St. Louis County

What kind of animal eats more insects than birds? What moves more dirt around than earthworms? What lives an even more structured social life than bees? Hint: it has 6 legs and lives underground.

It’s the ant! In this program kids will discover more about ants and their astonishing variety of lifestyles. For ages 6 and up.

9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free. At Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center. Reservations are required.

More information and reservations: mdc.mo.gov

Start summer with an extravaganza of fun for the whole family and kick off a summer of reading at the same time. 

The St. Louis County Library is holding Summer Reading Kick-Off Parties at four branches during the first week of June. Parties will include snow cones, face painting, a climbing walls and lots more. All activities are free. 

1-4 p.m. at the following branches:

June 1: Grant's View Branch.

June 2: Daniel Boone Branch.

June 3: Florissant Valley Branch.

June 4: Headquarters Branch.

In Shrek the Musical Jr., follow the adventures of an ogre who sets off on a quest to save a princess from a dragon. However, it turns out that to succeed, Shrek must battle an even bigger obstacle: learning how to believe in himself and open his heart to others.

This very family-friendly performance is presented by COCA.

Two performances: Friday, June 24 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, June 25 at 1 p.m. Tickets are $6 to $10.

More information and tickets: cocastl.org

Teens can enjoy an evening of creative expression with other teens who love to make art.

Teen Pizza + Art Night gives teenagers the opportunity to assemble, construct and experiment with unusual materials while they collaborate with their peers. All materials, food and beverages are provided.

A Laumeier Sculpture Park in the Kranzberg Education Lab. For ages 13-17. Cost is $20.

7 to 9:30 p.m. For more information and to register: laumeier.org

Bring your whole family to The Lodge Des Peres for a free night of swimming, games, a live DJ and fun giveaways. 

Have fun in the outdoor pool at this free event. Membership is not required. A donation of two canned food items per person is suggested. All food items will be donated to Circle of Concern. 

5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Lodge Des Peres.

More information: desperesmo.org

World-champion sand sculptor Dan Belcher shares tips and techniques on the art of sand sculpting at the site of his latest masterpiece, the 75-ton sandcastle on the shores of Sandcastle Beach at The Magic House. 

Kids can learn how to create their own "sandsational" sculpture using only sand and water. 

June 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and June 5 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Free with regular admission. 

Visit the Town and Country location of Coldwell Banker Gundaker for this special open house, featuring photos with Fredbird, hot dogs, balloon animals, face painting and refreshments.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Coldwell Banker Gundaker, 1100 Town and Country Crossing in Town and Country.

For all ages. Free, but reservations are requested by calling 636-394-9300.