Nostalgia is a powerful feeling and for me, summertime fairs and festivals bring back some of the best memories from childhood. Spinning around and around on the Tilt-a-Whirl, getting an amazing aerial view from the top of the Ferris Wheel, indulging in yummy but not so good for me food and drinks like corn dogs, lemon shakeups, and cotton candy, and wasting someone else’s money on carnival games just so I could win a goldfish that would die withing 48 hours of taking it home 😀 Okay, that’s not a really fun memory, but it was a part of the experience!
Lucky for us living in the Franklin County area, there’s lots of opportunities to create new fair memories all summer long.
Image credit: Unsplash
June
June kicks off fair season in and around Franklin County. The first fair of the season happens just west of Franklin County in the small town of Belle.
Belle Fair,Wednesday, June 3 – Saturday, June 6 The 78th Annual Belle Fair is happening for four days. Experience fair rides, live music, entertainment, food, livestock shows, and more. Get more info.
Route 66 Summerfest,Thursday, June 4– Saturday, June 6 Rolla’s Route 66 Summerfest is happening downtown, with live music, a car show, a drone show, parade, food vendors, and more. Find out more.
Franklin County Fair,Thursday, June 11 – Sunday, June 14 The Franklin County Fair in Union will feature carnival rides and games, food, entertainment, and more. Get more info.
Summer Carnival, 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.
Meramec Community Fair, 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.
Warren County Fair, 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.
July & August
July kicks off with a bang, and some sparkle, with firework displays throughout small towns as well as county fairs, with fair season coming to a close in August.
New Haven Community Youth Fair, Friday, July 10 & Saturday, July 11 With a focus on live stock shows, tractor pulls, and kids activities like pony rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, and more, the New Haven Community Youth Fair is two days of rural fun in July. View the schedule of events.
Crawford County Fair, Tuesday, July 14 – Saturday, July 18 The 79th Annual Crawford County Fair in Cuba will have live music, games, fair rides, food, a truck and tractor pull, and livestock exhibits. Get the complete schedule of events.
Gasconade County Fair, Wednesday, July 29 – Saturday, Aug. 1 The 79th Annual Gasconade County Fair in Owensville will feature demolition derbies, livestock shows, concerts, car shows, and of course fair concessions, carnival rides, and more. Find out all the details.
The Washington Town & Country Fair, Wednesday, Aug. 5 – Sunday, Aug. 9 Perhaps it’s fitting that Franklin County’s largest fair closes out fair season. The fair happens at the Washington Fairgrounds and features several days of fair fun including rides, a classic car show, livestock and 4-H exhibits, vendors, food and drinks, and musical performances from national acts. Get more info.
According to the calendar, the first official day of summer hasn’t arrived just yet, but our upcoming local events just scream summer. Community fairs begin this week and continue throughout the month of June, plus there’s lots of summer film series happening at area theaters, ice cream socials, rodeos, and cars shows over the next two weeks.
Adding to the summer vibes around here, there’s community markets, free outdoor concerts, festivals and community picnics, as well as free crafting events, and a lot more.
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.
Thursday, June 4 The Music on Main concert series in Union continues this week from 6-9 p.m. The concert happens at Hansen Park and will feature food and drinks available for purchase from Tribal Crunch and Elmer’s Bar and live music by Country Roads. Learn more.
Thursday, June 4 Washington Public Library is hosting a free event called Get in Touch with a Dinosaur, at 6 p.m. Find out more.
Thursday, June 4 Find fresh, locally grown produce and food made with local ingredients at Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven. Avant Gardens CSA will be onsite selling produce from 4-6 p.m. More details.
Friday, June 5 American Street Edge Self-Defense Systems in St. Clair is hosting a women’s street safety awareness and self-defense seminar from 6-8:15 p.m. This seminar is for females ages 13 and up, and space is limited. Learn more.
Friday, June 5 The Washington Historical Society is hosting its annual Ice Cream Social beginning at 4 p.m. Enjoy free ice cream, games, contests, and raffles, as well as barbecue available for purchase. Get more info.
Friday, June 5 Bring your lawn chairs to Union’s Concert in the Park, happening at the large pavilion at the City Park. The event will feature music by Daddy Rooster. Visit the Parks & Rec Dept on Facebook for more details.
Friday, June 5 & Saturday, June 6 The Mid Missouri Rodeo Association is coming to the St. Clair Saddle Club. The event will have bull-riding, barrel and bronc racing, pole bending, and many more family-fun events. Learn more.
Saturday, June 6 Gentle Giants Ranch in Union is hosting a barn sale and open house from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Find horse and barn items for sale, as well as have the opportunity to meet horses, learn more about the facility, and the programs and events hosted by Gentle Giants Ranch. Find out more.
Saturday, June 6 The Missouri Wine and Cheese Festival is happening at McKelvey Vineyards from 12-8 p.m. Hear live music, find local goods, plus sample artisanal meats, spirits, wine, and cheeses from local makers. Get more details.
Saturday, June 6 Head to Grant Station Park in Union for free train rides, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more.
Saturday, June 6 The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday of each month in the St. Clair Elks Lodge parking lot. Stop by between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. to shop from local farms, cottage bakers, crafters, and other vendors. Get more info.
Saturday, June 6 East Central College in Union is the site of a free stargazing event, beginning at dusk. Bring your own lawn chair and any star-viewing items like binoculars or telescopes. Find out more.
Saturday, June 6 Front Street is the site of the Labadie Picnic in Labadie. The event begins with a parade at 1 p.m. and the fun goes until 11 p.m. Expect live music, games, family fun, food, and patriotic celebrations. Learn more.
Saturday, June 6 The Pacific Lions is having a trivia event to help raise funds for purchasing a wheelchair accessible ramp for the building entrance. Find out more.
Sunday, June 7 Bethel Hills Community is having an open house from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Head to the community located near Marthasville for live music, food, community tours, and shop from a variety of vendors. Get more info.
Sunday, June 7 The Open Lake Day at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair is happening from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. For just $10 per person, you can access the lake and other amenities at Lost Hill Lake. Purchase tickets and learn more.
Sunday, June 7 Classic cars will line the streets of Downtown Union for the annual White Rose Cruz-N-26, from 12-3 p.m. Learn more.
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Tuesday, June 9 Make a cute dinosaur themed terrarium at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch. The Jurassic Jars program is free to attend and begins at 6 p.m. Find out more.
Tuesday, June 9 The monthly Crafting & Creativity event at the Washington Public Library is happening at 6 p.m. This month’s craft is creating a 4th of July garland. Learn more.
Thursday, June 11 – Sunday, June 14 The Franklin County Fair in Union will feature carnival rides and games, food, entertainment, and more. Get more info.
Thursday, June 11 Listen to free live music at the Music at the Market event at the Washington Farmers Market, from 5-8 p.m., with live music by Rockin’ Lazy R Roadhouse Band, food available for purchase by Sugarfire Smokehous, and drinks by Triple 3 Vineyard. Find out more.
Friday, June 12 The free Sunset on the Rails concert series continues this month in Pacific, with live music by Twist of Fate. The concert begins at 6 p.m. and attendees should bring their lawn chairs and settle in for an evening of lively tunes. Learn more.
Saturday, June 13 Celebrate 100 years of Route 66 with the Route 66 Centennial Car Cruise-In, held by the St. Clair Historical Museum and Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch. The celebration begins in the morning and runs throughout the day and will feature talks about the significance of Route 66 in the area, plus live music and food from Bob & Pat’s BBQ, and of course, classic cars. Get all the details.
Saturday, June 13 The Sullivan Community Market at Muddy Banks Brewing begins at 9 a.m. and runs until 1 p.m. Find handmade goods, local produce, and more. Learn more.
Saturday, June 13 Attend the Bluegrass and Country Festival at Point Labaddie Brewery. Gates open at 11 a.m. and the fun starts at noon. Tickets are $15 per person, with proceeds benefiting Community Radio St. Louis. Find out more.
Saturday, June 13 Head to The Club House and Play Cafe in Sullivan for a fun Father’s Day event featuring open play, massages for dad, and Father’s Day card crafts for the kids. Get more info.
Saturday, June 13 Frisco Farmhouse in Catawissa is hosting a special Father’s Day Farmers Market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find unique gifts for dad made by local vendors, with products like tallow soap, meat products, sweets, sourdough, local honey, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, June 13 Bethel Hills Community is having an Ice Cream Social event from 1-3 p.m. The public is welcome, but RSVP is requested for planning. RSVP and learn more.
Sunday, June 14 Meramec State Park in Sullivan is offering free fishing for those who served in the armed services at the Veteran’s Fishing Day event. 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.
Wednesday, June 3 – Saturday, June 6 The 78th Annual Belle Fair is happening for four days. Experience fair rides, live music, entertainment, food, livestock shows, and more. Get more info.
Thursday, June 4– Saturday, June 6 Rolla ‘s Route 66 Summerfest is happening downtown, with live music, a car show, a drone show, parade, food vendors, and more. Find out more.
Friday, June 5 & Saturday, June 6 Rodeo at the Riverbend at Brookdale Farms in Eureka is a two night event that features a professional rodeo competition, an outdoor concert, food, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Whether you attend for the action in the arena or just soaking in a perfect summer evening at the farm, there’s something for everyone. Learn more and get tickets.
Saturday, June 6 Step back into history with a guided tour of The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance. Experience an educational and inspiring journey through the lives of Daniel and Rebecca Boone as you explore what life was like on the early American frontier. Find out more.
Friday, June 12 – Sunday, June 14 Take your pup to Defiance for the town’s Dog Days of Defiance celebration. Find live music and specials at area restaurants, most of which have patios that are pet friendly. Learn more.
Saturday, June 13 Noboleis Vineyards is having a Films in the Vines outdoor movie event with a viewing of Jane Austen’s romance, “Pride and Prejudice.” There’s no cost for entry, but bring blankets and the winery will have the popcorn, candy, and wine ready. Get more info.
Saturday, June 13 Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of free night sky viewing events. This month’s event begins at 9 p.m. Find out more.
Sunday, June 14 Volksfest (people’s festival) will be held at the Harmonie Verein from 4-7 p.m. in Augusta. The annual family-friendly festival will feature an authentic German dinner of grilled fresh sausage from Williams Brothers, warm pretzels, homemade pickles, fermented sauerkraut, German potato salad, and more. Harmonie bar will be available for drink purchases. Admission price is by donation, with all proceeds going back to the museum. Get more info.
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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.
Summer’s here, and that means families are looking for things to do with kids. Luckily, there’s lots of fun in the air right now with outdoor events like fairs, concerts, and community movie nights, plus summer is always a perfect time for car shows, or to hop in the car take a little day trip to explore things to do in other small towns near Franklin County.
Tuesday, June 10 What could be better than a good summer read? Making it sparkle! Bring your favorite book, or choose from the selection the Washington Public Library provides, and spend the evening adding a little bling to your book. All bedazzle supplies provided (while supplies last). Fun for ages 12 & Up. Learn more.
Thursday, June 12 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington continues its free drive-in movies with a showing of the classic “Grease.” The movie will start 30 minutes after sunset. Parking is first come, first serve for these free events. Learn more.
Friday, June 13 On Friday afternoon from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., attendees of the family-friendly Summer Dance Party will rock out to some catchy tunes using shaky eggs, scarves, and bean bags. And since it’s hosted by the Washington Public Library, you’ll take a “Book Break” during the hour-long party! More details.
Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14 Hot Rods for Heroes, a 501-C3 organization with the goal of funding heroes through sharing the love of automobiles, is hosting a two day event in Pacific. Whether you want to show up for the car cruise on Friday or participate in the car show Saturday, there is something for everyone at this event. All proceeds for this event benefit the Pacific Police Department, Pacific Fire Department, and the Veterans Community Project. Find out more.
Friday, June 13 Head to Gerald for a special Movie Night at Legion Park hosted by the Chief Mason Griffith Foundation! Enjoy family fun with a 50/50 drawing, raffle tickets, and a free will offering benefiting Firefighter Via Family. Food will be available for purchase and attendees can choose from nachos, hot dogs, and popcorn. Get all the details.
Friday, June 13 Pacific is hosting an evening of live music by Twist of Fate at the Sunset on the Rails event. Guests are encouraged to bring their blankets and coolers and settle in for an evening of fun, family-friendly music and yard games, plus Case & Bucks Food Truck “Patty Wagon” will be on site. Get more info.
Saturday, June 14 This restorative yoga class focuses on gentle poses, deep breathing, and mindful meditation to help you release tension and find inner balance. It’s perfect for individuals of all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner. The class is happening at Red, White, and Brew Coffee Company in Union, and the cost is $10. Find out more and get tickets.
Saturday, June 14 Stop by and check out DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs’ new sewing space on Main Street in St. Clair Drawings for giveaways and more for those who attend the Open House. Find the event on Facebook.
Sunday, June 15 Orchard Park in St. Clair will be the site of a Father’s Day car show. Visit the City of St. Clair’s Facebook for further details.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Friday, June 13 Owensville is hosting a series of free, family-friendly movies this summer, with the kick-off event happening on Friday, June 13 with a showing of the film “Moana.” The movies will be shown at Buschman Park in Owensville, and Moana will start at 8:30 p.m. Find the full list of days and times of each film.
Friday, June 13 The City of Eureka is hosting a Concert on Central event, featuring family fun, live music by That 80s Band, plus food and drink from area restaurants located on Central Ave. Find out more.
Friday, June 13 – Saturday, June 14 The Jefferson County Fairgrounds will host the Jefferson County Rodeo, a two-day event that will feature live music, mechanical bull riding, kids activities, and much more. Learn more.
Saturday, June 14 Shop vendors, enjoy food, and take in the sights and sounds of a car show at the Belle Swap Meet & Extravaganza, happening from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Belle City Park. *UPDATE*as of June 9, this event has been canceled.
Saturday, June 14 Take a short drive to Bourbon for its annual BBQ Fest, featuring live music, vendors, BBQ competitions, and lots of family fun! Find out more on the Facebook event page.
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