Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, August 11 – 17, 2025

This week, you can get crafty with programs at local libraries, attend an author talk, take in local talent at an open mic night, experience island vibes at a luau, and a lot more! Read on for the full list of happenings.

Tuesday, August 12
USDA Summer Food Service will be at Washington Public Library on Tuesday, August 12 from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. They will distribute a week’s worth of food to families with children 18 and under. They will ask for the names and ages of the children. There are no extra requirements. If you have young children, you can drive up and they will help load the car.
Learn more.

Tuesday, August 12
Use tiny gems to bedazzle your favorite book cover at St. Clair Library from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Class attendees will pick elements of their book to gem such as the title or a small image. Bring your own book or let the library staff print a cover for you. When registering, the library will need to know if you’d like a printed book cover and which book cover you’d like to do.
Register for the free event.

Tuesday, August 12
This monthly crafting class starts at 6 p.m. and is offered by Washington Public Library. The event is free and suitable for ages 12 and up. This month’s activity is called Tattoos on Glass Decor and all supplies will be provided to class attendees.
Learn more.

Thursday, August 14
Author Dea Hoover will talk about her book “Hermann, Missouri: A Walk Through History” and book signing sponsored by Friends of the Library and Neighborhood Reads. Head to the Washington Public Library to attend this free event.
Learn more.

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Friday, August 15
Head to Washington to support a local business and be entertained by local talent, or share your artistic abilities with the audience at open mic night. On the third Friday of each month, The Washington Coffee Shop hosts an Open Mic Night. Singers, musicians, poets, and spoken word artists are welcome to share their work with the crowd.
Learn more at The Washington Coffee Shop’s Facebook page.

Saturday, August 16
Back by popular demand, it’s the second annual Touch-A-Truck and Safety Fair at Liberty Field in Pacific. See a variety of display vehicles, climb in the medi-copter, learn how they work, and how to be safe in a daily living. 
Learn more.

Saturday, August 16
Join in on some summer market fun with 30+ amazing vendors at the Labadie Outdoor Summer Market! From unique finds to local favorites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
More info.

Saturday, August 16
Love Cajun food? Then you’ll want to head to Pin Oak RV Park off Route AT in Villa Ridge. From noon to 8 p.m., you can find Cajun cuisine from food truck Country Cajun Cooking, along with music to round out the event. Find crab legs, shrimp and all the fixings on the menu.
Learn more at the Facebook event.

Saturday, August 16
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens the first and third Saturday in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.
Follow the Market on Facebook.

Saturday, August 16
Want to experience a Hawaiian luau without leaving Franklin County? Then head to Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair. The event will feature activities for kids, karaoke, fun, games, and more. Attendees are encourage to dress in their island gear.
Learn more.

Saturday, August 16
Narrow Path Hobby and Crawl Lounge in Washington is staying open late for a special event, Night Crawl. 
Get more info.

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Sunday, August 17
Sound healing is a way to release negative or stuck energy in the body. When our body is free from the pressure of stress, our mind feels more free to grow. This sound healing is happening at Present Moment Yoga, in Washington.
Learn more and get tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, August 14
Step into the wizarding world at Movie Night in The Gardens! Catch an outdoor showing of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in the enchanting setting of The Gardens at St. James Winery. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the magic for the first time, it’s a night for all ages to enjoy. Pets are welcome too.
Find out more.

Saturday, August 16
From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the River of Oz Public Art Fair and wine tasting will be held at The Gardens at St. James Winery.
Learn more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, August 4 – August 10, 2025

The Washington Town & Country Fair kicks off this Wednesday, plus there’s other events happening throughout the week, including retreats and classes to help you recharge and manage stress, a free family-friendly movie, and more.

Tuesday, August 5
Do you need to learn some new practical strategies and experiences to help deal with stress and increase mindfulness, positive emotions, optimism, resiliency to stress, coping skills, and self-care for the body, mind, and spirit? Attend the free Taking Care of You class at Scenic Regional Library’s Sullivan Branch.
Register here.

Photo via Washington Town & Country Fair’s Facebook.

Wednesday, August 6 – Sunday, August 10
The Washington Town & Country Fair is happening this week! This year the theme is “Summer’s Homecoming” and there’s fun every day of the fair – from livestock shows, carnival rides, food, motorsports, music and entertainment, and more.
Learn more.

Wednesday, August 6
Want to learn to crochet? Grab a skein of yarn and a size H 5mm hook and head to DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in St. Clair for this class.
Register here.

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Friday, August 8 – Sunday, August 10
If you’re looking for an opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with likeminded people, and regulate your nervous system, then you should check out the Rewild & Restore Retreat, a three-day, two-night interactive weekend, happening at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair. This outdoor adventure in nature will focus on nervous system regulation and embracing the elements.
Get tickets.

Saturday, August 9
Head to Lang-a-Tang Cafe in New Haven to have breakfast, brunch, or lunch and grab some fresh flowers by Bright Side Blooms at the Flower Pop-Up event from 8 a.m. – noon.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, August 8
Owensville is hosting a series of free, family-friendly movies this summer and fall, with a showing of “The Princess and the Frog” on Friday, August 8. The movie will be shown at Buschman Park in Owensville, and will start at 8 p.m.
 Find the full list of days and times of each film.

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Saturday, August 9
If you like sipping wine, delectable barbecue, and family-friendly fun, then you will want to head to St. James to celebrate Prairie Barn Winery’s three years in business. There are festivities happening from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Enjoy music by Bob Kraus from 4 – 6 p.m., Swafftastic BBQ serving up delicious eats, plus wine, yard games, hayrides and more!
Find out more.

Saturday, August 9
The town of Salem is having a Wild West Show-deo from noon – 5 p.m. at 465 County Road 2630. The free event includes games, prizes, and food.
Get the details.

Saturday, August 9
The Flow at the Spring with Rachel yoga series continues this month at Maramec Spring Park overlook in St. James. The class is at 8 a.m. and is $15. Attendees should bring a towel, yoga mat, and water.
Get more information.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 28 – August 3, 2025

Although back-to-school time is on the horizon, summer fun activities continue around the area this week. There’s a free concert, it’s the final free drive-in movie of the season, there’s also a free family movie in the gardens of a local winery, plus farmers markets, a back to school safety class, and more.

Tuesday, July 29
Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. author Ed Wheatley will be at the Washington Public Library to talk about his book “From St. Louis To Cooperstown: Legends Born and Made in the Gateway City.” The talk and book signing is sponsored by Friends of the Library and Neighborhood Reads.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 31
Catch a free drive-in showing of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” in the Cinema 1 Plus theater’s parking lot in Washington. The movie will start ~30 mins. after sunset. Parking spots with orange cones will be reserved for drive-in moviegoers. When you arrive, move a cone and claim a space.
Learn more.

Photo courtesy of Timothy J. Fancher

Friday, August 1
Parents can attend a free Back To School Safety Community Event at St. Clair Library from 6-7 p.m. Presented by Compassion Healing and Excellence, led by Timothy J. Fancher, MAPT, BA, AS, founder and 4th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate. This verbal seminar is designed to equip parents, older siblings, and concerned adults with tools to teach kids practical alternatives to “Stranger Danger,” de-escalation skills to handle bullies, safety awareness for public and school settings, and ways to make safety engaging for children. Due to direct discussions on street safety, it’s recommended adults attend without younger children to ensure open, focused conversations. Reserve your spot by emailing Tim directly at timothyfancher@gmail.com

Friday, August 1
The City of Union’s next Concert in the Park will feature the music of Kaleidoscope. The fun is going down at the large pavilion at City Park beginning at 6:30 p.m.

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Saturday, August 2 & Sunday, August 3
The Villa Ridge Farmers Market takes place on the first Saturday and Sunday of the month at Stacked Coffehouse. Find locally made goods, local produce, meat, food, and of course, coffee from Stacked.
Follow the market’s Facebook page to learn more.

Saturday, August 2
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday from 8 a.m. – noon, in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.

Saturday, August 2
Hear live music performed by the duo Scott and Karl at Triple 3 Vineyards in Washington from 2-5 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, August 3
Get ready for the Washington Town and Country Fair with the WashMO Fair Parade. The parade begins at 4 p.m. at Main and Cedar Streets, traveling East to Jefferson Street. Participants will move South on Jefferson, then West on 5th Street to the Elks Lodge at 1459 W 5th Street. 
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

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Thursday, July 31
Follow the yellow brick road to Movie Night in The Gardens! Enjoy a timeless classic under the stars at a screening of “The Wizard of Oz” in the beautiful setting of the Gardens at St. James Winery. It’s the perfect night out for the whole family, pets included.
Get more details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1073981004063629

Friday, August 1 & Saturday, August 2
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting its Balloon Glowdeo event. It’s part hot air balloon festival, part rodeo, and 100% fun! The event will feature food and drink vendors, live music, a petting zoo, and more.
Purchase tickets online.

Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3
The Owensville Regional Arts Council presents a stage performance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.” The play will have three performances, and tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students.
Learn more.

Saturday, August 2
Listen to live music and keep cool while doing so at Hot August Night, Cool Cave Music, a summer concert inside Onondaga Cave in Leasburg. Tickets are $30 per person and space is limited.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 21 – July 27, 2025

This week is going to be a hot one, but there’s plenty of cool things happening around the area, including a free drive-in movie showing of “Back to the Future,” an open day to play in the water at Lost Hill Lake, an indoor craft fair, and a chance to see the stars at Onondaga Cave State Park.

Thursday, July 24
Head to downtown Washington for the Sunset on the Riverfront, held at Rennick Riverfront Park on the fourth Thursday of each month from 5 – 8 p.m. This family-friendly and free event features local bands, food vendors, beer, wine, and children’s activities.

Thursday, July 24
Head back in time with Marty and Doc Brown with the free drive-in showing of “Back to the Future” at Cinema 1 Plus in Washington. The movie will play in the theater parking lot and will start 30 minutes after sunset. Spots are first come, first serve and movie snacks like popcorn and drinks are available for purchase.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 24
Winehouse 66 in Pacific is hosting a permanent jewelry pop-up with AB Crafts from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Find out more.

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Thursday, July 24
Take your young baker to Washington for a kids’ cupcake decorating workshop on Thursday, July 24 at 4 p.m. at Ambiance Lighting for the business’s Christmas in July event. The decorating workshop is free and the supplies are on a first come, first serve basis.
Learn more.

Friday, July 25
The Union Farmers Market happens on the second and fourth Fridays from 4 – 7 p.m. through September. Find local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. Please note that the location of the market is on the corner of Oak and Main Streets, adjacent to Hansen Park.
Get more details on Facebook.

Friday, July 25
Feeling messy? The you’ll want to attend Mess Fest at the Washington Public Library from 6-7 p.m. Get doused with color as you make your way around the library, and attendees are encouraged to wear white for full impact. The messy mood continues outdoors in the closed off parking lot. Have ooey gooey fun with shaving cream, playdough, and other messy makers at this all ages messy affair!
Get the full details.

Saturday, July 26
Stay cool, find some new crafted items and help a worthy cause at the Beat the Heat Indoor Craft Fair. The fundraising craft show will benefit the Franklin County Foster Closet. There will be plenty of crafters and vendors, along with activities for kids and bingo.
Find out more.

Sunday, July 27
Beat the heat with a day spent at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair. The private event and glamping venue is opening the grounds to the public from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and fun. Admission is $10 for all ages 6 and up.
Get all the details.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, July 25 – Saturday, July 26
Belle City Park Arena in Belle will host Central Family Rodeo Association. The rodeo will happen on both days and concessions will be available on site.
Learn more.

Saturday, July 26 – Sunday, July 27
The Berries & BBQ Wine Trail will happen in Hermann, as several wineries take part in this two-day event. Luscious berries, savory BBQ, and cool, fragrant wine cellars make for a memorable summer weekend in Missouri Wine Country.
Get tickets.

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Saturday, July 26
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of seven stargazing programs in 2025. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 26
Down Home BBQ in Cuba will host a Route 66 car show from 2 – 4 p.m.
Learn more.

Sunday, July 27
It’s worth the short drive to Fenton to see the amazing cars at this free, family-friendly car event where you’ll find everything from exotics, to classic cars, imports, works in progress, and more. Cars & Coffee St. Louis and 1st Phorm are teaming up to bring a monthly car show on the fourth Sunday of each month through October.
Find out more at the Facebook event.