What's New in The Lou: January 15th

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK:
The Novel Neighbor

Tucked into the heart of Webster Groves, The Novel Neighbor is more than just a bookstore. It’s a warm, welcoming community hub where stories (and neighbors) come together. Women-owned and operated since 2014, this beloved independent bookshop was founded by Holland Saltsman and has become a go-to for new books across every genre, locally made art, and thoughtfully curated gifts for readers of all ages. The space itself feels charming, inclusive, and endlessly browsable. Attached to the Novel Neighbor is Open Door Romance which opened in 2024- a mini-bookstore area dedicated solely to the romance genre.

Beyond the books, The Novel Neighbor truly shines through its experiences. In-store book clubs, book-themed birthday parties, summer camps, and even event space rentals for your next gathering are available. They’re also famous for their personalized Mystery Boxes and book subscriptions- perfect if you love surprises or need a gift for the reader in your life. This wonderful business also brings countless authors to St. Louis for author chats and book signings. This January alone, the Novel Neighbor is putting on 17 author events. Make sure to follow them on social media to never miss when your favorite author may be coming to town!

🌟 MLK Jr. Day Celebrations

• With Liberty and Justice for All: MLK in STL (Missouri History Museum)- This community celebration honors the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through educational programming, performances, and dialogue. Story telling, crafts, tours, and scavenger hunts teach children the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. in an engaging way. Friday January 16 and Saturday January 17. 10 am- 1 pm.

• The Dream Reimagined: Youth Voices Uplifted (Saint Louis Art Museum)- Focused on creativity and empowerment, this FREE event highlights young voices interpreting Dr. King’s dream through art, music, theater, and dance performances. Sunday Jan. 18. 2-3:30 pm.

• Let It Resound: The Legacy of Black Composers (Powell Hall)- This musical program celebrates the profound contributions of Black composers to classical and contemporary music. This FREE concert starts at 6:30 pm on Friday January 16.

• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration: The Annual Celebration (Graham Chapel, Washington University)- Honoring Dr. King’s legacy through reflection, dialogue, and performance, this free, public program features a keynote speaker, the Rosa L. Parks Memorial Award, and performances by Black Anthology, Unending Praise Gospel Choir, and the WashU Chamber Choir. Monday January 19. 2-3:30 pm.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Missouri History Museum)- Families are invited to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a full day of hands-on, all-ages programming. Drop in for youth activism workshops, interactive storytelling, movement and dance, crafts, and meaningful conversations about race, social justice, and community. Highlights include a community-led “I Have a Dream” mural, Black history scavenger hunt, activist panels, and energetic dance workshops designed to inspire kids. 10 am-4 pm.

What’s Happenin’ in St. Louis 👀

Friday, January 16th

• John Mulaney: Mister Whatever (Stifel Theater)- Well known comedian, John Mulaney is touring his latest material across North America. It’s a must-see show for comedy fans as he continues a big year spanning TV, Broadway, and film. Show at 7:30 pm.

• Third Friday (Third Degree Glass Factory)- Start your 2026 with a clear mind: write a bad habit or stressor on paper and watch it be transformed into molten glass in the 2,400°F furnace. The gallery debuts The Many Faces of Mardi Gras exhibition celebrating carnival culture, and visitors can enjoy cocktails, local food, and glass‑blowing demos. 6- 10 pm.

• The Lodge: A Winter Pop‑Up Bar. (Eckert’s Belleville)- Step inside a rustic chalet inspired by snowy escapes and winter sports. Sip handcrafted cocktails in the cozy Cider Shed while eating small plates. Reservations cost $5, benefiting Without Limits- Team Galaxy’s Special Olympics program. Open select nights through March 7. Hours vary.

• St. Louis Blues vs Tampa Bay Lightning (Enterprise Center)- Cheer on the Blues as they battle the Lightning. Puck drops at 7 pm.

Saturday, January 17th

• Sheryl Underwood (Helium Comedy Club)- A businesswoman and multimedia entrepreneur, Sheryl Underwood balances roles as entertainer, CEO, actress, and philanthropist. She appeared on the talk show The Talk for many years and hosts her own show on Sirius XM. Shows run various times on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

• The Dance on Widow’s Row (Edison Theatre)- This dark comedy follows four wealthy Southern widows whose previous suitors all died mysteriously. Directed by Ron Himes, the play mixes humor and suspense as the widows host a gathering for eligible bachelors. Saturday’s show is at 8 pm. The play runs various days and times until Jan. 25.

• Rascal Flatts: Life is a Highway Tour (Enterprise Center)- World-famous Rascal Flatts brings their tour to St. Louis with special guests Lauren Alaina and Chris Lane. Show begins at 7 pm.

• The Phil Collins Experience (The Pageant)- This exciting tribute brings the iconic music of Phil Collins to life. The show features a full 12-piece band performing his biggest hits. Since 2018, the production has thrilled audiences nationwide with its nostalgia while also giving back by raising funds for local homeless charities at every tour stop. Doors open at 7 pm. Show at 8 pm.

Sunday, January 18th

• Monster Jam (The Dome at America’s Center)- Thrill‑seekers can watch Grave Digger, El Toro Loco, Megalodon and other monster trucks defy gravity. Arrive early for the Pit Party (additional ticket required) to meet drivers and see the trucks up close. Saturday at 5 pm. Sunday at 3 pm.

• Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony (Powell Hall)- The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra accompanies Dolly on screen as she recounts the stories behind her biggest hits. Expect a multimedia journey through music and memory, with new symphonic arrangements of “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” and more. Shows Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday at 2 pm.

• Bald Eagle Festival (Pere Marquette Lodge)- Celebrate our national bird with vendors, live music, and the family‑friendly “Masters of the Sky” show. See eagles, owls and falcons up close during presentations at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. 11 am-3 pm.

• Stuffy Sleepover (St. Louis Aquarium)- This unique event invites kids to drop off their favorite stuffed animals for a whimsical overnight adventure on Sunday, January 18. After hours, the cuddly crew will explore the aquarium, enjoy a pizza party, yoga, dancing, a movie, and even a behind-the-scenes tour. Pick-up on Monday includes a certificate of participation and a video keepsake capturing their stuffy’s unforgettable night under the sea.

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ST. LOUIS NEWS + UPDATES 📰 

City SC roster & coach: St. Louis CITY SC exercised options on players like Chris Durkin and João Klauss and declined six others, giving them 22 contracted players for 2026. Yoann Damet, 35, previously an assistant coach with Columbus Crew, has been hired as head coach.

WEATHER FORECAST 🌡️ 

Friday
46° 🌥️ | 21% precipitation | 🌬 14 mph

Saturday
25° ☁️ | 5% precipitation | 🌬 17 mph

Sunday
31° 🌤 | 0% precipitation | 🌬 11 mph

Monday
23° 🌤 | 0% precipitation | 🌬 14 mph