St. Charles County

Come and explore the newest tennis and racquet sports facility in St. Charles, offering classes, clinics and leagues for all ages. The Open House at Vetta Racquet Sports West will be held Saturday. Jan. 9. You can check out the newly resurfaced courts, free food and refreshments, games, and free clinics for kids and adults.

You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen, now get the chance to meet some of their antlered brotheren up close!

Jolly Old Saint Nicholas is a revered Christmas figure all over the world, and on Dec. 6 he'll make a stop in St. Charles for the Saint Nicholas Day Celebration and parade. 

The festivities begin at 4 p.m. in the Colonnade at the 200 block of north Main Street where children are encouraged to join Saint Nick in the Saint Nicholas Day Parade. From there, the parade heads to Berthold Square where there will be special treats and goodies for kids. There will also be a shoe drive for Shoeman Water Projects, to benefit those in need.

Learn about the poisonous and venomous plants and animals found in Missouri. We will be looking at and learning about snakes, spiders, bees, wasps, hornets, scorpions, mushrooms and, everybody's favorite, poison ivy. There will be live examples of venomous animals found in the area. You can come anytime during the 4 hour period. No reservations required. For all ages.

10 a..m. to 2 p.m. Free. At the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area.

More information: mdc.mo.gov

Enjoy an eveing of fishing at Lake 15 in this program designed for children ages 7 to 17 with special needs. Volunteers and staff will be available to lend a helping hand to beginner anglers. Fishing equipment will be provided for participating children. 

The lake has a concrete walkway and dock accessible by people with mobility issues. Participants must be accompanied by an adult. 

4:30 to 7:30 at the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area.

Celebrate the spooky season with a free concert by the St. Charles Symphony. The annual event is held at the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre. Symphony members dress up in their own costumes, play Halloween-themed music and welcome children and families to enjoy the performance.

Children who dress in costume can parade around the room and receive a special treat. The event is free and open to the public. 7 to 9 p.m.

More information: stpetersmo.net

Butterflies are beautiful creatures with many unique characteristics. Learn the life history of butterflies and identification techniques for common species found throughout Missouri. You'll also learn how to attract these pollinators to your own backyard. For ages 10 and up.

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

More information: mdc.mo.gov