Top Things to Do This August

Help Stone Hill Winery celebrate the beginning of the grape harvest by stomping barefoot in a barrel full of grapes. The Grape Stomp isn't just for fun, it's a charity event and competition. Stompers have two minutes to squish 30 pounds of grapes. They're judged on the amount of juice they produce and their stomping style. Winners in each age group go on to compete for the title of Grand Champion Stomper. Even if you aren't stomping there's plenty of food, live music and wine to make it worth the trip.
Stone Hill Winery, Hermann, MO
August 9, 2008

The restaurants of downtown St. Louis extend a special invitation to dine with them this month. Twenty five downtown establishments are offering three-course meals for $25 a person during Downtown Restaurant Week. Some of the area's most popular restaurants, including An American Place, Charlie Gitto's and Lucas Park Grille are participating. You don't need coupons or tickets, but reservations are highly recommended.
Downtown St. Louis
August 11 - 16, 2008

Brad Paisley is the current CMA Male Vocalist of the Year and he's bringing his show back to St. Louis. Paisley will perform his latest hits like "I'm Still A Guy," "Waitin' on a Woman" and many more during the Paisley Party Tour 2008. Joining him on tour are Jewel, Chuck Wicks and Julianne Hough. Paisley's been at the top of the country charts for many years and shows no signs of slowing down. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.
Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
August 15, 2008

This may be the event of the summer for the six and under crowd. Your kids have the chance to meet the one and only SpongeBob SquarePants. He'll be appearing live at the Alton Square Mall. Of course kids can have their pictures taken with SpongeBob, but they can also enjoy face painting, clowns, games and other activities. Proceeds from the event go to The Boys & Girls Club of Alton.
Alton Square Mall
August 16, 2008

For more than 40 years, cyclists have filled the streets of St. Louis on the Saturday night in August closest to the full moon. Organizers brag that the Moonlight Ramble is the world's original nighttime bicycle ride. Participants can choose a 10 or 20 mile course. The ride begins just after midnight with plenty of family-friendly activities before and after. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children. All proceeds benefit the Gateway Council of Hostelling International.
Soldiers Memorial Plaza, downtown St. Louis
August 16 - 17, 2008

For thousands of book lovers, August means it's time for the Carondelet YMCA Book Fair. It's one of the largest used book sales in the area, with more than 60 categories of books, as well as magazines, records and CDs. The event has grown so big that it's moved to the Kennedy Recreation Center (Near Meramec Bottom Road & I-55). Admission for the first day of the sale is $10, but it's free the rest of the week. Prices start at $.50 for paperbacks and $1 for hardcovers.
Kennedy Recreation Center, 6050 Wells Road
August 22 - 27, 2008

The Festival of Nations is your chance to experience the beauty of dozens of different world cultures without leaving St. Louis. The two day event is filled with food, music and entertainment from around the globe. There are more than 30 food booths featuring favorite dishes from Bosnia, Brazil, Ethiopia and more. Shoppers will find items like Indian saris, Mexican glassware and Israeli jewelry, just to name just a few. Admission is free and a free shuttle service is also available.
Tower Grove Park
August 23 - 24, 2008

The annual football showdown between the Missouri Tigers and the Illinois Fighting Illini should be one of the most popular sporting events in St. Louis this year. Both teams are coming off great seasons and are looking to do even better this year. Tickets for the game sold out in a matter of minutes, but you can head over to Sports Zone, Ozzie's or your favorite sports bar and watch the game on ESPN.
Edward Jones Dome
August 30, 2008

The Missouri Botanical Garden has one of largest, authentic Japanese strolling gardens in North America and each year the Garden celebrates by hosting the Japanese Festival. The event features traditional music, dancing and storytelling, but the big draw is the chance to see a real sumo wrestling demonstration. Tickets to the festival are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and $3 for children and Garden members.
Missouri Botanical Garden
August 30 - September 1, 2008