Festival of Nations

If, for some reason, you wonder why immigration is vital to America, the best place to educate yourself is at the International Institute's Festival of Nations. For two days Tower Grove Park (4256 Magnolia Avenue; www.festivalofnationsstl.org) becomes a world party that brings together people from across the region and around the world. Among them are small businessmen and -women selling food and goods from their countries of origin, performers and artists sharing their culture, and citizens (new and established) who contribute to society in numerous small ways every day. The future of St. Louis -- and of the country -- is all around you at the Festival of Nations, celebrating the best parts of the USA. The 2017 Festival of Nations takes place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday (August 26 and 27). Admission is free, but bring your wallet so you can eat and invest in tomorrow.