Amanda

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Nov. 24 – Nov. 30, 2025

Posted on November 24, 2025November 28, 2025 by Amanda

Happy Thanksgiving week! If you or someone you know is looking for a Thanksgiving meal, there are several places offering free meals. There are also bars hosting Thanksgiving Eve experiences, and after Thanksgiving, there’s holiday events kicking off on Friday, like the Holiday Parade of Lights in Washington, plus Small Business Saturday, and a lot more.

Please note I try my best to capture the happenings in our area each week, and some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, so I share those items in my stories throughout the week. Be sure to follow me on Facebook an Instagram to get all the details!

And, as we move into winter weather, event details may change or events may get rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!

Wednesday, Nov. 26
White Rose Cafe in Union will offer a Thanksgiving meal featuring turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, and a roll for $12.99. The meals are available for eat in or take out.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Nov. 26
The Knights of Columbus in Washington is having a Thanksgiving Eve Dance. Pulse band will perform beginning at 8 p.m.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Nov. 26
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have Thanksgiving Eve Tunes by Tommy Norton. There will be $5 burgers from 4-9 p.m.
Get more info.

Wednesday, Nov. 26-Wednesday, Dec. 10
Kicking off the day before Thanksgiving and running through Dec. 10 is Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar’s The 898 Hours of Christmas Pop-Up Bar. Drink Christmas-themed cocktails in a cozy, winter wonderland-themed space.
Get more details.

Thursday, Nov. 27
The Knights of Columbus in Gerald is hosting its 7th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. This free meal is available to the community for in person or take out, but RSVP is appreciated for meal planning purposes.
Learn more and RSVP.

Thursday, Nov. 27
United Methodist Church in St. Clair will have its 21st Annual Free Thanksgiving Meal from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Find out more.

Thursday, Nov. 27
Lang-A-Tang Cafe in New Haven is having its 5th free Thanksgiving To-Go Meals from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Get more details.

Friday, Nov. 28-Sunday, Nov. 30
Blumenhof Winery in Dutzow is hosting a Kristkindl Markt featuring locally made goods from a variety of vendors and fun, free, family-friendly festivities. Stay warm with fire pits, heaters, hot coffee, cocoa, and delicious hot, mulled wine.
Learn more.

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Friday, Nov. 28
Downtown Washington will be aglow during the Holiday Parade of Lights. The parade starts at 6 p.m. and will feature over 70 beautifully lit parade floats, antique cars, bands, and walking groups. Santa will also make an appearance at the end of the parade for the tree lighting at the corner of Main and Elm Streets.
Find parade route and other details on Facebook.

Friday, Nov. 28
After the Holiday Parade of Lights, head to John G.’s in Washington for an evening of Christmas carols performed by Melissa Frey.
Get more info.

*Saturday, Nov. 29* RESCHEDULED 12/6/25
New Haven is the site of the Handmade Holiday Mart from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find seasonal cocktails and samples from Pinckney Bend Distillery, an espresso bar by Lang-A-Tang Cafe, tea and gifts from London Tea Merchant, plus permanent jewelry, custom shirts and mugs, along with flowers, décor, and ornaments by Bright Side Blooms.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Petals and Plants in Sullivan will have free pictures with The Grinch from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Santa is coming to R&R Ace in St. Clair from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. There will be additional visits from Santa, as well as The Grinch, throughout the holiday season.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 29
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night every Saturday. Stand up comedy, music, and more is welcome.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is kicking off its Five Can Film Series with a showing of “The Polar Express.” Watch classic holiday flicks throughout the Christmas season for a $6 ticket price, or by donating 5 non-perishable cans of food per movie goer.
Find out more.

*Saturday, Nov. 29* CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER
United Bank of Union is hosting a Small Business Saturday vendor event. Find local vendors to shop from, live music, food trucks, photos with Santa, and more.
Get the details.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Santa Claus is coming to Harmony Health & Wellness in St. Clair. Santa will be on site from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and the establishment will have specials on gift cards and retail as part of Small Business Saturday.
Get the details.

Saturday, Nov. 29
The Gerald Lions Club is getting into the holiday spirit with a Christmas-themed trivia night. Attendees can get prizes for trivia as well as for best decorated table and ugly sweaters.
Find out costs and other details.

Sunday, Nov. 30
The Washington Farmers Market will be the site of an Olde Fashioned Christmas event. The event will feature horse-drawn wagon rides, marshmallow roasting, photos with reindeer, local choirs and the Washington Brass Band, along with hot chocolate and hot cider, Christmas crafts, cookie decorating, face painting, plus a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Learn more.

Sunday, Nov. 30
First Christian Church in Washington is hosting a Christmas Tree Lighting event that will include themed games, crafts, activities, a barrel train, live music, cookies + cocoa, a hot dog roasting station, and Just Hank’s Coffee on-site.
Get more details.

Road Trippin’

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

Wednesday, Nov. 26
The Outfield Sports Bar and Grill in Marthasville is hosting a ticketed Thanksgiving Eve Party that will feature dueling pianos.
Get more info.

Friday, Nov. 28 & Saturday, Nov. 29
Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season.
Learn pricing and more info.

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Friday, Nov. 28 – Wednesday, Dec. 31
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this fall and winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Bland is kicking off the Christmas season with a celebration at Bland City Park. There will be a Christmas parade, photos with Santa, cocoa and sweet treats, kids crafts, and chili.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 29
The Homemade Exchange in Owensville is hosting its monthly meetup. Head to the Scenic Regional Library’s Owensville Branch for a chance to connect with others in the community and exchange homemade/homegrown items one-for-one.
Find out more.

News and Features

Meet New People and Swap Homemade Goods at The Homemade Exchange in Owensville

Posted on November 20, 2025November 20, 2025 by Amanda

Although Facebook and other online communities have several groups that are set up for bartering or can be considered “buy nothing” groups, one community emerged earlier this year that’s taking the idea of swapping goods with people in your community one step further.

On the last Saturday of each month, a group of people get together at the Scenic Regional Library’s Owensville Branch to trade homemade and homegrown goods with one another.

Homegrown veggies like garden fresh tomatoes, sponges made from dried luffa plants, as well as homemade baked and canned goods are a few items from a past event. Photo credit: Taylor Miller via Facebook.

In June, Owensville resident Taylor Miller decided to create The Homemade Exchange based on an idea she’d seen online. These monthly meetups offer people based in the Owensville area an opportunity to connect with others, chat, and exchange items on a free, one-for-one basis.

Items can range from homegrown flowers, herbs, and vegetables, to baked goods, and handmade items. Other edible items at past events have included home canned goods like salsas, jams and jellies, spices and seasoning blends, as well as eggs, homemade teas and homemade apple cider vinegar. Non-food items are also welcome, like handmade art, homemade soaps, or similar items.

“We’ve had an average of about 10 people show up each month,” Taylor says.

The growth has been mostly organic, although Taylor has shared a few Facebook ads to help spread the word about the events. The meeting space inside the library has capacity for just over 30 people, so there’s room for the events to grow.

Although it’s still early days, she can see how The Homemade Exchange might grow beyond its current iteration, and is open to the possibility of holding the exchange meetups in additional local communities. And since the exchanges center around anything homegrown or homemade, Taylor plans to keep the exchanges going throughout the winter.

“I think it gives people something to do and a little socialization to look forward to throughout the winter, too,” she explains.

Homegrown herb and flower bundles as well as garlic and baked goods are a few edible items that have been brought to past exchanges. Artists have also brought items like prints of paintings they’ve created. Photo credit: Taylor Miller via Facebook.

While Taylor’s been happy with the growth of the event and the variety of items brought to the monthly meetings, some things she’d love to see at future gatherings include homemade woodworking pieces, homemade cheese, and non-food items like fiber arts, such as crochet and knit pieces.

There’s a Facebook group for the meetups, but Taylor says that people don’t have to connect in that way in order to attend the monthly events.

“People can just show up,” she shares.

The next Homemade Exchange event is happening Saturday, Nov. 29 at the Scenic Regional Library Owensville Branch from 11:15 a.m. – noon. Follow The Homemade Exchange on Facebook to stay up to date with the monthly meetups.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Nov. 17 – Nov. 23, 2025

Posted on November 17, 2025November 20, 2025 by Amanda

This week there’s ways to give back to our community, holiday and craft markets, a whiskey festival, and much more.

While I try to get as many events into each weekly post as I can, some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, but I share those items in my stories throughout the week, so be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram to get all the details! Also, sometimes things come up and events are canceled or rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, always double check with the event venue before heading out, especially as fall and winter weather can force changes!

Tuesday, Nov. 18
If you’re looking for ways to give back to the community and make a difference, consider attending ReDiscover Union’s Volunteer Recruitment Night. Attendees will learn how through volunteering, they can help bring community events, beautification projects, and downtown initiatives to life.
Find event time, location, and other details on Facebook.

Wednesday, Nov. 19
DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in St. Clair is having a Christmas Ornament Workshop at 6 p.m. The cost is $20 and all supplies are included.
Get more info and reserve your spot.

Thursday, Nov. 20
Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven is having a Holiday Cocktail How-to Class at East Central College. Learn how to create delicious holiday drinks that will impress your friends and family this season. Cost is $40 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit United Way.
Learn more and register.

~~Friday, Nov. 21~~ *Rescheduled to Sunday, Nov. 23*
Union Furniture and Flooring is hosting a Christmas Block Party. There will be live music, a visit from Santa, hot cocoa and cider, children’s activities, and much more. Due to Friday’s weather forecast, this event has been rescheduled for Sunday.
Get all the details.

Friday, Nov. 21
Pink Friday is a nationwide event to show support for your local businesses and Shop Small! Head to Historic Sullivan (Main Street) for a fun shopping experience. Attendees should pick up a punch card and by visiting all locations, they’ll be entered in a drawing for a huge giveaway valued at $200 and each shop will have their own specials, sales, and fun giveaways.
Learn more.

Friday, Nov. 21
Chris Brown State Farm Agency in Union is hosting an event that honors Veterans from 3-6 p.m. There will be BBQ, sides, and dessert, and more.
Get the details.

Friday, Nov. 21
Glittering Grapevine line dancing is teaching free line dancing at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Calling all whiskey drinkers! The Washington Whiskey Festival is happening at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center and will feature whiskeys and bourbons from regional and national distilleries.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Head to the Elks Lodge in WashMO for the Washington Craft & Gift Expo, organized by the Washington Farmers’ Market. The event will feature over 65 vendors (including those from the market). Shop items in the categories of holiday decor, baked goods, jewelry, clothing, and accessories, along with body care items, candles and lots of other handmade and unique gift items. Food and drink will be available for purchase during the event.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 22
The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan is hosting a Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament. The tournament starts at noon, with food available for purchase by The Ladies Auxillary.
Get prices and more details.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Shop from over 60 vendors and makers at the Fall Craft & Vendor Fair at Lighthouse Ministry Center in Villa Ridge. The event begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Nov. 20
Espresso Laine in Hermann is having a Christmas Open House. The coffee shop and retail store will have extended hours, sales, and Mr. Murphy’s Spuds, a baked potato-themed food truck, will be onsite serving food.
Get more info.

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Friday, Nov. 21 & Saturday, Nov. 22
Long Row Lavender in Wright City is hosting an Autumn & Holiday Market. This market will take place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. each day and will be an indoor/outdoor market with 10+ vendors in attendance. Enjoy live music and take in the holiday season decorations around the farm.
Get the details.

Saturday, Nov. 22 – Sunday, Nov. 23
It’s the final weekend of the Fall Farewell Fest at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Shop end-of-season pumpkin deals, sip hot cider, and enjoy all your favorite fall activities before saying goodbye to fall and hello to winter fun.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is hosting its 9th Annual Craft Fair. The event will happen from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. and is a rain or shine event.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Head to Eureka for a Winter Market on Central, “A Pop-Up Celebration.” Following the tree lighting at the spur, take a stroll down Central Avenue to patronize several businesses.
Find out more.

News and Features

Meet the Artists Making Union Merry and Bright This Christmas Season

Posted on November 13, 2025November 14, 2025 by Amanda

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in downtown Union, thanks to the work of two local artists. Eileen Wade and Donna Huellinghoff are the duo behind the festive paintings that grace the windows of various businesses as well as Union City Hall during the holiday season.

What started a few years ago at one business, has quickly grown to a fun and jolly way for downtown businesses to get into the holiday spirit.

Each window’s design varies, but the scenes are always colorful, festive, and often feature a bit of whimsy.

On a chilly Tuesday morning, I sat down with Eileen and Donna at White Rose Cafe in Union, and over a delicious cup of hot chocolate, the artists shared the story of how they started painting windows in downtown.

Both artists have been creating art in one way or another for most of their adult lives, but started creating together in 2016 at a studio Eileen had at that time. Donna taught various art techniques at the studio, like creating barn quilt designs.

Eileen (left), and Donna (right), putting the finishing touches on the window designs at White Rose Cafe on a chilly November morning.

Although Eileen ended up closing her studio due to personal reasons, a few years later in 2022, the artists decorated their first set of windows on a business in Union, at the White Rose Cafe. After that first holiday season, it grew from there.

“It’s all word of mouth,” Donna says of the process. “We’d be out there painting and someone at another business would come up to us and ask us to paint their windows.”

The windows at Union City Hall are decorated with colorful holiday characters.

In addition to the Christmas season designs, Eileen and Donna also paint windows in the downtown area for other holidays, like Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, and for the Union Homecoming celebration.

“It’s fun to share our art and challenge ourselves and think, ‘what could we fit in this window’s space?'” Eileen shares.

The process takes anywhere from two to six hours, depending on the number of windows and the design, among other factors.

“It depends on how many people stop and chat with us,” Eileen says with a laugh. “But that’s what’s fun and that’s why I laugh about it.”

The window decor at Sip on Main depict Santa and Rudolph after they’ve enjoyed a few too many “sips,” along with beautiful holiday cocktails.

Along with the painted windows, there’s also some permanent art installations that Eileen and Donna have created in Union. Together, they’ve painted eight murals that can be found throughout town, including the scene that runs along the wall inside Hansen Park, a mural along the wall at the MU Extension Center near the Pasta House, and several others.

The artists have also painted several murals around Union, including this one that is along the exterior wall of the Franklin County Historical Society in downtown Union.

See more photos of the holiday window paintings on Facebook. And be sure to take a stroll through downtown Union to look at the designs first-hand, they’re sure to make you smile and put you in the holiday spirit!