Spring

Spirit of St. Louis Marathon - Each April, St. Louis runners participate in the 26.2-mile marathon, running through downtown and the historic neighborhoods of the city. Also featured is the Health & Fitness Expo at the America's Center, where fitness tips, tricks and toys can be found.

St. Louis Storytelling Festival - The University of Missouri-St. Louis invites storytellers from around the country in May to tell their tales at libraries, parks, recreation centers and the Missouri Botanical Garden. This is the event to hear ghost stories, folk tales, oral histories and poems.

Summer

U.S. Bank St. Louis Jazz & Heritage Festival - Celebrate jazz in St. Louis and browse the marketplace each June at the festival. Past performers include Bill Summers, John Scofield and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Fair St. Louis - On the St. Louis riverfront in the Laclede's Landing district, this annual event features locally and nationally known bands playing live music. Storytellers, arts and crafts, fireworks and a popular barbecue competition are highlights. On July 4th, the famous Veiled Prophet Parade makes its yearly appearance. A 3K and 10K run and a spectacular air show are also highlights of the Fair.

Autumn

Great Forest Park Balloon Race - In mid-September, the St. Louis skies are adorned by the brightly-colored hot air balloons of 70 of the best balloonists. The balloonists actually begin their race from center-city St. Louis, to the amusement of thousands of onlookers. Another highlight is the opportunity to watch the amazing Pepsi Parachute Team as they skydive to the center of the launch field.

St. Louis International Film Festival - Every November since 1992, film buffs anticipate this 11-day festival of films and documentaries. More than 25 awards are given each year, and the festival is a great opportunity to rub elbows with talented filmmakers.

Winter

Mardi Gras - Grab your beads and find a costume. Each February, celebrate Fat Tuesday St. Louis-style. The Soulard neighborhood streets are filled with partiers for three weeks, beginning with the Grand Parade.

Saint Patrick's Day Parade - More than 5,000 marchers, marching bands and groups of all kinds participate in the March St. Patrick's Day Parade. Market Street is lined with around 350,000 revelers, who enjoy the food and drink provided by local restaurants along the parade route.