Tag: Labadie Missouri

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri June 1 – June 14, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

According to the calendar, the first official day of summer hasn’t arrived just yet, but our upcoming local events just scream summer. Community fairs begin this week and continue throughout the month of June, plus there’s lots of summer film series happening at area theaters, ice cream socials, rodeos, and cars shows over the next two weeks.

Adding to the summer vibes around here, there’s community markets, free outdoor concerts, festivals and community picnics, as well as free crafting events, and a lot more.

As a reminder, always double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled, rescheduled, or experiences weather delays.

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

Various dates and times
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a few special movie events throughout 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 there are $5 value combos available.
Get details on Facebook.

Thursday, June 4
The Music on Main concert series in Union continues this week from 6-9 p.m. The concert happens at Hansen Park and will feature food and drinks available for purchase from Tribal Crunch and Elmer’s Bar and live music by Country Roads.
Learn more.

Thursday, June 4
Washington Public Library is hosting a free event called Get in Touch with a Dinosaur, at 6 p.m.
Find out more.

Thursday, June 4
Find fresh, locally grown produce and food made with local ingredients at Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven. Avant Gardens CSA will be onsite selling produce from 4-6 p.m.
More details.

Friday, June 5
American Street Edge Self-Defense Systems in St. Clair is hosting a women’s street safety awareness and self-defense seminar from 6-8:15 p.m. This seminar is for females ages 13 and up, and space is limited.
Learn more.

Friday, June 5
The Washington Historical Society is hosting its annual Ice Cream Social beginning at 4 p.m. Enjoy free ice cream, games, contests, and raffles, as well as barbecue available for purchase.
Get more info.

Friday, June 5
Bring your lawn chairs to Union’s Concert in the Park, happening at the large pavilion at the City Park. The event will feature music by Daddy Rooster.
Visit the Parks & Rec Dept on Facebook for more details.

Friday, June 5 & Saturday, June 6
The Mid Missouri Rodeo Association is coming to the St. Clair Saddle Club. The event will have bull-riding, barrel and bronc racing, pole bending, and many more family-fun events.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 6
Gentle Giants Ranch in Union is hosting a barn sale and open house from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Find horse and barn items for sale, as well as have the opportunity to meet horses, learn more about the facility, and the programs and events hosted by Gentle Giants Ranch.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 6
The Missouri Wine and Cheese Festival is happening at McKelvey Vineyards from 12-8 p.m. Hear live music, find local goods, plus sample artisanal meats, spirits, wine, and cheeses from local makers.
Get more details.

Saturday, June 6
Head to Grant Station Park in Union for free train rides, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 6
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday of each month in the St. Clair Elks Lodge parking lot. Stop by between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. to shop from local farms, cottage bakers, crafters, and other vendors.
Get more info.

Saturday, June 6
East Central College in Union is the site of a free stargazing event, beginning at dusk. Bring your own lawn chair and any star-viewing items like binoculars or telescopes.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 6
Front Street is the site of the Labadie Picnic in Labadie. The event begins with a parade at 1 p.m. and the fun goes until 11 p.m. Expect live music, games, family fun, food, and patriotic celebrations.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 6
The Pacific Lions is having a trivia event to help raise funds for purchasing a wheelchair accessible ramp for the building entrance.
Find out more.

Sunday, June 7
Bethel Hills Community is having an open house from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Head to the community located near Marthasville for live music, food, community tours, and shop from a variety of vendors.
Get more info.

Sunday, June 7
The Open Lake Day at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair is happening from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. For just $10 per person, you can access the lake and other amenities at Lost Hill Lake.
Purchase tickets and learn more.

Sunday, June 7
Classic cars will line the streets of Downtown Union for the annual White Rose Cruz-N-26, from 12-3 p.m.
Learn more.

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Tuesday, June 9
Make a cute dinosaur themed terrarium at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch. The Jurassic Jars program is free to attend and begins at 6 p.m.
Find out more.

Tuesday, June 9
The monthly Crafting & Creativity event at the Washington Public Library is happening at 6 p.m. This month’s craft is creating a 4th of July garland.
Learn more.

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.

Thursday, June 11
Listen to free live music at the Music at the Market event at the Washington Farmers Market, from 5-8 p.m., with live music by Rockin’ Lazy R Roadhouse Band, food available for purchase by Sugarfire Smokehous, and drinks by Triple 3 Vineyard.
Find out more.

Friday, June 12
The free Sunset on the Rails concert series continues this month in Pacific, with live music by Twist of Fate. The concert begins at 6 p.m. and attendees should bring their lawn chairs and settle in for an evening of lively tunes.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 13
Celebrate 100 years of Route 66 with the Route 66 Centennial Car Cruise-In, held by the St. Clair Historical Museum and Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch. The celebration begins in the morning and runs throughout the day and will feature talks about the significance of Route 66 in the area, plus live music and food from Bob & Pat’s BBQ, and of course, classic cars.
Get all the details.

Saturday, June 13
The Sullivan Community Market at Muddy Banks Brewing begins at 9 a.m. and runs until 1 p.m. Find handmade goods, local produce, and more.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 13
Attend the Bluegrass and Country Festival at Point Labaddie Brewery. Gates open at 11 a.m. and the fun starts at noon. Tickets are $15 per person, with proceeds benefiting Community Radio St. Louis.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 13
Head to The Club House and Play Cafe in Sullivan for a fun Father’s Day event featuring open play, massages for dad, and Father’s Day card crafts for the kids.
Get more info.

Saturday, June 13
Frisco Farmhouse in Catawissa is hosting a special Father’s Day Farmers Market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find unique gifts for dad made by local vendors, with products like tallow soap, meat products, sweets, sourdough, local honey, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 13
Bethel Hills Community is having an Ice Cream Social event from 1-3 p.m. The public is welcome, but RSVP is requested for planning.
RSVP and learn more.

Sunday, June 14
Meramec State Park in Sullivan is offering free fishing for those who served in the armed services at the Veteran’s Fishing Day event.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Multiple dates from June – August
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having Camp Brookdale, a summer camp event for kids. This screen-free day camp event will give kids an outdoor, adventure themed experience all summer long.
Learn more.

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.

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.

Friday, June 5 & Saturday, June 6
Rodeo at the Riverbend at Brookdale Farms in Eureka is a two night event that features a professional rodeo competition, an outdoor concert, food, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Whether you attend for the action in the arena or just soaking in a perfect summer evening at the farm, there’s something for everyone.
Learn more and get tickets.

Saturday, June 6
Step back into history with a guided tour of The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance. Experience an educational and inspiring journey through the lives of Daniel and Rebecca Boone as you explore what life was like on the early American frontier.
Find out more.

Friday, June 12 – Sunday, June 14
Take your pup to Defiance for the town’s Dog Days of Defiance celebration. Find live music and specials at area restaurants, most of which have patios that are pet friendly.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 13
Noboleis Vineyards is having a Films in the Vines outdoor movie event with a viewing of Jane Austen’s romance, “Pride and Prejudice.” There’s no cost for entry, but bring blankets and the winery will have the popcorn, candy, and wine ready.
Get more info.

Saturday, June 13
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of free night sky viewing events. This month’s event begins at 9 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, June 14
Volksfest (people’s festival) will be held at the Harmonie Verein from 4-7 p.m. in Augusta. The annual family-friendly festival will feature an authentic German dinner of grilled fresh sausage from Williams Brothers, warm pretzels, homemade pickles, fermented sauerkraut, German potato salad, and more. Harmonie bar will be available for drink purchases. Admission price is by donation, with all proceeds going back to the museum.
Get more info.

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 News and Features

It’s Patio Weather! Here Are 8 Patios to Check Out in Franklin County This Season

Posted on by Amanda

Although it’s been a rainy week so far, we’re fully in patio season in Franklin County and I wanted to put together some suggestions on where to eat and drink outdoors in the area.

Muddy Banks Brewing, Sullivan
The outdoor dining area is ample and includes tables under an overhang to provide shade, as well as an area with cornhole boards and space for kids to play. And, there’s more than beers available to sip on at this brewery. The non-alcoholic options include iced tea, lemonade, coffee, and bottled craft sodas. In addition to the craft beer selections, there’s also cocktails and mead. Pair your bevy with any of the delicious menu offerings that include burgers, wings, salads, and appetizers.

Oak & Front Kitchen + Bar, Washington
Located in downtown Washington, Oak & Front has a lunch and dinner menu, as well as brunch offerings. Find coffee, tea, and soft drinks as well as a selection of wines and cocktails to sip on the patio that faces Front Street.

Hagie’s 19, Union
The varied food menu ranges from pub style bites like mozzarella sticks, wings, and toasted ravioli, as well as mains like burgers, wraps, salads, pizzas, and entrees. Drink choices include tea and soft drinks, as well as beers and cocktails. Hagie’s patio features fans and heaters, as well as roll-up windows that let in sunshine and can be opened or partially closed depending on the weather.

Undergrounds Espresso Bar, Washington
Tucked on the corner of Front and Cedar Streets, the patio at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar is the perfect spot to sip on an iced coffee or other drink. The menu also includes breakfast and lunch offerings like frittatas, sandwiches, and salads, as well as delectable pastries.

Cobb salad and an iced latte at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar’s patio. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

John G’s Bier Deck, Washington
With both an upper and lower deck that each gives diners a spectacular view of the Missouri Riverfront, John G’s Bier Deck is a place to unwind with friends, family, and pets. Dine on everything from shareable appetizers to burgers and sandwiches, or enjoy the daily special, any of which will go well with the beer selections or other beverages available.

Pacific Brew Haus, Pacific
This partially shaded outdoor dining space has a mix of high and low-top tables, many of which have attached umbrellas for additional shade, as well as bar seating at the outdoor bar. Find a food selection with items like burgers, sandwiches, salads, pizzas, pastas, and more. There’s a varied bevy menu that includes beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and other soft drinks.

Mangia Bella at Elijah McLean’s, Washington
With a covered eating space and climate controlled area, this outdoor dining space really sets the vibe. This former private mansion turned fine dining establishment offers guests a menu of items like pastas, soups, salads, and entrees with an Italian flare, as well as an extensive wine menu, cocktails, and non-alcoholic selections.

River & Rail Tavern, Labadie
Located in the heart of downtown Labadie, the patio faces Front Street, giving diners a prime view of the historic buildings in the area and features a number of tables complete with umbrellas for shade. Choose from casual dining fare like burgers, sandwiches, salads, soups, wraps, and pizza, as well as a wide beer selection, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks like sodas, lemonade, and tea.

Honorable mentions

Old Bridgeview Brewing, Washington
While it’s not a patio, when the weather is nice the large roll-top windows at the front of the brewery are often open. They allow in a gentle breeze from the riverfront and there are tables along each window, giving you the feeling of sitting outside, while still being under roof.

Enjoying a couple beers at Old Bridgeview Brewing in Washington when the windows are open is a unique experience. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

Riverbend Coffee, St. Clair
The coffee shop offers sidewalk seating via a couple of bistro-style tables that the establishment will place on the sidewalk in front of the business when the weather cooperates.

I know this isn’t a full list of places to dine outdoors in the area. If you have a favorite patio dining space that isn’t included here, leave a comment on my Facebook page and be sure to tag the restaurant in your comment so I can follow them!


Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri October 6 – 12, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

It’s October and that means it’s time for fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and spooky fun! This week there’s opportunities to hear live music, a number of community fall festivals, a fall outdoor market, a free drive-in showing of the movie “Addams Family Values,” Oktoberfest events, and a lot more!

Thursday, Oct. 9
Music on Main in Union continues this week with live music by Paul O’Duo, with food and drink available to purchase from Hagies 19. The fun begins at 5 p.m.
Learn more.

Photo via ReDiscover Union on Facebook
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Thursday, Oct. 9
Liberty Hall’s Dynamic Women Speaker Series continues with Rooted in Resilience, a transformative evening of community, healing, and inspiration—bringing together storytelling, art, and real conversation. Hosted at Liberty Hall in partnership with the Four Rivers Arts Council, this one-night event features Raylene Hollrah, a nationally recognized speaker and three-time cancer survivor, and Anne Molasky, a local artist whose powerful work invites us to reflect, rise, and reconnect.
Get tickets.

Friday, Oct. 10
Line dancing kicks off at “The Office” Bar & Grill from 6 – 9 p.m., and there will be lessons all night.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 10
Downtown Union will have its homecoming parade. Bring the whole family out to watch the parade and support Union High School’s homecoming. The fun starts at 2 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Oktoberfest at St. Clare Catholic Church in St. Clair from noon – 6 p.m. will feature a fried chicken dinner, music, pull tabs, bingo, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is hosting another free drive-in movie, and this week’s film is “Addams Family Values.”
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Register for the free “Out of the Darkness” suicide prevent walk in Union. The 5th Annual walk also includes food trucks, raffle, bounce house, face painting, along with tables for resources and information on suicide awareness.
Learn more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
If you’re looking for a tasty homemade sweet treat, consider stopping by the bake sale benefitting American Legion Auxiliary. The event is from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. in Union.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Bring your plants or seedlings to trade with fellow plant lovers at the Swallows Nest in Washington Learn about different species and care tips, while exploring unique plant art and accessories to enhance your collection. Join in and celebrate your passion for gardening!
Get the details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Mt. Zion Baptist Church in St. Clair is hosting a Fall Community Event. There will be prizes and giveaways as well as vendors and fun for the whole family.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The Fall Labadie Outdoor Market will take place from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Find goods from 30+ vendors, including food vendors. The market will also take place on the same day as the Labadie Community Association’s Chili Cook Off.
Get more details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
First Baptist Church of Gray’s Summit is hosting a Fall Festival. Beginning at 11 a.m. and running until 2 p.m., the event will have live music and free food (burgers, hot dogs, chips, water), bounce house, barrel train rides, face painting, games, crafts, and a bake sale at this free event.
More information is on Facebook.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Super Steven’s Camp Fundraiser is happening at Old Farm Winery in Catawissa. The event will have live music, vendors, a silent auction, quilt raffle, and food from Dynasty Manna food truck.
Learn more.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Stop by Essence Salon & Spa at its new location at 15 S. Oak St., during its open house from 1-3 p.m.
Get more info.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Andy’s Produce in Union is hosting Pumpkin Palooza from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Enjoy face painting, ice cream, pumpkin crafts, a food truck, and more.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Oct. 9 – Sunday, Oct. 12
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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Friday, Oct. 10
The 3rd Annual Pat Hofherr Memorial Spaghetti Dinner is a chance to honor St. James Winery founder Pat Hofherr with an evening of family, food, and tradition. This special night includes a guided cellar tour, an engaging conversation with Peter Hofherr, CEO and 2nd-generation owner, and of course, a classic Rosati-style spaghetti dinner. Your ticket includes a hearty spaghetti dinner and a glass of wine, making it a warm and memorable way to celebrate Pat’s legacy and the community she helped build.
Tickets are $25 and are available online.

Friday, Oct. 10 & Saturday, Oct. 11
Step Into The Hollows at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. This fall, the woods come alive. Deep in the shadows of Brookdale Farms lies The Hollows—a haunted walking trail where every rustle, flicker, and shadow may not be what it seems. On this immersive haunted experience, you’ll journey through winding paths shrouded in fog and darkness, guided only by lantern light and the pounding of your heart. Whispers in the trees, figures that vanish into the night, and sudden terrors at every turn will keep you on edge until the very end.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 10 – Sunday, Oct. 12
Happening every weekend in October, Hermann Oktoberfest features beer, food, music, games, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The 46th Annual Old Iron Works Festival is happening from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Maramec Spring Park in St. James. Admission is $20 per car or free with Season Pass. There will be two stages with live music and entertainers, as well as crafters & artisans, kid’s games, demonstrations, plus food and beverage vendors and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The Fall Festival will kick off at 10 a.m. at Bland City Park, with a chili cook-off, craft festival, and tractor pull.
Learn more on Facebook.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The Rosebud Country Music Festival will host a lineup of 10 musicians, as well as vendors throughout the event, which runs from 3 p.m. -11:30 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 11 & Sunday, Oct. 12
The pumpkin patch at Three Girls and a Tractor is open on Saturday and Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. both days.
Get more info.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Oktoberfest in Old Town Eureka will be a day packed with fall fun, live music, food, drinks, and local vendors! Sip seasonal brews and festive cocktails, enjoy live performances from local musicians, shop with amazing vendors and makers, feast on delicious eats from area favorites, soak up the atmosphere with family and friends!
Learn more.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Head to Augusta Winery for a DIY Witch Hat Craft & Sip event beginning at 12 p.m. The ticket price includes a wine flight, all supplies, and attendees can enjoy live music in the beer garden after the painting event, from 1-4 p.m.
Learn more.

Posted in News and Features

Coal Fire Grill & Tap in Labadie Serves Burgers, Smoked Meat Sandwiches, and Classic Sides

Posted on by Amanda

Although I don’t get to Labadie often, whenever I am in the area, I try to stop into a cute bar and grill called Coal Fire Grill & Tap. The menu offers casual dining options like burgers, house-smoked pulled pork, Cuban and Rueben sandwiches. The sides are some of my favorites, like crispy fries, baked beans, and potato salad, to name a few.

On my most recent visit I ordered one of my favorite burgers ever, the patty melt. The Coal Fire version, called The Frisco Melt, plays up all the classic flavors that make this option such a hit for me: a juicy burger, caramelized onions, and Swiss cheese, served on toasted marble rye with a side of thousand island dressing.

The Frisco Melt at Coal Fire Grill & Tap. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

In addition to the sandwiches, there’s also pizza, wraps, and salads to choose from. And, the eatery typically has a number of daily specials and on the day we visited, one of the specials was a bourbon glazed ribeye sandwich. My husband ordered the steak sandwich, which was very tender and was served on a sturdy hoagie style bun.

A ribeye sandwich was one of the restaurant’s daily specials. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

Although I love The Frisco Melt, I’ve also ordered a couple of their other burgers on past visits and have been impressed with both The Stackhouse, which is a burger topped with pulled pork, bacon, cheese, and onion straws, and the Black & Bleu, which is a burger served with Bleu cheese crumbles.

For drinks, there’s soft drinks like sodas, plus a full bar and a decent selection of beers on tap, and there’s even ice cream for dessert, although I never save room for it! If you get out to Labadie, give the restaurant a try.

The Socialite recommends Coal Fire Grill & Tap!

The details:
120 Front Street, Labadie
Find the restaurant on Facebook