Welcome to the very first edition of Family Weekend!
Here’s my philosophy heading into summer: You absolutely do not need to do it all. You don't need to hit every festival, craft every sensory bin, or create a childhood so magical your kid grows up thinking bubbles naturally appear at golden hour. I’m more of the “pick one or two fun things this weekend, and make sure everyone ends it relatively happy and hydrated” sort of mom.
So think of this newsletter as your sample platter. A curated menu of low-pressure fun for St. Louis families, whether your vibe is “planetarium star party,” “strawberry festival,” “quiet library reset,” or simply “cheap mac and cheese while my child colors peacefully for 12 consecutive minutes.” No guilt. No pressure. Just ideas.
This week, we’re also spotlighting a local family making races and triathlons feel way less intimidating for parents–because being active can be fun, energetic, and stroller-friendly.
As for my family’s weekend? We’ll be running away to the Circus (Flora, that is) and maybe hitting up a park or Creation Station’s Sunday hours at the National Museum of Transportation.
We’re so excited to spend weekends with you this summer.
🤔 Question? Have an idea you wish we’d cover? Email me and let me know!
P.S. You can unsubscribe below anytime…but fair warning: You’ll lose the Monday edition of the Family newsletter as well, and then who’s going to remind you about free festivals, toddler-friendly outings, and where to emotionally support-eat fries with your children on a Thursday night?
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Coming June 13: STL Athletic Center’s Extreme Family Fun Festival
STL Athletic Center’s Extreme Family Fun Festival brings bounce houses, pony rides, Knockerball, rock climbing, zip lines, laser tag, obstacle courses, food, drinks, vendor booths, and more during a one-day event packed with nonstop action and unforgettable family fun.
How one St. Louis family is making local race and triathlon culture more accessible for parents
For parents curious about races but intimidated by the logistics, Beyond the Start Line is helping make family movement feel realistic and actually fun. The St. Louis platform reviews local races through a parent lens, highlighting stroller access, kid-friendly distances, parking, snacks, and all the details families care about most.
🏃 It’s built specifically for families. Beyond the Start Line reviews races based on real parenting logistics, including stroller friendliness, bathrooms, parking, food options, and whether kids will actually enjoy the experience.
👟 You do not have to be a “runner family.” Founder Molly Carr says the goal is helping families feel welcome at every pace, whether kids ride in strollers, stop for snacks, or walk most of the route.
🌳 It turns races into full family adventures. Many events become opportunities to explore different parts of St. Louis, from Forest Park to downtown routes beneath the Arch.
Make the most of a summer in St. Louis at the Saint Louis Science Center
Experience the traveling exhibition The Blue Whale Story, OMNIMAX® films, SciFest, McDonnell Planetarium shows, adults-only Science Center Up Late events, and more! Pack your summer with discovery.
THE KIDS' TABLE
Grace Meat + Three
Thursday nights just got a little easier for St. Louis families. Grace Meat + Three is now hosting weekly Family Nights at both its Grove and Crestwood locations, featuring $3 kids meals, family-friendly activities, and a relaxed atmosphere where parents can enjoy dinner out together.
Bonus: A portion of June proceeds supports Ronald McDonald House St. Louis, so this mac-and-cheese run is technically charitable.
Slow down and spend the day with two-toed sloths. Plan your visit to the Saint Louis Zoo to get a closer look at the new the Sloth Atrium—now open. Visit today!
Hey, STL! Clifford’s coming to town. Play, read, and kick it with Nine PBS—games, crafts, and soccer fun, all free at Energizer Park with St. Louis CITY SC. Get free tickets!
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