Ste. Genevieve: History, arts and culture combine to make this small Southeast Missouri town a great destination

As the oldest village west of the Mississippi, Ste. Genevieve has much to offer Southeast Missourians and farther-afield visitors alike. Founded by French settlers in the 1740s, the former colony still retains touches of French charm through its many historic buildings. These annual events give the curious an added incentive to tour this bit of French history in Missouri:

• June 12 -13: Antique Show and Sale
• June 12: French Festival featuring music, dance, cuisine, wine tasting and re-enactments.
• July 4: Celebration with concert in Pere Marquette Park
• July 11-12: Civil War Camp
• August 8-9: Jour de Fete -- This annual celebration of the village's history in downtown Ste. Genevieve is the area's largest craft fair and offers tours of many historic homes. For more information visit stegenevievejourdefete.com.

More from Ste. Genevieve

The Felix Valle State Historic Site dates from 1818 and housed the family of Felix and Odile Pratte Valle. Their limestone home retains its original mantel and trim. The wooden Bolduc House, built in 1785, is an example of poteaux-sur-sole construction, or posts on a sill, and includes a an herb cottage. Ste. Genevieve is also wine country. Visitors can sample some of Missouri's wines and cheese in the many wineries located in the area.

Freelancer Sarah Luehrs contributed to this story.