinch will arrive on South Grand to spread some holiday cheer and raise funds for Shriners Hospitals for Children. For a $7 donation ($5 with a toy donation), participants can have their photo taken with the Grinch.
Experience the holiday lights at Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park, where you'll find two million beautiful holiday lights and animated displays.
Your family can enjoy a gourmet, festive breakfast buffet complete with a visit from the man of the hour: Santa.
Come over to the dark side and meet the amazing birds that exist by moonlight. Owl Prowls are an opportunity for families to learn about owls from the naturalists at the World Bird Sanctuary.