Summer in the City

Years ago a cultural geographer named Ellsworth Huntington sagaciously observed that people who live without seasons can never develop character. This can only mean that our cup runneth over with virtue and decency and worthiness. So take a bow, St. Louisans. And take that, San Diegans.

It is the ferocity of summer, though, that tests our collective purity. How to maintain probity, you may ask, in all that humidity? Mother Nature, like the Riverfront Times, has mood swings, and soon her temper tantrums will erupt, like the crackling summer storms that floodlight the overheated skies. In these last lusty moments of May, the sweaty descent begins. The days will grow hotter, stickier -- and during the nights, our blazing blessed nights, only the roar of cicadas can muffle the steady hum of air-conditioning.

All of this, and more, has driven us to produce a guide detailing how best to bark back when the dog days hound, as they surely will. Come with us and find new ways to relish the sensuous slow-motion of a St. Louis summertime.

With the help of our crackerjack writing team, we have compiled a number of breezy ways to beat the heat. So cheer up and chill out. Check out some of the big events that ought not to be missed. Listen in on some hot tips on best places to bicycle, boat or experience the best in summer music.

And as a special treat, we'll tell you where to find the hottest places to booze it up. Speaking of which: This one's for you, Ellsworth Huntington.