There’s something about glowing light displays that make this time of year feel extra special. If you’re looking for places to view lights, by either driving through the lights or exploring them on foot, take a look at the list below
St. Clair
Head to Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair to walk through their annual Grove of Lights holiday light experience. View thousands of dazzling lights, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and s’mores, get photos with Santa, free face painting for kids, and much more. Purchase tickets.
Union
ReDicsover Union Inc. has released a Holiday Lights Map on its website. The map shows you how to take a self-guided tour of the lights located throughout town.
Eureka
Santa’s Magical Kingdom is a drive-thru light display containing millions of lights that make up a variety of animated scenes. Admission is paid by the carload. Find out more.
Central Avenue in Eureka is lit up with beautiful holiday displays. See more.
Washington
Take a drive down East Fifth Street to take in the lights of numerous businesses as well as residences who’ve decked the halls for Christmas. There’s also some beautiful light displays on the historic homes located along Cedar Street (near Tilted Skillet), as well as in the neighborhood near Total Access Urgent Care (Madison Avenue and 47).
Krakow
Facebook users report that a private home located at 5333 Cedar Lane in Krakow features a lighted display set to music.
Rolla
Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season. Learn pricing and more info.
Christmas in the Park is happening at Rolla Lions Park from Dec. 11-23 and again from Dec. 26-27. This drive-through light display features displays of several businesses and organizations in Phelps County as well as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and more. Get more information.
St. Louis and St. Charles Counties
For those up for a road trip, Facebook users report that there are numerous neighborhoods, parks, and other organizations featuring holiday light displays, including Teddy Bear Christmas Land, near Grant’s Farm.
Walk through lights at Grant’s Farm features carousel rides, up close encounters with animals, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as millions of dazzling light displays. Learn more and get tickets.
Garden Glow is a walk-through lighted display at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Find out more.
Wild Lights is a light display at the St. Louis Zoo. Get more info.
It’s another week of events perfect for making Christmas memories with your family and friends. This week, catch Christmas movies at area theaters, get crafty with some free maker events happening at local libraries, visit holiday pop-up bars, don your ugly Christmas sweaters or Christmas PJs and party at local bars. There’s also lots of chances to visit with Santa or The Grinch, take in holiday light displays, and other holiday celebrations.
Please note I try my best to capture the happenings in our area each week, and some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, so I share those items in my stories throughout the week. Be sure to follow me on Facebook an Instagram to get all the details!
And, as we move into winter weather, event details may change or events may get rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!
Monday, Dec. 15, Wednesday, Dec. 17, Saturday, Dec. 20, Sunday, Dec. 21 Great 8 Cinema in Union is showing classic holiday movies through Christmas Eve for only $2 per person. On Monday and Wednesday, catch “The Polar Express” and on Saturday and Sunday view “Elf” which will also be shown on Monday, Dec. 22 and on Christmas Eve. Get more info.
Tuesday, Dec. 16 Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch is hosting a holiday music event called A Carpenter’s Christmas with Melissa and Tim. The musicians will perform nostalgic Christmas tunes originally performed by the group The Carpenters. This event is free, but limited to 50 people and registration is required. Register here.
Tuesday, Dec. 16 The Washington Public Library is hosting a Winter Paint Party. From 6-8 p.m., attendees will work on a painting under the guidance of an instructor. Find out more.
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Tuesday, Dec. 16 The 16th Annual Oma’s Soup Night is happening at St. John the Baptist School-Gildehaus. What started in the early 2000s as a simple night of homemade soup and togetherness has grown into a local symbol of generosity and community spirit. The event was founded by Oma Gildehaus who began inviting friends and family to Cowans Restaurant, which she and her husband owned at the time, each December for soup, fellowship, and a shared goal of giving back. After Oma’s passing from cancer in 2009, her loved ones continued her legacy, transforming “Soup Night” into an annual event in her honor — one that now draws families from across the area. Oma’s Soup Night is happening from 5-8 p.m. Attendees can enjoy homemade soup, and in exchange donate canned goods, hygiene products, or a monetary donation of what you’re able. All proceeds go toward community outreach, with over $5,300 and a record of items collected last year. Get more info.
Wednesday, Dec. 17 The Washington Public Library is hosting a Christmas Crafternoon event. From 4-5 p.m., attendees ages 9 and up will work on a holiday craft. Learn more.
Thursday, Dec. 18 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington’s “Happy Holidates” continues this week. The special is a dinner and a movie date package on Thursdays, with a holiday twist. For $30 per person, enjoy dinner at Smokin’ Oak, plus admission to a holiday film, popcorn, and a drink. This week, catch the 80s holiday film “Gremlins.” Get more info.
Thursday, Dec. 18 The Cigar Vault in Pacific is hosting a Ladies Night. Bring in 2-4 dozen cookies for a cookie swap, enjoy cocktails, cigars, and take home a new piece of permanent jewelry. Find out more.
Thursday, Dec. 18 Head to Washington for a flashlight candy cane hunt! The event is open for kids ages 1-10, and is $10 per child. The event happens at City Auditorium. Registration required and the deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 16. Find out more.
Thursday, Dec. 18 Put on your ugliest holiday sweater and stop by Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington. The establishment is offering prizes for the ugliest sweater. Get more info.
Thursday, Dec. 18 That One Nail Studio in Union is hosting a Nails & New Links Holiday Social. Stop by from 5-8 p.m. for an evening of holiday cocktails and mocktails, as well as JBloom permanent jewelry, and more. Find out more.
Friday, Dec. 19 Farmers and Merchant Bank in St. Clair is hosting a Selfies with Santa event from 1-3 p.m. Enjoy some cookies and Christmas cheer and get a picture with Santa. Learn more.
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Saturday, Dec. 20 – Sunday, Dec. 21 Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair is having their annual Grove of Lights holiday light experience. View thousands of dazzling lights, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and s’mores, get photos with Santa, free face painting for kids, and much more. Purchase tickets.
Saturday, Dec. 20 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington’s final Five Can Film Series of the season is a showing of “Arthur Christmas” this Saturday. Catch the film for a $6 ticket price, or by donating 5 non-perishable cans of food per movie goer. Learn more.
Saturday, Dec. 20 Santa Claus is coming to Sullivan Bank’s St. Clair location from 9 a.m.-noon! This free event features milk and cookies, as well as a photo with Santa. You’ll leave with a free photo magnet to take home. Get more details.
Saturday, Dec. 20 Ladies, Littles, and Lattes is having its 3rd Annual Pictures With Santa event. Photos with Santa are only $5 per family (each family takes their own pictures), there’s also face painting, a bounce house, food trucks, and more. Get information.
Saturday, Dec. 20 Visit with Santa or The Grinch this weekend. The Grinch will be at R&R Ace in St. Clair or visit with Santa at Sullivan Ace. The events at both locations are from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Get more info.
Saturday, Dec. 20 There’s another chance to see both Santa and The Grinch at El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant in Union. Find out more.
Saturday, Dec. 20 Scarlett’s Bar & Grill is hosting its annual Christmas PJ Party from 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Get the details.
Sunday, Dec. 21 Blondies Breezeway in St. Clair is hosting a Pancakes with Santa breakfast event. The breakfast event is from 9 a.m.-noon and children 10 and under eat free. Learn more.
Sunday, Dec. 21 Dahlia Cafe in Union is hosting a Santa Brunch. Take a photo with Santa, drop off your letters to the North Pole, and enjoy a brunch menu. Get more info.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Weekdays and Weekends in December Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this fall and winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard. Get pricing and more info.
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Thursday, Dec. 18 & Saturday, Dec. 20 The Barn at Brookdale Farms is transformed into The Jingle Joint, a Christmas pop-up bar on select evenings through the holiday season. Guests will be wowed with the festive floor-to-ceiling decorations like twinkle lights, tinsel, garland, and more. Prepare to hum along to holiday tunes, sip cocktails and warm winter drinks. Find admission prices and more on Facebook.
Friday, Dec. 19 & Saturday, Dec. 20 Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season. Learn pricing and more info.
Friday, Dec. 19 & Saturday, Dec. 20 Hermann’s holiday pop-up bar called Holly Hof is open Friday and Saturday evenings through the end of 2025. Find cheery cocktails, mocktails, bites, and cozy Christmas décor. Find out more.
Saturday, Dec. 20 Head to Camp Mihaska in Bourbon for a holiday event featuring live music, reindeer games, hot chocolate, cookie decorating and Christmas crafts, as well as a nativity experience and drive through light display. Find out more.
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Happy Thanksgiving week! If you or someone you know is looking for a Thanksgiving meal, there are several places offering free meals. There are also bars hosting Thanksgiving Eve experiences, and after Thanksgiving, there’s holiday events kicking off on Friday, like the Holiday Parade of Lights in Washington, plus Small Business Saturday, and a lot more.
Please note I try my best to capture the happenings in our area each week, and some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, so I share those items in my stories throughout the week. Be sure to follow me on Facebook an Instagram to get all the details!
And, as we move into winter weather, event details may change or events may get rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!
Wednesday, Nov. 26 White Rose Cafe in Union will offer a Thanksgiving meal featuring turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, and a roll for $12.99. The meals are available for eat in or take out. Learn more.
Wednesday, Nov. 26 The Knights of Columbus in Washington is having a Thanksgiving Eve Dance. Pulse band will perform beginning at 8 p.m. Find out more.
Wednesday, Nov. 26 Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have Thanksgiving Eve Tunes by Tommy Norton. There will be $5 burgers from 4-9 p.m. Get more info.
Wednesday, Nov. 26-Wednesday, Dec. 10 Kicking off the day before Thanksgiving and running through Dec. 10 is Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar’s The 898 Hours of Christmas Pop-Up Bar. Drink Christmas-themed cocktails in a cozy, winter wonderland-themed space. Get more details.
Thursday, Nov. 27 The Knights of Columbus in Gerald is hosting its 7th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. This free meal is available to the community for in person or take out, but RSVP is appreciated for meal planning purposes. Learn more and RSVP.
Thursday, Nov. 27 United Methodist Church in St. Clair will have its 21st Annual Free Thanksgiving Meal from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Find out more.
Thursday, Nov. 27 Lang-A-Tang Cafe in New Haven is having its 5th free Thanksgiving To-Go Meals from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Get more details.
Friday, Nov. 28-Sunday, Nov. 30 Blumenhof Winery in Dutzow is hosting a Kristkindl Markt featuring locally made goods from a variety of vendors and fun, free, family-friendly festivities. Stay warm with fire pits, heaters, hot coffee, cocoa, and delicious hot, mulled wine. Learn more.
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Friday, Nov. 28 Downtown Washington will be aglow during the Holiday Parade of Lights. The parade starts at 6 p.m. and will feature over 70 beautifully lit parade floats, antique cars, bands, and walking groups. Santa will also make an appearance at the end of the parade for the tree lighting at the corner of Main and Elm Streets. Find parade route and other details on Facebook.
Friday, Nov. 28 After the Holiday Parade of Lights, head to John G.’s in Washington for an evening of Christmas carols performed by Melissa Frey. Get more info.
*Saturday, Nov. 29* RESCHEDULED 12/6/25 New Haven is the site of the Handmade Holiday Mart from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find seasonal cocktails and samples from Pinckney Bend Distillery, an espresso bar by Lang-A-Tang Cafe, tea and gifts from London Tea Merchant, plus permanent jewelry, custom shirts and mugs, along with flowers, décor, and ornaments by Bright Side Blooms. Get all the details.
Saturday, Nov. 29 Petals and Plants in Sullivan will have free pictures with The Grinch from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Find out more.
Saturday, Nov. 29 Santa is coming to R&R Ace in St. Clair from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. There will be additional visits from Santa, as well as The Grinch, throughout the holiday season. Learn more.
Saturday, Nov. 29 The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night every Saturday. Stand up comedy, music, and more is welcome. Learn more.
Saturday, Nov. 29 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is kicking off its Five Can Film Series with a showing of “The Polar Express.” Watch classic holiday flicks throughout the Christmas season for a $6 ticket price, or by donating 5 non-perishable cans of food per movie goer. Find out more.
*Saturday, Nov. 29* CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER United Bank of Union is hosting a Small Business Saturday vendor event. Find local vendors to shop from, live music, food trucks, photos with Santa, and more. Get the details.
Saturday, Nov. 29 Santa Claus is coming to Harmony Health & Wellness in St. Clair. Santa will be on site from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and the establishment will have specials on gift cards and retail as part of Small Business Saturday. Get the details.
Saturday, Nov. 29 The Gerald Lions Club is getting into the holiday spirit with a Christmas-themed trivia night. Attendees can get prizes for trivia as well as for best decorated table and ugly sweaters. Find out costs and other details.
Sunday, Nov. 30 The Washington Farmers Market will be the site of an Olde Fashioned Christmas event. The event will feature horse-drawn wagon rides, marshmallow roasting, photos with reindeer, local choirs and the Washington Brass Band, along with hot chocolate and hot cider, Christmas crafts, cookie decorating, face painting, plus a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Learn more.
Sunday, Nov. 30 First Christian Church in Washington is hosting a Christmas Tree Lighting event that will include themed games, crafts, activities, a barrel train, live music, cookies + cocoa, a hot dog roasting station, and Just Hank’s Coffee on-site. Get more details.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Wednesday, Nov. 26 The Outfield Sports Bar and Grill in Marthasville is hosting a ticketed Thanksgiving Eve Party that will feature dueling pianos. Get more info.
Friday, Nov. 28 & Saturday, Nov. 29 Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season. Learn pricing and more info.
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Friday, Nov. 28 – Wednesday, Dec. 31 Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this fall and winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard. Get pricing and more info.
Saturday, Nov. 29 Bland is kicking off the Christmas season with a celebration at Bland City Park. There will be a Christmas parade, photos with Santa, cocoa and sweet treats, kids crafts, and chili. Find out more.
Saturday, Nov. 29 The Homemade Exchange in Owensville is hosting its monthly meetup. Head to the Scenic Regional Library’s Owensville Branch for a chance to connect with others in the community and exchange homemade/homegrown items one-for-one. Find out more.
Prost! Oktoberfest celebrations in Hermann kick off this weekend, plus there’s an apple festival, a drive-in movie, music festival, two different local author events, plus beer and wine events, and more!
Wednesday, Oct. 1 Discover the history, science, and mystery of astrology during this four-week learning opportunity, happening Oct. 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd from 6 – 7 p.m. at the Washington Public Library. Must sign up prior to attending, and once signed up, you’re in for all four weeks. Sign up.
Thursday, Oct. 2 Downtown Washington’s Witches on Main Street event is back this year and features an evening of shopping, food, music, drinks, games, and more. Tickets are $10 in advance, or $15 at the event. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 3 Back by popular demand, there’s another Feast with Josh Lang event happening in New Haven. Stop by Pinckneybend Distillery and purchase some delectable BBQ made by Josh. Find out more.
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Saturday, Oct. 4 Meet local author Juniper Nicole at Neighborhood Reads where she will be signing copies of her new release “More Than Fiction” a contemporary romance novel set in a small river town that’s reminiscent of WashMO. Whether you’re a fan of small-town charm, witty banter, swoony romance, or just love supporting local authors, this is the perfect chance to snag a personalized copy, chat with the author, and celebrate a story that proves love is always worth the risk. The event starts at 1 p.m. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Stop by Grace United Methodist Church in Sullivan for a lunch of German food including brats, schnitzel, apple pie, and more. Get the details.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Head to Cinema 1 Plus in Washington for a drive-in showing of the movie “Hotel Transylvania.” Be sure to arrive early, since parking for the movie is first come, first served, with concessions available for purchase. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Don’t miss out on your chance to ride in a real monster truck! America’s Wildest Monster Truck Show is coming to WashMo. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 4 The Franklin County Historical Society in Union is hosting a Local Author Showcase. Stop by the event, happening from noon – 4 p.m., and meet local authors and pick up a new book. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Andy’s Produce in Union is hosting an Apple Festival. This fall-themed event is happening from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and will feature apple treats, fresh apples for purchase, and games. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 4 The St. Clair Farmers Market happens the first and third Saturday in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Evergreen Baptist Church in Leslie is hosting an Oktoberfest event from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. This free event is open to the public and will include food, music, games, a bounce house, a petting zoo, an archery shoot, barrel train rides, and more! Get more details.
Saturday, Oct. 4 – Sunday, Oct. 5 The 28th Annual Mid-Missouri Horse, Mule, & Ox Farming & Historical Crafts Days in Gerald will feature demonstrations of pioneering and homesteading skills such as basketry, corn grinding, spinning, using natural dyes, beekeeping, leather work, and much more. Find out more.
Sunday, Oct. 5 Love live music festivals? Be sure to get tickets for the Rock the Trail Music Fest happening in Gerald. The festival will also feature vendors and food, with some proceeds from the festival going toward the continued expansion of the Rock Island Trail. Get tickets.
Sunday, Oct. 5 Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair is hosting a one-day Breathwork, Ice Bath, and Sauna workshop from noon – 2 p.m. This workshop combines the power of breathwork with the invigorating effects of ice baths and saunas. Release stress, boost your immune system, and leave feeling refreshed and energized. Register here.
Sunday, Oct. 5 Head to McKelvey Vineyards with your gently used books for a Sip & Swap Book Exchange. Meet fellow readers, sip on wine, and leave with a new-to-you book. Find out more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Thursday, Oct. 2– Sunday, Oct. 5 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, try tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 3 – Sunday, Oct. 5 Eureka is hosting its annual carnival event Eureka Days, and this year’s theme is Medieval Nights. There will be carnival rides, food, music, a bar and beer garden, plus kickball and knockerball tournaments. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Fall Treasure Day is an annual event in Rosebud. Spend the day exploring the town’s eateries, boutiques, antique shops, and area vendors set up on U.S. Highway 50 in town. Learn more.
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Saturday, Oct. 4 Washington State Park in DeSoto will hold its annual Fall Harvest Fest on Saturday, Oct. 4. This event will include a handmade item and craft fair featuring a variety of vendors from Missouri, as well as fall crafts and activities for kids. Food and concession items will be available for purchase. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Augusta Bottoms Brew Fest is an annual fundraiser for families in the greater STL area that have children fighting disabilities. Sample over 140 beers and enjoy food and more at this festival. Purchase tickets.
Friday, Oct. 3 – Sunday, Oct. 5 Happening every weekend in October, Hermann Oktoberfest features beer, food, music, games, and more. Get all the details.
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