The Grand Center Arts District is celebrated for its grand stages, but this summer, it’s also welcoming the little ones.
Launched last summer, the “Kids in the Arts District” initiative reimagines the area as a family-friendly space to explore, play, and connect without the pressure of a ticketed event on select Saturday mornings.
Find Exciting Activities for the Family
Sign up for the St. Louis Family newsletter to receive family-friendly events and news for local parents, delivered every Monday.
We promise to never send spam or unwanted emails. You can unsubscribe at any time.
The complimentary, family-friendly series will return in 2026 with enhanced programming and stronger partnerships throughout the neighborhood. Scheduled from 9–11 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month from June through August, the initiative encourages families to view Grand Center not just as a venue for performances but as a place to explore, connect, and feel at home.
“It’s about inviting families into Grand Center in a way that feels welcoming and accessible,” explains Sara Vaughan, one of the program’s coordinators, alongside Jon Beeby from By Jack and Larry Morris of the Kranzberg Arts Foundation. “Part of our goal is to add more programming, while also raising awareness about the existing activities in the area.”
The concept originated from a simple observation: While St. Louis has many family activities, there wasn’t a casual, drop-in experience that encouraged children and caregivers to engage with the arts district. Inspired by a similar initiative in Madison, Wisconsin, the team launched a pilot series in 2025, attracting nearly 100 participants and demonstrating genuine interest from families and community partners.
Each event features live performances, interactive art-making, and pop-ups from local organizations, creating an engaging experience for all ages. Younger children can dance, play, and create, while older kids and adults can dive deeper into conversations with artists or discover new resources.
“We wanted a space where children could tap their feet, enjoy the music, and just be themselves,” says Vaughan. “But also a place where parents could learn something new or find an organization they weren’t aware of.”
In 2026, the program will extend beyond a single venue to connect families more closely with the entire district. A new “bingo card” initiative will encourage visitors to explore various locations throughout the summer, offering incentives like prizes and tickets along the way.
At its core, the series aims to reduce barriers, whether that’s cost (all events are free), familiarity, or comfort level.
Related Posts
St. Louis students spread awareness about blue light exposure
Students at Marquette High School are addressing a contemporary health concern that impacts nearly everyone: digital eye strain resulting from
Where in St. Charles? – 3/27/2026
Test your knowledge of St. Charles! Pin the map to indicate where you believe the photo above was captured; the