Nostalgia is a powerful feeling and for me, summertime fairs and festivals bring back some of the best memories from childhood. Spinning around and around on the Tilt-a-Whirl, getting an amazing aerial view from the top of the Ferris Wheel, indulging in yummy but not so good for me food and drinks like corn dogs, lemon shakeups, and cotton candy, and wasting someone else’s money on carnival games just so I could win a goldfish that would die withing 48 hours of taking it home 😀 Okay, that’s not a really fun memory, but it was a part of the experience!
Lucky for us living in the Franklin County area, there’s lots of opportunities to create new fair memories all summer long.
Image credit: Unsplash
June
June kicks off fair season in and around Franklin County. The first fair of the season happens just west of Franklin County in the small town of Belle.
Belle Fair,Wednesday, June 3 – Saturday, June 6 The 78th Annual Belle Fair is happening for four days. Experience fair rides, live music, entertainment, food, livestock shows, and more. Get more info.
Route 66 Summerfest,Thursday, June 4– Saturday, June 6 Rolla’s Route 66 Summerfest is happening downtown, with live music, a car show, a drone show, parade, food vendors, and more. Find out more.
Franklin County Fair,Thursday, June 11 – Sunday, June 14 The Franklin County Fair in Union will feature carnival rides and games, food, entertainment, and more. Get more info.
Summer Carnival, Thursday, June 18 – Saturday, June 20 The town of Salem is having a summer carnival at the Dent County Commons. Follow the Salem Chamber for more info.
Meramec Community Fair, Tuesday, June 23 – Saturday, June 27 The Meramec Community Fair in Sullivan will have musical performances by country stars like Sara Evans and Clay Walker, carnival rides, fair food, games, and more. Find the fair schedule of events.
Warren County Fair, Wednesday, June 24 – Saturday, June 27 The Warren County Fair in Warrenton will feature live stock shows, fair rides, live music and other entertainment, as well as a rodeo and firework display. Find out more.
July & August
July kicks off with a bang, and some sparkle, with firework displays throughout small towns as well as county fairs, with fair season coming to a close in August.
New Haven Community Youth Fair, Friday, July 10 & Saturday, July 11 With a focus on live stock shows, tractor pulls, and kids activities like pony rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, and more, the New Haven Community Youth Fair is two days of rural fun in July. View the schedule of events.
Crawford County Fair, Tuesday, July 14 – Saturday, July 18 The 79th Annual Crawford County Fair in Cuba will have live music, games, fair rides, food, a truck and tractor pull, and livestock exhibits. Get the complete schedule of events.
Gasconade County Fair, Wednesday, July 29 – Saturday, Aug. 1 The 79th Annual Gasconade County Fair in Owensville will feature demolition derbies, livestock shows, concerts, car shows, and of course fair concessions, carnival rides, and more. Find out all the details.
The Washington Town & Country Fair, Wednesday, Aug. 5 – Sunday, Aug. 9 Perhaps it’s fitting that Franklin County’s largest fair closes out fair season. The fair happens at the Washington Fairgrounds and features several days of fair fun including rides, a classic car show, livestock and 4-H exhibits, vendors, food and drinks, and musical performances from national acts. Get more info.
Whether you observe Lent or you’re just looking for local fish fry Fridays, seafood options, or fish dishes that aren’t fried, there are numerous churches, Knights of Columbus halls, and area restaurants offering diverse Lenten menus.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but rather features selections that span various communities in and near Franklin County to give readers options no matter if you live in Sullivan, Eureka, Washington, or other communities in the area.
Knights of Columbus Hall, Gerald Bring your appetite to the K of C Hall in Gerald for its Friday all-you-can-eat fish fry. Available from 4-7 p.m., the offerings include fried cod or shrimp, with a number of meatless sides to choose from, along with an assortment of desserts and drinks. Learn more on Facebook.
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Washington Every Friday during Lent, the church is offering a fish fry menu from 4-7 pm. Available as dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru options, the menu will feature catfish and cod, along with sides and desserts for $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 6-12. Find out more on Facebook.
St. Bridget of Kildare Catholic Parish, Pacific With options that include cod, catfish, shrimp, and sides, the menu is available Fridays from 4-7 p.m. Get more info, including pricing on Facebook.
Que Pasa Mexican Restaurant, Union If you prefer your fish or seafood with a bit of heat, Que Pasa in Union has Lenten offerings that include fish tacos, shrimp cocktail, seafood fajitas, and more. View all the selections on Facebook.
Muddy Banks Brewing Co., Sullivan The brewery is offering a fried fish meal every Friday during Lent that consists of fried cod, hushpuppies, and fries. See Facebook for more.
Sarah’s on Central in Eureka Located a short drive from Franklin County, the Lent offerings at Sarah’s on Central, in Old Town Eureka, go beyond the typical fried fish selections. The menu features items like calamari, shrimp po’boy, shrimp and grits, blackened shrimp pasta, and much more. Get all the details on Facebook.
Robin’s Rustic Nest, St. Clair The St. Clair eatery’s menu features fried fish selections, along with a salad bar or a number of sides from fries to mashed potatoes or vegetables. Visit the restaurant on Facebook to find more info about the menu and daily specials.
White Rose Cafe, Union Each Friday during Lent White Rose will offer a Fisherman’s Platter, available in a full or half-size portion. The menu special features coconut shrimp, crab cakes, cod, hushpuppies, a choice of two sides, and assorted house-made dipping sauces. Learn more on Facebook.
Knights of Columbus Hall, Sullivan Find fried fish, fried shrimp, and baked fish along with a number of sides like green beans, fries, and hushpuppies at the K of C Hall in Sullivan on Fridays. Served from 4-7 p.m., the cost is $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 7-12 and kids ages 6 and under eat free when dining in. Get more information on Facebook.
Old Bridgeview Brewing, Washington With a Lenten menu available Thursday-Sunday, the brewery offers items like shrimp po’boys, fried fish or fried shrimp baskets, fish sandwiches, and more. Get the menu details on the brewery website.
Valentine’s Day is this weekend, and if you want to keep soaking up the love around this holiday, there’s plenty of opportunities this week. From a daddy daughter spa night, to multiple galentine’s events, craft events, and much more. Find even more Valentine’s Day events perfect for couples, friends, or families in this special Valentine’s Day post.
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.
Monday, Feb. 9 Washington Green Spa Wellness is hosting a Daddy Daughter Spa Night. The 45-minute experience includes foot soak, scrub + foot massage, co-fin hand treatment + hand and arm massage, hot cocoa + snack cup, plus a single stem rose to take home. Reserve your spot.
Wednesday, Feb. 11 Oak and Front Kitchen + Bar in Washington is having a Galentine’s Night from 4:30-9 p.m. Sip some wine or your favorite cocktail and enjoy a dessert board with your gals. Find out more.
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 The Union Branch of the Scenic Regional Library will share Love Letters of the Presidents. This hour long program will feature readings from love letters written by American Presidents. Register.
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.
Thursday, Feb. 12& Sunday, Feb. 15 Want to up your cocktail-making game? Then head to Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge in Washington for the Mixology 101 classes. Attendees will learn to make the number one selling cocktail, the Eight Nine Eight Old Fashioned, as well as an Espresso Martini, and a Strawberry Mojito. Sign up.
Thursday, Feb.12 HOM Healing Center in Pacific is having a Galentine’s event that will feature mini facials, massages, food, and drinks. Learn more.
Thursday, Feb. 12 The Washington Public Library’s “crafternoon” event is focused on creating a Valentine’s themed craft. All supplies will be provided. Get more info.
Thursday, Feb. 12 Stop by the newest BB Coffee Lab location on its opening day, from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Learn more.
Friday, Feb. 13 Present Moment Yoga in Washington is hosting an interactive workshop, led by Dr. Ike who will introduce attendees to the practice of healing qi gong, an ancient Chinese health practice! Qi gong involves slow movements and breath work. Attendees will be invited to participate in the movements, so please wear comfortable clothing. Register.
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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 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.
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 The Union Community Center is hosting a Gather and Grow Open House, free to the public. The event is from 8-10 a.m. and attendees can find information on aging ahead senior center meals and activities, event and party rental, community programs, and volunteer opportunities at the center. RSVP to attend.
Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14 If you’re looking for a spooky Valentine’s event, head to Terror on Route 66 in Sullivan for Cupid’s Nightmare: A Valentine’s Haunted House. Get times and ticket info.
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Saturday, Feb. 14 The Washington Coffee Shop will have live music for Valentine’s Day. Enjoy the sounds of singer Elayna Cusano from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Get more info.
Saturday, Feb. 14 The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan is hosting a Valentine’s event called Denim, Diamonds, and Dancing. The event will feature live music by Justin Bizzle and lots of dancing. More details.
Sunday, Feb. 15 Keep the galentine fun going at the Galeninte’s Bento Box Decorating event at Thrive Studio & Events in Sullivan. Attendees will frost and decorate their own Valentine’s themed bento cake. Cost is $30, with all supplies provided. Find out 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. 13 Edelweiss Winery & Events in Hermann is hosting a Galentine’s celebration you won’t forget. The “Nowhere to Wear This” themed event means attendees can rock those sparkly outfits that have been hanging out at the back of the closet for way too long. Get more info.
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 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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The end of 2025 is here and if you’re looking for places to ring in 2026, but don’t want to travel far to celebrate, there’s plenty going on right here in the Franklin County area. From multi-course meals, to lively festivities with music and libations, to family-friendly parties and more low-key celebrations that wrap up well before midnight, there’s a number of spots to usher in the New Year.
If you want to enjoy drinks and a cigar this New Year’s Eve, celebrate at Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington with cocktails, fun activities, giveaways every hour, hors d’oeuvres, and a champagne toast at midnight! Get tickets.
Those who wish to ring in 2026 with a fine dining experience should reserve their spot at Mangia Bella at Elijah McClean’s in Washington. The special three-course New Year’s Eve menu features lobster bisque as a first course, and choose from prime rib, broiled cod, or roasted duck as a main course, along with a milk chocolate mousse cake for dessert. Reservations made through Open Table.
If you’re looking for low-key festivities that include an early ball-drop, check out the happenings at The Tipsy Keg in Washington. The celebration happens from 6-9 p.m. and features music by Extremely Unplugged. Learn more.
Triple 3 Vineyard in Washington is hosting a New Year’s Eve bash that includes an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music, a midnight toast, plus a late-night snack offering to keep the party going beyond the balloon drop at 12 a.m. Get tickets for the event, or celebrate the early ball drop in the Tasting Room, which doesn’t require a ticket purchase.
New Year’s Eve at The Alley in Washington promises something for everyone: there’s blacklight bingo from 6:30-8:30 p.m., live music from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m., plus ball drops at 9 p.m. and again at midnight. Get more information.
Looking for a family-friendly night out? The NYE Kids’ Jam at Brookdale Farms in Eureka is from 6-9 p.m. and will have an open soda bar, food trucks, games and activities, as well as a photo booth and kid-friendly dance music. Find out more.
Thacker’s Mini Pub in Gerald will have Family Feud beginning at 8 p.m., a DJ later in the evening, as well as a photo booth, and food and drink specials throughout the night. Learn more.
Piccadilly Par1 in Union’s New Year’s Eve celebration kicks off at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour, to be followed by a steak and lobster buffet at 7:30 p.m. There will also be a cash bar and appetizers throughout the night, along with a DJ and of course a champagne toast at midnight. Get more info.
If an evening filled with karaoke and pizza is your more your speed, then head to Saucy’s Pizzeria in Catawissa. The New Year’s Eve celebration will feature karaoke and a DJ, plus a $15 buffet from 7-10 p.m., and much more. Learn more on Facebook.
Pool tables, darts, karaoke and pub style food is on the menu at Boomers Sports Bar & Grill in Sullivan. One New Year’s Eve, the establishment will have karaoke, 50/50 raffles, and food and drink specials throughout the night, and no cover charge to celebrate, but will accept table reservations made by phone. Find out more.
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