Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 23 – March 1, 2026

Get ready for another fun-filled week of Franklin County events with book clubs, a puzzle race, line dancing, black light bingo, a comedy night, a paint and sip event, and an open mic night.

Ready to hit the road? There’s even more events just outside of Franklin County such as a 2000’s themed trivia night, an 80’s themed murder mystery, a winter wine tasting event, and winter bridal shows.

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.

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Teams of up to six friends will race to be the first team to complete the same 500-piece puzzle in 60 minutes at the Washington Public Library’s Puzzle Race event. Space is limited to six teams and pre-registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Join the book club perfect for the overcommitted reader. The Bring Your Own Book book club at The Novel Nook.  Instead of a single assigned read, participants bring whatever book they’re currently enjoying—fiction, nonfiction, classic, or contemporary—and share highlights, insights, and thoughts with the group.
Get all the details.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Scenic Regional Library Branch in Pacific is hosting a showing of the historic 1926 feature film- The Flying Ace- with a live musical accompaniment by Cherry and Jerry, a St. Louis duo that plays ragtime, blues, and jazz music from the 1900s-1920s, including well-known hits from Scott Joplin, W.C. Handy, Irving Berlin, as well as lesser-known gems. Registration is required to attend.
Get more info and register.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Franklin County Silent Book Club will meet at UnderGROUNDS in Washington from 5:30-7 p.m. This nontraditional book club allows you to bring your own book and read in companionable silence, with socializing afterwards with fellow readers. You’ll carve out time for reading, meet new people, and hopefully leave with some new recommendations.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
Do you have a small business and are interested in becoming a vendor at the St. Clair Farmers Market this season? Attend an informational meeting for potential market vendors at the St. Clair Library at 6:30 p.m.
Get the details.

Thursday, Feb. 26
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific will have line dancing from 6-7:30 p.m. The event is free, but donations are accepted.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 27
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is the site of Donuts and Diapers, a sweet morning designed for little ones and the grown-ups who love them. Happening from 9-11 a.m., the event features fresh donuts, open gym play, and quality bonding time in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Get tickets and more details.

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Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Gerald for a unique paint and sip night that focuses on creating a piece of art that highlights the Northern Lights. Seats are limited.
Secure your spot.

Friday, Feb. 27
Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist is seeking motivated individuals interested in building a long‑term career in the green industry and are hosting a Career Fair to learn more about available opportunities across horticulture, landscaping, retail operations, greenhouse, and additional areas within our growing organization. The fair is from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Help support Project Linus of Franklin and Crawford County and create something with your hands. The nonprofit is hosting its monthly Make a Blanket day from 10 a.m. – noon at the Scenic Regional Library Union Branch. Attendees will make fleece blankets to benefit local children, and can bring their own supplies or donate $20 for blanket making supplies.
RSVP requested, find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 28
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Clover Bottom is hosting a Comedy Night Dinner & Dance. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m., the comedy show by Mike Maxwell at 7 p.m., and live music by Steve Leslie after the comedy show.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Enjoy an evening of Black Light Bingo at the IC School Parish Center in Union. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and bingo begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Learn about seed starting at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Participants will use reusable pots, domes and trays to plant tomato and pepper seeds. This is the perfect class to get a head start on your vegetable plants for spring!
Get the details.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington for the bar’s weekly Open Mic Night. Share your musical or stand up talent at the event, happening from 6-10 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a special night for mamas and their favorite little cowboys at the The Mother-Son Ranch Night. This western-style evening is all about quality time, connection, and good old-fashioned fun — without the pressure of a traditional “dance.”
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 27
Defiance Ridge Vineyards is hosting a 2000’s themed trivia night. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. and trivia starts at 7 p.m., with a $25 per team cost.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Love a good murder mystery event? Then you won’t want to miss the 80’s themed event in Owensville.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28 & Sunday, March 1
The Meramec River Wine Trail’s Winter Wine Tasting Event will feature wine and food pairings from numerous wineries in the region – from Steelville to St. James. This self-guided tour is $30 per person, with tickets available for purchase online.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is hosting The Magic of Maples, a fun and informational event that highlights history of making maple products in Missouri and how to make maple products today. The event is free, but registration is required.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 1
The Wildflower Wedding Market is happening from noon-4 p.m. at The Venue at Wildflower Ridge. Meet with wedding planners, decorators, photographers, caterers, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 1
Folky Fish Fest and Spencer Manor are teaming up to host an afternoon of delicious food and live music as a fundraiser for the second year of Folky Fish Jam Camp. Last year’s jam camp welcomed 30 students from the surrounding areas, where they spent the day learning and jamming with Festival Performing Artists thanks to donations and funding from local organizations and individual community members. This year help offer the camp to as many young folks as possible via student scholarships.
Find out more.

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Author of the Talk Nerdy to Me series.
Download your next binge read.

Sunday, March 1
Brookdale Farms is hosting a Winter Bridal Show. This one-stop planning event, features immersive venue tours, stunning décor inspiration, and direct access to the best wedding pros in the business in one elegant afternoon.
Get tickets and find out more.

Sunday, March 1
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
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!

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 16-22, 2026

This week there’s paint nights, author events, karaoke and open mic nights, as well as the Singo event in Pacific, which combines bingo and karaoke, plus head to downtown Washington on Saturday to let the good times roll, at the Mardi Gras celebration!

There’s even more events just a short drive from Franklin County, such as the Bridgerton Social event at the Rolla Public Library, a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud, and much more.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, double check with the event venue before heading out!

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

Thursday, Feb. 19
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair is hosting a paint and sip night.
Get more info and register.

Thursday, Feb. 19
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific is hosting a Health and Wellness Fair. The fair is free and open to the public and is happening from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 20
Red Door Liquor & Cigars in Eureka is having a night of international whiskey. Attendees will try over 30 different whiskies from all over the world. There are two seatings, 6 – 7 p.m. or 7:15 – 8:15 p.m. Cost is $45 per person and it includes whiskey sampling and heavy appetizers. 
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 20
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting its karaoke night from 8 p.m.-midnight.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Meet children’s author Constance J. Hagedorn, Ph.D., along with her daughter Ashley, at Red Cedar Inn in Pacific.
Get more details.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Head to Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist for a modern terrarium workshop. Attendees will get help choosing the perfect plants to create a one-of-a-kind terrarium and learn how to care for your terrarium to keep it healthy and happy.
Register and learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Tipsy Keg is hosting a Mardi Gras themed masquerade. Wear your Mardi Gras colors, lots of beads, and a masquerade mask at this fun party. There will be karaoke, dancing, and drink specials throughout the evening.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
For its centennial, “Route 66 expert” and local author Joe Sonderman will present a fascinating look at The Main Street of America at the Pacific Scenic Regional Library Branch.
Get more details.

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Saturday, Feb. 21
Get ready to play bingo while belting out tunes at Singo and Karaoke, at the Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and tickets are $20 per person.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
It’s Mardi Gras in downtown Washington! The celebration will be filled with shopping, food, music, drinks, and New Orleans flair.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21 & Sunday, Feb. 22
Head to Off the Rails Burger Bar in Pacific for a two day seed swap and get a jumpstart on your spring planting.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Multiple days and times
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Feb. 20
Join Waffles the Mini Highland Cow for a Donut and Hot Chocolate Painting Party in Warrenton.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Gasconade County Threshers Association is hosting a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud. There will be a cash bar, live auction, and alpha gal menu options.
Find the event on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Calling all Bridgerton fans! You are warmly invited to an afternoon of charm, conversation, and spirited competition as we discuss the first half of the newest Bridgerton season and ready ourselves for what comes next at the Rolla Public Library. Enjoy tea, lively discussion, and a selection of quizzes, games and trivia to test your knowledge of the Ton. Regency‑inspired attire is optional, though delightfully encouraged for those wishing to embrace the occasion.
Find out more.

Sunday, Feb. 22
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
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

Five Valentine’s Drink Menus to Try in Franklin County

Next to fall and Christmas flavored drinks, Valentine’s Day drink menus offer some of my favorite ingredients. Many drinks feature flavor profiles that include berries, chocolate, and rose, and so many of the drinks also look gorgeous, by incorporating elements of red and blush hues, as well as botanical or fruit garnishes.

If you’re like me and you want to try Valentine’s drinks, luckily there are several establishments in Franklin County that have a selection of drinks – from cocktails to coffees, crafted sodas, teas, and more.

Scarlett’s Bar & Grill in St. Clair
The establishment has a few themed drinks available, like the Cupid’s Arrow, Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini, and shots like the Chocolate Rose.

SmoothE’s and More in Sullivan
Locally-owned smoothie shop SmoothE’s and More in Sullivan has two Valentine-themed smoothies available. Try the chocolate covered strawberry or the chocolate raspberry cheesecake options while they’re on the menu.

Good News Blooms, Sips, & Sweets in St. Clair
Wet your whistle with a variety of Valentine’s themed crafted sodas like the Be Mine Cherry Vanilla, or Cupid’s Strawberry Cream. There are also special tea drinks including the Cherry Vanilla Love Tea and Sweet Tea Valentine, or lemonades like the Cupid’s Blush.

Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan
The coffee shop, cafe, and bakery has a lovely sounding Valentine’s drink menu with drinks like the Cupid’s Chai, Strawberry Shortcake Mocha, and Love Potion, to name a few.

underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington
Can’t decide on one holiday flavor? Try a Valentine’s coffee flight at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington.

If you try one of the drinks at the above establishments and like it, I’d love it if you would tag me on Facebook.

Posted in Events

10 Valentine’s Day Events in Franklin County Perfect for Couples, Friends, or Families

No matter if you’re looking to celebrate Valentine’s with your sweetheart, your gal pals, or your kiddos, there’s unique and festive events happening in and around Franklin County throughout the week and weekend of Valentine’s Day.

Wednesday, Feb. 11-Saturday, Feb. 14
Are you ready to get married, but don’t want to plan a wedding? Wish there was a Vegas-style ceremony option right here in Franklin County? For a limited time, there is. The Yes, a Valentine’s Day Wedding event is happening for a few days at the Washington Expo Center. The details have been handled, all you have to do is walk down the aisle and say “I do.”
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Looking for a girls night out? Sip on fun Valentine’s themed drinks at the Galentine’s Day Pop-Up Bar at Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington. There are two seating times available for this special event: from 5-7 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
Make your reservations for a four-course dinner at Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington.
Get more details.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having a Valentine’s dinner event fit for a fairy tale. The Carriages & Candlelight event will feature a romantic, candlelit dinner experience with intimate seating, live instrumental music, a catered dinner, professional photo moments, and an open bar, and carriage rides throughout the evening.
Find tickets.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
Oak and Front Kitchen + Bar is offering a special Valentine’s dinner on Friday and Saturday. The chef curated menu features filet with vegetables and drink specials available both days. Reservations are recommended as walk-in seating will be limited after 4:30 p.m. on each day.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Attend a succulent potting bar class with a twist at the plant and sip galentine’s event at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Tickets are $35 and include a free glass of wine, with additional glasses of wine available for $5.
Reserve your spot.

Friday, Feb. 13
Enjoy a galentine’s day event with a fun, floral twist at the Main Street Studio in downtown Washington. This Build-An-Arrangement Night is hosted by Joyful Blooms and is a hands-on floral design experience that’s the perfect way to celebrate friendship, creativity, and a beautiful night out together.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
St. James Winery is hosting a special Valentine’s Dinner and facility tour. Attendees will enjoy a four-course culinary experience paired with specially selected wine or beer, crafted to elevate every bite. Your evening includes an intimate guided tour where you’ll learn about the winemaking process, enjoy the ambiance, and savor each course as the night unfolds. Let the atmosphere, the pairings, and the company sweep you away.
See the menu and buy tickets.

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Friday, Feb. 13
Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington is hosting a galentine’s night. Expect cocktails, bites, and lots of cozy, galentine’s vibes.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 14
Spend Valentine’s Day at McKelvey Vineyards and enjoy dinner, champagne and live music! Buffet dinner from 5-7 p.m., with live music with The Bright Side from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and include dinner and a glass of champagne.
Find tickets.

*Editorial note* this article has been updated to reflect the cancellation of the Valentine’s dinner by Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan.