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What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Nov. 10 – Nov. 16, 2025

Posted on November 10, 2025November 14, 2025 by Amanda

This week there’s Veterans Day Celebrations, opportunities to get crafty, and Ladies Nights galore! Check out these events and others below.

Monday, Nov. 10
The Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a Native American Story Telling event from 6-7 p.m. This presentation focuses on traditional stories told primarily by Choctaw, Cherokee, and Delaware Nations/tribes. Pre-registration is required to attend.
Register here.

Tuesday, Nov. 11
The Tipsy Keg in Washington is honoring those who served with its Veterans Day Celebration. The event will feature free meals and haircuts for vets, along with a “Cheers to Our Heroes” Coaster Campaign, where guests can grab a special coaster and write a heartfelt thank-you note for veterans.
Find out more.

Tuesday, Nov. 11
The public is welcome to stop by the American Legion Post 218 in Washington for its Veterans Day Ceremony.
Get more information.

Thursday, Nov. 13
R & R Ace in St. Clair is hosting its annual Ladies Night, an evening full of samples, drinks, and surprises. Enjoy 20% off storewide (10% off Power Tools), sip on boozy slush samples, taste small batch salsas, try out some unique dips, grab a specialty drink from the Poppy & Co drink truck, explore gift recommendations, and more.
Learn more.

Thursday, Nov. 13
The final Music on Main of the season is happening at Hansen Park in Union. Enjoy live music by Tobey Fisher, with food available for purchase from Ramblin’ Rooster food truck and drinks by Sip on Main.
Get more info.

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Friday, Nov. 14
The Washington Public Library is having a Gilmore Girls Craft-a-Thon. Attendees will have an opportunity to watch episodes of the iconic TV show and craft. Attendees can bring their own crafts to work on, or choose from a number of crafts with supplies provided by the library as well as coffee and mugs to take home.
Get the details.

Friday, Nov. 14
Head to Vero Fitness in Pacific for Ladies Night. Shop local vendors, enjoy snacks and beverages, and an evening of good vibes and fun.
Find out more.

Friday, Nov. 14
Glittering Grapevine is offering line dancing at McKelvey Vineyards from 5 – 8 p.m. Join in on this beginner friendly evening of dancing.
Learn more.

Friday, Nov. 14
Head to The Tipsy Keg in Washington from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. to celebrate Friendsgiving. The event will include drink specials, music, and guests are encouraged to bring a canned good item. Each canned good donated will secure you one raffle entry.
Get the details.

Friday, Nov. 14
Take a wreath & candle making workshop at Andy’s Produce Too in Union’s Back Home location (U.S. 50). Registration required.
Register here.

Saturday, Nov. 15
The annual Downtown Washington’s Does Day Out is a day of patronizing local businesses. This year nearly two dozen businesses will have something special or on sale for this one-day event.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 15
McKelvey Vineyards is hosting a Does Day Out. This ticketed event includes mimosas and brunch, live music, wine tastings, local vendors, games, raffles, and more.
Advance tickets $25 or $30 at door.

Saturday, Nov. 15
Head to Pacific for the 4th Annual Pizza, Puzzle, and Beer Competition. Gather your crew of 4 and be the first to finish a custom made 500+ puzzle, devour an extra large pizza and drink 18 beers.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 15
There will be a downtown Christmas Market in Sullivan. Get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping and find curated crafts and gifts.
More info.

Sunday, Nov. 16
Johnny’s Restaurant in Union is hosting a Christmas Ladies Night from 4-8 p.m. There will be opportunities to sip, shop, and get prizes. Be sure to wear your Ugly Sweater!
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, Nov. 11
Veterans are encouraged to drop by Main St. Real Estate in Washington for free coffee and donuts provided by Travelin’ Tom’s from 7:30-9:30 a.m.
Learn more.

Thursday, Nov. 13
The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville is hosting a Thanksgiving Paint & Sip event. Preregistration required to attend, and attendees receive $5 off their food/drink orders.
Register and find out more.

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Friday, Nov. 14
St. James Winery is hosting a Holiday Cheers Cocktail Workshop. Attendees will mix, sip, and savor three holiday-inspired cocktails, enjoy a charcuterie grazing board, and take home recipe cards to recreate the cocktails at home this holiday season.
Limited spots available, learn more and register.

Friday, Nov. 14 – Sunday, Nov. 16
Lange General Store in Steelville is hosting a weekend shopping event for ladies. While the men hunt, head to the store in downtown Steelville for deals, with everything in the store marked down 20-50%.
Find out more.

Friday, Nov. 14 – Sunday, Nov. 16
Mary’s Country Store and Antique’s in Cuba will have a weekend shopping event with discounts found throughout the store.
Get more info.

Friday, Nov. 14 – Sunday, Nov. 16
Experience the best parts of fall one more time at Fall Farewell Fest at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Shop end-of-season pumpkin deals, sip hot cider, and enjoy all your favorite fall activities before saying goodbye to fall and hello to winter fun.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 15
Stop by St. James Winery for a relaxed afternoon of holiday cheer, shopping, and sipping. Enjoy complimentary mulled wine samples, fresh-baked holiday cookies, beautifully curated holiday gift boxes, special in-store discounts, and more.
Get more info.

Sunday, Nov. 16
The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville is hosting an indoor Craft Fair from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Find unique and hand-made gifts for that special person on your shopping list!
Find out more.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Sept. 29 – Oct. 5

Posted on September 29, 2025September 30, 2025 by Amanda

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.

Photo via Washington Missouri Parks Facebook.

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.

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.

News and Features

Spend a Day Series – Ideas for a Cozy Fall Day, Bookish Girlie Edition

Posted on September 25, 2025 by Amanda

Over the summer I started a new once-a-monthish series called Spend a Day. The thought behind the series was to give people ideas on how to spend a day in their local communities. I try to keep my ideas varied according to seasons, budgets, and interests.

The first Spend a Day Series was on things to do in the town of Rosebud, while my second was on Meramec Caverns, a local business that has opportunities for guests to spend the day, or longer, at its facility since there’s ziplining, caves to explore, a restaurant, and lodging onsite.

For the latest Spend a Day, I focused on how I enjoy spending the cozy days of fall, when the weather is cooler and perhaps there’s a bit of bluster in the wind or some raindrops. On days like that I love curling up with a good book and a cup of coffee.

Generic latte art and fall leaves. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

For this Spend a Day series, I chose activities to do in Washington, like visiting the local book stores The Novel Nook and Neighborhood Reads, or heading to the library for some quiet reading. Of course, I also suggest getting your fall beverage of choice. While I love all the coffee spots in WashMO, my fave autumn drink is a pumpkin spice latte and I have a couple spots I love to visit when ordering that drink.

I love them hot or iced, and, of course, I have my go-to places for each. When I want a hot PSL, for me, it doesn’t get any better than The Washington Coffee Shop’s recipe (I think they add caramel!) and for the times when I want that pumpkin spice iced, iced baby, it’s Exit 11. Call me bougie, but I love that the iced latte comes all decked out with whipped cream and a little dash of extra pumpkin spice flavoring crowning the top.

Get into the fall vibes with this short Reel I made about spending a cozy bookish day in WashMO.

Have a suggestion for a future Spend a Day series? Send your ideas to smalltownsocialitemo@gmail.com

Events

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

Posted on September 15, 2025 by Amanda

Although it doesn’t feel like it outside, we’re inching towards fall a little more with each passing day. This week is filled with events that celebrate autumn, family-friendly activities like festivals and free outdoor movies, live music events, markets, and more.

Thursday, Sept. 18
Union’s Dinner on the Square event is on Main Street, right in front of the Historic Old Courthouse. Get ready for a night filled with delicious food, live music by Tom Norton, and vibrant community spirit. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of a memorable evening under the stars!
Get the details.

Photo via Dinner on the Square Facebook event

Friday, Sept. 19
Head to Scarlett’s Bar & Grill in St. Clair for a trivia night to support retired firefighter Rob Slinkard in his battle with cancer. There will be food specials from 5–9 p.m., a silent auction from 5–8:30 p.m., and trivia from 5:30–7 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Sept. 19
Want to learn some new moves, but don’t know where to start? McKelvey Vineyards is hosting an evening of fun, beginner-friendly line dancing from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Get the details.

Friday, Sept. 19
Calling all ’90s kids and music lovers! Extremely Unplugged will be kickin out the jams from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Front Street Cellars & Inn in Washington. Grab a bottle of wine and listen to them play acoustic ’90s covers.
Get more info.

Friday, Sept. 19
On the third Friday of each month, The Washington Coffee Shop hosts an Open Mic Night. Singers, musicians, poets, and spoken word artists are welcome to share their talents with the crowd.
Learn more at The Washington Coffee Shop’s Facebook page.

Saturday, Sept. 20
R&R Ace’s annual craft fair is happening in the front parking lot at R&R Ace in St. Clair. Find unique gifts and hand-crafted treasures at this event.
Get more details on Facebook.

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You don’t have to do it alone.
Fitness. Fuel. Focus.
Grab your FREE guide!

Saturday, Sept. 20
Head to downtown Sullivan for the fall market from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shop vendors during the market, or arrive early and watch the band parade, where students from all over the state will show off their musical skills as they march through downtown.
Learn more.

Saturday, Sept. 20
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.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Four Rivers Car Show is happening from noon-5 p.m. at Washington VFW.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Astral Glass Studio is hosting its annual Pumpkin Palooza from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and will be unveiling this year’s stock of glass pumpkins made by Lance Stroheker. Don’t forget to grab your free ticket to enter into a glass pumpkin giveaway at 2 p.m.
More info.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Come see a variety of machines, farm equipment, and trucks at the Meet the Machines event at FBC in St. Clair. This is a free event for the entire family that will feature games, a craft station, food, and lots to see.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Sept. 20
St. Clair Christian Church is hosting a free drive-in movie. The movie will be “King of Kings” and it will start as soon as the sun goes down. Interested attendees are encouraged to get into a parking space for this movie night.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 20
OxFest Music Festival happens at the fairgrounds in Washington from noon until 10 p.m. Since 2017 OxFest has donated more than $322,000 to charities that support children. Get your tickets and get ready for a day of great music for a great cause.
Get ticketing info.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Join the Franklin County Deputy Sheriff’s Association at it’s second annual Fall Dance. The theme this year is Western, so dress in your best cowboy/cowgirl outfits. Included in your tickets is a live band, dinner, and a cash bar. Tickets are $50 per person. It is recommended to get your tickets in advance, and all proceeds for this event aid in supporting Franklin County First Responders.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Sept. 18 – Sunday, Sept. 20
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, Sept. 19
Life House in Cuba will host an outside movie night, and admissions is free. Concessions will be available for sale. Grab your blankets and chairs and don’t miss out on the showing of the film “Spiderman.”
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Taste of the Ozarks is happening in Steelville. Expect food trucks, vendors, and live music.
Get more details.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Fall at the Farm at Smith Valley Event Barn in Salem is the perfect place to get that fall decor and start shopping for the Christmas season. Make plans to get the friends together and enjoy a day of shopping.
Learn more.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a free stargazing event. 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.