Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Oct. 13 – 19, 2025

Whew! There’s so much happening this week! Trunk or treats, adult Halloween celebrations, and spooky fun? Yep. Fall festivals, free outdoor movies, and markets? Got those too! Plus, there’s line dancing at a local winery, a wine dinner at a local restaurant, car shows, and a whole lot more.

Tuesday, Oct. 14
Make a bubbling cauldron at the monthly Crafting & Creativity event at the Washington Public Library. The event is from 6-7 p.m. and is open for ages 12+.
Register for the event.

Photo via Washington Public Library’s Facebook

Wednesday, Oct. 15
Mangia Bella restaurant in Washington is hosting a wine dinner. This five-course dinner requires a reservation, which can be made through open table.
Find out more.

Friday, Oct. 17
Take part in some beginner friendly line dancing at McKelvey Vineyards from 6-9 p.m.
Get more info.

Friday, Oct. 17
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.

Friday, Oct. 17
It’s the final Union Farmers Market of the season! Visit the market to shop vendors, get food from Savy’s Food Truck, enjoy live music, and bring the little ones for the Trunk or Treat happening during the market.
Find out more.

Friday, Oct. 17
Create a stained glass pumpkin at a class held at Shattered Glass in Washington. No experience is necessary to participate in the class, but registration is required.
Get more info.

Friday, Oct. 17
Free Halloween Carnival and Trunk or Treat at St. Gertrude Parish & School in Krakow. The trunk or treat will happen in the parking lot, with concessions available in the cafeteria.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 17
It’s the 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat at The Sage Bee in Washington. In addition to the trunk-or-treat lineup, the teachers are planning some sensory stations and fun Halloween activities and games for the kids to enjoy! Open to the public, anyone is welcome!
Find out more.

Friday, Oct. 17
St. Vincent De Paul School in Marthasville is hosting a Trunk or Treat event from 6:30-9 p.m. Find food, candy, and prizes for the best trunk!
More info.

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Friday, Oct. 17
Head to Pacific for the Witches and Warlocks, adult street party. This event will feature vendors, food trucks and live music by Covering Fire, as well as costume contests, raffle drawings, and more.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18
The 2nd Annual U Town Show Down is happening this Friday and Saturday at the Union Fairgrounds and will feature a car show, semi truck show, plus a derby, and food trucks.
Find out more.

Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18
Gerald Area Library and Once Upon a Time Bookstore is hosting a sidewalk sale. Find quilts, needlework, purses, ribbon, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, books, puzzles, and much more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is hosting a free drive-in movie showing of the film “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” Parking is first come, first served, and concessions are available.
Get more info, including movie time.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Meramec State Park in Sullivan is hosting a Halloween Spooktacular. Head to the campground area of the park for pumpkin carving, trick or treating, a movie at the amphitheater, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Andy’s Produce in Union is hosting a Fall Vendor event. Find handmade items, food trucks, locally made goods, plants, produce, and more.
Get more details.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Muddy Banks Brewing Co. in Sullivan is hosting its annual Opetober Fest, to celebrate the release of its Opetober Marzen beer. The festivities begin at noon and include live music and a chili cook-off.
Learn more.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Ladies, Littles, and Lattes is hosting its second annual Trick or Treat Trail in Union. This day time event features indoor trick or treating, plus fun activities like a bounce house, horse rides, face painting, and food trucks Savy’s Food Truck, Smokey D’s, and Poppy Co.
Get more info.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Head to The Tipsy Keg in Washington for a night of fun and costumes at the venue’s BOOze and BOOs event. Guests can expect karaoke, drink specials, costume contests, and more.
Find all the details.

Saturday, Oct. 18
The Franklin County Humane Society is hosting Paw Fest from 3-9 p.m. There will be games, food trucks, a market, and information about the cuddly four-legged friends FCHS helps.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 18
The Moose Lodge in Union is holding a Craft Fair. Stop by the event to shop local crafters and makers.
Find event time and more.

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Saturday, Oct. 18
The Novel Nook and Yarn Together are hosting a Witch and Stitch party. At this free event, guests will watch the movie “Hocus Pocus” while working on their current fiber arts project (if they choose). The event is free, but registration is required to attend.
Get the details and register.

Saturday, Oct. 18
American Legion in Washington is having a Tank or Treat from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This event is for children up to age 12.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Oct. 16 – Sunday, Oct. 19
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. 17
You won’t want to miss Trunk or Treat at The River at Eureka. There will be games, crafts, snow cones, popcorn, hot dogs, a smores station, an outdoor movie, and more. This is a free event from 6-8 p.m. and all are welcome!
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 17
Owensville is hosting a series of free, family-friendly movies this fall, with the final event culminating in a special “campfire” viewing of the animated film “Coco” on Friday, October 17. The movie will be shown at Buschman Park in Owensville, and will start at 6:30 p.m.
 Find out more.

Friday Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18
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. 17 – Sunday, Oct. 19
Happening every weekend in October, Hermann Oktoberfest features beer, food, music, games, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Owensville Parks & Rec Dept. is hosting Market in the Park Saturday, October 18 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Memorial Park, along Hippy Holler, at 796 Parker Drive, Owensville, MO 65066. Bargain hunters won’t want to miss this sale. Severe weather reschedule will be 10/19.
Get more info.

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Saturday, Oct. 18
It’s Hallowine at St. James Winery. This ticketed event will include wine slushies, a wine and candy flight, tarot card readings, a haunted wine cellar tour, plus contests for the best witches cackle and best costume.
Learn more.

Saturday, Oct. 18
Head to Papa’s Diner/Super Smoker’s BBQ in Eureka for the Gearheads and Grub event. Find live music, food, cars, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 18
The 573 Vintage Market in Linn will feature 50+ handpicked, upscale, one-of-a-kind vendors, plus food trucks and much more.
Find more info.

Saturday, Oct 18
This Saturday is the final Starry Sky Nights program of the year at Onondaga State Park in Leasburg. 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.
Get more info.

Saturday, Oct. 18 & Sunday, Oct. 19
Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Murder Mystery Weekend, and the theme is Witch Way to the Wine. With two showings, the event will feature food and complimentary water and tea, with wine and beer available for purchase. Attendees of the murder mystery dinner are encouraged to dress in costume.
Get tickets.

Sunday, Oct. 19
Clancy’s Pour House in Rosebud is hosting a pop-up family movie and bonfire night with the showing of the film “Hocus Pocus.” The fun begins at 6 p.m.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 7 – July 13, 2025

From free family-friendly movies, to a music festival, a thrifting event, and even an all ages science show, plus a lot more, there’s something for just about everyone this week! Read on for the full list of all the events happening this week around Franklin, Gasconade, Phelps, Crawford, and Warren Counties, and beyond!

Thursday, July 10
Join Dr. Ike at Present Moment Yoga in Washington for a hands-on workshop exploring the fundamentals of Pressure Point Healing. In this introductory class, you’ll learn the uses of various Tien Da (Shiatsu) acupoints and practice applying them. Dr. Ike will guide you through how meridians work in harmony with myofascial trigger points to promote healing and balance.
Buy tickets and learn more.

Thursday, July 10 – Sunday, July 13
The annual Pickin’ on Picknic event at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair is back for its 10th year. This family-friendly event will happen rain or shine and will feature a weekend full of live music, vendors, splashing in the lake and river, hiking, free workshops, bonfires, and more.
Get tickets.

Photo via Pickin’ on Picknic on Facebook.

Thursday, July 10
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington continues its free drive-in movie night with a showing of the 90s film “The Sandlot.” Parking spaces for the drive-in showings are on a first come, first served basis. Guests can purchase concession items to enjoy during the film.
Learn more.

Friday, July 11
The John Henry Band is playing in Pacific’s monthly outdoor concert series, Sunset on the Rails. The band performs a mix of classic rock, country, and beachy tunes that are always crowd pleasers! Food provided by Ramblin’ Rooster. Bring your blankets, chairs and coolers for this family-friendly free concert.
Learn more.

Friday, July 11
The Union Farmers Market features items like local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. Please note that the new location of the market is on the corner of Oak and Main Streets, adjacent to Hansen Park.
Get more details on Facebook.

Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13
*CANCELED* As of a July 8 Facebook announcement
Happening one weekend each month, the Villa Ridge Farmers Market at Stacked Coffee House has locally made goods, local produce, meat, food, and of course, coffee from Stacked.
Follow the market’s Facebook page to learn more.

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Saturday, July 12
Ladies, Littles, and Lattes is hosting its second annual Thrift & Gift Resale and Vendor Event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Franklin County Resource Center in Union. The event will feature food trucks, fun activities for kids, vendor and resale booths, and 50/50 raffle.
Find out more.

Saturday, July 12
The Washington Public Library is hosting Nitro Joe’s Science Show from 10 – 11 a.m. Thus fast-paced, high energy science presentation is appropriate for all ages.
Get all the details.

Saturday, July 12
The Union Moose Lodge will host its fifth annual car show from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, July 13
Wine bar Winehouse 66 in Pacific will have live music on the patio by Ron Boyle from 2 – 5 p.m.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, July 11
Owensville is hosting a series of free, family-friendly movies this summer, with a special “Christmas in July” showing of “The Grinch” on Friday, July 11. The movie will be shown at Buschmann Park in Owensville, and will start at 8:30 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, July 12
Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is hosting a fun-filled day celebrating creativity and community! Discover handmade crafts, original art, upcycled treasures, delicious treats, and of course, wine and Swafftastic BBQ!
Get more details.

Saturday, July 12
Head to Marthasville for an action-packed evening at Marthasville Ballpark for Rumble in the River Bottom, a thrilling truck and tractor pull event benefiting St. Ignatius Catholic Grade School. Don’t miss this high-horsepower night of fun for the whole family!
Find out more.

Posted in Events, Updates

What’s Happening in Franklin County March 3 – March 8, 2025

There’s a lot happening this week around Franklin County, Missouri.

Tuesday, March 4
Bad Beats Dance Class is a fun way to get fit. This hour-long class will feature a blend of music genres and decades such as music from the 90s to present day, with dance moves that encompass Latin, jive, country, hip-hop, and more. Register for the class.

Wednesday, March 5
Explore your creative side and choose from making a St. Patrick’s themed Highland cow or a Mardi Gras painting at a paint night held at Sip on Main in Union. Included in the ticket price is a pre-traced canvas, plus $5 off food/drink at Sip on Main for that evening. 
Find out more and register.

Photo via Brushin’ Whimsy’s Constant Contact Signup Link

Thursday, March 6
Stop by The Tipsy Keg from 6 to 9 p.m. to line dance, or just relax and take in the music and dancing with your favorite drink in hand, if that’s more your style. 
Find out more.

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Saturday, March 8
The third annual Shamwalk & Run event in Pacific will benefit MVR-III Bridge Foundation and Back to School Backpack Program. This St. Paddy’s Day themed run and walk will feature vendors you can visit before or after the race, as well as a Most Spirited Contest, 4 Leaf Clover Run, and Pot of Gold.
Find out more and sign up

Saturday, March 8
The Denim & Diamonds event in St. Clair will feature a Dolly Parton lookalike contest, exclusive offers from small businesses in the area, and giveaways. 
Get the full list of participating vendors

Photo via Denim & Diamonds’ Facebook Event

Saturday, March 8
Happening at Winehouse 66 in Pacific, Nibbles & Sips is a thoughtfully curated appetizer and wine pairing class designed for both discovery and enjoyment. The first half of the experience will feature a guided tasting of four expertly selected wines, each paired with a small bite to enhance its flavors.
In the second half, relax and enjoy a social grazing session—grab a glass or bottle of your favorite wine to share, savor the appetizer pairings, and enjoy great company in a welcoming atmosphere.
Register for this event.

Saturday, March 8
Tickets to the Washington pub crawl include a coolie cup and a participant shirt, which allows ticket holders to access  specials at the 15 area participating pubs, free shuttle service and scavenger hunt.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 8
Ladies, Littles, & Lattes + GRPC is a group that aims create a welcoming, safe, and clean environment for children to play alongside their caregiver and peers in the community. The Garden Gala fundraiser is set in a stunning garden backdrop and guests will enjoy dinner, entertainment, and four-hour open bar. Don’t miss this opportunity to mingle, engage in meaningful conversations about the organization, bid on exclusive items in the silent auction and learn how your support can make a difference.
Purchase tickets and find out more.

Photo via Garden Gala’s Facebook Event
Posted in Advertorial Feature, Events

Support Ladies, Littles, and Lattes at the Garden Gala Fundraiser on March 8

Imagine a place in Franklin County where parents can take their children to play in a safe, clean, and indoor play environment that’s available throughout the four seasons. And, picture parents and caregivers getting the chance to engage with each other over a cup of coffee while the little ones play nearby. If this scenario sounds like a dream come true, you should know that there’s a group of local moms working diligently to turn that dream into a reality. 

What started as a way to connect with other parents and form playgroups has shifted into creating a space where families from around the community can meet, engage, and learn. Just over two years after its founding, the private Facebook group called Ladies, Littles, and Lattes + GRPC is 1,400 members strong, and growing. It was co-founded by Sarah Walsh and Emily Tyler and is based on an idea that was inspired by the playgroups Sarah was a part of when she lived in Illinois. 

“When my family moved to Union in August 2022, I noticed a lack of engaging opportunities for parents and children to connect with others in the community,” Sarah explains. 

The rapid growth of the Facebook group shows there is a clear need for the meetups. Currently the group hosts in person meetups at the Franklin County Resource Center—Monday mornings for moms or female caregivers and their children, and Saturdays for the whole family. These gatherings offer a space for parents to share life experiences and challenges, as well as connect, support, and encourage one another while their kids play, learn, and grow together.

“We regularly host 10 to 25 moms and their children at each two-hour playdate meetup. This success has inspired us to take the next step: creating a permanent space of our own for families in our community,” Sarah says.

The next step towards bringing the play space to life

Last March, Ladies, Littles, and Lattes officially received its 501(c)(3) status, which allows for fundraising for its newest project called Growing Roots Play Cafe. The indoor play space will offer a variety of interactive play areas for children, including a climbing structure, soft play area, sensory section, and imagination houses. In addition to play spaces, the cafe will provide resources and classes for families and a comfortable space for caregivers to relax and connect.

Since forming its non-profit status, the organization has received support from the community sharing the mission and vision of the organization in a grassroots effort, along with some local media coverage, and lots of support and hard work from its board members.

“This dream wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our incredible board members, who have worked tirelessly to help bring this vision closer to reality. Together, our team is committed to making Growing Roots Play Cafe a place where all families feel accepted, encouraged, and connected,” Sarah shares.

To bring Growing Roots Play Cafe to life, the group will be applying for grants, seeking sponsorships, and hosting various fundraising events. On Saturday, March 8, Ladies, Littles, & Lattes + GRPC is hosting a Garden Gala at Triple 3 Vineyard in Washington to help raise funds to propel the organization forward in its mission.

The March 8 event is from 5 to 9 p.m. and attendees can expect dinner, an open bar, music by Eagle Entertainment, plus a silent auction, and guest speakers. Tickets for the Garden Gala are available online

For anyone unable to attend the event, there are a few different ways to donate to the organization online to help support its mission. 

Find out more about Ladies, Littles, and Lattes + GRPC by following it on Facebook.