Defiance Missouri – Small Town Socialite

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 6 – April 12, 2026

Posted on April 6, 2026 by Amanda

This week there’s plenty of events centered around plants – from a class on how to forage a wild pesto from your backyard, to a plant & sip event creating a potted flower, a community gardening event, and much more. For those who love trivia and bingo, there’s a black light bingo fundraiser, plus themed trivia nights that will test your knowledge on all things Marvel, Lord of the Rings, and Route 66 Centennial info.

There’s also community dances, a Cars & Coffee event, a pop-up BBQ event, a chance to watch kites dance in the wind at a local park, and a lot more!

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

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

Wednesday, April 8
Bedazzle your book at Neighborhood Reads in Washington. Bring your own book from home, or buy a book from the store to bedazzle. The store will have all the supplies needed to decorate your book.
Get tickets.

Thursday, April 9
Want to learn more about small towns across the state and meet a local author? Then head to the Washington Public Library for the Friends Author Series with Author Caitlin Yager, who will sign copies of her book Small Town Missouri.
Learn more.

Friday, April 10
Head to New Haven for a BBQ Pop-Up by Josh Lang. Josh will pick a menu, make it on site and it all happens on the Pinckney Bend Distillery patio. The event is from 4-7 p.m., or until the food sells out.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
Kids and families are invited to free train rides aboard the mini train at Grant Station Park in Union. The rides will be from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Saturday, April 11
Head to Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair for an evening of community, camping, a potluck, and breathwork.
Get your tickets.

Saturday, April 11
Attend a black light bingo fundraiser event at St. Clair KC Hall. The funds will benefit St. Clair elementary and Murray schools. In addition to bingo, there will also be a silent auction.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
Crooked Creek Beef in Pacific is hosting an Animalpalooza event from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 11
Gateway Kite Club will be at Veterans Memorial Park in Union from 1-4 p.m. for Union MO Kite Fest. The whole family is invited to the park to watch professional flying demonstrations by the Gateway Kite Club.
Find out more.

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Saturday, April 11
Get a Makers Camp Preview at Vibrant Minds in Washington from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. This preview is based on one of Vibrant Minds’ summer camp themes, Makers Week. During Makers Week, students will design, build, create, and solve problems using new, different, and recycled materials.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
The Smiley Face Project will have a spring craft and community garden day, in St. Clair which will be an outdoors and community focused event. There will be local vendors that will be selling a variety of items such as baked goods, handmade crafts, art, as well as live music and planting a variety of food and herbs to make a community garden that will accessible for free for those in need. The event is from 12-5 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
Bring your ride, grab some coffee, and chat with other car enthusiasts at Cars & Coffee at St. Peters UCC in New Haven. All makes and models welcome, just swing by between 8 and 11 a.m. to check out the rides in the parking lot behind the church.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 11
The first Catawissa farmers market of the year is happening on Saturday. Find a list of the local vendors and more on Facebook.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
In honor of summer coming up, go to a trivia night in Sullivan with a road trip theme. The event is at the Sullivan Eagles Hall and begins at 7 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
Head to Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery to build your own carnivorous bog garden that mimics the plants natural environment to encourage healthier plants.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, April 11
The Sullivan Athletic Club is hosting a Reptiles, Oddities, and More event. The event is from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and will feature vendors and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
The Franklin County Humane Society is hosting a vaccination clinic for pets.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
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.
More info.

Sunday, April 12
Tri-County Community Senior Center is hosting a Spring Fling Dance from 2-5 p.m. Admission is $10 per person and the event includes a live band, light snacks, water, tea, lemonade, and attendees may BYOB. Tickets are not being sold in advance, so purchase them at the door. And don’t forget to dress to impress.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, April 7
Countryside Farm & Market in Cuba is hosting a Plant & Sip event and attendees will create their own potted flower arrangement.
Find out more.

Friday, April 10
Defiance Ridge Vineyards is hosting a Lord of the Rings trivia night beginning at 6 p.m. Test your knowledge of Tolkien with trivia specific to the books and the movies.
Learn more.

Friday, April 10
The spring daddy daughter dance called The Enchanted Lantern Ball is happening at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Expect an evening of dancing, magical photos, and a fairy tale atmosphere, complete with a visit from Rapunzel.
Get your tickets.

Saturday, April 11
The Bourbon Area Community Center in Bourbon is hosting a Route 66 Centennial Trivia Night, with funds raised to benefit the Bourbon High School Class of 2026. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
Step back into history with a guided tour of The Historic Daniel Boone Home. 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.
Get all the details.

Sunday, April 12
Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is hosting a Marvel themed trivia event starting at 2:30 p.m. Come out to this trivia event that’s perfect for the whole family.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 12
Frisella Nursery in Defiance is having teaching you how to craft a pesto made from wild ingredients found in your backyard. Attendees will learn how to identify and use common species such as henbit, dead nettle, and more.
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!

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 23 – March 29, 2026

Posted on March 23, 2026 by Amanda

The Easter bunny is hopping into Franklin County this week! There are bunny-themed breakfasts, Easter-themed activities, games, and more happening around the area. There are also egg hunts for kids, teens, and the young at heart!

In addition to the Easter festivities, there are craft events, a pop culture trivia night, the first farmers market & craft fair of the season at Kaleidoscope Consignment in Pacific, plus this weekend it’s the 45th Annual Wurstfest in nearby Hermann, a mother-daughter event at Brookdale Farms in Eureka, the Outdoor Spring Flea Market at Half Crocked Antiques in Bourbon, and much more.

Pro tip: minimize disappointments and save gas (hello, price increase!) by double checking with event venues before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances!

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

Thursday, March 26
The Union Branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a “Crafternoon” event at 2 p.m. Attendees can bring a craft project of their choosing and work among other craft-loving people. What could be better than working on a project and making new friends in the process?
Learn more.

Thursday, March 26
Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan is hosting a Craft Night. Attendees will create a DIY painted tote bag from 5-6 p.m. and cost is $25 per person.
Find out how to register.

Friday, March 27
The Washington Public Library is having a teen Easter egg hunt inside the library from 6-6:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Friday, March 27
Teens, grab your friends and get ready for a fun night under the lights at Liberty Field in Pacific. Try your luck at finding the “Golden Egg” at the 4th Annual Teen Easter Egg Hunt.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Easter Eggstravaganza at First Baptist Church Washington will feature egg hunts, games, crafts, food, prizes, and much more. It will be a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family, and everything is completely free!
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Head to Gerald Legion Park for an Easter egg hunt beginning at 10 a.m.
More details.

Saturday, March 28
Make a fleece tie blanket to help a child in need at Project Linus of Franklin & Crawford County’s Make a Blanket event at the Union Branch of Scenic Regional Library. The event is from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
RSVP to attend.

Saturday, March 28
St. Clair’s annual community Easter egg hunt at Orchard Park is happening at 11 a.m. Attendees can expect hot dogs, chips, and drinks while supplies last.
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, March 28
Have breakfast with the Easter bunny at Miller’s Grill. Enjoy scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes, with orange juice, milk or coffee from 8 – 9:45 a.m. Children big and small have the opportunity for a FREE photo with the Easter Bunny and get an Easter cookie with the purchase of a breakfast.
Learn where you can purchase tickets.

Saturday, March 28
Get ready to time-travel through pop culture at the Pop Culture, Decades of Trivia at the Pacific Eagles. Trivia questions will range from the swinging sixties to the tech-savvy 2000s as well as exploring iconic moments, unforgettable music, groundbreaking movies, and the trends that defined each era.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 28
The Knights of Columbus Hall in Washington is hosting the Franklin County Backstoppers Dinner Auction to assist families of fallen first responders.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is having an Open Gym from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and it’s the perfect chance for kids to jump, tumble, climb, and play in a high-energy, supervised environment. It’s all about moving, laughing, and having a blast with friends—new and old!
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Pacific Community Park is the place to be for an adult glow-in-the-dark egg hunt you won’t want to miss! Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. and the fun starts at 8 p.m.
Advance ticket purchase required.

Saturday, March 28
Triple 3 Vineyard is having a five-course dinner crafted by Chef Alex, and the menu is perfectly paired with selections from Triple 3 wines. Following the meal, guests will have the unique opportunity to tour the vineyard’s production facility. Don’t miss this memorable evening of fine dining and wine exploration.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Boles Fire Protection District in Villa Ridge is having a free breakfast with the Firefighters, Chief Officers, and Board of Directors as well as a special visit from Good Bunny.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 29
Kaleidoscope Consignment in Pacific is hosting the first Farmers Market & Craft Fair of the season from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. You’ll find sourdough, plants, crafts, and more. Enjoy food from Hot Tamales Love at First Bite food truck.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 29
Head to Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan for an Easter themed cookie decorating class that kicks off at 2 p.m. Decorate half a dozen cookies under the guidance of the instructor and take home your cookies at the end of class.
Register for class.

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Road Trippin’

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

Wednesday, March 25
Enjoy an evening with your friends or that special someone in one of the historic buildings at The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance. The venue will provide the candlelight, a table to sit by the fire, tabletop activities and the ambiance—you bring dinner and drinks. After dinner, take a scenic walk through the Boone Home to watch the beautiful sunset. The event is for ages 18 and up; cost is $5 per person.
Pre-registration is required.

Friday, March 27-Sunday, March 29
The 45th Annual Hermann Wurstfest celebrates the town’s 160-year sausage-making history. From sausage sampling and competitions to kraut-making classes, German dancing, live music, and the highly-anticipated Wiener Dog Derby, dog costume contest, and talent show – there’s something for everyone.
Find out more.

Friday, March 27
It’s Mother-Daughter Ranch Night at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Enjoy BBQ, games, animal encounters, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 28
Half Crocked Antiques in Bourbon is having an Outdoor Spring Flea Market. The event is from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having a helicopter Easter egg drop. This ticketed event includes hunting for the 10,000 filled eggs dropped from a helicopter, as well as pictures with the Easter bunny, ziplines, slides, and much more.
Get tickets.

Saturday, March 28
Marthasville Area Chamber of Commerce is having an egg hunt at the ball fields at 10 a.m. Egg hunts will be organized by age groups, and kids ages 0-10 can participate. There will also be opportunities to get photos with the Easter bunny.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Brooks and Young Realty in Warrenton is hosting a Bunny Fun Day from 1-3 p.m. Take pictures with the Easter bunny, play games, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 28
Balducci Vineyards in Augusta is having a very special Easter celebration! There will be plenty of prizes and an egg-hunting activity for children followed by Instagrammable moments with Sunny The Bunny! Free for kids and the Egg hunt begins at 11:30 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Take your kiddos to the Youth Easter Egg Hunt at Kircher Park in Eureka from 10 a.m. – noon. There will also be a pancake breakfast provided by the Knights of Columbus, crafts, photos, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, March 28
Marthasville is having an adult Easter egg hunt from 6-8 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Head to Warrenton for an Easter Eggapalooza at Fellowship Baptist Church. The event will feature an egg hunt, bounce house, horse rides, face painting, obstacle course, food, music, and prize giveaways!
Get more info.

Sunday, March 29
The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville is having a Cornhole Tournament beginning at noon. Cost is $10 per person.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 29
Berry Park in Eureka is hosting an Easter egg hunt from 1-3 p.m. Play games, find eggs, kiddos can get their faces painted, and much more.
Find out more.

Events

Seven St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations Around Franklin County

Posted on March 12, 2026March 12, 2026 by Amanda

Whether you’re looking for a St. Patrick’s Day bash that’s fun for the whole family, want to kick back with a cocktail or beer at a bar, or take in a parade, there are a few ways to celebrate everyone’s favorite Irish holiday around Franklin County this year.

Friday, March 13 & Saturday, March 14
The Tipsy Keg in Washington is hosting a two-day long St. Paddy’s Day Celebration that will include karaoke along with food and drink specials.
Learn more.

Friday, March 13-Sunday, March 15
Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is having a Shenanigans St. Patrick’s Day Weekend! The event will include trivia, hayrides, outside yard games, camp fire, and green slushies.
Get all the details.

Friday, March 13
Take a short drive to the Shamrock Saloon Pop-Up Bar at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. This one night event will feature Irish drinks, line dancing, food trucks, and raffles.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 14
Spy leprechauns, four-leaf clovers, and pots of gold at the city of Pacific’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The fun kicks off at 11 a.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, March 14
Downtown Union will have a family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day Block Party from 1-3 p.m. Expect food trucks, face painters, bounce houses, games, a scavenger hunt, and much more.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 14
Looking for a way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day that ‘s a bit more low-key? Hear Celtic tunes by the musical group The Divines at Liberty Hall in Washington. This ticketed event will also include one drink with admission.
Get tickets.

Saturday, March 14
Although not in Franklin County, the nearby community of Defiance will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The event includes a 5k, parade, and festivities that include live music by several bands throughout the day, as well as specials at the area wineries, restaurants, bars, and other establishments.
Get the details.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 2 – March 8, 2026

Posted on March 2, 2026March 3, 2026 by Amanda

It’s a new month and St. Patrick’s Day themed events are beginning to roll out this week, like the Fake Paddy’s Day Crawl in Washington and the Pacific Shamwalk & Run 5k. Other events include Mouse Races at Union Moose Lodge, experience free services like red light therapy, breathwork sessions, and infrared sauna sessions this week at Hōm Healing Center in Pacific, plus many other great events and happenings!

And, just a short drive away, you can attend the Corks & Cuisine Dinner Series at Sarah’s on Central in Eureka, Maple Sugar Festival in Defiance, and Springfest at Brookdale Farms in Eureka.

Just a heads up – always double check with the event venue before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled for some reason!

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

Monday, March 2 – Sunday, March 8
For one week Hōm Healing Center in Pacific is inviting the community to try its services completely free. Some of Hōm’s offerings include wellness services, recovery tools, and classes like infrared sauna and red light therapy, yoga, guided meditations, and breathwork sessions, as well as massage, all of which are available during the free week.
Get more details.

Thursday, March 5
Bid on purses and enjoy an evening out at the annual Pacific Power of the Purse event! This is a great fundraising event with all proceeds going to Franklin County Area United Way.
Learn more.

Thursday, March 5
Marquart’s Landing in Washington is the site of a paint and sip night. Create your very own masterpiece with the guidance of seasoned instructor, Diana. Sip on delicious cocktails and munch on scrumptious bites (purchased separately) while you paint your way to a beautiful work of art. No prior painting experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and be prepared to have a blast! Don’t miss out on this unique and exciting event.
Reserve your spot.

Saturday, March 7
Washington’s annual Fake Paddy’s Day Crawl is happening from 2-8 p.m. The crawl will include numerous bars and restaurants around Washington including The Alley, Old Bridgeview Brewing, The Creek, and many more.
Get info and buy tickets.

Saturday, March 7
Get out and move your body for a good cause at the Pacific Shamwalk & Run 5k which benefits the MVR3 Bridge Foundation.
More info and how to register.

Saturday, March 7
It’s Singo (like bingo with music) night at St. Gertrude’s in Washington to raise funds for the children of Campbellton Elementary School.
Learn more and register.

Saturday, March 7
The Union Moose Lodge is hosting Mouse Races beginning at 6 p.m. The cost to attend the races is $15 in advance and $20 at the door, with proceeds benefitting Moose Charities.
Get more details.

Saturday, March 7
The Pacific Eagles is sponsoring a Pool Tournament, Silent Auction, and a Barbecue, with all proceeds donated to Meramec Valley RIII School Lunch Program!
Learn more.

Saturday, March 7
Head to the Union Community Center for a Texas Hold ‘Em fundraiser. Doors open at 5:15 and the action begins at 6 p.m.
RSVP requested.

Sunday, March 8
The 61st Annual Chicken Dinner at St. John the Baptist–Gildehaus Parish Center in Villa Ridge will have cafeteria-style dining and drive-thru dining options available, and the offerings will include deep-fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, cabbage slaw, pie, milk, and coffee.
Get more information.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, March 5
Sarah’s on Central in Old Town Eureka is hosting its fourth installment of Corks & Cuisine Dinner Series. This is a night food and wine lovers won’t want to miss, featuring a multi-course dining experience paired with exceptional wines.
Pay for and reserve your spot.

Friday, March 6 & Saturday, March 7
United Women of Faith will be hosting their annual Rummage Sale in Warrenton. Come shop and find some treasures on Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m.- noon both days. All proceeds will go to the United Women of Faith.
Get more details.

Saturday, March 7
Girls are welcome to be escorted by a grandfather, godfather, or other significant father figure at the Daddy Daughter Dance in Eureka. The event includes a corsage, refreshments, a portrait, games, and a D.J. Tickets are $30 per couple, and additional tickets are available for $10 each. Registration is required and must be completed by March 4.
Learn more and register.

Saturday, March 7
The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance is hosting Maple Sugar Festival, an event where attendees will learn historic and modern tree-tapping methods and taste sweet treats from the trees. Kids and adults alike can try out historic hand tools and watch reenactors boil sap. The event is free, but there will be vendors on-site selling items. Vendors operate on a cash-only basis.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 7
Spring Fest at Brookdale Farms is your family’s weekly excuse to put down the screens, get some fresh air, and actually enjoy the season. The event includes farm-themed outdoor games, large playground areas, seasonal attractions and interactive experiences, spring décor worth the photos, food and drinks available on-site, and wide open space to roam, relax, and play.
Find out more.