Posted in Events

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

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.

Moms. Busy women. Goal-getters.
You don’t have to do it alone.
Fitness. Fuel. Focus.
Grab your FREE guide!

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.

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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.

Posted in Events

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

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.

Moms. Busy women. Goal-getters.
You don’t have to do it alone.
Fitness. Fuel. Focus.
Grab your FREE guide!

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.

Freelance Services business ad
Ad purchased by Freelance Services – residential architecture and design services.
“My goal is to make your home your castle.”

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

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.

Freelance Services business ad
Ad purchased by Freelance Services – residential architecture and design services.
“My goal is to make your home your castle.”

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.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 21 – July 27, 2025

This week is going to be a hot one, but there’s plenty of cool things happening around the area, including a free drive-in movie showing of “Back to the Future,” an open day to play in the water at Lost Hill Lake, an indoor craft fair, and a chance to see the stars at Onondaga Cave State Park.

Thursday, July 24
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.

Thursday, July 24
Head back in time with Marty and Doc Brown with the free drive-in showing of “Back to the Future” at Cinema 1 Plus in Washington. The movie will play in the theater parking lot and will start 30 minutes after sunset. Spots are first come, first serve and movie snacks like popcorn and drinks are available for purchase.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 24
Winehouse 66 in Pacific is hosting a permanent jewelry pop-up with AB Crafts from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Find out more.

Ad purchased by Soul Refresh. Healing mind, body, and soul in WashMO.

Thursday, July 24
Take your young baker to Washington for a kids’ cupcake decorating workshop on Thursday, July 24 at 4 p.m. at Ambiance Lighting for the business’s Christmas in July event. The decorating workshop is free and the supplies are on a first come, first serve basis.
Learn more.

Friday, July 25
The Union Farmers Market happens on the second and fourth Fridays from 4 – 7 p.m. through September. Find local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. Please note that the location of the market is on the corner of Oak and Main Streets, adjacent to Hansen Park.
Get more details on Facebook.

Friday, July 25
Feeling messy? The you’ll want to attend Mess Fest at the Washington Public Library from 6-7 p.m. Get doused with color as you make your way around the library, and attendees are encouraged to wear white for full impact. The messy mood continues outdoors in the closed off parking lot. Have ooey gooey fun with shaving cream, playdough, and other messy makers at this all ages messy affair!
Get the full details.

Saturday, July 26
Stay cool, find some new crafted items and help a worthy cause at the Beat the Heat Indoor Craft Fair. The fundraising craft show will benefit the Franklin County Foster Closet. There will be plenty of crafters and vendors, along with activities for kids and bingo.
Find out more.

Sunday, July 27
Beat the heat with a day spent at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair. The private event and glamping venue is opening the grounds to the public from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and fun. Admission is $10 for all ages 6 and up.
Get all the details.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, July 25 – Saturday, July 26
Belle City Park Arena in Belle will host Central Family Rodeo Association. The rodeo will happen on both days and concessions will be available on site.
Learn more.

Saturday, July 26 – Sunday, July 27
The Berries & BBQ Wine Trail will happen in Hermann, as several wineries take part in this two-day event. Luscious berries, savory BBQ, and cool, fragrant wine cellars make for a memorable summer weekend in Missouri Wine Country.
Get tickets.

Freelance Services business ad
Ad purchased by Freelance Services – residential architecture and design services.
“My goal is to make your home your castle.”

Saturday, July 26
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.

Saturday, June 26
Down Home BBQ in Cuba will host a Route 66 car show from 2 – 4 p.m.
Learn more.

Sunday, July 27
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. Cars & Coffee St. Louis and 1st Phorm are teaming up to bring a monthly car show on the fourth Sunday of each month through October.
Find out more at the Facebook event.