If you’re a home owner and you’ve ever looked at that unfinished basement filled with clutter and wished it could instead be your dream living space, now is the time to do something about it. Although we can use them as an area to keep holiday decor and those forgotten toys kids have outgrown, a basement can also be the perfect place for an entertainment area, your dream master suite, dwelling for aging relatives, a home office, or just about any other space that can add to the functionality of your home.
Architectural draftsman and designer Brandon Bretz, owner of Freelance Services, a residential architectural drafting and design business, advises that late summer to early fall is the ideal time to start a basement addition project. Doing the work during the early fall and into the winter puts home owners in a sweet spot, since the outdoor projects that many contractors are tied up with throughout the spring and summer are wrapping up, and may even place some contractors in a slight lull.
An example of a basement addition project drawn by Brandon Bretz. The drawings for this project depict the existing basement with the planned renovations of a great room, bathroom, and home gym area. Document credit: Brandon Bretz_Freelance Services
“I like to help my customers get the most out of their projects, not just from a design perspective, but also when it comes to timing,” Brandon shares.
Besides the possibility of finding contractors with a lighter workload during this season, there’s another reason to get started on that basement project now. That’s because the basement project would be fully completed before the weather breaks in the spring, a time when many contractors can be slammed with everything from roofing projects to spring storm repairs and other jobs that require good weather to complete.
“Having a finished design drawing before reaching out to a contractor makes good sense from a lot of different perspectives. It helps contractors get a better scope of the work, and can help them provide a more accurate bid as well as a more precise project timeline,” Brandon explains.
Another thing that can slow down projects before they’re even started is that people will often go straight to a contractor with their ideas about the project, but some contractors want to see drawings that outline design intent before they’ll bid a job and start working on the project.
Working with Brandon on a design means clients will have drawings that show design intent to a perspective contractor. These drawings can help contractors provide a more accurate bid and project timeline. Photo credit: Amanda Bretz_The Socialite.
“By reaching out to a design professional like myself first, I can work with the client to find out what they want to do, I can get that design down on paper, and then the client has the project drawings in hand to take to a contractor to get accurate project bids.”
Basement finishes or other indoor renovations can often take longer in the summer and a shorter amount of time to complete in the winter and early spring when contractors’ workloads can be slower. And if your project requires incorporating access from the existing house into the project design, such as the case if a client wishes to finish their walkout basement and also add a patio or overhang feature, it’s important to remember that can also add to the project’s completion timeline.
Brandon describes possible project scenarios and why timelines can be crucial to meeting a customer’s needs. Video credit: Produced by Alex Don Media Group
If you’re thinking about finishing your basement, designing an addition, or building your dream home, view Brandon’s portfolio of work on his website. Want to learn even more about Brandon, his professional background, and why he started Freelance Services? You can find out more about him in this advertorial that was published last month.
You can also connect with Brandon on Facebook or call/text him at 314-799-9272.
The dog days of summer have arrived, but don’t worry, there’s plenty of things to do both indoors and outside over the next two weeks in Franklin County and nearby communities. There’s crafting events, car shows, touch-a-truck events, plus live music events, community markets, and much 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 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.
Multiple days The USDA Summer Food Service is partnering with the Washington Public Library to help area families to provide food service beginning Monday, June 29 and continuing on every Mondays until public school starts. The food service includes 7 days of breakfast and lunch, with fresh fruit, vegetable, and dairy. This service is for families with children ages 1-18. Pickup is at the Washington Public Library on Mondays between 4-6 p.m. Get more info.
Multiple days Scenic Regional Library and Foundations for Strengthening Families are partnering to help area families with summer food service beginning Monday, June 29 through Monday, August 17. The service will provide one week’s worth of breakfast and lunch items for kids, available while supplies last. Food pickup will be in each library branch’s parking lot and pickup times and days vary by each branch. Find pickup days and times.
Multiple days in August Old Farm Winery in Catawissa has a number of events like a car show, karaoke, and live music throughout August. Get all the details.
Tuesday, Aug. 11 Each month, the Washington Public Library hosts a crafting event, providing all the supplies attendees need to make a themed craft. This month, attendees can opt to create disco-themed fall crafts and can choose from a ghostie or a disco ball inspired mini pumpkin. Find out more.
Tuesday, Aug. 11 Washington Historical Society is hosting The American Zither Verband for its monthly Evening at the Museum event. The fun begins at 7 p.m. Get more info.
Tuesday, Aug. 11 The St. Clair Branch of Scenic Regional Library is hosting an author event with Sue Blesi. Attendees will explore the legacies of some of St. Clair’s most notable residents through lively storytelling by local historian and author, Sue Blesi. Register here.
Friday, Aug. 14 The next City of Union Market off Main is happening from 4-7 p.m. Find food from Savy’s Food Truck and Hot Tamales Love at First Bite, as well as numerous items for sale from local vendors. Find out more.
Friday, Aug. 14 Glittering Grapevine Line Dancing will guide guests in line dancing at Ace’s & Eagles The Office Bar in Washington. Learn more.
Friday, Aug. 14 The American Legion in New Haven continues its America 250 live music series with a live performance by Brooke Bockting from 5-8 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 14 American Street Edge Self-Defense Systems in St. Clair is hosting a Women’s Safety & Self-Defense Seminar from 6-8:30 p.m. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today. Reserve your place.
Saturday, Aug. 15 Red Cedar Inn Museum & Visitor Center in Pacific is hosting the Gateway HET Car Cruise from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Learn more.
Saturday, Aug. 15 First Christian Church in Washington is hosting a Touch-a-Truck event from 9-10:30 a.m. Get up close and personal with a variety of big trucks and vehicles in the church parking lot. Honk the horns, check out the equipment, and enjoy a morning of hands-on fun for all ages! Find out more details.
Saturday, Aug. 15 It’s been one year since Andy’s Produce Too in Union moved from its original location on U.S. 50 to its current location on Main St. in Union. To celebrate, Andy’s is hosting a customer appreciation event from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. that will include local vendors to shop from, a seafood boil, and beginning at 10 a.m., free burgers and chips for the first 50 customers. Learn more.
Saturday, Aug. 15 Goddess Gowns in Union is hosting a bridal and beyond pop-up event from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. This event is perfect for anyone getting ready to say “I do” as well as women looking to refresh their accessories. Shop permanent jewelry and upgrade your hat collection with Burned Wildflower Creations, a custom hat business that creates beautiful burned designs on hats. Get more details.
Sunday, Aug. 16 Aset Center in Washington will welcome Michelle Nolan Sanchez of Akashic Soulwork to lead an akashic dance, and later a sound bath led by Allison Chrisman will bring attendees into deep relaxation as she creates restorative sound with her gong and other instruments. Register and learn more.
Sunday, Aug. 16 St. Patrick’s Old Rock Church in Catawissa is having its church picnic. Find chicken, cold beer, hot dogs and snow cones, as well as kids games, plus custard cups from Hoffmans. Find out more.
Advertisement – Thinking about adding on to your home? Contact Brandon with Freelance Services, to help you with the design and permit drawings.
Tuesday, Aug. 18 Head to Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch to learn more about all things gardening at the branch’s monthly club called Growers and Sowers. The meetings are from 6-7 p.m. and this month’s topic is backyard birds. Register to save your spot.
Tuesday, Aug. 18 Join Project Linus of East Central Missouri at the Union American Legion and help make an impact for area children in need of comfort. Bring your own sewing supplies and make blankets any time during the hours of 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Get more info.
Thursday, Aug. 20 After a brief hiatus, Music on Main returns to downtown Union. The fall concert series kicks off with music from Bag Lunch Blues Band, and food and drinks available for purchase from Sip on Main, White Rose, Boxcar Express, and Sip Chicks. The fun happens at Hansen Park, beginning at 6 p.m. Find out more.
Thursday, Aug. 20 – Sunday, Aug. 23 New Earth Fest is a music, wellness, and arts festival happening at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair. Find workshops on things like yoga and breathwork, as well as creative and hands on activities like art, shop from vendors, and sway to a live music show complete with lights and lasers at night. Tickets range in prices and access, with day passes to full weekend access available. Learn more.
Friday, Aug. 21 & Saturday, Aug. 22 *Rescheduled from Aug. 14 & 15 due to heat* The St. Clair Saddle Club is hosting rodeo fun on Friday and Saturday. Find 5D barrel racing and more. Get more details on Facebook.
Friday, Aug. 21 The Book Booth in Washington is hosting a Meet and Greet Book Signing event for the book Porch Time with Lynnie: A Place for Healing. The event starts at 5 p.m. Get more details.
Friday, Aug. 21 Head to Union City Park for an outdoor showing of Wicked for Good, the Lawn Chair Movie Night event of August. The movie begins at dark, and guests should arrive early with their lawn chairs to get their preferred seats. Learn more.
Friday, Aug. 21 Sip, snack, and create your own dragonfly sun catcher at The Eclectic Dragonfly in New Haven from 5-7 p.m. Get more info.
Friday, Aug. 21 Sugar & Whisk Cafe in New Haven is hosting a Back to School Bash from 2–5 p.m. The afternoon of fun will include face painting, bubbles, and outdoor games, plus food and drink selections including coffee, sweet treats for the whole family, and BBQ plates and hot dogs. Find out more.
Friday, Aug. 21 Glittering Grapevine Line Dancing will guide guests in line dancing at McKelvey Vineyards in Washington. Learn more.
Friday, Aug. 21 The Roundup Event Space in St. Clair is hosting another Tailgate Sale in the grassy area located near the event space (at the corner of Main and Hibbard in downtown St. Clair). The event happens from 5-8 p.m. and will feature food trucks, dirty sodas, and a number of vendors including plants, jewelry, boutiques, and more. Find out more.
Friday, Aug. 21 The American Legion in New Haven concludes its America 250 live music series with a live performance by Eric Englebrecht from 5-8 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 22 With August being the Dog Days of Summer and everyone needing a little something to look forward to, from 2-6 p.m. hang out on the patio at Pinckney Bend in New Haven for its Wieners & Dieners event. Josh Lang & Pinckney Bend will cook up hot dogs, sausages, and brats on the big grill, with live music by Matt Diener. Get more details.
Saturday, Aug. 22 The annual Foodstock event in Washington is happening from 5-10 p.m. at the Washington Farmers Market. This event benefits local food pantries and features live music by area musicians and admission is either a monetary donation or non-perishable food. Find out more.
Saturday, Aug. 22 The Back to School Farmers Market is happening at Frisco Farms from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find goods from local vendors and makers, as well as locally grown produce, local honey, and meat. Learn more.
Saturday, Aug. 22 Downtown Sullivan is the site of a cruise in car show that has various hot rods, trucks and Jeeps. Get more info.
Sunday, Aug. 23 The Alley cordially invites all princesses and princes to its Princess Brunch event. Kicking off at 9 a.m., attendees will have brunch, a meet and greet, and arcade games with four iconic princesses. All ages are welcome to attend, but tickets are limited, so don’t wait! Cost is $35 admission includes brunch, a meet and greet, and a $20 game card. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Thursday, Aug. 13 Tour The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance free of charge. All ages are welcome and admission is first-come, first-served. Tours are open-house format, allowing guests to explore all levels of the house and speak with docents about the Boone family and the history of the Femme Osage Valley. Learn more.
Saturday, Aug. 15 RGM Farms in Bourbon is hosting a monthly event called Social Saturdays, which are an opportunity to come together with friends new and old, enjoy food, and entertainment from 3-7 p.m. Get tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 15 Onondaga Cave State Park is hosting a series of night sky viewing events with astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot. These events are free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. Although a telescope will be provided, visitors are welcome to bring viewing devices of their own. Find out more.
Friday & Saturday, Aug. 21 & 22 Mid-Missouri Rodeo Association is coming to the Rolla Saddle Club. The rodeo fun kicks off at 7 p.m. each evening. Get more info.
Saturday, Aug. 22 Want to volunteer your time with an organization making an impact in the lives of veterans? Head to The Freedom 13 Healing Camp in Bourbon for a day of giving back and helping the nonprofit build cabins and a recreational space that veterans and their families can use. Learn more.
Saturday, Aug. 22 Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka, for the Back-to-School Bash, a family celebration packed with fun, entertainment, and community spirit. Spend the afternoon exploring the farm with giant inflatables, hayrides, pony rides, our petting zoo, bubble zone, sunflower photo opportunities, yard games, and more. Dance in the foam party, enjoy live music, and grab dinner from local food vendors. Get tickets.
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!
Over the next two weeks, there’s recurring events like Market Off Main, Sunset on the Riverfront, and more, plus lots of free programs at area libraries, including an America 250 trivia night, craft events, plus a historical storytelling event about the Washingtons. There’s also a Christmas in July pop-up event in downtown Union, several fundraisers, an outdoor movie, Union Pacific Railroad’s Big Boy is rolling into the area for a whistle stop, and a whole 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.
Multiple days The USDA Summer Food Service is partnering with the Washington Public Library to help area families to provide food service beginning Monday, June 29 and continuing on every Mondays until public school starts. The food service includes 7 days of breakfast and lunch, with fresh fruit, vegetable, and dairy. This service is for families with children ages 1-18. Pickup is at the Washington Public Library on Mondays between 4-6 p.m. Get more info.
Multiple days Scenic Regional Library and Foundations for Strengthening Families are partnering to help area families with summer food service beginning Monday, June 29 through Monday, August 17. The service will provide one week’s worth of breakfast and lunch items for kids, available while supplies last. Food pickup will be in each library branch’s parking lot and pickup times and days vary by each branch. Find pickup days and times.
Tuesday, July 14 The Washington Public Library has a monthly event called Crafting and Creativity that is free to attend and attendees will create a craft that they get to take home. This month’s craft is a gnome succulent planter. The event begins at 6 p.m. Learn more.
Tuesday, July 14 Washington Historical Society is having its monthly Evening at the Museum event beginning at 7 p.m. Get more info.
Tuesday, July 14 The St. Clair Branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a Meet the Washingtons event beginning at 7 p.m. The evening will feature interesting and unique storytelling of our nation’s First Family through this lively presentation. Learn more.
Thursday, July 16 Head to the Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library for 250 Years of American Trivia beginning at 6 p.m. Attendees must register for the event on the library’s website. Get more info and register.
Thursday, July 16 The Alley is partnering with Wanderlust Chocolate for a Pairing Party. Sample four varieties of Cognac, thoughtfully paired with handmade chocolates. Registration required to attend.
Friday, June 17 The St. Clair Saddle Club continues its 5D Barrel Racing series beginning at 6 p.m. Find out more.
Friday, June 17 Round Up Event Space in St. Clair is hosting a Tailgate Sale in the grassy lot next to the event space from 5-8 p.m. Shop from area vendors and try bites from food truck Hot Tamales Love at First Bite. Get more details.
Saturday, July 18 Franklin County Jeeps is hosting a car show at Union High School to benefit the Gruen Family to help support them due to Dan Gruen’s accident that left him unable to work. Check out the entry fees for cars and other info.
Saturday, July 18 Downtown Union will be the site of a festive Christmas in July pop-up event filled with unique gifts, handmade goods, sweet treats, and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether you’re getting a head start on shopping or just love a good reason to celebrate, this is the perfect way to mix sunshine with a little sparkle. Grab your friends, wear your favorite festive gear, and come shop local! Find out more.
Saturday, July 18 The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. throughout the market season. Find fresh produce and local meat from Bardot Farms, along with a variety of items from local vendors including plants, artwork, homemade baked items, and more. Get more info.
Saturday, July 18 Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch is hosting a Jurassic Paint Party from 1-3:30 p.m. Adults and teens are invited to paint a glowing wooden dinosaur under black lights all while watching the movie:Jurassic World: Rebirth. Registration required to attend.
Sunday, July 19 Liberty Hall in Washington is hosting a showing of the beloved Broadway hit, “Love Letters.” This play is A. R. Gurney’s timeless story of connection, longing, and the letters that shape a lifetime. Doors open at 5 p.m. with a Roux 66 tasting of sweet and savory bites and wine, with the performance starting at the Cultural Center at 6 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person. Get tickets.
Sunday, July 19 The Book Booth in Washington is hosting a Sewing 101 event from 2-4 p.m. Attendees will learn how to use a sewing machine and sew on a button and buttonhole. Cost is $40 to attend. Register and learn more.
Sunday, July 19 To celebrate National Ice Cream Day, Silver Spoon Ice Cream in downtown Washington will have raffles and giveaways including free ice cream, swag, and more. Get more info.
Advertisement – Thinking about adding on to your home? Contact Brandon with Freelance Services, to help you with the design and permit drawings.
Monday, July 20 Union Pacific Railroad’s legendary Big Boy 4014 train is rolling into Pacific and is scheduled to make a whistle stop approximately between 11:30 – 11:45 a.m. Head to Pacific Station Plaza, where there will be celebrations and excitement planned from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find mini pancakes, snow cones, and other cold treats as well as information provided by area historical societies, along with a variety of family-friendly displays. Learn more.
Wednesday, July 22 Franklin County Silent Book Club meets every month at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington. The event is from 5:30 – 7 p.m. and attendees bring their own book selections and read silently for the first hour. The last 30 minutes of the event is dedicated to chatting with others in attendance, or for continued solo reading. Get more info.
Thursday, July 23 The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch is having a Christmas in July craft at 6 p.m. Make a no sew quilted Christmas ornament. Learn more.
Thursday, July 23 Sunset on the Riverfront is a monthly free event at the Washington Riverfront. The event is from 5-8 p.m. and will feature music by Sweet Rukus, food vendors Ramblin Rooster, Oxfest Music Charity Music Festival, and Boxcar Express Ice Cream, and children’s activities by The Monkey Bus. Get more info.
Friday, July 24 Head to downtown Union for Market off Main from 4-7 p.m. The event will feature local vendors, plus food and drinks available for purchase, and live music. Find out more.
Saturday, July 25 The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch is offering a STEAM Ahead Science program for kids on Saturday, July 25. Kiddos will be getting hands on with science involving themes of paleontology and microbiology! Attendees need to register for this program to reserve their spot. Register and learn more.
Saturday, July 25 St. John and St. James Episcopal Church in Sullivan is hosting a free community movie night, with a showing of the family-friendly film “How to Train Your Dragon.” The event begins at 7 p.m. and will feature drinks, popcorn, hot dogs, chips, and dessert. Attendees should bring a chair or blanket to sit on and watch the movie. Find out more.
Saturday, July 25 Head to the St. Clair Elks Lodge for the Charlie’s Angels Poker Run benefit. The poker run begins at 11 a.m. Get more info.
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.
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.
Friday, July 17 & Saturday, July 18 Head to Hermann for Books & Booze: A Grownup Book Fair, which will be two days of the magic of the school book fair, with all the excitement, stacks of stories, local authors, and grown-up beverages. Get more info.
Friday, July 17 – Sunday, July 19 The Gasconade County Threshers Association Steam Engine and Antique Tractor Show is happening at Rosebud Community Park. The weekend will feature antique tractors and steam engines, flea market, crafters and artisans, live music, draft horse and tractor pulls, plus tractor games and a parade. There will also be food available for purchase, plus a car show on Sunday. Find out more.
Saturday, July 18 Marthasville is hosting a truck and tractor pull beginning at 6:30 p.m. There will be food and drink available for purchase. Get more info.
Saturday, July 18 RGM Farms in Bourbon is hosting a monthly event called Social Saturdays. Every month is a different themed event with entertainment, food, and most of all, community. This month’s theme is summer picnic and the fun begins at 3 p.m. Get more details.
Saturday, July 18 Onondanga State Cave Park in Leasburg is continuing its stargazing series called Starry Sky Nights. Join astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot to view the cosmos with a high-powered telescope. These events are free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. Although a telescope will be provided, visitors are welcome to bring viewing devices of their own. Find out more.
Monday, July 20 Enjoy free trolley rides for kids and families on the Hermann Trolley to commemorate the arrival of Union Pacific Railroad’s legendary Big Boy 4014 train making a whistle stop in Hermann. Find more details.
Saturday, July 25 & Sunday, July 26 Hermann’s Berries and BarbQ Wine Trail is a memorable summer weekend event that features a delicious curated menu of local berries, barbecue dishes, and wine. Tickets are limited and are $35 per person. See the menu and purchase tickets.
Saturday, July 25 Country music star Neal McCoy will perform at Meramec Music Theater in Steelville at 2 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Get more info.
Saturday, July 25 Head to Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James for the Art, Craft, Wine, and Cheese Fest from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Celebrate National Wine and Cheese day, while also discovering handmade crafts, original art, upcycled treasures, delicious treats, and of course, wine and cheese at the event. Free entry, 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!
Get ready for another week of fun events in and around Franklin County. This weekend it’s the Art & Wine Fest in downtown Washington, Scenic Regional Library is also having its spring book sale this week, plus this Saturday St. Andrews subdivision in Union is having its annual community yard sale, plus a trivia night, craft event, a Mental Health Conference, live music, and much more.
Just a short drive away there’s the 74th annual Hermann Maifest happening this Saturday, a beer festival at the Daniel Boone Home in Defiance, a patriotic celebration at Brookdale Farms in Eureka, 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.
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.
Tuesday, May 12 Young professionals in Pacific are welcome to attend a networking event at Twisted Pixels in Pacific. The event begins at 4:30 and appetizers will be served, with a cash bar available. Find out more.
Tuesday, May 12 The Washington Public Library is hosting its monthly Crafting and Creativity event, and this month’s activity is creating a fairy birdhouse. All supplies are included, and the event is free. Happening from 6-7 p.m. Get more details.
Thursday, May 14 The first Music at the Market of the season kicks off in downtown Washington at 5 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs to enjoy the live music. There will be food and drinks available for purchase. Get more info.
Thursday, May 14-Saturday, May 16 All branches of Scenic Regional Library are hosting their spring book sale. Find your next read at the book sale, happening during the library’s service hours each day of the sale. Contact your individual branch directly for more details.
Friday, May 15 – Sunday, May 17 Downtown Washington’s annual Art Fair & Winefest is happening from Friday through Sunday. This unique festival in the heart of Missouri wine country draws visitors each spring from across the Midwest. Find out more.
Friday, May 15 The St. Clair Saddle Club is kicking off its 5D Barrel Racing Buckle event series that will take place throughout the summer. Get the schedule of events.
Friday, May 15 & Saturday, May 16 First Christian Church in Union is hosting a free Mental Health Conference. The two day event will feature keynote sessions, breakout workshops, and community resource access. Get event time and more info.
Saturday, May 16 Take your kiddos to Tumbling with Tiaras, a magical event with crafts, princesses, and an open gym from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. in Washington. Get more info.
Advertisement – Brandon with Freelance Services is an architectural draftsman that can help you design construction and permit documents and specializes in custom home plans as well as drawings for home renovations and additions, outdoor living spaces, and small commercial projects.
Saturday, May 16 St. Andrews Subdivision in Union is having its spring community wide yard sale. The sales begin at 7 a.m. and are rain or shine. Get more info.
Saturday, May 16 The K of C Hall in Union is hosting a 2000’s themed trivia night. Doors open at 6 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Bring your own snacks, drinks purchased at cash bar. Learn more.
Sunday, May 17 Set out on a walk of 10 privately owned acres to learn how to identify native plants and medicinal herbs that grow in our area at the Forest Foraging event, happening from 1:30-4;30 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, May 14 Prairie Barn Winery and Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is hosting a paint and sip fundraiser event to benefit equine therapy organization Horses Healing Hearts. Find out more.
Friday, May 15 Rev up your engines for the St. James Senior Center Cruise-In happening from 5–7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of classic cars, great company, and live music by the River Dawgs. Dine on delicious eats from the All-American Food Company food truck while you stroll, mingle, and take in the lineup of rides. Everyone’s welcome—bring your car, your friends, and your appetite for a fun community night. Get more info.
Saturday, May 16 RGM Farms in Bourbon is hosting a new monthly event, called Social Saturdays. Each month is a different themed event with entertainment, food, and most of all, community and will have their own special entertainment or a agriculture-based class. Learn more.
Saturday, May 16 Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg continues its Starry Sky Night event. This night sky viewing event is free to the public. Get more details.
Saturday, May 16 Brookdale Farms in Eureka is kicking off the patriotic summer events with Red, White, and Glow, a celebrationg for families, friends, and anyone who loves fireworks, live music, glowing skies, and honoring those who serve. Expect a hot air balloon glow, eagles, clydesdales, touch-a-truck experiences for kiddos, food trucks, a fireworks display, and much more. Get tickets.
Saturday, May 16 The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance is having Brew Fest, an event that allows guests to sample beers from home brewers and breweries in the area. There will be concessions and live music onsite, as well as plenty of opportunities to learn things like the historical importance of fermentation before refrigeration. Cost is $20 per person. Learn more.
Saturday, May 16 Hermann’s 74th Maifest celebration is happening Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visit Schiller street for a variety of artists, local makers, craftspeople, foods, beverages, and more! This is a rain or shine, family-friendly event. Get more details.
Sunday, May 17 The 7th Annual Misfits for Jesus car show is happening at the Warrenton Outlets in Warrenton. 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!
