Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Sept. 1 – Sept. 7, 2025

This weekend is packed with things to do around the area – there’s car shows, food focused events, and festivals galore, from the Celtic Festival and Beerfest in Washington, to WingFest in Union, plus the Harvest Festival in Steelville, the Boots and Bourbon Bash in Rosebud, and many more events.

Thursday, Sept. 4
Are you looking for ways to extend the growing season in your vegetable garden? The Sullivan branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a program called Extending the Growing Season, at 6 p.m. The event is free, but RSVP is required to attend.
RSVP and get more information.

Graphic via Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library’s Facebook

Friday, Sept. 5
Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven is hosting a BBQ pop-up, with Josh Lang cooking up the ‘cue. The event is from 3-5 p.m., or until sold out.
Learn more.

Friday, Sept. 5-Saturday, Sept. 6
The 9th Annual WingFest is going down at the Union Fairgrounds, located at Union City Park. This free two day event will feature food, vendors, live music, wing eating contest, chicken nugget contest, a corn hole tournament, fireworks, face painter, mechanical bull, bounce houses, and a lot more.
Get details on Facebook.

Friday, Sept. 5
The Washington Public Library’s writers’ group, the Washington Wordsmiths, is publishing their second anthology, “‘Doorknobs & Pathways’.” To add to the festivity local authors are invited to bring their work to sell. Come talk to the authors and enjoy festive treats. Copies of “‘Doorknobs & Pathways'” will be available for purchase.
Learn more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
If you’re feeling crafty, then head to DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in downtown St. Clair for a resin wind chime class. The cost if $35 per person, with all materials included in the attendance price, and each attendee will leave with a wind chime.
More details.

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Ad purchased by Freelance Services – residential architecture and design services.
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Saturday, Sept. 6
Calling all craft beer lovers, the 19th Annual Washington Jaycees Brewfest is happening at the Washington Farmers Market from 4-8 p.m. Guests of this ticketed event will gain access to 20+ breweries, home-brewers, and distilleries, as well as getting a commemorative Brewfest pint glass. There will be live music and food available for purchase from Ernesto’s Mexican Restaurant, and American Legion Auxiliary will be hosting a bake sale at the event.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
If you’re looking for a spot to chill and listen to live music with an uplifting message, then head to Pacific for Rockin’ the Railroad, a concert put on by The Bridge. The gate opens at 5 p.m. and will feature the music of The Protest, Behold the Beloved, and Cole Abell.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Sept. 6
The Chick-fil-A food truck will be in New Haven, at People’s Savings Bank. A portion of the sales from the day will benefit The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation. The food truck operates on a pre-order basis so the restaurant knows how much food to bring to each mobile location.
Learn more and pre-order here.

Saturday, Sept. 6
The annual VFW Celtic Festival is back for its one-day celebration at the Washington VFW, located at 813 Jefferson St. This ticketed event features, food, a beer tent, festivities, and music.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Andy’s Too in Union’s ice cream shop, located on U.S. 50, is hosting its grand opening. The festivities include family-fun like face painting, as well as a seafood boil, plus more.
Get the details.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Liberty Field in Pacific will be the site of Jimmy Smooths Creepin’ Show, a car show featuring rat rods and bikes, plus music, kids activities, food trucks, a swap meet, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, Sept. 7
Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer, & Spirits in Union is hosting its grand opening celebration from 1-5 p.m. There will live music by Twisted Fiction, along with free product samples, and giveaways.
More info.

Sunday, Sept. 7
Looking for a rejuvenating experience? Lost Hill Lake Wedding & Events in St. Clair has a workshop for that. Combining the power of breath work with the invigorating effects of ice baths and saunas, attendees will release stress, boost their immune system, and leave feeling refreshed and energized.
Get tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, Sept. 2 – Sunday, Sept. 7
Head to Steelville for Harvest Festival 2025, a several days long event that features music, food, games, and rodeo fun.
More information.

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Thursday, Sept. 4 – Sunday, Sept. 7
Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, tuck into tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages.
Learn more.

Thursday, Sept. 4 – Saturday, Sept. 6
The annual Grape & Fall Festival in St. James kicks off Thursday, and just a few of the festivities include Weiner dog races, a rodeo roping show, street market fair, carnival rides, livestock exhibits, food vendors, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Put on your Western wear for the Boots & Bourbon Bash at Copper June’s in Rosebud. This one-day event will feature music, food trucks, spirits from area distilleries, and boot-scootin’ fun.
Get tickets.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Aug. 25 – Aug. 31, 2025

It’s Labor Day Weekend this week, and if you’re staying close to home during this final holiday of the summer, then rest assured that there’s plenty of things to do!

Wednesday, Aug. 27
The Franklin County Silent Book Club is hosting its monthly meeting at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington. Bring your book of choice, order a beverage, and sit and read in companionable silence, followed by a short period dedication to conversation, or continued reading.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Aug. 27
Brushin’ Whimsy is hosting a paint night at Sip on Main in Union from 6-8 p.m.
Find out more and register.

Photo via Sunset on the Riverfront Facebook event

Thursday, Aug. 28
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.

Friday, Aug. 29
Do some stargazing at Cedar Creek Hotel & Event Venue in New Haven. From 7-9 p.m., take in the dazzling night sky by gazing through a 30 inch telescope, and learn how to use a camera on a telescope to take pictures with an astrophotography center adjacent to the main telescope. Attendees will have to climb a ladder to reach the large scope. The event will be cancelled if there is cloud cover or inclement weather.
Learn more.

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Friday, Aug. 29
Stop in to Pickneybend Distilling in New Haven to take part in the establishment’s monthly cocktail class. Attendees will receive three cocktails they’ve made themselves, plus receive a discount on bottled spirit purchases. Cost is $30 per person.
Find out more and sign up.

Saturday, Aug. 30
Make and learn how to care for a hanging moss ball planter at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery in Washington. The cost to attend is $35 per person, and registration is required.
Get registered.

Road Trippin’

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

Monday, Aug. 25
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for Art After Hours Paint & Sip event, happening from 6-9 p.m. The theme for the event is camping, the fee is $40 and admission price includes supplies.
Get tickets and more info.

Wednesday, Aug. 27
There’s free line dancing starting at 6 p.m. this, and every, Wednesday night at The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville.
Learn more.

Thursday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 31
Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, tuck into tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages.
Learn more.

Freelance Services business ad
Ad purchased by Freelance Services – residential architecture and design services.
“My goal is to make your home your castle.”

Saturday, Aug. 30
Celebrate the start of the grape harvest at Stone Hill Winery’s free Harvest Festival. Head to the Hermann winery for festivities such as a grape stomping photo op, a behind the scenes tour, games and a scavenger hunt, live music, plus wine, slushies, and beer by the glass, and a lot more.
Get more details.

Saturday, Aug. 30
Bring your classic car, truck, sports car, Jeep, anything with wheels you love, to Prairie Barn Winery in St. James. This is a non-judged, no-prizes event—just a great time with fellow car and truck enthusiasts!
Get more details.

Saturday, Aug. 30
Enjoy a concert at Music in the Park, at Maramec Spring Park in St. James. Forrest McCurren will perform from 6-8 p.m., admission is $20 per car.
Find out more.

Saturday, Aug. 30
There’s a free women’s medicinal drum circle happening in Marthasville. This monthly meetup aims to foster mindfulness and community among women in the area.
Learn more on Facebook.

Saturday, Aug. 30
The Homemade Exchange is a monthly meetup at the Owensville branch of Scenic Regional Library. This free event is a meeting of people who exchange homemade items, from homemade baked goods and canned items, to soaps, crafts, and more.
Find out more.

Posted in News and Features

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Desserts Are on the Menu at Sarah’s on Central in Eureka

With an eclectic yet comfortable interior, Sarah’s on Central in Old Town Eureka, has a menu of cocktails, brunch options, and baked goodies, as well as lunch and dinner options like sandwiches, salads, burgers, and more.

Seasonal salad special featuring watermelon, spinach, and grilled chicken. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

The intimate space is perfect for a date, meeting up with friends or family, or even a solo meal. There’s bar seating, low-top tables for two or four guests, as well as a few options for seating larger groups, including a long high-top table in the center of the eatery.

During my visit, on a scorching summer day, nothing sounded better to me than a cool, nourishing salad and a refreshing cocktail – so that’s just what I ordered. The salad I chose was part of the summer seasonal menu, but featured a number of flavors and textures: spinach leaves, cubed watermelon, feta cheese, cucumber slices and a lime vinaigrette, topped with grilled chicken breast. It was the perfect meal for the 90+ temperature day.

Sarah’s on Central features a bar with cocktails like this berry vodka seasonal mixed drink. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

I rarely drink liquor, but once I spotted a drink, also on the seasonal menu, that was made with vodka, cranberry, strawberry and a basil garnish, I couldn’t resist. The combination of flavors played off each other, the strawberry puree balanced the tartness of the cranberry and kept it from tasting like a straight vodka-cran, while the basil garnish added a hint of savory finish. During a different season, I will likely order one of the establishment’s “Over-the-top Bloody Marys” as long as I have someone to share it with, since the drinks are typically like getting a cocktail with a side of snacks!

In addition to the food and drink menu, there’s a selection of bakery items. Side note: if you’re the kind of person who easily caves when looking at yummy baked goodies, perhaps put on blinders when it comes time to pay at the register, located atop the bakery case! I did not partake in any of the cupcakes, gianormous cookies, or other yummy treats I spied in the enclosed glass case, but they looked divine.

The Socialite recommends Sarah’s on Central!

The details:
127 South Central Avenue, Eureka
Find more details on its website
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Posted in Updates

What’s Happening in Franklin County June 9 – June 15, 2025

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.