Posted in Events

Where to Take Mom to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Franklin County

Posted on by Amanda

If you’re looking for ideas on where to take your mom, or mother figure in your life like a grandma, auntie, sister, or friend, there’s several fun events happening in and around Franklin County this weekend.

Treat her to a special brunch or other meal at area wineries and other establishments, take her to craft and pop-up markets where she can find some new and unique treasures, or if she loves flowers, houseplants, or vegetable gardens, there are a few plant sales and swaps happening this weekend as well.

Saturday, May 9
Find unique treasures at the Mother’s Day pop-up market at Red Door Cigars in Eureka from 1-5 p.m. Shop from vendors offering permanent jewelry, sweet treats, beauty and self-care products, and much more.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9 – Sunday, May 17
Clancy’s Pour House in Rosebud is giving you a chance to Sip, Savor, and Celebrate Mom for over one week. Reservations are required and spaces are limited, but the $50 package includes mom’s drink of choice, an appetizer, and fresh flower bouquet.
Reserve your spot.

Saturday, May 9
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Spend the day enjoying a delicious brunch, fresh spring air, and the simple joy of time together on the farm. With blooming flowers, peaceful countryside views, and a warm welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting to slow down and celebrate the woman who does so much for everyone else.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
If gardening makes her smile, then treat mom to some new plants. Marthasville Fire Protection District is the site of a plant auxiliary sale, just in time for Mother’s Day and spring planting! Happening from 8-11 a.m., find everything from hanging baskets, to flowers, vegetables, and more.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 9
The KC Hall in St. Clair will have a craft fair from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find goodies from handmade jewelry, to scrubs, soaps, jellies, tumblers, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 9
Give mom a relaxing afternoon of painting and sipping wine at Stone Hill Winery in Hermann.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
Frisco Farmhouse in Catawissa is having a Mother’s Day Market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shop local farmers, producers, and artisans to treat the mother in your life.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9
If your mom is looking to brighten her living space with some houseplants, or she wants new accessories like beautiful pots for her existing plants, take her to Swallows Nest in Washington’s annual Plant Swap. Here she can explore a wide variety of plants, shop for unique accessories, and enjoy engaging conversations with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Learn more.

Sunday, May 10
Celebrate mom in style with a special Mother’s Day brunch buffet at Triple 3 Vineyard’s Trinity Hall. Enjoy a delicious spread of gourmet dishes, seasonal favorites, and fresh ingredients—all served in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This is the perfect way to show appreciation to the amazing moms in your life.
Purchase tickets.

Sunday, May 10
Treat mom to a Mother’s Day Brunch at Root Food + Wine in Augusta. Enjoy a 3-course meal, bloody marys or mimosas, for $50 per person.
Get more info.

Sunday, May 10
Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is having a Mother’s Day Tea Party. Enjoy an afternoon tea including sweet and savory food selections. One glass of wine, slushy or non-alcoholic beverage included. Seats are limited and cost is $25 per person.
Learn more.

Sunday, May 10
Celebrate mom at St. James Winery’s Wine & Waffles experience that’s all about treating the amazing moms in our lives. Indulge a delicious waffle and mimosa bar. No reservations needed. Just stop by, raise a glass or two, and make her day extra special! Cost is $19/ Adult $9/kids.
Find out more.

Sunday, May 10
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the White Mule Winery in Owensville, with a fried chicken and roast beef meal offered from 11 a.m. -3:30 p.m. The Gasconade River Band will be playing music in the pavilion from 1-4 p.m. All moms get one free drink. Reservations are required.
Reserve your spot.

Sunday, May 10
Point Labaddie Brewing in Labadie is having a Mother’s Day event featuring baby lamb and goat cuddling. The event will also feature live music and a food truck.
Get more info.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri May 4 – May 10, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s ways to celebrate Mom with brunches, markets, and more. Then there are community festivals this weekend like Founders Day in Union and Miller’s Landing Day in New Haven. If you’re feeling crafty, there’s a create your own lightsaber event at the Washington Public Library, and a craft fair at the St. Clair KC Hall.

There’s also chances to hear free live music at Music on Main in Union, and the first Sunset on the Rails of the season in Pacific. Another free music event is the ECC Pops concert that brings together East Central College, The Pride of Washington High School, Saint Louis University, and Lindenwood University for a performance at the Washington Fairgrounds.

Remember to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled.

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

Monday, May 4
Celebrate “Star Wars” day also known as May the Fourth, at the Washington Public Library. Create your own lightsaber at this family-friendly crafting event.
Get more info.

Throughout May
Vero Fitness in Pacific is having its annual free week, allowing non-members access to the gym and group fitness classes, throughout the entire month of May. There’s special events, group fitness classes, and more happening all month.
Get more details.

Wednesday, May 6
Skip the awkward small talk and get straight to real connections at the Businesses 4 Businesses speed networking event in Pacific from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. This fast paced event is built for ambitious professionals who want to meet like minded people, exchange value, and grow their business without wasting time. Expect quick rotations, deeper conversations, and connections that go further than a generic elevator pitch.
RSVP to attend.

Thursday, May 7
Music on Main is happening in Union. Enjoy the music of Claudia Rose, grab a bite from food truck Messy Bettie’s, and a drink from Sip on Main. The concert begins at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Thursday, May 7
Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan is hosting a plant and sip night from 6-8 p.m. Personalize a recycled container for your succulent planter and decorate a sugar cookie. Cost is $35 per person. Included in price: container, soil, succulent, glass of sangria or soft drink and cookie.
Register to attend.

Friday, May 8
Grab your lawn chairs and head to downtown Pacific for a beautiful evening of live music, community, and sunset views at Pacific Station Plaza for a Sunset on the Rails concert. Featured band is Cody & The Chameleons, and the event is from 6-9 p.m.
Find out more.

Friday, May 8
Join East Central College along with The Pride of Washington High School, Saint Louis University, and Lindenwood University as they put on their annual Pops Concert on the Fairgrounds in Washington. The theme for this year is “A Moment in Time.” The concert is free to attend, and there will be concessions available for purchase.
Learn more.

Friday, May 8
Market on Main, the Union Farmer’s Market, is happening from 4-7 p.m. Find items from local producers, makers, and vendors, as well as food from food trucks.
Get more info at ReDiscover Union on Facebook.

Friday, May 8
Make some memories under the stars with your loved ones at a family-friendly outdoor movie night at Our Lady of Lourdes in Washington. Enjoy “The Prince of Egypt” on the big screen in a kid-friendly atmosphere, complete with delicious popcorn and refreshing beverages. Bring the whole family for an evening of smiles, laughter, and connection. The fun begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
The KC Hall in St. Clair will have a craft fair from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find goodies from handmade jewelry, to scrubs, soaps, jellies, tumblers, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 9
The Sullivan Community Market kicks off its season at 9 a.m. at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan. The market runs the second and fourth Saturdays from May through September.
Vendor and entertainment info for this week’s market.

Saturday, May 9
The 2026 Founders Day celebration in Union is happening at the City Park, as well as in the town square area. Find the full list of the locations and times of locations online.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9
Head to East Central College for a free evening of stargazing. Join other stargazers at the lower parking lot at dusk. Bring your viewing equipment and chairs to enjoy the experience.
Get the details.

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Saturday, May 9
Celebrate Miller’s Landing Day in New Haven from 3 p.m. – dusk. The day’s festivities include music, food, children’s activities, crafts, and a fireworks display to cap off the event.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
The Clubhouse Play Cafe in Sullivan is having a Mother’s Day celebration. Kids can play, while moms can enjoy a beverage, with a special Mother’s Day photo backdrop on site to commemorate the day.
Find costs and more info.

Saturday, May 9
Sullivan Eagles Hall will light up the night for a great cause at a black light bingo event! Enjoy a fun-filled evening of glowing bingo, prizes, and community spirit—all to support the Franklin County Safe House.
Get tickets and find out more.

Saturday, May 9
McKelvey Vineyards’ Car Cruise is happening from 1-5 p.m. The full bar and menu will be open all day from noon to 8 p.m. with live music from 2-6 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
Frisco Farmhouse in Catawissa is having a Mother’s Day Market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shop local farmers, producers, and artisans to treat the mother in your life.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9
Bring the family out to Crooked Creek Farmers Market for a morning of animals, food, and country fun from 8:30 a.m – noon. Find 4H demonstrations, face painting, sourdough, farm fresh eggs, and more.
Get the details.

Sunday, May 10
Celebrate mom in style with a special Mother’s Day brunch buffet at Triple 3 Vineyard’s Trinity Hall. Enjoy a delicious spread of gourmet dishes, seasonal favorites, and fresh ingredients—all served in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This is the perfect way to show appreciation to the amazing moms in your life.
Purchase tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, May 7
Relax & unwind with pampering. light nibbles, mocktails, samples, swag bag and a unique shopping experience at Maggie Grace in Warrenton.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
Find unique treasures at the Mother’s Day pop-up market at Red Door Cigars in Eureka from 1-5 p.m. Shop from vendors offering permanent jewelry, sweet treats, beauty and self-care products, and much more.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Spend the day enjoying a delicious brunch, fresh spring air, and the simple joy of time together on the farm. With blooming flowers, peaceful countryside views, and a warm welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting to slow down and celebrate the woman who does so much for everyone else.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
Marthasville Fire Protection District is the site of a plant auxiliary sale, just in time for Mother’s Day and spring planting! Happening from 8-11 a.m., find everything from hanging baskets, to flowers, vegetables, and more.
Get more details.

Sunday, May 10
Treat mom to a Mother’s Day Brunch at Root Food + Wine in Augusta. Enjoy a 3-course meal, bloody marys or mimosas, for $50 per person.
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!

Posted in News and Features

Cultivate a Green Thumb at the Community Garden in St. Clair

Posted on by Amanda

In 2021 I fell in love with gardening, but at that time, it did not love me back! In those days I was living in a second floor apartment with only a balcony to use as a growing space. I purchased a few containers, some herbs, and a couple plant starts (tomatoes and one cucumber plant) and was confused and discouraged when everything died.

In the late winter of 2022, I went to my local library and borrowed as many books on gardening as I could get my hands on. I figured out what I did wrong with my first container garden. The long story is that basically it was hot and sunny on my balcony, which I thought was a good thing, but since I was growing stuff in plastic containers, that just made the plants overheat and wilt. Combine that with how I knew nothing about the important role that pollinators play in a garden, and well, before everything died, I had a whole lot of leafy plants and not much fruit.

Later in 2022 when we moved to Franklin County and into a house with a yard, I was determined to successfully grow my own food. While I’ve had ups and downs thanks to pests (squash bugs are the devil’s minions, you won’t convince me otherwise!), and crazy weather patterns (I’m looking at you summer of 2025), I’ve mostly been successful. One year I had so much success with pickling cucumbers that I ended up with over four dozen jars of refrigerator pickles 😀 I gave a lot of those away!

Tomatoes, zucchini, and watermelon plant starts I was gifted from a fellow gardener I met at the community garden. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

Even though I have a yard now, I still take advantage of the free garden beds at the community garden in St. Clair. If you didn’t know, the Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch has a community garden with around 20 or so garden beds that are able to be “checked out” from the library, the same way you’d check out a book, DVD, or other library materials using your library card. I like gardening at the library because it’s a slightly different environment than my home garden in that the area gets sun throughout the entire day, and it has other gardeners there, which is something I don’t get at home.

For me, that’s such a bonus because when I’m tending to my community garden bed in the middle of the brutal summer heat, battling weeds and pests, it’s reassuring to see a fellow gardener doing the same to their garden bed. Conversations naturally occur over commiserating about things like squash bugs or pesky squirrels and birds taking nibbles out of your tomatoes.

There are a couple drawbacks to having a garden space that isn’t at your own home, mainly that you have to remember to make a trip to the library to check up on your growing space, as well as water and maintain it. If checking out a garden bed isn’t something you’re interested in, there’s also a seed library inside the library that you may get a few seeds from for your home or community garden bed.

If you’re not familiar, a seed library means that there’s a variety of seed packets – everything from heirloom tomato varieties to lettuce and other greens, and flower seeds – and this can also be accessed with your library card.

Visit the Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch at 515 E. Springfield Road in St. Clair to find out more, or just to take a stroll through the community garden to take a peek at what’s growing.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 27 – May 3, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s crafting opportunities, spring markets, the Route 66 Centennial celebrations kick off this week, plus there’s local Kentucky Derby parties, and a lot more.

Remember to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled.

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

Wednesday, April 29
Get a jump start on your gift for mom at the Mother’s Day Crafting event at The Washington Public Library at 4 p.m.
Get more details.

Friday, May 1
The Washington Public Library is having a Gilmore Girls Coffee, Art, and Watch Party from 1-4 p.m. The library will provide supplies to make a “coffee art” print while watching a few episodes of the iconic TV series. Feel free to bring snacks! 
Find out more.

Friday, May 1
Grab your bestie and join for a fun, feel-good night at the HoM Healing Center in Pacific from 6–8 p.m. at the Sips, Shopping, and Self-Care event. Spend the evening enjoying sips, shopping with amazing local vendors, having self-care + wellness experiences, and all the good vibes.
Get more info.

Friday, May 1
Union’s first Concert in the Park of the season is happening from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the large pavilion located at 575 Christina Ave. in Union. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the evening of free music.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington is celebrating “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports!” Spend the evening in your finest garb – hats, fascinators, seer suckers, pastels. The race will be on at 5:57pm, but the entire evening will be filled with proper ladies and gentleman sipping on mint juleps…and Eight Nine Eight’s other incredible cocktails.
Check out the details.

Saturday, May 2
Franklin County Foster Closet’s Run for Love 5k is a fun way to kick off Foster Care Awareness Month! Join as a runner, walker, couch supporter or sponsor.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2
First Baptist Church in St. Clair is having a Family Feud night. The event is free, and childcare will be provided. Dinner, including gluten-free options, will also be provided.
Get more info.

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Saturday, May 2
Attend the Kentucky Derby Party at Mangia Bella’s at Elijah McLeans in Washington. The event is from 4-10 and will feature games live music, and more.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 2
The Labaddie Spring Outdoor Market is happening from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Shop from local makers and food vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2
Head to the Washington Riverfront for a morning of riverfront yoga by Present Moment Yoga. The sunrise practice begins at 7 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Celebrate Kentucky Derby Day at McKelvey Vineyards, there will be live music all day with three bands, drink specials, and a party full of people in their finest Derby wear. $5 cover at the door.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2
Union Community Center’s First Annual Spring Market is happening from 8-3 p.m. This fun, family-friendly event will feature a variety of local crafters and vendors offering handmade goods, unique finds, and small-business favorites. Enjoy concessions and drinks while you shop and support our community. This Spring Market is a fundraiser event, with proceeds benefiting programs and activities at the Union Community Center.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2
Celebrate the grand opening of an equine therapy organization in St. Clair. Hoof to Heart Healing offers a one of a kind, hands-on experience with horses that supports emotional growth, nervous system balance, and meaningful connection…all in a calm, guided environment that complements licensed mental health care.
Get all the details.

Sunday, May 3
Get crafty at R&R Ace Hardware in Sullivan the Plant, Paint & Sip event from 2–4 p.m. For $30 per person, you’ll get everything you need to create your own custom potted plant. Pick out your pot, paint it your way, and plant your greenery—all materials included. While you work, enjoy your choice of two flavors of boozy slushies. Seats are limited and are paid via Venmo.
Reserve your spot.

Road Trippin’

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

Wednesday, April 29
The Route 66 Centennial Car Show and Cruise-In is happening in Rolla from 3-7 p.m. See classic rides and enjoy food, drinks, and desserts available for purchase from local vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3
Explore a unique selection of handmade goods and crafts from local vendors while enjoying award-winning wines and live music at this free event on Blumenhof Winery’s patio.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 2
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is having a Bugs, Birds, and Blooms Pollinator festival from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn about Missouri’s natural resources, buy native plants, purchase from food and craft vendors, and enjoy live entertainment.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Step back in time and experience pioneer life at the Pioneer Day celebration in Warrenton. From 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Warrenton branch of Scenic Regional Library will have fun activities, demonstrations, crafters, food, live music and more!
More info.

Saturday, May 2
Enjoy an afternoon of sipping, savoring, and celebrating local pours and flavors at Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta. Celebrate a special “Farm to Table” edition of the vineyard’s Wine with Friends Market! This event will be extra special with the appearance of some furry friends from Meyer Mini Farms from 1-4 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
The Route 66 Centennial celebration in Rolla is happening from 2-7 p.m. and will feature live music, a cruise-in, food trucks, and family activities.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3
Back for its second weekend, Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having Baby Animal Days at the farm. This family-friendly outdoor event will feature 4H groups showing off their baby animals. The animals will vary by day, but should include chicks, goats, bunnies, bottle calf, and ponies. Other attractions will be open as well as a concession stand.
Find out more.

Sunday, May 3
Celebrating the rich legacy of the Mother Road, America’s Main Street, the Route 66 Centennial Traveling Exhibit will be on view in Cuba beginning May 3 and running until September 14. The exhibit marks two major milestones: the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the 250th anniversary of the United States. The exhibit is free and will be open to the public.
Find all the celebratory details.

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!