Creative Events at STLCC: Art, Theatre, Music and Culinary
February 23, 2026
Posted by STLCC in Programs and Pathways
St. Louis Community College isn’t just a place to take classes, it’s a place where creativity comes alive all year long. Whether you love art, theatre, music or food, there’s something exciting happening on one of the STLCC campuses almost every week. Even better? Many of these events are free or very affordable, and they’re open to everyone in the community.
If you’re looking for something fun, inspiring, and budget‑friendly to do, let’s take a tour of the amazing events STLCC has to offer.
Art Exhibits: Creativity on Display
STLCC’s art galleries are some of the most vibrant spaces on campus. Throughout the year, they feature rotating exhibits from students, faculty, and talented artists from around the region. You’ll find artwork in all kinds of media, including drawing, ceramics, painting, photography, sculpture and mixed media pieces that push the boundaries of imagination.
A great example is the High School Student Art Exhibition, which regularly appears on the STLCC events calendar and showcases young talent in the community. Recent listings show exhibitions at Florissant Valley, Forest Park, and Meramec running daily in the afternoons, giving art lovers plenty of chances to stop by and explore.
The best part? All art exhibits are free and open to the public.
Look for exhibit receptions on the events calendar. These special gatherings often include a chance to meet the artists, ask questions about their work, and, of course, enjoy snacks like cheese and crackers while mingling with fellow art lovers.
Theatre Productions: Stories Brought to Life
If you enjoy live theatre, STLCC’s productions are a must‑see. Performances take place at the Florissant Valley, Forest Park and Meramec campuses and feature both STLCC students and community actors. This creates a unique mix of fresh talent and real‑world experience.
Behind the scenes, the productions are guided by professional theatre technicians and faculty members who help students learn everything from lighting and costuming to stage design. STLCC takes pride in theatre as an educational experience, giving participants a true “classroom on the stage” that mirrors the professional world of performance. The Meramec Theatre, for example, emphasizes its role as both a teaching space and a community hub for local actors and volunteers.
And here’s something remarkable: Every STLCC theatre production is free, and no tickets are required. That means you can enjoy high‑quality theatre without worrying about your wallet.
Arrive early. Seating is first-come, first-served and the best seats go quickly.
Music Performances: Something for Every Listener
If live music gets your heart racing, STLCC hosts concerts and recitals featuring a wide range of styles. Jazz ensembles, orchestras, choirs, chamber groups and student showcases all take turns taking the stage. Each performance gives STLCC music students a chance to shine while inviting the community to experience the excitement of live performances.
From classical pieces to upbeat modern rhythms, the variety ensures that almost anyone can find something they’ll enjoy. These music events highlight the depth of STLCC’s music programs and the dedication of the students and faculty who bring them to life.
Like the art and theatre events, STLCC concerts are free and open to the public. This makes them a great option for families, students, and anyone who wants a fun, enriching evening out.
A Taste of Excellence: Culinary Arts Events
Food lovers, this one’s for you.
STLCC’s Forest Park campus offers an unforgettable culinary experience through its capstone lunches and dinners. Held in the Anheuser‑Busch Dining Room of the Jack E. Miller Hospitality Center, these meals are fully designed, prepared, and served by culinary arts students.
Each event offers a polished, restaurant‑quality dining experience, and it’s surprisingly affordable.
Here’s what’s on the menu:
Lunch: $15 per person
- Includes soup or salad, a chicken or pork entrée, dessert, and a beverage.
Dinner: $20 per person
- Includes soup, salad, a chicken or pork entrée, dessert, and a beverage.
These meals allow students to demonstrate the professional skills they’ve built throughout their program, and guests get to enjoy creative, high‑quality dishes without paying restaurant prices. It’s truly a win‑win.
Reservations are required, and seats are sold quickly. Check out the STLCC Events page on the website to save your seat for culinary excellence.
Why STLCC Events Are Worth Exploring
STLCC offers far more than classes and degrees; it offers a thriving arts and culture scene for the entire St. Louis region. The events are:
- Affordable or free
- Open to the community
- Educational for both students and visitors
- A great way to support local talent
- Fun, friendly, and welcoming
Checking out the STLCC events calendar is one of the easiest ways to discover what’s happening across all campuses. Art gallery hours, theatre show times, culinary events, music performances, and special activities are regularly updated. You’ll often find multiple options happening on the same day — for example, art exhibitions running at several campuses throughout the afternoon.
And remember: the events calendar is your best friend when planning your next visit. You never know, your new favorite artist, musician, chef or performer may be right around the corner.
Whether you want to support student creativity, learn something new or just enjoy a unique day out, STLCC offers countless opportunities to connect, experience and celebrate the arts.
