Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Dec. 1 – Dec. 7, 2025

This week, there’s chances to watch holiday movies, attend craft events, holiday pop-ups, Christmas parades, winter markets, holiday concerts, meals with Santa, holiday light displays, and much more.

Please note I try my best to capture the happenings in our area each week, and some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, so I share those items in my stories throughout the week. Be sure to follow me on Facebook an Instagram to get all the details!

Graphic with text over a photo of Christmas tree and white lights

And, as we move into winter weather, event details may change or events may get rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!

Monday, Dec. 1, Wednesday, Dec. 3, Saturday, Dec. 6, Sunday, Dec. 7
Great 8 Cinema in Union is showing classic holiday movies through Christmas Eve for only $2 per person. On Monday and Wednesday, catch “A Christmas Story” and on Saturday and Sunday view “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
Get more info.

Tuesday, Dec. 2
Enjoy a holiday concert with music by the Schwarzer Zither Ensemble of Washington. Promoting the tradition, music, and local history of the zither instruments, Schwarzer Zither Ensemble of Washington performs a concert including seasonal and holiday music.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Dec. 3 – Sunday, Dec. 7
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar’s The 898 Hours of Christmas Pop-Up Bar is still happening this week. Drink Christmas-themed cocktails in a cozy, winter wonderland-themed space.
Get more details.

Wednesday, Dec. 3
Get into the spirit of the season at Mistletoe & Mixology, a Holiday Pop-Up at Oak & Front in Washington. Experience festive decorations, holiday cocktails, themed food specials, and house-made Christmas cookies served at every table. The event kicks off on Dec. 3, and will also run on Dec. 10, and Dec. 17. Reserve your spot for $10 per person.
Learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 4
N-Rec Sports Center in Washington is hosting a Bingo Night featuring Taco Loco. Price is $40 per person, and includes bingo, as well as a Taco Loco meal and margarita.
Get more details.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Have breakfast for dinner, and eat pancakes with Santa at St. Gertrude Parish & School in Washington. Have pancakes with all the toppings, beverages, Christmas crafts, and more.
Learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Beginning this Thursday, Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is kicking off a special series called “Happy Holidates.” The special is a dinner and a movie date package on Thursdays, with a holiday twist. For $30 per person, enjoy dinner at Smokin’ Oak, plus admission to a holiday film, popcorn, and a drink.
Get more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
Thacker’s Mini Pub in Gerald is having a Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament. Cost of entry is $20 per person.
Find out more.

Friday, Dec. 5 – Saturday, Dec. 6
Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair is having their annual Grove of Lights holiday light experience. View thousands of dazzling lights, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and s’mores, get photos with Santa, free face painting for kids, and much more.
Purchase tickets.

Friday, Dec. 5
Washington Library is hosting a Build-a-Stuffie and movie night. Attendees will build a new stuffie and then watch a G-rated holiday movie. Registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Friday, Dec. 5
River Sirens Collective is hosting a Ladies Night with IPL hand facials, permanent jewelry, blowouts, chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, Botox specials, and exclusive retail discounts.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have breakfast with Santa & the Grinch at Miller’s Grill in Washington from 8-9:45 a.m. Children have the opportunity for a free photo with Santa & the Grinch and Christmas Cookie Treats with the purchase of breakfast!
Purchase your tickets for the breakfast and learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Robertsville Elementary for a vendor fair and visit from Santa.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have breakfast with Santa at Boles Fire Protection District from 9-11 a.m. in Villa Ridge. This event is free, and also includes station tours by firefighters.
More info.

Need more space in your current home? Reach out to Freelance Services today for help with your addition or renovation drawings.

Saturday, Dec. 6
New Haven is the site of the Handmade Holiday Mart from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find seasonal cocktails and samples from Pinckney Bend Distillery, an espresso bar by Lang-A-Tang Cafe, tea and gifts from London Tea Merchant, plus permanent jewelry, custom shirts and mugs, along with flowers, décor, and ornaments by Bright Side Blooms.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The 4th Annual Mingle & Jingle is happening at Triple 3 Vineyard in Washington from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Shop from 50 local makers and visit with Santa from 1-3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The town of Pacific is having a Winter Wonderland Christmas on the Plaza and Parade holiday event. There will be s’mores, hot cocoa, pictures with Santa and much more.
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night every Saturday. Stand up comedy, music, and more is welcome.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Liberty Hall in Washington is hosting The Divines, a Celtic band blending Irish, Old Time, and Americana music.
Get tickets and time info.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Downtown Sullivan will have its Christmas Festival and a lighted Parade.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Riverbend Middle School Craft & Vendor Fair promises to be a festive day of shopping, creativity, and community spirit in Pacific. Browse a wide variety of handmade crafts, unique gifts, home décor, seasonal items, and local vendor products—perfect for getting a head start on your holiday shopping! Enjoy food and fun while supporting our school and local small businesses. All proceeds from booth rentals help support Riverbend Middle School programs and student activities.
Get more details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Union’s City Auditorium for Rock & Roll Bingo. Attendees can bring their own snacks and beverages to this black light bingo night.
Find pricing and other details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Visit with Santa at Sullivan Ace from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Meet Santa Claus at Linny’s Kennel in Union. There will be treats for kids as well as canines at the event.
Get more info.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Thrive Studio and Events in Sullivan is hosting a Holiday Market & Santa Photos event. Expect hot cocoa, shopping with area vendors, and more.
Find all the details.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a Five Can Film Series with a showing of “Elf” this Sunday. Watch classic holiday flicks throughout the Christmas season for a $6 ticket price, or by donating 5 non-perishable cans of food per movie goer. *Editorial note: this article originally stated the special showing of “Elf” was on Saturday. The article has been updated to reflect the correct date for the movie.
Find out more.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Make an embroidered ornament at Yarn Together in Washington. Registration is required, and all supplies are included in workshop price.
Find out more.

Sunday, Dec. 7
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Washington is having a donuts with Santa event from 10 a.m. – noon.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Weekdays and Weekends in December
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this fall and winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
Head to Augusta for an old fashioned experience at the Christmas Candlelight Walk.
Get more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
The town of Salem is having its Christmas parade, and the theme is Candy Cane Lane, with businesses open late after the parade for shopping.
Find out more.

Friday, Dec. 5 & Saturday, Dec. 6
Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season.
Learn pricing and more info.

Calling all romance girlies! Download your next binge read like Nerdy Words, book one in The Talk Nerdy to Me Series.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The 2nd Annual Hometown Christmas in Warrenton is the perfect way to slow down and soak in the joy of the holidays with family and friends. There will be a lighted parade, live reindeer, photos with Santa, a Christmas light maze, hot cocoa, and much more.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Christmas in Rosebud will feature fun for all ages, with a petting zoo, tree lighting, parade, face painting, an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more.
More details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Owensville High School for a Winter Craft Market. There will be food vendors, music, a visit from Santa, gift wrapping, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
St. James is having its Christmas Parade, and “Joy to the World” is the theme of the celebration. See Santa, enjoy cookies and hot cocoa, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have ice cream for breakfast with Santa Claus at Udderly Moolicious in Warrenton. The menu will feature Belgian waffles topped with ice cream, whipped cream, and other delicious toppings. A photographer will also be onsite to take photos for $15 per family.
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 October 6 – 12, 2025

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

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.

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

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 Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County March 31 – April 6

Here’s what’s happening around Franklin County this week. With the nicer weather here, there are more events happening throughout the area. If you want to plan ahead, you can always visit the calendar on the website to see what’s coming up.

April 1
The St. Clair Branch of Scenic Regional Library is hosting an event to teach you how to Charleston. 
Register for the event here.

April 1
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 at badbeatsdf.com

April 2
Purchase tickets for Brushin’ Whimsy’s paint event at Sip on Main and choose to paint a spring cactus or mushroom gnome. Guests of the event will receive $5 off food or drink purchased during the event. 
Register here.

April 3
Head to  Marquart’s Landing in Washington for a night of creativity and fun with Artmazing Event Co! Get ready to unleash your inner artist as we guide you step-by-step through creating a beautiful spring painting. No art experience is necessary.  All the materials and instruction will be provided so you can create your colorful masterpiece. Food and drinks are purchased separately. 
Sign up at the link at this Facebook event.

April 4
The Washington Public Library will host a teen egg hunt. The library will be dark and the hidden eggs will be full of candy. Find the glitter egg to receive a special prize. Attendees should bring a flashlight. The event is for ages 12 & up.
Learn more.

April 4
Belt out your favorite tunes at Sip on Main’s karaoke night. The fun is going down on three different nights in April at the establishment’s event room. 
Find out more by visiting the bar’s Facebook page.

April 5
Ladies, Littles, & Lattes is celebrating its second year with a bash that includes Easter bunny photos, food trucks, horse rides, and other fun activities. 
Get all the details.

Photo via Hoppin’ Into Year Two’s Facebook Event.

April 5
Attend the black light bingo night, which is a Charity Bingo event benefitting The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation at Union City Auditorium. Purchase individual or per table tickets here.

April 5
Attend the Liberty Hall Vendor Fair to find things that are handmade, holistic and other one-of-a-kind items. The vendor fair is from 11 – 3 both Saturday and Sunday. 
Get more details.

April 6
Attend the Liberty Hall Vendor Fair to find things that are handmade, holistic and other one-of-a-kind items. The vendor fair is from 11 – 3 both Saturday and Sunday. 
Get more details.

April 6
Visit the American Legion Auxiliary in Union for their Spring Fling Vendor & Craft Fair! This event will feature food trucks and food vendors, as well as local crafters and vendors. Find out more

April 6
Originally scheduled for March 30, Kaleidoscope Consignment’s first farmer’s market and craft fair of the year was rescheduled due to weather. Find items from local artisans and crafters like local honey, handmade jewelry, Scentsy, delicious food, sourdough baked goods, and more.
Get more details.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County March 10 – March 16, 2025

Irish eyes are smiling this week, as there are a few St. Patrick’s Day focused festivities as well as other events happening this week around Franklin County.

Monday, March 10
Every Monday, head to The Tipsy Keg for Bingo Night. This free event includes prizes won during bingo, plus every Monday, enjoy half priced wings all day and happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. 
Find out more by visiting The Tipsy Keg’s Facebook page.

Wednesday, March 12
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 here.

Wednesday, March 12
Every Wednesday is Karaoke Night at The Tipsy Keg. Belt out your favorite song, enjoy flash sales and drinks specials, plus happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. Kitchen is open until 9pm!
Find out more.

Thursday, March 13
As part of the continuing Dynamic Women Speaker Series at Liberty Hall in Washington, Dr. Danielle Angela, transformational coach, speaker, and money mindset expert, will guide attendees through the process of uncovering limiting financial beliefs and shifting toward lasting financial freedom and confidence.
Learn more and grab tickets.

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

Thursday, March 13
Dine to Donate at The Tilted Skillet, all day on Thursday, March 13. For one day only, 10% of all dine-in sales will be donated to the Four Rivers Genealogical Society, a non-profit organization that helps preserve and share the rich history of our region.
Find out more.

Thursday, March 13
A second opportunity to play bingo is happening each week, with an additional Bingo Night at The Tipsy Keg each Thursday. Stop in for half priced wings, happy hour, and bingo. Prizes to be won with every game!
Learn more.

Friday, March 14
Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, spend an evening with local all-female Celtic band The Divines. Their music celebrates Celtic heritage, while blending traditional instruments and heartfelt vocals. This ticketed event is sponsored by Four Rivers Arts Council and Liberty Hall Cultural Center. Music starts at 7 p.m., doors open 6:30 p.m. Bar will be open for drink purchases.
Get the ticket link and more information.

Friday, March 14
Come shake your booty to all of your favorite 90s and 2000s music at The Tipsy Keg! Drink and shot specials available all day.
Get all the details.

Saturday, March 15
Church St. between Locust and Main will be closed down for St. Patty’s Day fun in Union. There will be face painting, cookie decorating, a scavenger hunt, plus Red White and Brew Food Truck.
Get all the details.

Saturday, March 15
The St. Clair First Responders presents Beers, Bags, and Blues, an all-day event that includes a smoked chicken and ribs cookoff, cornhole tournament, music, dancing, plus 50/50 and live auctions. 
Get more details, including cost to enter the cookoff and tournament here.

Saturday, March 15
It’s market season! Head to the animal swap and farmers market event in Beaufort. The Franklin/Gasconade County Poultry & Animal Swap features items like fresh eggs, hatching eggs, honey, and typical farmers market items.
Find the time, location, and additional swap dates.

Sunday, March 16
If you’re looking to acquire a few small animals to get started on building your homestead, or to expand your existing one, you may want to visit the Eastern MO Small Animal Swap & Farmers Market in Union.
Learn more and find out all the swap dates this season.