Many of us think of Labor Day as the traditional end of summer, which means saying goodbye to long sunny days and getting back to school or work. But don't let that get you down. At least you can send summer off with one last party. The St. Louis area has plenty of festivals and events Labor Day weekend, but here are some of the most popular St. Louis Labor Day traditions.
The Japanese Festival at the Botanical Garden
Photo courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden
St. Louis might not be the first place you think of when it comes to celebrating Japanese culture, but each Labor Day weekend, the Missouri Botanical Garden hosts one of the largest and oldest Japanese Festivals in North America. The event features traditional music, dancing and storytelling in the Garden's authentic Japanese strolling gardens. Visitors can learn about the art of Origami or attend a traditional tea ceremony. Another highlight of the three-day event is the chance to see a real sumo wrestling demonstration. Tickets to the festival are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for children and Garden members.
Missouri Botanical Garden
September 5-7, 2009
Missouri Botanical Garden
September 5-7, 2009
Big Muddy Blues Festival on Laclede's Landing
Photo courtesy Laclede's Landing Merchant's Association
Music is the big draw on Laclede's Landing on Labor Day weekend. The Big Muddy Blues Festival is a free, outdoor music festival featuring local and nationally known artists. Musicians will perform on three stages set up throughout the Landing. The music begins around 3 p.m. each day and lasts until just before midnight. It's easy to wander from stage to stage checking out the talent. And of course, dozens of restaurants on the Landing will be serving up food and drinks during the festival, whenever you need a break or a bite to eat.
Laclede's Landing
September 5 & 6, 2009
Laclede's Landing
September 5 & 6, 2009
Greek Festival in the CWE
Photo courtesy Stockbyte, Getty Images
For those who love food, especially homemade pastries, the Greek Festival in the Central West End is a must on Labor Day weekend. This annual event attracts thousands of visitors who enjoy music, dancing and some of the best Greek food you'll find anywhere. Whether you're in the mood for moussaka, spanakopites or baklava, you won't leave hungry. Free parking is available at the BJC Parking Garage.
St. Nicholas Church
Kingshighway & Forest Park Parkway
September 5-7, 2009
St. Nicholas Church
Kingshighway & Forest Park Parkway
September 5-7, 2009
Labor Day Parade
Thousands of local union members will march through downtown St. Louis for the annual Labor Day Parade. The parade begins at 9 a.m., at 13th and Olive. It then makes its way down Tucker Street, past St. Louis City Hall and west on Market Street to 15th Street.Downtown St. Louis
September 7, 2009
