Amanda

Where to Find Firework Displays and America 250 Celebrations in and Around Franklin County

Posted on June 25, 2026June 25, 2026 by Amanda

This year the celebrations feel extra special since it’s not only the 4th of July, it’s also America’s 250th birthday, as well as being the year of the Route 66 Centennial. And area towns are gearing up for festivities beginning as early as Friday, June 26 as well as celebrations heading into the first week of July and on Independence Day.

Sullivan, Friday, June 26 & Saturday, June 27
Pyro’s Firework Nightmare promises to be Sullivan’s biggest 4th of July celebration. This two-day event will feature access to the haunted house, food, drink, and craft vendors, along with firework displays each evening.
Find out more.

Union, Friday, June 26
Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer, & Spirits in Union is having a Passport to 250 Community Celebration from 5-9 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy live music, bites from area food trucks, games and activities for the whole family, and more.
Get more details.

St. Clair, Saturday, June 27
The City of St. Clair is having its annual Freedom Fest event at Orchard Park. The fun begins at 4 p.m. and includes food, vendors, face painting, live music, a fireworks display, and more.
Get more info.

Bland, Saturday, June 27
The City of Bland is having an all day celebration at Bland City Park. The festivities begin at 12 p.m. and there will be concessions featuring fish sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, and funnel cakes, as well as live music from Front Porch Trio and Hat Trick, as well as a fireworks show to cap off the event.
Learn more.

Pacific, Saturday, June 27
Downtown Pacific’s 24th Annual Car Show & Block Party will feature over 500 cars, as well as entertainment for the whole family. The event runs from early morning until night, and will feature a fireworks display.
Find out more.

Owensville, Sunday, June 28
Head to Memorial Park in Owensville to celebrate the 4th of July holiday and America’s 250th Anniversary early. The festivities will include a picnic starting at 4 p.m. and fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m. There will be food and beverages for purchase with cash only at ticket booth, along with fun events for kids and adults of all ages starting at 5 p.m.
Learn more.

Rolla, Wednesday, July 1 – Saturday, July 4
Rolla’s annual Lion’s Club Carnival is happening from July 1-4. The festivities will include a drone show the evening of Thursday, July 2, as well as a parade and fireworks display on July 4th.
Get more details.

Union, Friday, July 3
The City of Union will have its fireworks display at Veterans Memorial Park at approximately 9:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs, coolers, blankets and yard games to make an evening of it at the park. There will be concessions available for purchase as well as a beer garden. Sky Candle Band will be performing at 6:30 p.m. and there will be a free face painter for the children along with balloon sculpting and barrel rides.
Find out more.

Marthasville, Friday, July 3
The Marthasville Ballpark is the place to be for free, family fun. Enjoy live music by Twisted Fiction, find food at the concession stand which will be open from 6-10 p.m., there will also be a bounce house, the Honor Guard will make an appearance at 9:15 p.m., and a firework display at dark. Bring the whole family out for some fun and celebration!
Get more details.

Cuba, Friday, July 3
Head to Hood Park in Cuba for a fireworks display that will begin at dusk.
Find out more.

Sullivan, Saturday, July 4
The Celebrate America 2026 Fireworks Display at the Sullivan Fairgrounds will begin at approximately 9 – 9:15 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and watch the fireworks.
Learn more.

Salem, Saturday, July 4
The town of Salem will have an Independence Day celebration that includes food vendors, fireworks, and more.
Find out more.

Eureka, Saturday, July 4
Six Flags will host Star Spangled Nights, with patriotic celebrations happening throughout the day at the park including eight all-new shows, patriotic music, and a fireworks display to cap off the special day.
Get tickets.

Rosebud, Saturday, July 4
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday in Rosebud. Hear live music performed by Big Daddy Rooster from 6-8:30 p.m., concessions, a kids candy cannon, and a fireworks display.
Check out the details.

Washington, Saturday, July 4
The Star Spangled 4th Fireworks celebration is happening from 6-10 p.m. at the Washington Fairgrounds. Find food vendors, live music, kids activities, craft vendors, and a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Steelville, Saturday, July 4
Freedom Fest in Steelville will feature live music performed by Bob Kraus, The Lone Pine Band, and Borderline, as well as a car cruise-in, food and craft booths, and fireworks.
Learn more.

Eureka, Saturday, July 4
Head to Central Avenue Spur in Eureka at 6 p.m. for the 250 Years Independence Day Celebration that will include music by Steven Woolley & The Groove.
Find out more.

Pacific, Saturday, July 4
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday along with the Route 66 Centennial at Pacific’s 4th of July Parade. There will be classic cars, a float celebrating veterans, a live bald eagle, plus first responders, and more.
Learn more.

Advertorial Feature

Improve Indoor Air Quality with Duct Cleaning and Air Purifiers from BreathEasy

Posted on June 23, 2026June 23, 2026 by Amanda

After spending more than 30 years in the heating and cooling industry and running his own business where he installed and maintained HVAC equipment as well as provided repairs, in October 2024, James Heller applied his expertise to his current business BreathEasy. With a focus on improving indoor air quality, the company provides services such as air duct and dryer vent cleaning, and installing products that help improve air quality while also extending the life of HVAC equipment.

BreathEasy can install whole home air purifiers such as the REME HALO®, which is an indoor air purifier that’s easily installed in existing air conditioning system ductwork, as well as a variety of purifiers by AprilAire. Other products BreathEasy provides include whole home humidifiers and dehumidifiers, ventilators that bring fresh air into your home without losing heating or cooling, as well as programmable thermostats.

When he sold his original HVAC business, James took an office position at an HVAC equipment supply house. At that time, he didn’t intend to start another business from the ground up and thought thought he’d work in the supply house until he retired. However, working inside the office building began triggering an existing health issue and started making him ill. That experience led him to jump back into entrepreneurship, involving two of his three grown sons in the business and to think about what the business would mean for the future of his family.

“I started BreathEasy to leave a legacy for my kids and family,” James shares.

Healthy air is a necessity

Because we often can’t see the things that are polluting the air inside our homes or businesses with the naked eye, we may assume that all indoor air is equally clean. That’s not the case, and for people with certain health conditions like asthma, allergies, and other health and respiratory issues, the quality of indoor air can have a direct impact on their overall health and the quality of their daily life.

Since James experienced this first hand working at the supply house, that situation reinforced why the air quality in homes and businesses is so important. Starting BreathEasy was a happy side effect of an unfortunate circumstance, but it also underscored statistics that James was already familiar with due to his years in the industry.

“Inside air can be five to 10 times more contaminated than the air outdoors, even on a high allergy day, because that contaminated air is built up and keeps circulating through the home,” he explains.

That’s why the products and services provided by BreathEasy are something that should be installed in nearly every home or business. Over time dust, allergens, mold, pet dander, and other air contaminants can build up and get trapped in the air ducts. Not only are tiny particles forced out every time air comes through the ducts, you and everyone in your home or business is breathing those items in.

The inside of air ducts that are filled with dust, pet dander, and other things that pollute indoor air. *Photo credit: James Heller with BreathEasy.*

The BreathEasy process

If it’s been a while since the air ducts have been cleaned at your home or office, it may be time to call BreathEasy to come out and check them. When James or one of his sons arrives on site, they’ll use a small camera attached to the end of a flexible rod that’s about six feet long to probe inside the ducts. The camera can take pictures as well as video, and allows a potential client to see the full extent of the buildup.

And, there are times when the service isn’t needed, such was the case when on a recent house call where the client had just purchased the home. The camera revealed that the ductwork in the home didn’t have buildup and had likely been recently cleaned.

When it is determined that the ducts need to be cleaned, the pros at BreathEasy have two options to remove the debris. They can use a piece of equipment called The Maintainer, which has a Hepa filter and a dual motor that provides double filtration. For jobs with significant buildup and debris in the ductwork, The Extractor is used. This much larger piece of equipment also has a Hepa filter and dual motor, but it provides triple filter capture.

Depending on the situation, once the ductwork has been cleaned, a BreathEasy tech may recommend other products, such as a whole home air purifier, humidifier, or dehumidifier, to ensure the air quality remains high inside your house. Customers may find peace of mind knowing that the products that are suggested by James aren’t a random selling technique, but come from a knowledgeable expert that has first-hand experience with everything he suggests.

Air ducts can contain dirt, dust, and random debris, as seen in this short video clip. Video credit: James Heller with BreathEasy.

“I don’t suggest products I don’t use, and I use all of them,” he shares.

In the late spring 2025 James inspected the ductwork in my home and found significant buildup. Those findings weren’t a surprise since we’d just purchased the home and it’s nearly 100 years old. Due to the age of the home and buildup, the job required using The Extractor to properly clean the ductwork. After cleaning the ducts, BreathEasy also installed a REME HALO® UV air purifier to work in conjunction with our existing HVAC system.

The team at BreathEasy can also install air filters to provide cleaner air, whole house dehumidifiers to eliminate moisture in places like damp basements, or a whole house humidifier, which is a good option if you notice there’s a lot of static electricity buildup during winter when the heat is on.

BreathEasy provides services to homes and businesses in St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin, and Jefferson Counties. If you’re interested in learning more, contact BreathEasy at 636-875-6767, reach out by email, or visit the company’s website.

Advertorial Feature

Demystifying Health Insurance at Every Stage of Life — A Look Inside STL Medicare Benefits

Posted on June 19, 2026June 19, 2026 by Amanda

Although Medicare is part of the business name, it doesn’t tell the whole story of what STL Medicare Benefits does, since the business offers health insurance for people of all ages, income levels, and employment status. Owner and founder Jason Muehlheausler and his team make the entire process of finding and attaining the right coverage as seamless as possible — from expert plan recommendations provided by licensed advisors to online enrollment and the ability to shop from a variety of carriers for the most cost-effective option.

Because there’s a variety of insurance offerings, the company operates under two names depending on the product: STL Medicare Benefits for Medicare, and the Muehl Group for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans and group health assistance.

STL Medicare Benefits can help clients with private-carrier plans that work alongside or in place of Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Supplement (Medigap), and Part D prescription drug plans for people 65 and over. Under the Muehl Group, the company can help clients find ACA plans that are available to people under age 65, and individual life insurance policies. In addition to the individual plans, Jason and his team also offer small and large group healthcare plans as well as ancillary products such as life, dental, and vision for employers looking to provide a comprehensive benefit package for their employees.

The ‘why’ behind the company

Jason has been in the health insurance industry for eight years and helping clients find the right coverage is just one of the things that drives him. He points to one story in particular that has stayed with him for years and says this one experience sums up why he does this work.

“Early in my career, I sold an Institutional Special Needs Plan (I-SNP) with UnitedHealthcare, designed for residents of long-term care communities,” Jason recalls.

On the last day of the month, Jason visited an assisted living community and enrolled a gentleman resident in the UHC I-SNP Plan. A key advantage of the plan was that medical costs were covered at 100% for residents who had both Medicare and Medicaid. The plan also placed a full-time nurse practitioner in the community to make rounds every single day, whereas residents without an I-SNP plan might typically see a staff physician once a month.

“He decided to enroll, and his coverage went active on the first of the following month. That same day, he fell, hit his head, and was rushed to the hospital with a brain bleed. Once it stabilized, he was sent back to the community,” Jason shares.

This incident happened during COVID, when many facilities were understaffed and relied on travel nurses. The day after his accident, the staff making rounds assumed he was sleeping and left him be. Thankfully the nurse practitioner from his plan went in and did a sternum rub to check whether he was actually asleep or unresponsive. The gentleman was unresponsive and still bleeding. Enrolling in the I-SNP plan and having access to that nurse practitioner saved his life.

“That’s why I do this. Health insurance decisions can be life-or-death, and the wrong coverage can wipe out everything a family has built,” he says.

Elderly man and woman looking at a laptop — STL Medicare Benefits can help provide answers about Medicare coverage for people age 65 or anyone who will soon turn 65. *Photo credit: Stock image via Unsplash.*

Providing expertise and clarity

“I love demystifying something that scares people, making sure they understand exactly what they’re getting, and helping them make the right call for themselves and the people they love,” Jason shares.

A common misconception with health insurance is that once you’re covered, you’re always covered, but that isn’t always the case. Because the industry changes annually, particularly Medicare since carriers can change offerings and policies without disclosing the exact changes to the policy holders, unfortunately an insured person won’t realize that their plan has changed or that something previously covered by their plan is no longer covered until they’re at a doctor visit.

“Many times Medicare providers will send out information about changes that could be coming to the policy, but the specific policy changes aren’t noted in those mailings,” Jason explains.

With the possibility of changes and information coming from providers that isn’t always explained, it’s more important than ever for consumers to be proactive, rather than reactive. One of the best ways to be proactive is to ensure you’re working with a knowledgeable insurance agent that will go over any potential policy issues or changes before they go into effect.

“The changes can also occur if you’re under 65 and on an ACA plan, even if you haven’t made changes yourself and haven’t changed your carrier,” he says.

It’s important for people to make time to speak with an agent during their policy’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) which typically happens each fall, or when they’ve experienced a qualifying life change. But even if you’re already insured, you can always reach out to the helpful staff at STL Medicare Benefits to make sure you’re getting the most cost-effective coverage for your needs.

A leading advantage

Being a part of a shifting industry can be a challenge for insurance agents as well, but one way Jason stays at the forefront in a changing industry is by maintaining good relationships with carriers. Forming these partnerships means he’s able to receive insights about shifts coming to the industry early on.

Additionally, Jason maintains his leading position through continuing education by attending the required trainings and license renewals needed for the industry, as well as by meeting with other agents in the industry to stay up to date on industry trends and more.

Jason has around 20 independent insurance agents who work under the umbrella of the Muehl Group, which is a way for the agents to have their own business. The Muehl Group is always on the lookout for self-starters who are ready to be their own boss and make an impact in the insurance industry.

Close up photo of pregnant woman placing hands around her belly — Let an expert advisor with STL Medicare Benefits find the best coverage for your family. *Photo credit: Stock image via Unsplash.*

Although plenty of people have the desire to work for themselves, not everyone has the drive to succeed, or the disposition to not only work with clients, but to exceed expectations in a service-based industry. With nearly a decade in the industry, Jason has the experience to help people based on their unique circumstances and needs, in a variety of geographic locations. He is licensed in multiple states, including Missouri, Illinois, and Kentucky, as well as in other parts of the country.

If you or someone you know wants to explore healthcare insurance options, or has questions about Medicare or ACA plans, reach out to STL Medicare Benefits for a free consultation at 314-673-1469, follow the company on Facebook, or visit the website to learn more.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri June 15 – June 28, 2026

Posted on June 15, 2026June 26, 2026 by Amanda

Summer is in full swing and over the next two weeks there’s more community fairs and carnivals happening, including the Meramec Community Fair in Sullivan, a carnival in Salem, and the Warren County Fair in Warrenton. There’s also Father’s Day celebrations, and some America 250 and 4th of July celebrations begin toward the end of this month.

Additional events happening between June 15 and June 28 include community markets, free concerts like Sunset on the Riverfront in Washington, and free family activities at area libraries, as well as a free lawn chair movie night, and another Wagon Days event at Longmeadow Rescue Ranch in Union.

As a reminder, always double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled, rescheduled, or experiences weather delays.

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

Various dates and times
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a few special movie events throughout the summer. There are kid films series that are $2 a viewing, as well as a flashback cinema series, which offer a second chance to catch a classic flick on the big screen.
Find out more on Facebook.

Various dates and times
Great 8 Cinema in Union and Sullivan 6 Cinema are also featuring a special kids summer film series that kicks off mid-May and runs through late August. Additionally, the admission is $2, and there are $5 value combos available.
Get details on Facebook.

Tuesday, June 16
Learn about the power of pollinators at the Washington Public Library’s Pollinators at the Library talk presented by John Gildehaus at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Tuesday, June 16
Erik Ferguson, Senior Historic Site Specialist with Mastodon State Historic Site, will give an all-ages presentation on archaeology at the Pacific Branch of Scenic Regional Library at 6 p.m.
Pre-registration required.

Friday, June 19
Landon’s Lemonade Stand will be at the St. Clair Saddle Club Barrel Races beginning at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, June 19
Head to Union for Lawn Chair Movie night, with a showing of “Snow White.” The film will begin at dusk.
Get more info.

Friday, June 19
Glittering Grapevine Line Dance is hosting a Mom Prom at McKelvey Vineyards from 8-11 p.m. The evening is for moms and sons age 5 and up to enjoy music, dance, and have fun! Diana with Glittering Grapevine will be your DJ for the evening playing requests and teaching line dancing moves. The $5 fee to participate includes the DJ, punch, and snacks for the boys with adult beverages available for purchase for the moms.
Learn more and register.

Friday, June 19
The Gerald Saddle Club is hosting a School’s Out for Summer Speed Show beginning at 7 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 20
Spend a day with rescued ranch animals at Long meadow Rescue Ranch’s Wagon Days. See Twister paint, meet the world-famous Barn Buddies and adoptable animals, then take a wagon ride through the 165-acre facility in Union. Food and beverages are available for sale, but you are also welcome to pack a picnic lunch.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 20
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. – noon at the St. Clair Elks Lodge parking lot.
Get more info.

*Advertisement –* Thinking about adding a new outdoor kitchen, deck, or other upgrade to your home? Contact Brandon with Freelance Services, to help you with the design and permit drawings.

Tuesday, June 23
Head to the Washington Public Library for a tea party unlike any other! The T-Rex Tea Party will feature dino snacks, games, and crafting for the whole family. The fun begins at 5 p.m.
Get more info.

Tuesday, June 23 – Saturday, June 27
The Meramec Community Fair in Sullivan will have musical performances by country stars like Sara Evans and Clay Walker, carnival rides, fair food, games, and more.
Find the fair schedule of events.

Wednesday, June 24
The Franklin County, Mo. chapter of Silent Book Club will again meet at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar from 5:30 – 7 p.m. Bring your own book and join in this unique book club where attendees read silently for the first hour, with the remaining time dedicated to chatting with others in attendance or more independent reading.
More details.

Thursday, June 25
It’s time for Sunset on the Riverfront, a free monthly concert happening in Washington that also features food and drink vendors, along with kids activities.
Learn more.

Friday, June 26 & Saturday, June 27
Pyro’s Firework Nightmare promises to be Sullivan’s biggest 4th of July celebration. This two-day event will feature access to the haunted house, food, drink, and craft vendors, along with firework displays each evening.
Find out more.

Friday, June 26
Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer, & Spirits in Union is having a Passport to 250 Community Celebration from 5-9 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy live music, bites from area food trucks, games and activities for the whole family, and more.
Get more details.

Friday, June 26
Market Off Main is happening at Hansen Park in Union. Beginning at 4 p.m. the market will feature a variety of area vendors, along with live music, and food and drinks available for purchase.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 27
Downtown Pacific’s 24th Annual Car Show & Block Party will feature over 500 cars, as well as entertainment for the whole family. The event runs from early morning until night.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 27
The second and fourth Saturday of each month is the farmers market at Frisco Farmhouse in Catawissa. Shop from local crafters, vendors, and find fresh produce, meat, honey, and other items.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 27
The City of St. Clair is having its annual Freedom Fest event at Orchard Park. The fun begins at 4 p.m. and includes food, vendors, face painting, live music, a fireworks display, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, June 27
The Sullivan Community Market is on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month during market season. The event happens from 9 a .m. – 1 p.m. at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan.
Find out more.

Sunday, June 28
Head to Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair for the glamping and event venue’s Open Lake Day. For just $10 per person, you may use the lake and other amenities onsite from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Multiple dates from June – August
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having Camp Brookdale, a summer camp event for kids. This screen-free day camp event will give kids an outdoor, adventure themed experience all summer long.
Learn more.

Thursday, June 18 – Saturday, June 20
The town of Salem is having a summer carnival at the Dent County Commons.
Follow the Salem Chamber for more info.

Sunday, June 21
Father’s Day at the White Mule, with fried chicken and roast beef served from 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Enjoy live music from Bucket List between 1-4 p.m. on the pavilion.
All dads get 1 free drink. Reservations are required.
Find out more.

Wednesday, June 24 – Saturday, June 27
The Warren County Fair in Warrenton will feature live stock shows, fair rides, live music and other entertainment, as well as a rodeo and firework display.
Find out more.

Friday, June 26
The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville is having country singer and The Voice runner up Ruby Leigh in concert. The event begins at 7 p.m. and tickets are required to attend.
Find out more.

Friday, June 26
St. James Winery in St. James is continuing its seasonal Movie Night in the Gardens event, with an outdoor showing of the family film “James and the Giant Peach.” Sip on beverages from St. James Winery, including soft drink selections, and there will be a special menu item – James’ Peach Pizza. The fun begins at 8:30 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 27
Enjoy the Festival of Hope at the Clara Eitmann Messmer Amphitheatre in Hermann from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There will be multiple live music performances, food trucks, and craft vendors, and the event will benefit Touch of Hope nonprofit.
Find out more.

Sunday, June 28
Head to Memorial Park in Owensville to celebrate the 4th of July holiday and America’s 250th Anniversary early. The festivities will include a picnic starting at 4 p.m. and fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m. There will be food and beverages for purchase with cash only at ticket booth, along with fun events for kids and adults of all ages starting at 5 p.m.
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!