Tag: family

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 30 – April 5, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Easter’s on the horizon and this week egg hunts and visits with the Easter bunny continue to take place around Franklin County! There are free events, indoor and outdoor events, as well as egg hunts for all ages.

If you want to leave the Easter meal to someone else, there are a couple options for Easter brunch – with a buffet option at Mangia Bella in Washington or Easter brunch at Spencer Manor Winery in St. James.

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.

Thursday, April 2
The Alley in Washington is having an Easter Egg-stravaganza! Decorate a wooden egg and have your photo taken with the Easter bunny, and there are egg hunts for kids and adults. Cost to attend is $5.
Learn more.

Friday, April 3
Have breakfast with the Easter bunny on Good Friday at City Park in Union. Enjoy donut holes, drinks, and an egg hunt. Advance tickets are required and can be purchased at the park office.
Learn more.

Friday, April 3
First Baptist Church in Union is having an Easter egg hunt at 1 p.m. for kids up to age 12.
Find out more.

Friday, April 3
The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch is hosting a Egg-Dying Makerspace from 12-4 p.m. Leave the supplies and mess to the library, you just bring your boiled eggs! Supplies including dye, markers, tattoos, shaving cream, tissue paper are provided by the library.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 4
Create a stained glass sheep at Shattered Glass Designs in Washington. The event begins at 10 a.m. and registration is required to attend.
Learn more and register.

Saturday, April 4
Hear live music performed by Tom Norton at Hangout Entertainment Bar & Grill in St. Clair from 6-9 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 4
Point Labaddie Brewery in Labaddie will have Papillion Perennials Spring Plant Sale from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. There will also be music by Gage Seitz and food by Hot Tamales Love at First Bite.
More info.

Saturday, April 4
The Lions Club of New Haven will host an Easter egg hunt beginning at 1 p.m. at the city park.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 4
Andy’s Produce Too in Union is hosting a free Easter event. Have your photo taken with the Easter bunny, take part in an egg hunt, plus there will be a kids vendor event and a seafood boil.
Get all the details.

Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Whether you’ve been dreaming about upgrading your kitchen, adding another bathroom or bedroom, a new deck or an outdoor space, Freelance Services can help with that! Reach out today to talk about your project!

Saturday, April 4
Over 6,000 eggs will be scattered like treasure on the Harney Mansion’s lawn in Sullivan. Find a golden egg and win a prize! The Easter Bunny will be there, ready to strike a pose with your little ones. The fun begins at 11 a.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 4
American Legion in Union is having an adult egg hunt beginning at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $25 per person and includes food and drinks, plus egg hunting fun.
More info.

Saturday, April 4
The Alley and Cinema 1 Plus in Washington are teaming up to bring the community a Mario Kart Tournament on the big screen. The cost $8 per and the fun starts at 9 a.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 4
The Moose Lodge in Union is hosting an Easter Carnival from 2-4 p.m. The event will have fun and games for kids inside the hall, with a possible egg hunt outdoors at 1 p.m., weather permitting.
Stay up to date on the event.

Saturday, April 4
The annual Riverside Short Film Festival is happening in downtown New Haven, beginning at 2 p.m. Tickets are required to attend due to limited seating.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 4
Create a resurrection garden at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. The event begins at 11 a.m. and costs $40. Registration required to attend.
Register for the event.

Saturday, April 4
Head to the Knights of Columbus Hall in Washington for an Easter egg hunt at 10 a.m.
Learn more.

Sunday, April 5
Enjoy Easter brunch at Mangia Bella in Washington. This open seating buffet-style meal is $40 per adult and $25 per child and coffee, tea, and juice are included with bottomless Mimosa and Bloody Marys available for an additional $30.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, April 3
The “Non-Newlywed Game” Show is an event happening in Salem. In this couple vs. couple hilarious version of the classic game show, you will discover just how much the couples playing the game know (or don’t know!) about their spouse!
Learn more.

Saturday, April 4
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting its annual Easter egg hunt and pancake breakfast. The egg hunt is for kids, but the breakfast is open to the whole family.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Sunday, April 5
Spencer Manor Winery in St. James is having an Easter brunch filled with great food, springtime vibes, and good company. Enjoy a delicious spread of brunch favorites, and fresh flavors, while gathering with friends and family to celebrate the season.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 16 – March 22, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Nothing says spring is on its way like gardening events and visits with the Easter bunny! This week there are multiple Easter events, from photos and visits with the Easter bunny to adult egg hunts. There are also two free gardening workshops, entertainment options like the first Music on Main event of the season in Union, plus karaoke night at Hangout Entertainment in St. Clair, large scale garage sales and flea markets, and a whole lot more!

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, March 17
Head to the Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch for a free gardening workshop. The monthly Growers and Sowers meetings feature a variety of gardening topics taught from master gardeners and experts. This month’s workshop is all about organic gardening.
RSVP to save your spot.

Thursday, March 19
The first Music on Main event of the spring kicks off this week with music by Brandy Lee, food and drinks by Sip on Main, as well as food truck Kool Vibz. Head to Hansen Park in Union, the gates open at 5 p.m. and the fun begins at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, March 20
Whether you prefer to dress in flannel, baby doll dresses, or oversized clothes, rock your best 90s style and head to Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington for 90s Night. Enjoy music from that decade all night long and sip on house-made cocktails.
Find out more.

Friday, March 20
Belt out your favorite tunes at Karaoke Night at Hangout Entertainment Bar & Grill in St. Clair. Enjoy food and drink specials, plus late night pizza and appetizers.
Follow on Facebook for more.

Friday, March 20
The very first Food Truck Friday event in Union is happening at Back Home Designs and Andy’s Ice Cream, with proceeds benefitting the East Main Street Archway Project. The event is from 11 a.m-5 p.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, March 21
Saucy’s Pizzeria in Catawissa is hosting a Derby Day to benefit a local youth organization. Check-in begins at 2 p.m. and racing begins at 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 21
It’s Trivia Night at First Baptist Church in Sullivan. The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. and will include multiple live auctions and $1 games with chances to win prizes. Cost is $10 per person to attend.
Find out more.

Back view of white two-story home with a covered patio
Advertisement – If you’re thinking about updating your outdoor space, reach out to Brandon with Freelance Services.

Saturday, March 21
The Franklin County Master Gardeners are hosting a free seed starting workshop at Andy’s Produce Too in Union. This one-hour workshop will teach you the basics of seed starting, including timing, soil, light, and more.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 21
The Club House Play Café in Sullivan is having two community Easter egg hunts at its Easter Bunny Bash event. This ticketed event includes the egg hunt, two hours of open play, and a photo opportunity with the Easter bunny. Cost is $10 per child.
Get tickets and find out more.

Saturday, March 21
Bring your own camera or phone to Once Worn Children’s Resale in Union for an opportunity to get your picture with the Easter bunny. The event is free and is from 9 a.m. – noon.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, March 20
Join in on a paint event with a cuddly twist at Painting with Waffles the Mini Highland Cow in Warrenton. Paint, socialize, and take selfies with Waffles.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 21
Eureka is the site of the Midwest’s largest garage sale and swap meet at Six Flags. The 19th Annual event will feature over 500 vendors, as well as food and drink available for purchase.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 21
Red Oak Valley in Owensville is hosting a Spring Fashion Show from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The show will feature some of the area’s top boutiques showcasing the latest trends of the season. 
Get more info.

Saturday, March 21
Blumenhoff Winery in Dutzow is hosting a moonlit Adult Easter Egg Hunt with hidden prizes like gift cards, beer, wine, and one golden egg which will be redeemable for a case (12 bottles) of wine of your choice.
Get tickets and more information.

Saturday, March 21
What can be better than meeting the Easter bunny and having some ice cream? The Easter Bunny Ice Cream Social at the Warrenton Outlet Center is happening from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 21
Take part in the Black Light Bingo Bash at St. Ignatius in Marthasville. Cost is $35 per person in advance and $40 at the door, and benefits the St. Ignatius of Loyola Home and School Committee.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 21
Attend the 2nd Annual Cabin Fever Festival at Mount Pleasant Estates in Augusta to shake off the last bit of the winter blues. The property-wide celebration brings together four wineries, live entertainment, incredible food and wine pairings, and unforgettable experiences.
Purchase tickets.

Saturday, March 21
Select Rosebud businesses will participate in the 2026 Rosebud Shamrock Scavenger Hunt. Find the shamrocks, scan the QR code, and be entered to win prizes.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 22
Head to Pine Hollow Farms in Eureka for the [Pre]Loved Market, a wedding-based flea market event. Happening from 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. you can find pre-worn wedding gowns and other gently used wedding items.
Find more details.

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!

*Editorial note: This article originally stated that the Food Truck Friday event would be at Oak & Main in Union from 5-7 p.m., based on a comment from ReDiscover Union on a March 3, 2026 Facebook post, but it has since been updated to reflect the current information about the event.

Posted in News and Features

Where to Find Holiday Light Displays

Posted on by Amanda

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.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Dec. 15 – Dec. 21, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

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.

Back view of white two-story home with a covered patio
Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Reach out to Freelance Services today for help with your addition or renovation drawings.

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.

Advertisement – Static web, advertorial, and other advertising opportunities available. View packages or email smalltownsocialitemo@gmail.com

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.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
Advertisement – Calling all romance girlies! Download your next binge read like Nerdy Words, book one in The Talk Nerdy to Me Series.

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.

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!

on