What does a natural hair festival, balloon race, and celebration of Hispanic culture have in common? They’re all hallmark events happening this weekend in St. Louis! The events below are a small sampling of what this weekend has in store, but don’t stop your search here. Head to our events calendar for even more exciting fall festivities.
Tennessee Williams Festival
September 17 to 27
The life and timeless work of Tennessee Williams is the inspiration for the aptly named Tennessee William Festival at the Berges Theatre. For the first time in the festival’s history, the landmark production will expand beyond the artistic scope of Williams’ work to explore “The Tennessee Williams Effect.” A phrase coined by festival organizers, this year’s event aims to highlight the influence and legacy of Williams’ work on the generations of playwrights that came after him. This year's headlining production is The Appropriate by two-time Tony Award-winning playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. Driven by the goal to enrich the cultural life of St. Louis by celebrating the work and influence of Tennesee Williams through art and education, the Tennessee William Festival is a rich expression of St. Louis’ prevailing love of the theater.
Hispanic Festival
September 18 to 20
In 1996, the Hispanic Festival was created out of a desire to empower and elevate the Hispanic community through the arts, education and meaningful connections across St. Louis. Nearly 30 years later, the three-day gathering in Soulard has grown into one of the largest cultural celebrations in the St. Louis region – all while staying true to its founding mission. The Hispanic Festival features the beauty of Hispanic culture, best exemplified by traditional food from a variety of vendors, handmade jewelry and crafts from local artisans, and live music from dynamic bands.
Saint Louis Art Fair
September 18 to 20
Peruse work from nearly 200 visual artists from across the country at the Saint Louis Art Fair. The fair, which started in 1994, is an explosion of color in the heart of downtown Clayton that also features live performances from local musicians and delicious eats from some of St. Louis’ best restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a piece of fine art to fill your home or a fun-filled day in the sun, this three-day event is the perfect outing for enthusiastic art lovers.
The Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race
September 18 and 19
The highly anticipated Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race returns to Emerson Fields for another weekend of whimsy! The Balloon Glow kicks off the event on Friday, featuring live music, food trucks, concessions, games and activities. As the sun sets, the giant balloons light up the night sky in a scene that is nothing short of magical. On Saturday, the balloons are launched and the race officially begins! Event organizers say that it’s the oldest and best-attended hot air balloon race in the world. Our advice? You might want to arrive early to secure the perfect viewing spot for you and your family.
Frizz Fest
September 19
Curls, kinks and coils of all kinds are the reason for celebration at Frizz Fest. The natural beauty festival, which welcomes nearly 10,000 attendees every year, was created with the primary goal to foster a safe, inclusive and vibrant space where the Black community – in all of its beauty, culture and creativity – is able to thrive. This year’s festival sees the return of festival mainstays including music and entertainment by local DJs and dancers, an art garden featuring murals and art installations, a designated creative space for kids, a vendor and food market, and a hair show. The 9th annual festival will also introduce a new event, Passport Wine Tasting, in collaboration with Passport Craft Cocktail & Wine Bar. Taking place in the brand-new Frizz Fest Wine Garden, this elevated experience features seven curated wine tastings curated by Sommelier Javia Gilliam-Sanford and Kaje Sanford of Passport Craft Cocktail & Wine Bar, the opportunity to purchase your favorite sips by the pour or bottle, a commemorative tasting cup and exclusive access to the Wine Garden.
This weekend is full of photo-worthy happenings. Be sure to tag @ExploreStLouis in your photos and videos for a chance to be featured on our socials!
