Black History Month events in St. Louis

Blues Kids Boogie and Mardi Gras Party at the National Blues Museum

Head to the National Blues Museum for Blues Kids Boogie and a family Mardi Gras Party! This event includes live music, scavenger hunts, story time, hands-on activities and crafts. There will also be a musical petting zoo!

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Celebrate Black History Month at these St. Louis Family Events

February is Black History Month, and there are some great educational and cultural events and attractions you can take part in with your family to learn more about black history and culture happening across the St. Louis area. Here are a few ideas:

Reenactment of the Dred and Harriet Scott Case

The enslaved Scott family, including Dred, Harriet and their daughters, sued for their freedom from slavery prior to the Civil War. See a reenactment of the case in one of the restored courtrooms at the Old Courthouse in downtown St. Louis.

Rangers will facilitate the reenactment and participants will read printed scripts, taking on the roles of the people involved in Mr. and Mrs. Scott's 1850 trial.

Free. 2 p.m. at the Old Courthouse. More information: nps.gov

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Dred Scott Portrait Painting

Learn about the historic Dred Scott case and how it led to the American Civil War while creating art. Visitors will work with a park ranger who is also a professional artist to paint an oil portrait of Dred Scott.

The image is based on one of the few surviving images of Mr. Scott from the period. Supplies are provided.

Free. 1 p.m. at the Old Courthouse in downtown St. Louis. More information: nps.gov

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Rhythms and Folklore of Africa

Enjoy the rhythms and stories of Africa with storyteller and performer Kenya Ajanaku at this exciting, free program for all ages. Part of the Black History Month celebration at the St. Louis County Library.

Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. at the Florissant Valley Branch

Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. at the Lewis & Clark Branch

Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. at the Bridgeton Trails Branch

Feb. 20 at 1 p.m. at the Indian Trails Branch

Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. at the Weber Road Branch

More information: slcl.org

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African Percussion Workshop

At this free workshop, kids can expand their cultural knowledge and learn the techniques and rhythms of authentic instruments, such as the djembe, caxixi, agogo, and kalimba.

For ages 8 and up. Presented by Freedom Arts and Education as part of the Black History Month celebration at the St. Louis County Library. The workshop will be held:

Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Eureka Hills Branch

Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. at the Grant's View Branch

Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch

Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. at the Rock Road Branch

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Things to Do

Budding Artists Preschool Art Program

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!

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Storytime at the Nature Playscape in Forest Park

Monday, May 6, 2024

Monday, May 13, 2024

Monday, May 20, 2024

Meet up at the Nature Playscape in Forest Park for a fun storytime followed by nature adventures! These free story times are open to children of all ages and their caregivers.

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Daytime Playtime at Olympia Gymnastics

Daytime Playtime is an open gym for children ages 2-5 where the possibilities for fun and learning (through fun) are endless! Children will participate in activities that build coordination, strength, balance and self-confidence. They'll develop stronger motor skills, social skills, and take part in theme-based creative activities.

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Dinoroarus at the Saint Louis Zoo

Dinoroarus is back for a limited time at the Saint Louis Zoo. This engaging attraction for all ages features 14 groupings of animatronic and stationary dinosaurs - colorful, prehistoric creatures that move realistically, some roaring and spiting or placidly munching on lush vegetation.

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Tuesday Tales Storytime from the APA of Missouri

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Visit the Animal Protective Association (APA) of Missouri for a free story time for preschoolers and help foster their love of animals. Kids will learn about caring for our four-legged friends as well as be entertained by fun stories and make a craft. They'll even meet a furry friend! Geared to ages 2-5.

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Child development researchers at Washington University School of Medicine are inviting 4-7-year-old children and a caregiver to participate in a study investigating what children know about suicide along with risk factors for experiencing suicidality early in life. We are seeking children who have and who have not experienced suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Children who participate will 1) answer brief questions about their understanding of suicide (we want to learn what children at different ages know, we do not teach them anything new), 2) play games, and 3) complete a safe and non-invasive EEG. Caregivers will complete interviews and surveys. Families can earn up to $110 for participating. LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP HERE

We also have current studies for 12-14-year-old girls and their mothers. Check out our website or email us at childlab@wustl.edu.

In this thrilling blend of classical music and classic animation Bugs Bunny and his Looney Tunes pals join audiences of all ages at Stifel Theatre with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra for Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. A dozen of the world’s most iconic Looney Tunes—What’s Opera, Doc?, The Rabbit of Seville, Corny Concerto, Baton Bunny, Long-Haired Hare, and many others—plus five brand-new animated shorts—will be projected on the big screen, while their exhilarating original scores are played live by the SLSO, conducted by George Daugherty. Bugs Bunny at the Symphony will be presented on Saturday, May 11 at 7 p.m. at Stifel Theatre. LEARN MORE AND GET TICKETS.

Witness high-flying canine athletes, experience up-close encounters with farm animals, or visit adoptable cats and dogs all at the Purina Farms Visitor Center, located just 30 minutes west of St. Louis! Officially opening for the 2024 season on April 20 & 21, guests who visit opening weekend will get the first look at the newly renovated Visitor Center lobby. Visit on Saturdays this season to attend our NEW magic show focused on responsible pet ownership. Open mid-April to October, Wednesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Daily admission is free unless otherwise stated during a special event. We look forward to seeing you! LEARN MORE

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