Whether you live in or nearby St. Clair, or you’re just passing through, and you find, as I often do, that you’re jonesing for some caffeine, stop into Riverbend Coffee, located on Main Street. Although I’m partial to coffee, which is offered in traditional drip, as a latte hot or iced and cold brew at the shop, they also serve lotus drinks in a number of flavors and teas for those non-coffee drinkers.
I typically stick to ordering an iced latte (salted caramel + white chocolate), but when I like to switch up my flavors because of the season (white chocolate + peppermint in winter, obvi) or I’m just feeling adventurous, the shop has a great selection of syrups to choose from. And, if I want to watch my sugar intake, I can still have my little treat, because there’s also a number of sugar-free flavors available.
I’m a sucker for an iced latte, and I love that Riverbend has a lot of flavors to choose from. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
Many of the food selections rotate, since most items are made fresh in house. The options range from pastries and smaller bites, like sweet or savory scones, yummy cakes like gooey butter or carrot cake, and the unique gravy-stuffed biscuits, which are not available all the time, but are delicious and served warm, filled with a rich, creamy sausage gravy. There’s also breakfast sandwiches, and lunch offerings like sandwiches, salads, and soups.
There’s plenty of seating inside and strong wifi if you want to get some work done after you enjoy your beverage or food. The seating is a mix of tables and soft seating. And, if you choose to take your item to go, take note of the interior decor while you wait for your order. The decor centers around nature and life near the water, with landscape photography throughout the space of the Meramec River.
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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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.
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.
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.
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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.
This week, don’t miss your chance to learn about some of the movies that have been filmed in Missouri, take in local talent at an open mic night, catch a showing of “Mufasa” at Lawn Chair Movie Night, test your knowledge at trivia nights, support local fundraisers, and a whole lot more!
Tuesday, Aug. 19 The support committee for Aging Ahead Union at The Union Community Center, is hosting an Ice Cream Social. There will be bingo, ice cream, and a card party. Aging Ahead activities and events are for those 55+ and their guests. Learn more.
Thursday, Aug. 21 The Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library is hosting a Movies Made in Missouri event at 6 p.m. Register for the event to learn about the films made in the Show Me State. Get more info.
Friday, Aug. 22 Join an evening of entertainment from local voices, from singers, poets, storytellers, and more, at Open Mic Night at Liberty Hall in Washington. Doors open at 6, with performances beginning at 7, allowing attendees time to grab a seat and a drink at the cash bar. Find all the details.
Friday, Aug. 22 After several weeks’ hiatus, due to extreme heat and the Washington Town & Country Fair, the Union Farmers Market is back this week! Find local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. Please note that the new location of the market is on the corner of Oak and Main Streets, adjacent to Hansen Park. Get more details on Facebook.
Friday, Aug. 22 It’s Lawn Chair Movie Night, so bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a free showing of the film “Mufasa.” The movie starts at 7:30 p.m. and is happening at 300 W. Park Ave. in Union. Learn more.
Friday, Aug. 22 Kick off the 2025–26 ECC Music Department’s concert season with a free outdoor music festival featuring three incredible bands, great food and drink, and a whole lot of fun. Find out more.
Saturday, Aug. 23 Northside Reception Hall in Sullivan will host Summer Trivia Night at 6 p.m. Join in for the family-friendly evening, with guests encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks. Get tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 23 Stop by Silo Restaurant in Sullivan for the second annual car cruise in memory of Billy Parker, Jr. Bring your car and come out to enjoy an evening of mingling and admiring all the classics just as he would. Find out more.
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Saturday, Aug. 23 Head to the Washington Farmers’ Market for an evening of music that will also help fill local food pantries for Foodstock. The event is held from 5-10 p.m., and admission is a monetary donation or a bag of non-perishable food items. Bring your lawn chairs and get ready for an evening for fun and giving back! More info.
Saturday, Aug. 23 Be sure to stop by the Elks Lodge in St. Clair to support the St. Clair Historical Museum, and eat some delicious food, at a chili cook off and Ozark pie supper, happening from 5-8:30 p.m. Find out more on Facebook.
Saturday, Aug. 23 The Candy Land Ball is an opportunity for kids to bring their favorite grown-up—whether it’s mom, dad, grandparents, aunts, uncles, foster parents, or any special person in their life for an evening of dancing. A photographer will be on-site with a themed backdrop for photos, and light refreshments will be provided. Get more details, including the ticket link, at the Facebook event.
Sunday, Aug. 24 It’s Open Lake Day at Lost Hill Lake. Admission is $5 for a day of outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, kayaking, and there will be live music by Justin Rose. There will also be brunch available for purchase by Yonder Eats, as well as bottomless mimosas and bloody Marys at the Lost Hill Lake bar. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Monday, Aug. 18 Join the Missouri Master Naturalists from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Rolla Public Library for a special program exploring the legacy of Lewis and Clark in Missouri. Discover how the Corps of Discovery navigated the state’s diverse landscapes, documented its rich natural resources, and laid the groundwork for generations of explorers and naturalists. This engaging presentation will highlight the ecological and historical significance of their journey through Missouri, offering insights into the expedition’s lasting impact on our understanding of the natural world. This event is free and open to the public. Find out more.
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Wednesday, Aug. 20 Unleash your creativity in a vibrant black light painting class for teens and adults (13+) at the Rolla Public Library. No art background needed, and all materials are included for a glowing good time! Learn more.
Friday, Aug. 22 Prairie Barn Winery is hosting a trivia night, and the theme is Desserts! There will be three rounds with prizes for each round. Pizza and pretzels will be on the menu at the winery, and attendees should bring a dessert to share. Get all the info.
Saturday, Aug. 23 Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of seven stargazing programs in 2025. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets. Find out more.
Small Town Socialite 