REGIONAL EVENTS

DIVA DASH

ST. LOUIS July 11

Wear some bling for this unique 5K and Lil’ Princess Girls Run held at the Upper Muny Lot in Forest Park. Participants will receive a T-shirt, custom bib, tiara and medal. The girl’s fun run begins at 9 a.m. for ages 8 and under (distance depends on age and ranges 50 to 200 yards). The 5K starts at 8 a.m. Cost is $15 for Lil’ Princess and $40 for the 5K. The Diva Dash is also held in other cities throughout the country, so check the website for more information. www.divadash5k.com

FESTIVAL OF BUTTERFLIES

KANSAS CITY July 25-August 9

More than a thousand free-flying butterflies and moths fill the glasswalled conservatory of Powell Gardens. An outdoor trail features the migratory journey of the monarch butterfly. A magical experience that comes once a year. Open daily. Adult tickets are $12, $5 for children ages 5-12 and free for children age 4 and under. www.powellgardens.org

ABOVE: Set on 915 acres of lush, rolling hills and windswept meadows, Powell Gardens—Kansas City’s botanical garden—offers breathtaking displays of intricate gardens, interesting architecture, a nature trail and a year-round calendar of special events, exhibits and classes for the entire family. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE KANSAS CITY CVB

WINE WALK

KANSAS CITY August 1

Sip, taste and explore the Power and Light District. Tickets are $35-$60. General admission ticket-holders can access the event at 3 p.m. with VIP ticket-holders getting in earlier at 2 p.m. There will be live music, wine tastings and small plates of food served from participating venues. www.eventbrite.com

THE RETURN OF THEATER

ARROW ROCK August-December

One of Missouri’s oldest professional regional theaters plans to begin its season a bit later this year. “Murder on the Orient Express” will be held August 7-16, followed by “Our Town” August 26-30, and many other shows scheduled throughout the year. Tickets are $17+. www.lyceumtheatre.org

VEGFEST

ST. LOUIS August 29

You don’t have to be vegan to appreciate this food festival held in Forest Park. Music, entertainment, food vendors, merchandise and crafts will be available from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. A family-friendly event with motivational speakers and fun activities for kids. www.stlouisvegfest.org