Author: Amanda

Food and beverage writer. I'm the author of posts at amandabretz.net, as well as the website smalltownsocialite.net.
Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 2 – March 8, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

It’s a new month and St. Patrick’s Day themed events are beginning to roll out this week, like the Fake Paddy’s Day Crawl in Washington and the Pacific Shamwalk & Run 5k. Other events include Mouse Races at Union Moose Lodge, experience free services like red light therapy, breathwork sessions, and infrared sauna sessions this week at Hōm Healing Center in Pacific, plus many other great events and happenings!

And, just a short drive away, you can attend the Corks & Cuisine Dinner Series at Sarah’s on Central in Eureka, Maple Sugar Festival in Defiance, and Springfest at Brookdale Farms in Eureka.

Just a heads up – always double check with the event venue before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled for some reason!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Monday, March 2 – Sunday, March 8
For one week Hōm Healing Center in Pacific is inviting the community to try its services completely free. Some of Hōm’s offerings include wellness services, recovery tools, and classes like infrared sauna and red light therapy, yoga, guided meditations, and breathwork sessions, as well as massage, all of which are available during the free week.
Get more details.

Thursday, March 5
Bid on purses and enjoy an evening out at the annual Pacific Power of the Purse event! This is a great fundraising event with all proceeds going to Franklin County Area United Way.
Learn more.

Thursday, March 5
Marquart’s Landing in Washington is the site of a paint and sip night. Create your very own masterpiece with the guidance of seasoned instructor, Diana. Sip on delicious cocktails and munch on scrumptious bites (purchased separately) while you paint your way to a beautiful work of art. No prior painting experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and be prepared to have a blast! Don’t miss out on this unique and exciting event. 
Reserve your spot.

Saturday, March 7
Washington’s annual Fake Paddy’s Day Crawl is happening from 2-8 p.m. The crawl will include numerous bars and restaurants around Washington including The Alley, Old Bridgeview Brewing, The Creek, and many more.
Get info and buy tickets.

Saturday, March 7
Get out and move your body for a good cause at the Pacific Shamwalk & Run 5k which benefits the MVR3 Bridge Foundation.
More info and how to register.

Saturday, March 7
It’s Singo (like bingo with music) night at St. Gertrude’s in Washington to raise funds for the children of Campbellton Elementary School.
Learn more and register.

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Saturday, March 7
The Union Moose Lodge is hosting Mouse Races beginning at 6 p.m. The cost to attend the races is $15 in advance and $20 at the door, with proceeds benefitting Moose Charities.
Get more details.

Saturday, March 7
The Pacific Eagles is sponsoring a Pool Tournament, Silent Auction, and a Barbecue, with all proceeds donated to Meramec Valley RIII School Lunch Program!
Learn more.

Saturday, March 7
Head to the Union Community Center for a Texas Hold ‘Em fundraiser. Doors open at 5:15 and the action begins at 6 p.m.
RSVP requested.

Sunday, March 8
The 61st Annual Chicken Dinner at St. John the Baptist–Gildehaus Parish Center in Villa Ridge will have cafeteria-style dining and drive-thru dining options available, and the offerings will include deep-fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, cabbage slaw, pie, milk, and coffee. 
Get more information.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Thursday, March 5
Sarah’s on Central in Old Town Eureka is hosting its fourth installment of Corks & Cuisine Dinner Series. This is a night food and wine lovers won’t want to miss, featuring a multi-course dining experience paired with exceptional wines.
Pay for and reserve your spot.

Friday, March 6 & Saturday, March 7
United Women of Faith will be hosting their annual Rummage Sale in Warrenton. Come shop and find some treasures on Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m.- noon both days. All proceeds will go to the United Women of Faith.
Get more details.

Saturday, March 7
Girls are welcome to be escorted by a grandfather, godfather, or other significant father figure at the Daddy Daughter Dance in Eureka. The event includes a corsage, refreshments, a portrait, games, and a D.J. Tickets are $30 per couple, and additional tickets are available for $10 each. Registration is required and must be completed by March 4.
Learn more and register.

Saturday, March 7
The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance is hosting Maple Sugar Festival, an event where attendees will learn historic and modern tree-tapping methods and taste sweet treats from the trees. Kids and adults alike can try out historic hand tools and watch reenactors boil sap. The event is free, but there will be vendors on-site selling items. Vendors operate on a cash-only basis.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 7
Spring Fest at Brookdale Farms is your family’s weekly excuse to put down the screens, get some fresh air, and actually enjoy the season. The event includes farm-themed outdoor games, large playground areas, seasonal attractions and interactive experiences, spring décor worth the photos, food and drinks available on-site, and wide open space to roam, relax, and play.
Find out more.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 23 – March 1, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Get ready for another fun-filled week of Franklin County events with book clubs, a puzzle race, line dancing, black light bingo, a comedy night, a paint and sip event, and an open mic night.

Ready to hit the road? There’s even more events just outside of Franklin County such as a 2000’s themed trivia night, an 80’s themed murder mystery, a winter wine tasting event, and winter bridal shows.

Just a heads up – always double check with the event venue before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled for some reason!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Teams of up to six friends will race to be the first team to complete the same 500-piece puzzle in 60 minutes at the Washington Public Library’s Puzzle Race event. Space is limited to six teams and pre-registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Join the book club perfect for the overcommitted reader. The Bring Your Own Book book club at The Novel Nook.  Instead of a single assigned read, participants bring whatever book they’re currently enjoying—fiction, nonfiction, classic, or contemporary—and share highlights, insights, and thoughts with the group.
Get all the details.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Scenic Regional Library Branch in Pacific is hosting a showing of the historic 1926 feature film- The Flying Ace- with a live musical accompaniment by Cherry and Jerry, a St. Louis duo that plays ragtime, blues, and jazz music from the 1900s-1920s, including well-known hits from Scott Joplin, W.C. Handy, Irving Berlin, as well as lesser-known gems. Registration is required to attend.
Get more info and register.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Franklin County Silent Book Club will meet at UnderGROUNDS in Washington from 5:30-7 p.m. This nontraditional book club allows you to bring your own book and read in companionable silence, with socializing afterwards with fellow readers. You’ll carve out time for reading, meet new people, and hopefully leave with some new recommendations.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
Do you have a small business and are interested in becoming a vendor at the St. Clair Farmers Market this season? Attend an informational meeting for potential market vendors at the St. Clair Library at 6:30 p.m.
Get the details.

Thursday, Feb. 26
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific will have line dancing from 6-7:30 p.m. The event is free, but donations are accepted.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 27
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is the site of Donuts and Diapers, a sweet morning designed for little ones and the grown-ups who love them. Happening from 9-11 a.m., the event features fresh donuts, open gym play, and quality bonding time in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Get tickets and more details.

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Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Gerald for a unique paint and sip night that focuses on creating a piece of art that highlights the Northern Lights. Seats are limited.
Secure your spot.

Friday, Feb. 27
Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist is seeking motivated individuals interested in building a long‑term career in the green industry and are hosting a Career Fair to learn more about available opportunities across horticulture, landscaping, retail operations, greenhouse, and additional areas within our growing organization. The fair is from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Help support Project Linus of Franklin and Crawford County and create something with your hands. The nonprofit is hosting its monthly Make a Blanket day from 10 a.m. – noon at the Scenic Regional Library Union Branch. Attendees will make fleece blankets to benefit local children, and can bring their own supplies or donate $20 for blanket making supplies.
RSVP requested, find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 28
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Clover Bottom is hosting a Comedy Night Dinner & Dance. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m., the comedy show by Mike Maxwell at 7 p.m., and live music by Steve Leslie after the comedy show.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Enjoy an evening of Black Light Bingo at the IC School Parish Center in Union. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and bingo begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Learn about seed starting at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Participants will use reusable pots, domes and trays to plant tomato and pepper seeds. This is the perfect class to get a head start on your vegetable plants for spring!
Get the details.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington for the bar’s weekly Open Mic Night. Share your musical or stand up talent at the event, happening from 6-10 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a special night for mamas and their favorite little cowboys at the The Mother-Son Ranch Night. This western-style evening is all about quality time, connection, and good old-fashioned fun — without the pressure of a traditional “dance.”
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 27
Defiance Ridge Vineyards is hosting a 2000’s themed trivia night. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. and trivia starts at 7 p.m., with a $25 per team cost.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Love a good murder mystery event? Then you won’t want to miss the 80’s themed event in Owensville.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28 & Sunday, March 1
The Meramec River Wine Trail’s Winter Wine Tasting Event will feature wine and food pairings from numerous wineries in the region – from Steelville to St. James. This self-guided tour is $30 per person, with tickets available for purchase online.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is hosting The Magic of Maples, a fun and informational event that highlights history of making maple products in Missouri and how to make maple products today. The event is free, but registration is required.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 1
The Wildflower Wedding Market is happening from noon-4 p.m. at The Venue at Wildflower Ridge. Meet with wedding planners, decorators, photographers, caterers, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 1
Folky Fish Fest and Spencer Manor are teaming up to host an afternoon of delicious food and live music as a fundraiser for the second year of Folky Fish Jam Camp. Last year’s jam camp welcomed 30 students from the surrounding areas, where they spent the day learning and jamming with Festival Performing Artists thanks to donations and funding from local organizations and individual community members. This year help offer the camp to as many young folks as possible via student scholarships.
Find out more.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
Romance author and unapologetic geek.
Author of the Talk Nerdy to Me series.
Download your next binge read.

Sunday, March 1
Brookdale Farms is hosting a Winter Bridal Show. This one-stop planning event, features immersive venue tours, stunning décor inspiration, and direct access to the best wedding pros in the business in one elegant afternoon.
Get tickets and find out more.

Sunday, March 1
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
Learn more.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in News and Features

10 Places to Find Fish on Fridays in Franklin County During Lent

Posted on by Amanda

Whether you observe Lent or you’re just looking for local fish fry Fridays, seafood options, or fish dishes that aren’t fried, there are numerous churches, Knights of Columbus halls, and area restaurants offering diverse Lenten menus.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but rather features selections that span various communities in and near Franklin County to give readers options no matter if you live in Sullivan, Eureka, Washington, or other communities in the area.

Knights of Columbus Hall, Gerald
Bring your appetite to the K of C Hall in Gerald for its Friday all-you-can-eat fish fry. Available from 4-7 p.m., the offerings include fried cod or shrimp, with a number of meatless sides to choose from, along with an assortment of desserts and drinks. Learn more on Facebook.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Washington
Every Friday during Lent, the church is offering a fish fry menu from 4-7 pm. Available as dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru options, the menu will feature catfish and cod, along with sides and desserts for $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 6-12. Find out more on Facebook.

St. Bridget of Kildare Catholic Parish, Pacific
With options that include cod, catfish, shrimp, and sides, the menu is available Fridays from 4-7 p.m. Get more info, including pricing on Facebook.

Que Pasa Mexican Restaurant, Union
If you prefer your fish or seafood with a bit of heat, Que Pasa in Union has Lenten offerings that include fish tacos, shrimp cocktail, seafood fajitas, and more. View all the selections on Facebook.

Muddy Banks Brewing Co., Sullivan
The brewery is offering a fried fish meal every Friday during Lent that consists of fried cod, hushpuppies, and fries. See Facebook for more.

Sarah’s on Central in Eureka
Located a short drive from Franklin County, the Lent offerings at Sarah’s on Central, in Old Town Eureka, go beyond the typical fried fish selections. The menu features items like calamari, shrimp po’boy, shrimp and grits, blackened shrimp pasta, and much more. Get all the details on Facebook.

Robin’s Rustic Nest, St. Clair
The St. Clair eatery’s menu features fried fish selections, along with a salad bar or a number of sides from fries to mashed potatoes or vegetables. Visit the restaurant on Facebook to find more info about the menu and daily specials.

White Rose Cafe, Union
Each Friday during Lent White Rose will offer a Fisherman’s Platter, available in a full or half-size portion. The menu special features coconut shrimp, crab cakes, cod, hushpuppies, a choice of two sides, and assorted house-made dipping sauces. Learn more on Facebook.

Knights of Columbus Hall, Sullivan
Find fried fish, fried shrimp, and baked fish along with a number of sides like green beans, fries, and hushpuppies at the K of C Hall in Sullivan on Fridays. Served from 4-7 p.m., the cost is $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 7-12 and kids ages 6 and under eat free when dining in. Get more information on Facebook.

Old Bridgeview Brewing, Washington
With a Lenten menu available Thursday-Sunday, the brewery offers items like shrimp po’boys, fried fish or fried shrimp baskets, fish sandwiches, and more. Get the menu details on the brewery website.




Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 16-22, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s paint nights, author events, karaoke and open mic nights, as well as the Singo event in Pacific, which combines bingo and karaoke, plus head to downtown Washington on Saturday to let the good times roll, at the Mardi Gras celebration!

There’s even more events just a short drive from Franklin County, such as the Bridgerton Social event at the Rolla Public Library, a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud, and much more.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, double check with the event venue before heading out!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Thursday, Feb. 19
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair is hosting a paint and sip night.
Get more info and register.

Thursday, Feb. 19
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific is hosting a Health and Wellness Fair. The fair is free and open to the public and is happening from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 20
Red Door Liquor & Cigars in Eureka is having a night of international whiskey. Attendees will try over 30 different whiskies from all over the world. There are two seatings, 6 – 7 p.m. or 7:15 – 8:15 p.m. Cost is $45 per person and it includes whiskey sampling and heavy appetizers. 
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 20
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting its karaoke night from 8 p.m.-midnight.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Meet children’s author Constance J. Hagedorn, Ph.D., along with her daughter Ashley, at Red Cedar Inn in Pacific.
Get more details.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Head to Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist for a modern terrarium workshop. Attendees will get help choosing the perfect plants to create a one-of-a-kind terrarium and learn how to care for your terrarium to keep it healthy and happy.
Register and learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Tipsy Keg is hosting a Mardi Gras themed masquerade. Wear your Mardi Gras colors, lots of beads, and a masquerade mask at this fun party. There will be karaoke, dancing, and drink specials throughout the evening.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
For its centennial, “Route 66 expert” and local author Joe Sonderman will present a fascinating look at The Main Street of America at the Pacific Scenic Regional Library Branch.
Get more details.

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Saturday, Feb. 21
Get ready to play bingo while belting out tunes at Singo and Karaoke, at the Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and tickets are $20 per person.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
It’s Mardi Gras in downtown Washington! The celebration will be filled with shopping, food, music, drinks, and New Orleans flair.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21 & Sunday, Feb. 22
Head to Off the Rails Burger Bar in Pacific for a two day seed swap and get a jumpstart on your spring planting.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Multiple days and times
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Feb. 20
Join Waffles the Mini Highland Cow for a Donut and Hot Chocolate Painting Party in Warrenton.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Gasconade County Threshers Association is hosting a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud. There will be a cash bar, live auction, and alpha gal menu options.
Find the event on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Calling all Bridgerton fans! You are warmly invited to an afternoon of charm, conversation, and spirited competition as we discuss the first half of the newest Bridgerton season and ready ourselves for what comes next at the Rolla Public Library. Enjoy tea, lively discussion, and a selection of quizzes, games and trivia to test your knowledge of the Ton. Regency‑inspired attire is optional, though delightfully encouraged for those wishing to embrace the occasion.
Find out more.

Sunday, Feb. 22
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
Get more info.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!