St. Charles County

Back to school shopping has never been this much fun! Bring your kids to enjoy train rides, carnival games, face painting, balloon artists, jugglers, stilt walkers, magicians, plus great back-to-school deals.

Kids' activities are happening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and are free.

More information: themeadowsatlsl.com

Charge your phone and load up on pokey balls in preparation for this group Pokemon Go hike! Reservations are required.

You're bound to find some new Pokemon and maybe even hatch an egg or two on this five-mile hike for ages 12 and up. Sponsored by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

What could be more fun in July than to see what cool things live in an aquatic habitat?

Kids ages 6-12 can learn about an aquatic food chain and how human can affect it. There will also be time to interact with a real aquatic environment. 

9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area. Free.

More information and reservations: mdc.mo.gov

Jam out to some great tunes every Tuesday evening at the Civic Park Bandstand in O'Fallon, Mo., at a kid-friendly concert complete with some of your favorite food trucks.

Bring chairs or blankets for lawn seating. 6:30 to 9 p.m. Admission and parking are free.

More information and a schedule of local bands: ofallon.mo.us 

If you love ribs and barbecue you'll was to experience the St. Louis Ribfest, held over Memorial Day weekend in New Town St. Charles. 

The festival features a large children's play area, national BBQ champions, live music, lots of food vendors, craft vendors, and free admission. 

Hours are Friday, 5-11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Monday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

More information: thestlouisribfest.com

Now in its 14th year, the Missouri River Irish Fest includes activities for all ages. Children can have their face painted, have their hair painted with the Irish flag, meet Irish dancers, jump on inflatables, have fun with hands-on arts and crafts, take part in the Shamrock Stomp and Shamrock Smack, have a Fairy Tea Party and lots more.
 

Get kids moving and learning and find out about ways your whole family can have fun and be healthier at this free family event at your local branch of the Gateway Region YMCA.

At Healthy Kids Day, happening at YMCA branches across the St. Louis metro area, you can learn about the Y's programs for kids and adults, find out about summer camp opportunities, take part in games like kickball, take sampler classes, arts and crafts, kid-friendly yoga, free health screenings and lots more. Activities vary depending on the branch. Activities are free and open to the public.