Big Muddy Blues Festival-St. Louis, a river city long known for its place on the Blue Highway that stretches from the Delta all the way to Chicago. A city that Blues patriarchs such as Henry Townsend & Bennie Smith called home, and a red-hot Blues scene. This years Big Muddy promises to be an artistic success, after all, it does showcase that St. Louis sound  When: August 30 -31 Price: Free Laclede’s Landing For information call 314-241-5875 or http://www.bigmuddyblues.com or info@lacledeslanding.com

Going Japanese-Missouri Botanical Garden heads east with its Japanese Festival, August 30-31, 10am-8pm, and September 1, 10am-5pm.  The annual celebration of the things Japanese features ceremonials processions, taiko drummers, dancing, comic storytelling, sumo wrestlers, street magic, flower arranging, martial arts, food, fashions and more. Admission $10 adults, $7 seniors, $3 children 3-12, 2 and under free. 4344 Shaw Blvd, 314-577-9400, www.mobot.org

 Abstraction in American Photography-This exhibition of nine photographs from the Museum’s collection explores the potential for abstraction in photography. Abstraction in American Photography will be on view in Gallery 321 through September 19, 2008 at St. Louis Art Museum:  When: Daily 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (ends September 19) Price: Free, For information call 314-721-0072 or http://www.slam.org

 St Nicholas Greek Festival-Best Local Festival. The Greek Festival held Labor Day weekend at
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church on Forest Park. Tremendous Greek food and to-die for pastries and at the end of it all, say Opaa  When: Saturday-Sunday 11am-9pm; Monday 11am-8pm Price, Free For information call Office Phone: (314)361-6924 Parish Center: (314) 361-8925 e-mail: stnicholas@swbell.net