Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer, the first chance to slow down and explore somewhere new. In St. Charles, that long weekend can turn into the perfect blend of meaningful moments, lively events, great food, and fun things to do!
Top Memorial Day Weekend Events to Plan Around
The easiest way to build your weekend is to start with the events. These marquee happenings bring energy to your visit and are worth planning ahead for.
St. Charles Veterans Memorial Ceremony
On Monday, May 25 at 10:00 AM head to the St. Charles Veterans Memorial at Bishop’s Landing in the parking lot of the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Museum. This ceremony offers a meaningful opportunity to pause and honor the men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces.
O’Fallon Memorial Day Ceremony
In nearby O’Fallon, a similar ceremony will take place at the O’Fallon Veterans Memorial Walk at 11 AM on Monday, May 25 to honor all U.S. soldiers past and present. Both of these Memorial Day events are powerful and respectful opportunities to begin the day before heading into more activities around town.
Missouri River Irish Fest
Live music, cultural celebration, and a festive atmosphere along the riverfront make the Missouri River Irish Fest a signature Memorial Day weekend experience. Expect energy, entertainment, and a great excuse to linger outdoors May 22-24.
St. Charles Market on Main
Ease into your Saturday at the St. Charles Market on Main, where you can check out local vendors, handmade goods, and fresh finds. Arrive early, grab coffee, and wander around to your heart’s content.
Greatest American Sportscard Show
A must for collectors and sports fans, the Greatest American Sportscard Show, taking place at the St. Charles Convention Center on May 22-24, draws enthusiasts from across the region and adds a unique layer of excitement to the weekend lineup.
Things to Do Beyond the Events
Once the events are on your calendar, the rest of your time can be shaped around the kind of weekend you want.
If you love the outdoors, rent bikes and ride a stretch of the Katy Trail, stroll the riverfront in Frontier Park, or grab your clubs and play a round of golf. Prefer something slower? Wander brick-lined Historic Main Street and pop into boutiques and galleries while you soak up the area’s charm.
History lovers can explore museums and historical sites, like the Mid America Veterans Museum and Commemorative Air Force - Missouri Wing Museum, while couples might opt for a scenic drive into nearby Historic Missouri Wine Country for tastings and the views. Discover the fascinating people, places, and stories of St. Charles on a Hit the Bricks guided tour down Historic Main Street. Families will have fun discovering parks, dessert stops, and plenty more things to do.
Where to Eat & Drink Over Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend is perfect for savoring a good meal and indulging in a sweet treat. Start with outdoor dining along Historic Main Street, where late-May weather and lively surroundings make for great people watching. Or if you need a caffeine fix, St. Charles has an abundance of coffee shops to choose from. The outdoor seating at Picasso’s Coffeehouse and Bike Stop Café can keep you outside in the fresh air.
Craft beer fans can mix in a casual stop at one of the local breweries like Good News Brewing, Two Plumbers Brewery + Arcade, and Third Wheel Brewing. Then finish it all off with ice cream or dessert. Watch the candy makers craft fudge through the window at Kilwins before going in to buy all kinds of treats, or go retro at SugarBot Creamery and enjoy 1950s soda fountain vibes while you share a classic milkshake. (Local tip: Don’t leave without getting a slice of Gooey Butter Cake!)
Plan Your Memorial Day Weekend in St. Charles
Make it a Memorial Day Weekend to remember! Start by choosing the events you don’t want to miss, then layer in delicious meals and other exciting things to do to create a weekend that fits your pace. Visit the main events calendar to see the most up-to-date info about what’s going on over the weekend. Then book your stay and start planning your weekend getaway to St. Charles!