ST. LOUIS – Labor Day is much more than just a final day to celebrate summer; the holiday historically celebrates the achievements of America’s labor movement and recognizes what workers have done to help the country’s prosperity.
With that in mind, it’s time to relax and enjoy the great events happening around St. Louis in honor of the holiday weekend. From the Japanese Festival at Missouri Botanical Gardens to the Big Muddy Blues Festival, there’s much to experience.
Gateway Cup
The Bommarito Audi West County Gateway Cup kicks off on Friday in Lafayette Square, moves to Francis Park on Saturday, and features the American Criterium Cup finale on Sunday at The Hill. The event concludes on Monday in Old Town Florissant with the final race of the Criterium National Series for USA Cycling.
Japanese Festival
From Friday through Monday, September 2, the Missouri Botanical Gardens is hosting the Japanese Festival. The event will feature taiko drumming, don odori festival dancing, martial arts, and candlelight walks through the Japanese Gardens. General admission into the event is $18, and tickets can be purchased online.
St. Nicholas Greek Festival
The annual St. Nicholas Greek Festival returns to Forest Park and Kingshighway starting Friday. The free family tradition features authentic Greek food, music and dancing.
Big Muddy Blues Festival
The Big Muddy Blues Festival is returning to Laclede’s Landing on Sunday bringing together local and nationally known blues artists. The festival will feature six bands on two stages and local food.
Queeny Art Fair
The Queeny Art Fair will be at the Greensfelder Recreation Center in Ballwin, Missouri, Friday through Monday. With over 120 artists featured, live entertainment, and children’s activities, there’s so much to explore. Tickets can be purchased online for $8 or $10 at the door.
Water Lantern Festival
This family-friendly event takes place at Creve Coeur Lake in Maryland Heights Friday and Saturday. On Friday and Saturday, attendees will design their own floating water lanterns, and at dusk they will release hundreds of lanterns into Creve Coeur Lake for a magical light experience. Tickets can be purchased online for $28, which includes the floating lantern kit and more.
