Tag: Franklin County Silent Book Club

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri May 18 – May 31, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This event post is a little different than the typical event roundup. With summer coming I’m switching things up and posting event articles every two weeks. I know that summer schedules tend to get busier and people want to see what’s happening a bit further out, so I hope the every two week articles will help!

Memorial Day weekend is summer’s official kickoff and the holiday celebrations in our area range from a Memorial Day themed market, parades and services, and an open lake day at Lost Hill Lake. This week there’s also Music on Main in Union, line dancing in Washington, and a food drive event called Popsicles with Paramedics.

The week following Memorial Day has a little bit of something for everyone, like Sunset on the Riverfront in WashMo, Route 66 BBQ and Bluegrass festival in Pacific, as well as the annual Fireman’s Picnic in Gerald, plus a lot more.

Remember to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled.

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Throughout May
Vero Fitness in Pacific is having its annual free week, allowing non-members access to the gym and group fitness classes, throughout the entire month of May. There’s special events, group fitness classes, and more happening all month.
Get more details.

Various dates and times
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a few special movie events throughout the month and into the summer. There are kid films series that are $2 a viewing, as well as a flashback cinema series, which offer a second chance to catch a classic flick on the big screen.
Find out more on Facebook.

Various dates and times
Great 8 Cinema in Union and Sullivan 6 Cinema are also featuring a special kids summer film series that kicks off mid-May and runs through late August. Additionally, the admission is $2, and $5 value combos.
Get details on Facebook.

Tuesday, May 19
Head to St. Clair for a handmade card making class from 12-4 p.m.
Learn more.

Thursday, May 21
Meramec Ambulance District is excited to host its annual Popsicles with Paramedics, and this year it’s a food drive to support local families in need. Come out, meet your local paramedics, enjoy some fun activities, and cool off with a popsicle while making a difference in our community. The event will have bounce houses, ambulance tours, popcorn, slushies, plus collecting donations for Agape Help House in Pacific.
Check out the details.

Thursday, May 21
Hansen Park in Union will host its next Music on Main event featuring live music by Denver Wade Trent, food and drinks by Hagies 19, and treats from Boxcar Express.
Get all the info.

Friday, May 22
Take part in a free line dancing class at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington from 7-10 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 23
Frisco Farms in Catawissa is hosting a Memorial Day themed market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shop from a variety of vendors, including honey, antiques, farm fresh goods, and much more.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 23
Robertsville State Park is hosting a Birds, Bees, and Blossoms Fest from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. This free event will feature a presentation by World Bird Sanctuary,  as well as arts and crafts tables, local vendors, nonprofit organizations, and educational booths, all related to our native plants and wildlife.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 23
The Sullivan Community Market is happening at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan. Stop by from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and shop from local growers, producers, and craft vendors.
Get more info.

Sunday, May 24
Enjoy live music by Cruisin’ 66 Bass, wine, and bites at Triple 3 Vineyard from 2-5 p.m.
Learn more.

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Monday, May 25
Head to Union for the Union American Legion’s Memorial Day parade, service, and meal event. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m., with service at 11 a.m., and the meal to follow. Choose from fried chicken or pork steak, along with a number of sides, and dessert.
Learn more.

Monday, May 25
Washington’s Memorial Day observance will be held at American Legion Post 218’s Home. The program starts at 10 a.m.
Get more details.

Monday, May 25
Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair is having it’s first Open Lake Day of the season from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Open Lake Day is your chance to relax, play, and enjoy everything Lost Hill Lake has to offer—no reservations needed.
Learn more.

Wednesday, May 27
The Franklin County Silent Book Club is happening at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar from 5:30-7 p.m. Bring your own book and read in silence for an hour, with the final 30 minutes of the event dedicated to chatting with others or continued reading on your own.
Find out more.

Thursday, May 28
The monthly Sunset on the Riverfront is happening from 5-8 p.m. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and drinks.
Get more info.

Friday, May 29-Sunday, May 31
The second annual Route 66 BBQ and Bluegrass is happening in Pacific all weekend. Head to Liberty Field for live music, tasty barbecue, kids activities, and more.
Get more info.

Friday, May 29
Shaw Nature Reserve is hosting a curated tasting experience where botanicals inspire every sip at the Flora Flights event.
Purchase tickets and find out more.

Saturday, May 30
The annual Gerald Fireman’s Picnic is happening at Legion Park, beginning at 11 a.m. Enjoy live music, fireman challenge games, concessions, bingo, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 30
Support young entrepreneurs and quench your thirst at the Kids Lemonade Stand Contest at Once Worn in Union from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 30
Wagon Days is free family fun at Longmeadow Rescue Ranch in Union. Spend a day with rescued ranch animals, take a wagon ride through the 165-acre facility, enjoy food and beverages are available for sale, or pack your own picnic lunch.
More info.

Sunday, May 31
Triple 3 Vineyard is hosting River Valley Co. for a DIY Hat Bar. If you’ve ever wanted a one-of-a-kind custom hat, this is your chance to create it. River Valley Co. is incredibly talented and brings a wide variety of accessories and details to help you design a hat that’s perfectly you.
Get more info.

Sunday, May 31
Find homemade sourdough, authentic tamales, handmade soaps, honey, plants, custom jewelry, and more at the Kaleidoscope Farmers Market & Craft Fair in Pacific beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, May 22
Marthasville City Park will host a free concert from 7:30-10 p.m. featuring the music of The Silver Rain Band.
Learn more.

Friday, May 29-Saturday, May 30
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is the home of Folky Fish Fest, a two-day celebration of music, arts, craft and food vendors, workshops and so much more.
Get more details.

Friday, May 29
Gather the family, including your furry friends, for a night of fun in the beautiful Gardens at St. James Winery with a showing of the animated film “Cars.”
More info.

Saturday, May 30-Sunday, May 31
The 573 Vintage Market is happening two days at Linn Lions Club Fairgrounds. Find your newest vintage treasure at this event featuring area vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 30
If you love Bourbon, whiskey, or other spirits, then you’ll want to head to Augusta for the Missouri Spirit Festival from 3-7 p.m.
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!

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 23 – March 1, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Get ready for another fun-filled week of Franklin County events with book clubs, a puzzle race, line dancing, black light bingo, a comedy night, a paint and sip event, and an open mic night.

Ready to hit the road? There’s even more events just outside of Franklin County such as a 2000’s themed trivia night, an 80’s themed murder mystery, a winter wine tasting event, and winter bridal shows.

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, Feb. 24
Teams of up to six friends will race to be the first team to complete the same 500-piece puzzle in 60 minutes at the Washington Public Library’s Puzzle Race event. Space is limited to six teams and pre-registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Join the book club perfect for the overcommitted reader. The Bring Your Own Book book club at The Novel Nook.  Instead of a single assigned read, participants bring whatever book they’re currently enjoying—fiction, nonfiction, classic, or contemporary—and share highlights, insights, and thoughts with the group.
Get all the details.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Scenic Regional Library Branch in Pacific is hosting a showing of the historic 1926 feature film- The Flying Ace- with a live musical accompaniment by Cherry and Jerry, a St. Louis duo that plays ragtime, blues, and jazz music from the 1900s-1920s, including well-known hits from Scott Joplin, W.C. Handy, Irving Berlin, as well as lesser-known gems. Registration is required to attend.
Get more info and register.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Franklin County Silent Book Club will meet at UnderGROUNDS in Washington from 5:30-7 p.m. This nontraditional book club allows you to bring your own book and read in companionable silence, with socializing afterwards with fellow readers. You’ll carve out time for reading, meet new people, and hopefully leave with some new recommendations.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
Do you have a small business and are interested in becoming a vendor at the St. Clair Farmers Market this season? Attend an informational meeting for potential market vendors at the St. Clair Library at 6:30 p.m.
Get the details.

Thursday, Feb. 26
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific will have line dancing from 6-7:30 p.m. The event is free, but donations are accepted.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 27
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is the site of Donuts and Diapers, a sweet morning designed for little ones and the grown-ups who love them. Happening from 9-11 a.m., the event features fresh donuts, open gym play, and quality bonding time in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Get tickets and more details.

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Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Gerald for a unique paint and sip night that focuses on creating a piece of art that highlights the Northern Lights. Seats are limited.
Secure your spot.

Friday, Feb. 27
Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist is seeking motivated individuals interested in building a long‑term career in the green industry and are hosting a Career Fair to learn more about available opportunities across horticulture, landscaping, retail operations, greenhouse, and additional areas within our growing organization. The fair is from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Help support Project Linus of Franklin and Crawford County and create something with your hands. The nonprofit is hosting its monthly Make a Blanket day from 10 a.m. – noon at the Scenic Regional Library Union Branch. Attendees will make fleece blankets to benefit local children, and can bring their own supplies or donate $20 for blanket making supplies.
RSVP requested, find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 28
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Clover Bottom is hosting a Comedy Night Dinner & Dance. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m., the comedy show by Mike Maxwell at 7 p.m., and live music by Steve Leslie after the comedy show.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Enjoy an evening of Black Light Bingo at the IC School Parish Center in Union. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and bingo begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Learn about seed starting at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Participants will use reusable pots, domes and trays to plant tomato and pepper seeds. This is the perfect class to get a head start on your vegetable plants for spring!
Get the details.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington for the bar’s weekly Open Mic Night. Share your musical or stand up talent at the event, happening from 6-10 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a special night for mamas and their favorite little cowboys at the The Mother-Son Ranch Night. This western-style evening is all about quality time, connection, and good old-fashioned fun — without the pressure of a traditional “dance.”
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 27
Defiance Ridge Vineyards is hosting a 2000’s themed trivia night. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. and trivia starts at 7 p.m., with a $25 per team cost.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Love a good murder mystery event? Then you won’t want to miss the 80’s themed event in Owensville.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28 & Sunday, March 1
The Meramec River Wine Trail’s Winter Wine Tasting Event will feature wine and food pairings from numerous wineries in the region – from Steelville to St. James. This self-guided tour is $30 per person, with tickets available for purchase online.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is hosting The Magic of Maples, a fun and informational event that highlights history of making maple products in Missouri and how to make maple products today. The event is free, but registration is required.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 1
The Wildflower Wedding Market is happening from noon-4 p.m. at The Venue at Wildflower Ridge. Meet with wedding planners, decorators, photographers, caterers, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 1
Folky Fish Fest and Spencer Manor are teaming up to host an afternoon of delicious food and live music as a fundraiser for the second year of Folky Fish Jam Camp. Last year’s jam camp welcomed 30 students from the surrounding areas, where they spent the day learning and jamming with Festival Performing Artists thanks to donations and funding from local organizations and individual community members. This year help offer the camp to as many young folks as possible via student scholarships.
Find out more.

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Sunday, March 1
Brookdale Farms is hosting a Winter Bridal Show. This one-stop planning event, features immersive venue tours, stunning décor inspiration, and direct access to the best wedding pros in the business in one elegant afternoon.
Get tickets and find out more.

Sunday, March 1
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
Learn 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!

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Sept. 22 – Sept. 28, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

This week we’ve finally gotten a break from the heat and there’s lots of family-friendly fall events happening. The last Sunset on the Riverfront of the season is this week, it’s also time for another Music on Main, as well as the Union Farmers Market, plus there’s car shows, church picnics, the Washington Fall Festival of Arts & Crafts, as well as a hot air balloon glow in New Haven, a rodeo, a free drive-in movie, and so much more. Read on to get all the details.

Wednesday, Sept. 24
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.

Photo via Sunset on the Riverfront’s Facebook event.

Thursday, Sept. 25
Grab your lawn chairs or picnic blankets for the final Sunset on the Riverfront of the year is happening this week. Enjoy live music by Savana, food available for purchase from Big Boys and Miller’s Grill, plus kids activities.
Get more info.

Thursday, Sept. 25
Visit downtown Union for Music on Main, a free event featuring free live music, plus food and drink available for purchase. This Music on Main event will feature music from Tom Norton, and food from Savy’s Food Truck and Elmer’s Tavern.
Get all the info.

Friday, Sept. 26
The Union Farmers Market is happening from 4-7 p.m. at the corner of Oak and Main. Find items from local makers, produce, honey, plants, and more, as well as food truck vendors and live music.
Find out more.

Friday, Sept. 26
New Haven is hosting a Balloon Glow, offering spectators a breathtaking view of inflated hot air balloons lighted by their burners. The Balloon Glow is held at the New Haven City Park and is a walk through event only — not a drive through event. The Balloon Glow is free and open to the public.
Find more on Facebook.

Friday, Sept. 26 – Saturday, Sept. 27
Pacific is the place for rodeo fun this weekend, when Iron Horse Rodeo happens on Saturday and Sunday. The event will feature activities for kids like a bounce house, plus food, drinks, and lots of rodeo fun.
Learn more.

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Friday, Sept. 26 – Sunday, Sept. 28
Find items from 90 handmade artisans and crafters at the 25th annual Fall Festival of the Arts & Crafts in downtown Washington on Main and Elm Streets. Guests will find soaps, jewelry, original artwork, clothing, handmade wood furniture, home décor, leather, seasonal items, and more! There will be live music and a food court full of delicious treats all weekend long. Bring the whole family out to enjoy a fun-filled weekend in historic downtown Washington. Free admission and parking.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 27
St. Andrews Subdivision is hosting its fall neighborhood wide yard sale from 7 a.m. – noon, rain or shine.
Get more info.

Saturday, Sept. 27
The St. Clair American Legion is the site of the 14th Annual Rods ‘n’ Rides event. Come out and see hot rods, bikes, and side by sides, or register your own vehicle in the event.
Get the details.

Saturday, Sept. 27
The Gerald Lion’s Club for the 4th Annual Fall Festival at Legion Park. The event will feature food, drinks, family activities, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 27
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is hosting a series of free drive-in movies (weather dependent). The fall series kicks off with a showing of the 1980s film “The Goonies.”
Get more info.

Saturday, Sept. 27
Parents can attend a free Back to School Safety Event at First Christian Church in Union. Presented by Compassion Healing and Excellence, led by Timothy J. Fancher, MAPT, BA, AS, founder and 4th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate. This verbal seminar is designed to equip parents, older siblings, and concerned adults with tools to teach kids practical alternatives to “Stranger Danger,” de-escalating skills to handle bullies, safety awareness for public and school settings, and ways to make safety engaging for children. Due to direct discussions on street safety, we recommend attending without younger children to ensure open, focused conversations.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 27
Make plans to stop by the City of Union Auditorium from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., for an open house style viewing of story photos taken recently by The Missouri Photo Workshop.
Learn more.

Sunday, Sept. 28
Immaculate Conception Church in Union is hosting a Fall Festival. Expect kids games, kettle corn and funnel cake, a corn hole and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, silent auction, chicken dinner, and more.
Get the details.

Sunday, Sept. 28
Meramec Caverns is hosting its annual Fall Classic Car Cruise-In from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Get more info.

Sunday, Sept. 28
Assumption Church in New Haven is hosting its fall picnic, with a chicken dinner, as well as family games and activities like a cornhole tournament, bounce house, raffle, and more.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Sept. 24 – Sunday, Sept. 28
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.

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Saturday, Sept. 27
The Hermann Harvest Festival is a one stop shop for all things fall. Find pumpkins and mums, home decor, antiques, clothing, permanent jewelry, and much more.
Get the details.

Saturday, Sept. 27
Slaphappy Hemp Emporium in Rosebud is hosting a an elevated yoga event. Limited spots are available, reserve yours.

Sunday, Sept. 28
It’s worth the short drive to Fenton to see the amazing cars at this free, family-friendly car event where you’ll find everything from exotics, to classic cars, imports, works in progress, and more.
Find out more on Facebook.

Sunday, Sept. 28
Get lost in a maze made from beautiful, golden late summer flowers at the Sunflower Maze at Brookdale Farms. 
More info.

Sunday, Sept. 28
St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Marthasville is hosting its fall festival with a buffet style dinner, raffles, country store, and more.
Get more info.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Aug. 25 – Aug. 31, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

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.

Photo via Sunset on the Riverfront Facebook event

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.