Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 13 – April 19, 2026

Get ready Franklin County, we’re in for a week of exciting spring events and entertaining fundraisers! This week, you can spend an afternoon crafting at a local library, experience a “smart zoo,” take in live music, take part in DIY group classes like crafting nights or cookie decorating classes, and a whole lot more.

Looking ahead to the weekend, there’s community fundraisers, the 2026 Missouri Book Festival, a craft fair, a city wide yard sale, a roaring 20s themed pub crawl, plus there’s plenty of events happening within a short drive of Franklin County like wine tastings, a grandparents brunch, and a star-gazing event.

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

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

Tuesday, April 14
The monthly Crafting and Creativity event at the Washington Public Library is all about decorating the community read book “Speak to Me of Home.” Don’t have a copy of that book? Feel free to bring your favorite book to decorate at this free event.
Learn more.

Tuesday, April 14
Silver Edge Self-Defense at American Street Edge – St. Clair. This 55+ self-defense and mobility class is on a limited trial of two classes to gauge interest. Attend on Tuesday for the second of the two trial classes to learn practical self-defense, mobility, balance, fall prevention, and building real confidence in a safe, controlled environment. These classes are designed for the 55+ age group and are effective without being overly intense. The 30 minute class starts at 2:30 p.m. and attendees can come for free.
Get more info on Facebook.

Wednesday, April 15
Have a zoo experience unlike any other at Lowe’s Parking Lot in Washington when Wild Adventures: A Smart Zoo Experience comes to Washington. The event is from 2-7 p.m. and features hyper-realistic and fully animatronic animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, pandas, monkeys, a smoke breathing 40-foot King Cobra, brand new dinosaurs, and more.
Find out more.

Thursday, April 16
Music on Main continues at the intersection of Oak & Main in downtown Union. Enjoy live music performed by Dave Alans, with food and refreshments available for purchase by Elmer’s Tavern and Boxcar Express Ice Cream.
Get more info.

Thursday, April 16
It’s the one month anniversary of American Street Edge’s grand opening. To celebrate, this Thursday only, both kids and adult classes are completely FREE! School opens at 3:30 p.m., kids class at 4:30 p.m. (ages 6 to 12) and the adult class is at 6 p.m. (ages 13 and above). As part of the celebration, one lucky new student (kid or adult) who attends that day will be randomly selected to receive a special gift from American Street Edge!
Learn more.

Thursday, April 16
Experience the flavors of Puerto Rico at the Washington Public Library’s Taste of Puerto Rico event with food made by Jess from Little Lost Kitchen! Discover traditional dishes, ingredients, and cooking techniques while enjoying a delicious, hands-on culinary experience.
Must register to attend.

Thursday, April 16
Grab your besties and head to The Painted Home in downtown Washington for Girlfriend Craft Night. This event will feature a Clipboard Class where attendees will design their own custom clipboard using IOD transfers or paint inlays. In addition to the crafts, expect music, chatting, and lots of fun and creativity. Attendees can BYOB and snacks.
Purchase tickets.

Friday, April 17
Help raise funds for Labaddie Elementary School at the Annual Dinner Auction Fundraiser, held at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center in Washington.
Get more info.

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Friday, April 17
DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair is hosting a beginner cookie decorating class for all ages. The paid non-refundable class fee of $40 will hold your spot and includes a 6 cookie decorating kit, with everything you need to decorate your cookies and a box to take them home in.
Sign up.

Saturday, April 18
The 2026 Missouri Book Festival is happening from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Washington Public Library. Discover new authors and mingle with other book lovers at this annual event.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss the First Annual Jeffrey White Memorial Foundation Golf Tournament at Meramec Lakes Golf Course in St. Clair. Cost is $100 per person/$350 team of 4. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Shotgun Scramble 11 a.m. Dinner, beer, water and soda provided.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
Step back into the Roaring Twenties for a 1920s inspired pub crawl in Union filled with speakeasy vibes, classic cocktails, and a little Prohibition era mischief. Dress to the nines or not, sip your way through participating stops, and enjoy a night of jazz age energy and surprises because the best speakeasies never give away all their secrets.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Create your own Tea Garden using a variety of herbs at this workshop held at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery. You will learn how to care for and harvest fresh ingredients from this garden to make your own medicinal tea.
Save your spot.

Saturday, April 18
The St. Clair Saddle Club is having a Family Fun Day featuring free hot dogs, games, and activities for all ages.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
The Union Moose Lodge is hosting a Craft Fair that is open to the public. Shop from area vendors from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Attend the city wide yard sale in New Haven, which is happening from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. There’s also a pop-up BBQ at Save-a-Lot, so get your fix after you’ve hit some of the yard sales.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair branch is hosting a tea and paper doll event from 1-2 p.m. Enjoy a spot of tea and cut out paper dolls at this free event for kids.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, April 14
Countryside Farm & Market in Cuba is having a Plant & Sip event where attendees will make a hanging basket. The event begins at 6 p.m. and attendees will have the opportunity to make their own hanging basket arrangement.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18 & Sunday, April 19
It’s the Spring Wine Tasting Event, happening at participating wineries in the St. James area. Enjoy wine tastings at establishments including St. James Winery, Prairie Barn Winery, Spencer Manor Winery, Peaceful Bend, and Eagles Landing.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
The Legends subdivision in Eureka is having a community spring garage sale event. The sale is from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
The first Starry Sky Night of the season is happening at Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg. Join astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot to view the cosmos with a high-powered telescope.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
Country Cousins Antique Mall in Leasburg is having an outdoor flea market beginning at 8 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Attend the Ladies Night Out Shop Hop in historic Rosebud, happening from 4-9 p.m. Grab your girlfriends and make plans for a fun night out of shopping, sips, and good times.
Get more details.

Sunday, April 19
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for Grandparents Garden Brunch. Attendees of this ticketed event will enjoy a brunch buffet, crafts, and games, with the option to take carriage rides for an additional fee.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 19
Spend a spring afternoon along Historic Route 66 with a guided wine and food experience in the heart of the Ozark Highlands with a 5-course wine pairing dinner.
Get tickets.

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, August 18 – August 24, 2025

This week, don’t miss your chance to learn about some of the movies that have been filmed in Missouri, take in local talent at an open mic night, catch a showing of “Mufasa” at Lawn Chair Movie Night, test your knowledge at trivia nights, support local fundraisers, and a whole lot more!

Tuesday, Aug. 19
The support committee for Aging Ahead Union at The Union Community Center, is hosting an Ice Cream Social. There will be bingo, ice cream, and a card party. Aging Ahead activities and events are for those 55+ and their guests.
Learn more.

Thursday, Aug. 21
The Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library is hosting a Movies Made in Missouri event at 6 p.m. Register for the event to learn about the films made in the Show Me State.
Get more info.

Photo via Movies Made in Missouri Facebook event.

Friday, Aug. 22
Join an evening of entertainment from local voices, from singers, poets, storytellers, and more, at Open Mic Night at Liberty Hall in Washington. Doors open at 6, with performances beginning at 7, allowing attendees time to grab a seat and a drink at the cash bar.
Find all the details.

Friday, Aug. 22
After several weeks’ hiatus, due to extreme heat and the Washington Town & Country Fair, the Union Farmers Market is back this week! Find 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.

Friday, Aug. 22
It’s Lawn Chair Movie Night, so bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a free showing of the film “Mufasa.” The movie starts at 7:30 p.m. and is happening at 300 W. Park Ave. in Union.
Learn more.

Friday, Aug. 22
Kick off the 2025–26 ECC Music Department’s concert season with a free outdoor music festival featuring three incredible bands, great food and drink, and a whole lot of fun.
Find out more.

Saturday, Aug. 23
Northside Reception Hall in Sullivan will host Summer Trivia Night at 6 p.m. Join in for the family-friendly evening, with guests encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Aug. 23
Stop by Silo Restaurant in Sullivan for the second annual car cruise in memory of Billy Parker, Jr. Bring your car and come out to enjoy an evening of mingling and admiring all the classics just as he would.
Find out more.

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Saturday, Aug. 23
Head to the Washington Farmers’ Market for an evening of music that will also help fill local food pantries for Foodstock. The event is held from 5-10 p.m., and admission is a monetary donation or a bag of non-perishable food items. Bring your lawn chairs and get ready for an evening for fun and giving back!
More info.

Saturday, Aug. 23
Be sure to stop by the Elks Lodge in St. Clair to support the St. Clair Historical Museum, and eat some delicious food, at a chili cook off and Ozark pie supper, happening from 5-8:30 p.m.
Find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Aug. 23
The Candy Land Ball is an opportunity for kids to bring their favorite grown-up—whether it’s mom, dad, grandparents, aunts, uncles, foster parents, or any special person in their life for an evening of dancing. A photographer will be on-site with a themed backdrop for photos, and light refreshments will be provided.
Get more details, including the ticket link, at the Facebook event.

Sunday, Aug. 24
It’s Open Lake Day at Lost Hill Lake. Admission is $5 for a day of outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, kayaking, and there will be live music by Justin Rose. There will also be brunch available for purchase by Yonder Eats, as well as bottomless mimosas and bloody Marys at the Lost Hill Lake bar.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Monday, Aug. 18
Join the Missouri Master Naturalists from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Rolla Public Library for a special program exploring the legacy of Lewis and Clark in Missouri. Discover how the Corps of Discovery navigated the state’s diverse landscapes, documented its rich natural resources, and laid the groundwork for generations of explorers and naturalists. This engaging presentation will highlight the ecological and historical significance of their journey through Missouri, offering insights into the expedition’s lasting impact on our understanding of the natural world. This event is free and open to the public.
Find out more.

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Wednesday, Aug. 20
Unleash your creativity in a vibrant black light painting class for teens and adults (13+) at the Rolla Public Library. No art background needed, and all materials are included for a glowing good time!
Learn more.

Friday, Aug. 22
Prairie Barn Winery is hosting a trivia night, and the theme is Desserts! There will be three rounds with prizes for each round. Pizza and pretzels will be on the menu at the winery, and attendees should bring a dessert to share.
Get all the info.

Saturday, Aug. 23
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.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County May 26 – June 1, 2025

This week there’s a lot going on in and around Franklin County, including a Memorial Day parade in Union, a free drive-in movie in Washington, a rodeo in Gerald, and the annual car show at White Rose Cafe is happening on Sunday, June 1.

Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day
Watch the parade on Memorial Day in Union at 10 a.m. then head to the American Legion for service at 11 a.m., with lunch immediately following the service.
Get more details.

Monday, May 26Memorial Day
If you want some barbecue, but don’t want to spend time at the grill, The Tipsy Keg will have a special barbecue menu for Memorial Day. Find pulled pork, brisket, and ribs beginning at 11 a.m. until sold out. There will also be live music performed by Travis Fadler. 
Find out more on Facebook.

Tuesday, May 27 – Wednesday, May 28
There are two opportunities to take part in dance fitness class Bad Beats. Head to the Washington Community Art Studio for an hour long class that will help you reach your fitness goals while having fun.
Reserve your spot!

Wednesday, May 28
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 dedicated to conversation, or continued reading.
Learn more.

Thursday, May 29
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington will show a different drive-in movie every Thursday night throughout the summer for free. The special showings are kicking off with “Forrest Gump.”
Learn more.

Friday, May 30
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have live music from Travis Fadler starting at 7 p.m.

Friday, May 30
The Tipsy Keg in downtown Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night beginning at 7 p.m. Limited food menu available, and drink specials throughout the night. 
Learn more on Facebook.

Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31
The Gerald Saddle Club is hosting a rodeo on Friday and Saturday, beginning at 7 p.m. each day. Take in bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding, and more.
Get more details.

Sunday, June 1
The White Rose Cafe in Union’s annual car show will feature all rides. Cruz-N-25 will happen from noon to 3 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, May 30 – Saturday, May 31
Folky Fish Fest is an unforgettable weekend of folk and new-grass music, culture, and community in nearby St. James. Set against the backdrop of Maramec Spring Park’s scenic surroundings, this one-of-a-kind festival brings together folk and new-grass music lovers for a weekend brimming with creativity and connection. Attendees can enjoy an incredible lineup of live performances from talented musicians on multiple stages, ranging from soulful folk tunes to energetic new-grass jams that will have everyone on their feet. A celebration of creativity and community!
Learn more and get tickets.

Saturday, May 31
The Lions Club Fairgrounds in Linn will be the site of the 573 Vintage Market. Come shop from over 50 vendors, enjoy live music, and delectable eats from food trucks.
Get all the details.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County May 19 – May 25, 2025

This week there’s a lot going on in and around Franklin County – Sunset on the Riverfront happens this Thursday, there’s a few community markets, opportunities to hear live music, and get crafty, plus some unique events happening just a short drive from Franklin County. As a reminder, I don’t list every event that’s on the calendar here in the weekly roundup post, including events happening in the first half of the week. Be sure to look at the calendar of events to see everything! Note that you can find the calendar at the bottom of the home page if you’re viewing the site on a mobile device.

Thursday, May 22
Head to downtown Washington for the May 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.

Photo via Downtown Washington, Inc.’s Facebook event.

Thursday, May 22 and Friday, May 23
Stacked Coffeehouse in Villa Ridge is going to be out and about in the community doing coffee “pop-ups” from a mobile coffee trailer. On Thursday, catch Stacked at St. John the Baptist School in Villa Ridge from 7:30 – 9 a.m., and on Friday, find Stacked at The Novel Nook in Washington from noon – 2 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, May 23
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. SPECIAL NOTICE – This week’s market will happen at 10 E. Locust St., across from City Hall.
Get more details on Facebook.

Friday, May 23
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have live music from Tom Norton starting at 7 p.m. 
Learn more.

Saturday, May 24
Enjoy live music while you take in the beautiful scenery at Triple 3 Vineyard, when SWeet Ruckus plays from 2 – 5 p.m. 
Learn more at the Facebook event.

Saturday, May 24
The Sullivan Community Market is happening from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Muddy Banks Brewing. Shop local vendors and makers, find locally grown produce and baked goods, and listen to live music.
More details.

Sunday, May 25
Learn how to make a custom Welcome Mat for your home at this class held at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan, from 3 – 6 p.m. Ticket price includes materials to create the mat.
Get tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Saturday, May 24
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, May 24
Get ready for a relaxing day on the river at Brookdale Farms’ first Eureka Floats event of the season!
More information.

Sunday, May 25
Take a short drive to Fenton to see the amazing rides at a 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.