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Top 5 Things to Do in October

By David O'Brien, About.com

October weather in St. Louis can't be beat. Plenty of sunshine, warm but comfortable days and crisp cool nights make getting outdoors a must. And, once the leaves start to change colors, a day at a festival or roadtrip through the surrounding countryside is a great way to spend a day. There's also plenty going on indoors, including a concert sure to conjure up some serious nostalgia.

1. Best of Missouri Market

Photo by Erin Whitson, courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden
On October 6th and 7th, the Missouri Botanical Garden will be transformed into a giant outdoor market. The Best of Missouri Market features the finest products grown and made in the Show-Me State. You can sample and buy dozens of foods or get an early start on your holiday shopping. The market runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is $10 for adults and $3 for Garden members.

2. Harvest Festival

Photo by Kevin Wolf, courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden
You can enjoy specialties from some of the area's best restaurants in the natural beauty of the Shaw Nature Reserve. The Harvest Festival is the place for good food, good music and a great view of the fall colors. There is also a farmer's market, and hayrides and pony rides for the kids. The Harvest Festival is Sunday, October 14th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Shaw Nature Reserve. Admission is $5 for adults. Children 12 and under get in free.

3. Oktoberfest in Hermann

October is the one of the best times of the year to travel to Missouri wine country. In Hermann, Oktoberfest means eating authentic German food, dancing the polka and sipping a glass of Missouri wine. The small town springs to life during the first four weekends of October, welcoming thousands of visitors to its wineries. You can get there by car, Amtrak or bike part of the way on the Katy Trail.

4. Van Halen in Concert

Children of the 80's your wait is over! Van Halen is coming to St. Louis. It's the first time the band has toured with David Lee Roth in more than 22 years. So mark your calendars for October 28th at the Scottrade Center and brush up on the lyrics to "Jump."

5. Trick or Treat Street

Don't miss the one-of-a-kind Halloween celebration along Trick or Treat Street. Bring your kids to the 5300 block of Nottingham in South St. Louis on Halloween night for this annual block party. Residents deck out their homes and dress in costumes for the thousands of visitors who come from all over the area. It's a fun and safe way for your children to enjoy the holiday. The block party officially runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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