Tag: lifestyle

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 9 – March 15, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Get ready to enjoy live music performances this week with two opportunities to catch music by Celtic band The Divines, or hear local musician Tom Norton play in St. Clair. There are also two comedy nights happening in the area, one at Triple 3 Vineyard that’s ticketed, as well as a free comedy night at The Outfield in Marthasville. Other events this week include craft and DIY events, trivia nights, mouse race fundraisers, and much more!

And Irish eyes are smiling this week, as the area prepares for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations this weekend. There’s St. Paddy’s Day trivia, parades, scavenger hunts, and more included in this post, but keep an eye out for a special roundup post on the various St. Patrick’s Day celebrations happening in Franklin County and neighboring communities. That post will release on Thursday, giving you plenty of time to plan your weekend, and if you still can’t get enough of the holiday shenanigans, this post outlines nine area establishments with St. Paddy’s Day drink menus.

Just a heads up – always double check with the event venue before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled for some reason!

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

Monday, March 9
Hear music by Celtic band The Divines at the Scenic Regional Library’s Union branch. The concert begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Tuesday, March 10
Get ready for an afternoon of DIY crafting at the Washington Public Library’s monthly Crafting & Creativity event. This month’s craft will be creating a mini spring wreath.
Get all the details.

Thursday, March 12
The Alley in Washington is hosting an All-Ages Karaoke from 6-9 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, March 13
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington will have line dancing by Glittering Grapevine beginning at 6 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 14
Andy’s Produce Too in Union is having a flower pot painting party from noon-3 p.m. The cost is $25 per person.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 14
Soul Refresh in Washington is hosting its One Year Anniversary Celebration. The event is from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Saturday, March 14
Immaculate Conception Parish Center will have mouse races at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and there will also be attendance prizes, a 50/50 drawing, cash bar, and silent auction.
Get more information.

Saturday, March 14
The Union Community Center will host an 80’s & 90’s Trivia Night to benefit the Franklin County Historical Society’s museum operations and building fund.
Learn more and find out cost to attend.

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Saturday, March 14
Triple 3 Vineyard in Washington is having a Comedy Night and will feature clean comedian David Graham. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $30 per person.
Find out more and purchase tickets.

Saturday, March 14
Head to Pacific for a St. Patrick’s Day scavenger hunt, which you can find out more about here, as well as a parade that kicks off at 11 a.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, March 14
Hangout Entertainment Bar & Grill in St. Clair will have live music performed by Tom Norton beginning at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 14
The American Legion in St. Clair will have Baseball Mouse Races. There will be a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and more.
Get the details and costs.

Saturday, March 14
If you missed the free concert featuring The Divines on Monday, or you just want to hear them again, the group is playing at Liberty Hall in Washington. This ticketed event will also include one drink with admission.
Get tickets.

Saturday, March 14
Head to the St. Clair Branch of Scenic Regional Library for the free, family-friendly PAR-TEE event. The library is transformed into a video game themed mini golf course where attendees will play nine holes (everything from Pac-Man to Zelda!) then enjoy a quick round of black light bingo and some light refreshments.
Registration is required for this free event.

Saturday, March 14
Downtown Union will have a family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day Block Party from 1-3 p.m. Expect food trucks, face painters, bounce houses, games, a scavenger hunt, and much more.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 14
The Sullivan Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a free Glitter & Glam Closet filled with prom attire including shirts, suits, shoes, and prom dresses.
Find time, location, and other details.

Saturday, March 14
Think you know 80’s fantasy films like The Princess Bride, Willow, Dune, Labrynth, and more? Then you’ll want to attend the 1980s Fantasy Film Trivia event at the Pacific Branch of the Scenic Regional Library.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 14
Do some free stargazing at ECC. The evening begins in Parking Lot N at dusk and concludes at 8 p.m.
Get all the details.

Sunday, March 15
Present Moment Yoga is hosting a Sunday Night by Candlelight yoga event. The evening will include a relaxing candlelit space and soft music to help you relax.
Get more info.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, March 13
Enjoy a night of laughs without a cover charge at The Outfield Sports Bar & Grill in Marthasville’s Comedy Night.
Learn more.

Friday, March 13
Take a short drive to the Shamrock Saloon Pop-Up Bar at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. This one night event will feature Irish drinks, line dancing, food trucks, and raffles.
Get tickets and learn more.

Friday, March 13-Sunday, March 15
Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is having a Shenanigans St. Patrick’s Day Weekend! The event will include trivia, hayrides, outside yard games, camp fire and green slushies.
Get all the details.

Saturday, March 14
Test your St. Paddy’s Day knowledge at the trivia night at Holy Rosary Church in Warrenton.
Find out 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 Feb. 23 – March 1, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Get ready for another fun-filled week of Franklin County events with book clubs, a puzzle race, line dancing, black light bingo, a comedy night, a paint and sip event, and an open mic night.

Ready to hit the road? There’s even more events just outside of Franklin County such as a 2000’s themed trivia night, an 80’s themed murder mystery, a winter wine tasting event, and winter bridal shows.

Just a heads up – always double check with the event venue before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled for some reason!

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

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Teams of up to six friends will race to be the first team to complete the same 500-piece puzzle in 60 minutes at the Washington Public Library’s Puzzle Race event. Space is limited to six teams and pre-registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Join the book club perfect for the overcommitted reader. The Bring Your Own Book book club at The Novel Nook.  Instead of a single assigned read, participants bring whatever book they’re currently enjoying—fiction, nonfiction, classic, or contemporary—and share highlights, insights, and thoughts with the group.
Get all the details.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Scenic Regional Library Branch in Pacific is hosting a showing of the historic 1926 feature film- The Flying Ace- with a live musical accompaniment by Cherry and Jerry, a St. Louis duo that plays ragtime, blues, and jazz music from the 1900s-1920s, including well-known hits from Scott Joplin, W.C. Handy, Irving Berlin, as well as lesser-known gems. Registration is required to attend.
Get more info and register.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Franklin County Silent Book Club will meet at UnderGROUNDS in Washington from 5:30-7 p.m. This nontraditional book club allows you to bring your own book and read in companionable silence, with socializing afterwards with fellow readers. You’ll carve out time for reading, meet new people, and hopefully leave with some new recommendations.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
Do you have a small business and are interested in becoming a vendor at the St. Clair Farmers Market this season? Attend an informational meeting for potential market vendors at the St. Clair Library at 6:30 p.m.
Get the details.

Thursday, Feb. 26
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific will have line dancing from 6-7:30 p.m. The event is free, but donations are accepted.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 27
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is the site of Donuts and Diapers, a sweet morning designed for little ones and the grown-ups who love them. Happening from 9-11 a.m., the event features fresh donuts, open gym play, and quality bonding time in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Get tickets and more details.

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Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Gerald for a unique paint and sip night that focuses on creating a piece of art that highlights the Northern Lights. Seats are limited.
Secure your spot.

Friday, Feb. 27
Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist is seeking motivated individuals interested in building a long‑term career in the green industry and are hosting a Career Fair to learn more about available opportunities across horticulture, landscaping, retail operations, greenhouse, and additional areas within our growing organization. The fair is from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Help support Project Linus of Franklin and Crawford County and create something with your hands. The nonprofit is hosting its monthly Make a Blanket day from 10 a.m. – noon at the Scenic Regional Library Union Branch. Attendees will make fleece blankets to benefit local children, and can bring their own supplies or donate $20 for blanket making supplies.
RSVP requested, find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 28
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Clover Bottom is hosting a Comedy Night Dinner & Dance. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m., the comedy show by Mike Maxwell at 7 p.m., and live music by Steve Leslie after the comedy show.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Enjoy an evening of Black Light Bingo at the IC School Parish Center in Union. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and bingo begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Learn about seed starting at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Participants will use reusable pots, domes and trays to plant tomato and pepper seeds. This is the perfect class to get a head start on your vegetable plants for spring!
Get the details.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington for the bar’s weekly Open Mic Night. Share your musical or stand up talent at the event, happening from 6-10 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a special night for mamas and their favorite little cowboys at the The Mother-Son Ranch Night. This western-style evening is all about quality time, connection, and good old-fashioned fun — without the pressure of a traditional “dance.”
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 27
Defiance Ridge Vineyards is hosting a 2000’s themed trivia night. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. and trivia starts at 7 p.m., with a $25 per team cost.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Love a good murder mystery event? Then you won’t want to miss the 80’s themed event in Owensville.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28 & Sunday, March 1
The Meramec River Wine Trail’s Winter Wine Tasting Event will feature wine and food pairings from numerous wineries in the region – from Steelville to St. James. This self-guided tour is $30 per person, with tickets available for purchase online.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is hosting The Magic of Maples, a fun and informational event that highlights history of making maple products in Missouri and how to make maple products today. The event is free, but registration is required.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 1
The Wildflower Wedding Market is happening from noon-4 p.m. at The Venue at Wildflower Ridge. Meet with wedding planners, decorators, photographers, caterers, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 1
Folky Fish Fest and Spencer Manor are teaming up to host an afternoon of delicious food and live music as a fundraiser for the second year of Folky Fish Jam Camp. Last year’s jam camp welcomed 30 students from the surrounding areas, where they spent the day learning and jamming with Festival Performing Artists thanks to donations and funding from local organizations and individual community members. This year help offer the camp to as many young folks as possible via student scholarships.
Find out more.

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Sunday, March 1
Brookdale Farms is hosting a Winter Bridal Show. This one-stop planning event, features immersive venue tours, stunning décor inspiration, and direct access to the best wedding pros in the business in one elegant afternoon.
Get tickets and find out more.

Sunday, March 1
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
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

10 Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve Around Franklin County

Posted on by Amanda

The end of 2025 is here and if you’re looking for places to ring in 2026, but don’t want to travel far to celebrate, there’s plenty going on right here in the Franklin County area. From multi-course meals, to lively festivities with music and libations, to family-friendly parties and more low-key celebrations that wrap up well before midnight, there’s a number of spots to usher in the New Year.

If you want to enjoy drinks and a cigar this New Year’s Eve, celebrate at Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington with cocktails, fun activities, giveaways every hour, hors d’oeuvres, and a champagne toast at midnight!
Get tickets.

Those who wish to ring in 2026 with a fine dining experience should reserve their spot at Mangia Bella at Elijah McClean’s in Washington. The special three-course New Year’s Eve menu features lobster bisque as a first course, and choose from prime rib, broiled cod, or roasted duck as a main course, along with a milk chocolate mousse cake for dessert.
Reservations made through Open Table.

If you’re looking for low-key festivities that include an early ball-drop, check out the happenings at The Tipsy Keg in Washington. The celebration happens from 6-9 p.m. and features music by Extremely Unplugged.
Learn more.

Triple 3 Vineyard in Washington is hosting a New Year’s Eve bash that includes an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music, a midnight toast, plus a late-night snack offering to keep the party going beyond the balloon drop at 12 a.m.
Get tickets for the event, or celebrate the early ball drop in the Tasting Room, which doesn’t require a ticket purchase.

New Year’s Eve at The Alley in Washington promises something for everyone: there’s blacklight bingo from 6:30-8:30 p.m., live music from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m., plus ball drops at 9 p.m. and again at midnight.
Get more information.

Looking for a family-friendly night out? The NYE Kids’ Jam at Brookdale Farms in Eureka is from 6-9 p.m. and will have an open soda bar, food trucks, games and activities, as well as a photo booth and kid-friendly dance music.
Find out more.

Thacker’s Mini Pub in Gerald will have Family Feud beginning at 8 p.m., a DJ later in the evening, as well as a photo booth, and food and drink specials throughout the night.
Learn more.

Piccadilly Par1 in Union’s New Year’s Eve celebration kicks off at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour, to be followed by a steak and lobster buffet at 7:30 p.m. There will also be a cash bar and appetizers throughout the night, along with a DJ and of course a champagne toast at midnight.
Get more info.

If an evening filled with karaoke and pizza is your more your speed, then head to Saucy’s Pizzeria in Catawissa. The New Year’s Eve celebration will feature karaoke and a DJ, plus a $15 buffet from 7-10 p.m., and much more.
Learn more on Facebook.

Pool tables, darts, karaoke and pub style food is on the menu at Boomers Sports Bar & Grill in Sullivan. One New Year’s Eve, the establishment will have karaoke, 50/50 raffles, and food and drink specials throughout the night, and no cover charge to celebrate, but will accept table reservations made by phone.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Nov. 17 – Nov. 23, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s ways to give back to our community, holiday and craft markets, a whiskey festival, and much more.

While I try to get as many events into each weekly post as I can, some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, but I share those items in my stories throughout the week, so be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram to get all the details! Also, sometimes things come up and events are canceled or rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, always double check with the event venue before heading out, especially as fall and winter weather can force changes!

Tuesday, Nov. 18
If you’re looking for ways to give back to the community and make a difference, consider attending ReDiscover Union’s Volunteer Recruitment Night. Attendees will learn how through volunteering, they can help bring community events, beautification projects, and downtown initiatives to life.
Find event time, location, and other details on Facebook.

Photo via ReDiscover Union’s Facebook.

Wednesday, Nov. 19
DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in St. Clair is having a Christmas Ornament Workshop at 6 p.m. The cost is $20 and all supplies are included.
Get more info and reserve your spot.

Thursday, Nov. 20
Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven is having a Holiday Cocktail How-to Class at East Central College. Learn how to create delicious holiday drinks that will impress your friends and family this season. Cost is $40 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit United Way.
Learn more and register.

Friday, Nov. 21 *Rescheduled to Sunday, Nov. 23*
Union Furniture and Flooring is hosting a Christmas Block Party. There will be live music, a visit from Santa, hot cocoa and cider, children’s activities, and much more. Due to Friday’s weather forecast, this event has been rescheduled for Sunday.
Get all the details.

Friday, Nov. 21
Pink Friday is a nationwide event to show support for your local businesses and Shop Small! Head to Historic Sullivan (Main Street) for a fun shopping experience. Attendees should pick up a punch card and by visiting all locations, they’ll be entered in a drawing for a huge giveaway valued at $200 and each shop will have their own specials, sales, and fun giveaways.
Learn more.

Friday, Nov. 21
Chris Brown State Farm Agency in Union is hosting an event that honors Veterans from 3-6 p.m. There will be BBQ, sides, and dessert, and more.
Get the details.

Friday, Nov. 21
Glittering Grapevine line dancing is teaching free line dancing at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Calling all whiskey drinkers! The Washington Whiskey Festival is happening at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center and will feature whiskeys and bourbons from regional and national distilleries.
Find out more.

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Saturday, Nov. 22
Head to the Elks Lodge in WashMO for the Washington Craft & Gift Expo, organized by the Washington Farmers’ Market. The event will feature over 65 vendors (including those from the market). Shop items in the categories of holiday decor, baked goods, jewelry, clothing, and accessories, along with body care items, candles and lots of other handmade and unique gift items. Food and drink will be available for purchase during the event.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 22
The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan is hosting a Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament. The tournament starts at noon, with food available for purchase by The Ladies Auxillary.
Get prices and more details.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Shop from over 60 vendors and makers at the Fall Craft & Vendor Fair at Lighthouse Ministry Center in Villa Ridge. The event begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Nov. 20
Espresso Laine in Hermann is having a Christmas Open House. The coffee shop and retail store will have extended hours, sales, and Mr. Murphy’s Spuds, a baked potato-themed food truck, will be onsite serving food.
Get more info.

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Author of the Talk Nerdy to Me series.
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Friday, Nov. 21 & Saturday, Nov. 22
Long Row Lavender in Wright City is hosting an Autumn & Holiday Market. This market will take place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. each day and will be an indoor/outdoor market with 10+ vendors in attendance. Enjoy live music and take in the holiday season decorations around the farm.
Get the details.

Saturday, Nov. 22 – Sunday, Nov. 23
It’s the final weekend of the Fall Farewell Fest at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Shop end-of-season pumpkin deals, sip hot cider, and enjoy all your favorite fall activities before saying goodbye to fall and hello to winter fun.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is hosting its 9th Annual Craft Fair. The event will happen from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. and is a rain or shine event.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 22
Head to Eureka for a Winter Market on Central, “A Pop-Up Celebration.” Following the tree lighting at the spur, take a stroll down Central Avenue to patronize several businesses.
Find out more.