St. Louis celebrates it’s 250th anniversary this year! Since historians can’t agree on the exact date, we get the opportunity to enjoy birthday festivities for the entire year! So, who’s putting on the year long celebration you ask? STL250 will serve as masters of ceremony for this huge extravaganza. STL250 is a volunteer led organization comprised of over 20 influential and talented leaders in the St. Louis community.

There are so many activities and events scheduled throughout the year. These events will vary from small neighborhood activities to large community events. The festivities begin February 14, 2014. Here is a list of some of the signature events:

“Birthday Bash Weekend”

Feb. 14 (3:30-7:30 p.m.), Feb. 15 & 17 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Missouri History Museum 

A free, family-friendly event that celebrates 250 years of regional heritage at the Missouri History Museum.  More details available at  MOHistory.org.

“Cakeway to the West”

Last month, St. Louisans voted on their favorite locations in  St. Louis. With over 41,000 votes, the Top 50 were established. Those Top 50 plus 200 more iconic locations, will receive a fiberglass cake designed by a team of local artists specifically for them. The cakes will be at each location throughout the year for people to check out. A downloadable app will allow visitors to check in at each cake site, learn more about its history, and collect points for St. Louis prize drawings.

Burnin’ Love, presented by Ameren

Feb. 14 (4:30 to 10:30 p.m.), Art Hill

Art Hill becomes “Heart Hill” in this Valentine-themed kickoff party. Live musical  performances, fire dancers and a fireworks display will bring the heat to a chilly February evening. Hundreds of couples are being recruited to pop the question or renew their commitment through the evening’s engagement/re-engagement ceremony. The goal is to have tens of thousands of St. Louisans joined together to express why they “heart” St. Louis!

Re-enactment of the Founding

Feb. 15 (10:30 to 11 a.m.), St. Louis City Hall

This historical re-enactment program will trace the broader influence that various cultures have played in shaping our city. Following the re-enactment, presentations by local and travelling dignitaries will be made. There will also be an unveiling of current downtown street signs with their original French names. Head down to the Arch from 11am-4pm to see the re-enactors’ encampment, set up at the southern leg of the Gateway Arch.

The Biggest Birthday Ball

Feb. 16 (5 to 9 p.m.), Missouri History Museum

Purchase your tickets today to help pay tribute to St. Louis! Great food and great musical performances from some of your favorite local musicians. One night to remember. The Biggest Birthday Ball is a ticketed evening affair that serves as an exclamation point to St. Louis’ birthday celebrations.

Should be an fun year so get involved by visiting STL250 for volunteer information or get a copy of the year’s events calendar. Stay connected with STL250 on Facebook for updates on all activities and events. You can even post an event that you or your organization would like to host. Happy Birthday St. Louis!

 

Brought to you by Mills Properties

Photos courtesy of STL250