Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for your bestie’s birthday or you’re in the mood to treat yourself to a little something special, you’ll likely find it at Ozarks Bittersweet, located at 105 N. Jefferson Street, in St. James.
The mother-daughter owned boutique features a diverse inventory of clothing for women, along with some items for kids, plus women’s accessories like jewelry and purses. Sourcing the clothes from markets in Las Vegas, owner Nancy Hughes, and her daughter Polly, make sure the apparel differs from what you may find in other area shops. Ozarks Bittersweet offers customers a truly curated shopping experience, while the clothing and other inventory reflects that cozy, small town charm you expect to find in a locally-owned lifestyle boutique.
The clothing selections at Ozarks Bittersweet range from casual wear to pieces that can be dressed up or down. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
The clothing items range from casual wear that’s perfect for coffee with a friend or running errands, to dresses, tops, bottoms, and other pieces that could be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Additionally, there’s a selection of items to make your home cozy and beautiful, with everything from scented candles, decorative throw pillows, artificial flower arrangements, lighting, and more. There are also paper goods such as greeting cards and specialty books on a variety of subjects – from making drinks to gardening and more.
From bracelets to rings and earrings, the jewelry at the boutique adds that perfect sparkle to your outfit. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz.
If you’re looking for something for the foodie in your life, or you need something to take to your next gathering, there’s also a selection of items like bottled sauces, vinegars, and olives, as well as dry baking mixes, nuts, and other snacks.
And, in addition to the unique finds, the boutique itself is a lovely retail space. Together with the artful displays throughout the store, there are numerous historical details inside the space that add to the beauty and overall aesthetic. The building is 125 years old and features lots of exposed brick and an arched entryway that’s indicative of the period when it was built.
The store also carries a variety of items for the home like dried flowers, scented candles, lighting and more. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz.
Prior to opening the store, Nancy owned another boutique for over 40 years, also called Ozarks Bittersweet, but that store was located in Anchorage, Alaska, where Nancy lived for over 50 years. When she decided to relocate back to her hometown, she found the vacant space and felt it was the ideal spot to open another boutique and continue the name.
The 2,500-square-foot store has two rooms indoors, along with an adjacent patio space that features vintage garden decor and plants, seasonally. The store opened in two phases, with part of the space opening by selling Christmas decor last season, while the store in its current version opened in May. Nancy shares that in the short time since it’s opened, the community has embraced the business to the point that she’s thinking about expanding into the adjacent building.
With a selection of sauces, vinegars, condiments, nuts, dried baking mixes, and more, Ozarks Bittersweet is the perfect place to pick up a hostess gift or items to take to your next dinner party. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz.
“We’ll carry more clothing, because that’s our biggest seller,” she says of the possible expansion.
Other items she’s considering for the next phase will include jewelry, Turkish rugs, and greeting cards.
Ozarks Bittersweet is located at 105 N. Jefferson Street, in St. James. Learn more about the business by following it on Facebook or Instagram.
*As we head into the holiday season, I want to highlight more small businesses and I hope to write a Shop Small Holiday Gift Guide that will feature some of the small local shops and businesses that carry gifts (and experiences) for everyone on your holiday gift list. If you’re a small business and want to be considered in the guide, or if you know a great boutique I should include in the guide, fill out the Submit an Event or Story form and I’ll get back to you.
Fall is finally here and some seasonal festivals are rolling out over the next two weeks. Take advantage of the milder temps and stroll through local communities at the art festivals happening in downtown Washington, Salem, and Rolla. Or, if you’re ready to jump into Halloween time fun, then grab your pointy hat and your witchy besties and hit up the Witches on Main celebration in downtown Washington or the Witches on Route 66 in Cuba.
Celebrate this unique season with harvest and fall festivals – head to Hermann to shop with local vendors, hear live music, and yummy food, or visit the annual Rosebud Treasure Day in Rosebud. And area churches are hosting their fall festivals, which include food, kid-friendly activities, and 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.
Franklin & Gasconade Counties (plus neighboring communities)
Thursday, Sept. 24 The Book Booth in WashMo is hosting a Book vs. the Movie event from 6-7 p.m. Attendees will discuss the details of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 25 – Sunday, Sept. 27 The 26th Annual Fall Festival of the Arts & Crafts is happening in downtown Washington. Find soaps, jewelry, original artwork, clothing, handmade wood furniture, home décor, leather, seasonal items, and more! There will be live music and a food court full of delicious treats all weekend long. Free admission.
Friday, Sept. 25 & Saturday, Sept. 26 The K of C Hall in St. Clair is holding an indoor fall rummage sale. The sale is from 4-7 p.m. on Friday and from 8-11 a.m. on Saturday. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 25 – Sunday, Sept. 27 The Emmaus Village Harvest Moon Festival in Marthasville will feature a farm-to-table kitchen, vendors, workshops, and live music. Experience two nights of camping, big fires, get-downs, and community. Purchase tickets.
Saturday, Sept. 26 Community Church in Union is having a Fall Festival. This free event will include kid-friendly activities like face-painting, a bounce house, and snow cones available from Dana’s Shave Ice’s truck. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 26 Spooky season gets an early start in Marthasville with the Emmaus Asylum overnight ghost hunt. Get tickets and find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 26 The Hermann Harvest Festival is happening from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. You’ll find over 80 booths, plus a kid zone, along with food and drink vendors. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 26 Project Linus of East Central MO has a monthly blanket making day, held on the fourth Saturday of every month at the Scenic Regional Library Union Branch from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Registration requested to attend.
Sunday, Sept. 27 Hellings Farm Auction is happening in Leslie. There will be farm machinery, tools, lawn and garden items, and more. Get all the info.
Sunday, Sept. 27 The Immaculate Conception Fall Festival is happening in Union, beginning at 11 a.m. Enjoy live music, a delicious fried chicken dinner, kid-friendly activities, basketball, auctions, raffle drawings, a country store, bake sale, kettle corn, funnel cakes, and more! Learn more.
Wednesday, Sept. 30 Washington Parks & Recreation Charitable Foundation is presenting a Friends of Aaron free concert. The event is at the Main Stage lawn at the Washington Fairgrounds and happens from 6-8 p.m. Get more info.
Thursday, Oct. 1 Music on Main returns to Hansen Park in downtown Union. More details.
Thursday, Oct. 1 Witches on Main Street is an unforgettable night in WashMo from 5:30-9 p.m. Shop from unique vendors, hear live music, find drinks and food to purchase, and dress in your witchy attire to enter a chance to win a prize in the costume contest. Find tickets and more info.
Friday, Oct. 2 & Saturday. Oct. 3 Rewild & Restore Retreat is an immersive weekend in nature at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair. This in-person event will focus on the power of breathwork, cold and heat exposure therapy, nervous system regulation, CO2 tolerance training, and the importance of exposure to nature. Get tickets.
Saturday, Oct. 3 The annual Fall Treasure Day in Rosebud happens on the first Saturday in October. Find antiques, unique vendors, fall decor, clothing, and more at this event. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 3 The Shivering Shack in Sullivan is hosting a Girls Night Out event called Pumpkins, Petals, and Popcorn from 6-8 p.m. Cost is $35 to attend and includes your own mini pumpkin charcuterie snack, a specialty drink, a pumpkin centerpiece to take home, a BYO popcorn bar, and a craft with all supplies included. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 3 Owensville Parks and Rec Dept. is hosting a Market in the Park event from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn more.
Crawford & Dent Counties
Thursday, Sept. 24 The Salem Chamber of Commerce is hosting its final Music on 4th St. event of the season. Expect vendors, food, live music, and more. Get more info.
Friday, Sept. 25 The 2026 Battle of the Bulls event is happening in Belle at 8 p.m. This event brings bull riders to the arena to “buck for a purpose” and help raise money for people undergoing cancer or other medical treatments. Cost to attend is $10 for those 12 and up, kids ages 5-11 are $5, and kids underage 5 are free. Get more details.
Saturday, Sept. 26 Salem Area Arts Council and the Salem Area Betterment Association is hosting an Art Walk in downtown Salem from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. View art demonstrations, try your hand at making free crafts, shop with area businesses, and find food available for purchase. Find out more.
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Friday, Oct. 2 Lucky Clover Campground in Steelville is hosting its Halloween Bash early. Join in for site decorating, trick-or-treating, and spooky surprises. Reserve your spot.
Saturday, Oct. 3 Onondaga Cave State Park is hosting another Starry Sky Night event. Attendees of this free event can view stars in the visitor center’s parking lot. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 3 Witches Night on Route 66 in Cuba is happening from 3-10 p.m. There will be vendors, crafts, food trucks, wine and beer for purchase with ID, free music and so much more. Dress up in your best good or bad witch costume, since there will be costume prizes. Get more details.
Phelps County
Saturday, Sept. 26 Maramec Spring Park is hosting its monthly Volunteer Work Days from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. All ages and skill levels are welcome to this free event that helps keep the park beautiful and thriving for visitors. Get more details.
Saturday, Sept. 26 The Celebration of Nations Festival and Parade is kicking off in downtown Rolla at 11 a.m. This community-wide event features international cuisine, live entertainment, cultural exhibits, unique vendors and family-friendly activities that showcase the diversity and global connections that enrich the region. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 2 Movie Night in The Gardens at St. James Winery concludes this season with a showing of the 80s film “The Goonies.” Enjoy themed food and drinks available for purchase and watch the movie outside under the stars. Film time and other info.
Saturday, Oct. 3 The 47th Annual Rolla Arts & Crafts Festival is happening in downtown Rolla. This year’s event will be the largest yet, with over 80 vendors expected. Shop handcrafted items, baked goods, pet accessories, and more, plus find food and drinks available for purchase. Learn more.
Sunday, Oct. 4 The monthly Rolla Writers Club is meeting at the Rolla Public Library from 2-4 p.m. This meeting serves as a chance to share your writing wins, and discuss aspects of the publishing journey. 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!
Fall festival season has arrived! Over the next two weeks, there are numerous music festivals, food and drink festivals, harvest and seasonal festivals, as well as rodeos, car shows, markets, live music events, and much more. Take a look at all the events happening in the area, and check out the new event format. Everything is now grouped by geographic location and in chronological order in each section, hopefully making it easier to scan each event roundup post to find events in whatever area you’re looking for!
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.
Franklin & Gasconade Counties (plus neighboring communities)
All of Sept. Missouri Main Street is a month-long exhibit at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch celebrating 100 years of Route 66 in the Show Me State. Learn more.
Tuesday, Sept. 8 Each month, the Washington Public Library hosts Crafting & Creativity, a free event where attendees make a craft from 6-7 p.m. Find out more.
Tuesday, Sept. 8 – Saturday, Sept. 26 The Franklin County Humane Society is hosting an online auction and 50/50 raffle called Wine, Whiskers, and Wags. You can browse 300+ auction items online and enter to win the 50/50 jackpot. Get more info on Facebook.
Thursday, Sept. 10 The Washington Farmers Market is the site of the monthly Music at the Market event. Head to the market space and hear live music from The Graybeards. The concert is free, but food is available for purchase from Mangia Bella. Additionally, wine is available for purchase from Noboleis Vineyards, with Re/Max Results, Janie Schriewer & Associates bartending for the evening. Get more details.
Thursday, Sept. 10 Join Dark Ozarks Podcast Producers Alex Martin & Lisa Livingston Martin at the Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch for a discussion of the noir mysteries, and legends of Missouri’s Route 66, including discussion of Lisa’s book “Missouri’s Wicked Route 66: Gangsters & Outlaws on the Mother Road.” Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 11 Sunset on the Rails free concert series continues in Pacific with a live musical performance by Kaleidoscope from 6-9 p.m. Find out more.
Friday, Sept. 11 The Washington Public Library is hosting author Larry Wood, author of “Gangster Queen Bonnie Parker and Other Murderous Women of Missouri.” Bonnie Parker has been romanticized in print and on screen since the early 1930s, when she and gangster boyfriend Clyde Barrow robbed banks and left bodies in their wake. She’s undoubtedly the most infamous murderous woman in Missouri history—although it’s uncertain whether she killed anyone with her own hand—but she’s in a crowded field of Show Me State female killers. Get more details.
Friday, Sept. 11 & Saturday, Sept. 12 The 10th Annual WingFest is happening at the Union Fair Grounds. This free family event will feature some of the best wing vendors, and other food and drinks, plus live music, a special 9/11 Ceremony with the American Legion Honor Guard and first responders before the festivities kickoff. There will also be bounce houses for kids and a fireworks display at the end of the festival on Saturday night. Find the live music lineup.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Frisco Farmhouse’s only September market is happening the Saturday after Labor Day from 8 a.m. – 2 pm.. Shop from a variety of vendors, including fresh meat, produce, baked goods, handmade items, and more. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Head to Villa Ridge for the Boles Fire Protection District Health & Safety Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Station #3. This free family event is packed with activities designed to educate, entertain, and help keep our community safe. Whether you’re meeting your local firefighters, learning valuable safety skills, or just looking for a fun family outing, there’s something for everyone. Get more info.
Saturday, Sept. 12 The 7th Annual September Bourbon Bash kicks off at 10 a.m. at Copper Mule Distillery in Hermann. Enjoy live bluegrass music, food from Don’s Pit Boss BBQ, awesome cocktails, and barrel tastings. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Head to Crooked Creek Farm in Pacific for Animalpalooza, from 8:30 a.m. until noon. Kids can meet miniature goats, a miniature cow, and enjoy outdoor fun like yard games. Get more info.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Copper June’s in Rosebud hosting Boots & Bourbon Bash 2.0 from 1-6 p.m. Enjoy live music, whiskey tastings, food, contests, and more. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 The 20th Annual Washington Jaycees’ Brewfest is happening from 4-8 p.m. at the Washington Farmers Market. Tickets are $30 in advance, and $35 the day of the event. The 20th Annual Brewfest ticket includes access to 20+ breweries and homebrewers + distilleries, along with a commemorative pint glass, and a brewfest T-shirt. There will also be live music and food available for purchase from Ernesto’s Mexican Restaurant. Purchase tickets and find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 St. Gerald Catholic Church in Gerald is hosting a Fall Festival Church Picnic from 2-10 p.m. There will be food, drinks, games, activities, live music, and more. Get more details.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Johnny’s Restaurant in Union is hosting a weekly market for the remainder of the season. Shop from local vendors offering items like soaps, baked goods, crafts, and more. The market is from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 East Central College continues its monthly stargazing event, happening at the lower parking lot at the college’s Union campus. Bring your own stargazing equipment and chairs and enjoy checking out the details of the night sky. Get more info.
Sunday, Sept. 13 Spiral of Life Homestead & Wellness will have yoga classes in Gerald City Park from 9-10 a.m. Whether you are a beginner, or have done yoga before, all levels are welcome. Cost is $15 per person and attendees should bring a yoga mat and water, and wear something comfy. Registration is required. Learn how to register.
Sunday, Sept. 13 The Amazing Race WashMo is returning to The Alley. The excitement begins at 1 p.m. and attendees will race to local businesses to complete challenges and receive clues. Space is limited to 25 teams of two, and cost per team to participate is $40. Get registered.
Sunday, Sept. 13 Saint Francis Borgia Parish’s annual fall festival is happening from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. The event is open to the public and will feature live music, children’s games, bingo, and roast beef and fried chicken dinners. Find out more.
Wednesday, Sept. 16 & Thursday, Sept. 17 Head to the Red Cedar Inn & Tourism in Pacific for a two-day exhibit of the Route 66 Centennial Traveling Exhibit. Get more info.
Friday, Sept. 18 The final Lawn Chair Movie Night of the season is happening from 8-10 p.m. at the large pavilion at Union City Park. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and catch the family-friendly movie “Zootopia 2.” Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 18 The monthly Tailgate Sale is back at The Roundup Event Space in St. Clair from 5-8 p.m. Shop from a variety of area vendors including the local 4H Club, a plant vendor, baked goods, and lots more. Get more info.
Friday, Sept. 18 – Sunday, Sept. 20 Brookdale Farms in Eureka is going off-road for a special weekend of the Fall Festival featuring Jeeps, live entertainment, local vendors, and plenty of fall fun for the whole family like a corn maze, wagon rides, live music, face painting, and more. Get tickets and learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 19 The St. Andrews Place Subdivision in Union is having its Fall Yard Sale, beginning at 7 a.m. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 19 The 7th Annual Barely Covered Music Festival is happening at White Mule Winery in Rosebud. Hear live music from numerous bands beginning at 12 p.m. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 19 After helping spread the word about hundreds of local events, I’m hosting one of my own! Join me at Sugar & Spice Book Cafe in Sullivan for Coffee with The Socialite, and together we will support a small local business and build community by meeting new people! The event is from 12-1:30 p.m. stay for the whole event, or visit for a little while. RSVP on Facebook.
Saturday, Sept. 19 For nearly a decade Oxfest Music Festival has helped raise money for charities that support children, and it’s back this year at the Washington Fair Grounds. This all day annual music festival features three stages – a main stage playing rock, as well as blues and country stages. The first band takes the stage at noon and the music will continue until 10 p.m. There will also be food trucks and drinks available for purchase at the festival. Tickets are $33.85 a person, available for purchase online. Get more info and buy tickets.
Saturday, Sept. 19 Johnny’s Restaurant in Union is hosting a weekly market for the remainder of the season. Shop from local vendors offering items like soaps, baked goods, crafts, and more. The market is from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Find out more.
Sunday, Sept. 20 Bring your fiancé, your parents, and your wedding party to the annual Fall Open House at Lost Hill Lake Events in St. Clair. The event is happening from 12 – 2 p.m. and will allow attendees a chance to view the venue, including our forest ceremony, and reception site set-up, as well as an opportunity to meet with Lost Hill Lake Events Wedding Coordinators, plus preferred vendors, and in-house vendors. The event is free, but RSVP to attend.
Sunday, Sept. 20 Kaleidoscope Consignment in Pacific is hosting a Planty People Sale. Shop plants, cuttings, propagations, and more. Get more info.
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Crawford & Dent Counties
Tuesday, Sept. 8 – Sunday, Sept. 13 The Steelville Harvest Festival 2026 is happening and will include a parade on Saturday, and much more. Get all the details.
Thursday, Sept. 10 Healthy Dent County is proud to celebrate with a Girls’ Night Out event held from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Salem Community Center at the Armory in Salem. Attendees can look forward to a fun-filled experience featuring unique vendors, prize giveaways, free samples, door prizes, delicious food tastings, and plenty of other exciting surprises. Bring your girlfriends for an evening of pampering, shopping and eating. There is a $5.00 admission fee and admission are limited to all women and girls 12 years of age and older. Get more info.
Saturday, Sept. 12 The 17th Annual St. Louis Garlic Festival is happening at Gateway Garlic Farms in Bourbon. The event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature food, vendors, live music, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Heartland Farms in Bourbon is hosting its 1st Annual Fall Kickoff and Vendor Show. The event will have a variety of vendors, live music, the debut of the farm’s Route 66/America’s 250 Anniversary corn maze and 20+ play activities. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Attendees may buy a ticket just to shop and listen to the music for $5 or spend $10 and have access to the play area and corn maze as well. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of night sky viewing events with astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot. These events are free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. Although a telescope will be provided, visitors are welcome to bring viewing devices of their own. Find times and more info.
Sunday, Sept. 13 Get a different view of Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg with a photography tour held from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Tickets are required to attend the tour. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 18 & Saturday, Sept. 19 Blue Springs Ranch in Bourbon is hosting a two-day rodeo event that will include broncing, bull riding, barrel racing, roping, and steer wrestling. Get more info.
Friday, Sept. 18 The Bourbon Fall Festival will include a parade at 6 p.m., along with vendors, live music, food and drink, plus more. Get more info.
Saturday, Sept. 19 Half-Crocked Antiques in Bourbon is hosting its Fall Outdoor Flea Market from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 19 The 9th Annual Bourbon Car Show is happening from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. There will be classic cars, food, craft vendors, and more. Get more details.
Phelps County
Friday, Sept. 11 In Another Light black light art show is happening from 6-8 p.m. at Space on Pine in Rolla. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 The 2026 Fall Nature Festival is happening at the Ozark Rivers Audubon Trails and Nature Center in Rolla from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a free event for the community that includes, guided hikes, 20+ exhibitors, hummingbird banding demonstrations, food trucks, and native plant vendors. Parking is available at the commuter lot located at exit 185 from I-44. Shuttle buses will run continuously from parking to the festival. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Downtown Rolla is having a car cruise-in right along Old Route 66 from 5-8 p.m.. Find bites from food trucks or visit downtown restaurants. Get more info.
Saturday, Sept. 19 The Rolla Saddle Club is hosting a fun show beginning at 2 p.m. Learn more on Facebook.
Saturday, Sept. 19 Maramec Springs Park in St. James is hosting Music on the Maramec live music event with The Waydown Wanderers from 6-8 p.m. Cost to attend is $25 per car or free with a season pass to the park. Get more details.
Warren County (and neighboring communities)
Thursday, Sept. 10 Tour the Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance free of charge. All ages are welcome and admission is first-come, first-served. Tours are open-house format, allowing guests to explore all levels of the house and speak with docents about the Boone family and the history of the Femme Osage Valley. Get more info.
Saturday, Sept. 12 Centennial Farms in Augusta is having Fall Farm Days from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. This first vendor event of the season will feature items like snacks, lotions, waxes, clothing, and more. Learn more.
Sunday, Sept. 13 Weldon Spring Conservation Area will be the place to stretch your legs and push yourself with the MammothMarch, a 20 mile hike along a great mixture of diverse trails, such as Katy Trail and Lewis & Clark Trail featuring superb overlooks of the Missouri River. The single-circuit hiking loop starts and finishes at the beautiful Defiance Ridge Vineyard in Defiance and begins at 7:15 a.m. Get tickets and learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 19 The 2026 Warrenton Fall Festival will feature a full day of live music, food, vendors, and fun family-friendly fall activities. 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!
It’s back to school time! As families in and around Franklin County get acclimated to routines and new schedules, just remember that there are plenty of local events happening each weekend in and around Franklin County.
Over the next two weeks there’s still a few recurring outdoor events like Sunset on the Riverfront in WashMo and Market off Main in Union, as well as an outdoor showing of the animated film “Cars 3.” There’s also a music festival at East Central College to kick off the college’s music season, the 6th Annual Celtic Festival is going down at the Washington VFW, plus there’s a few arts and crafts events, some fundraising events, and lots more.
Just a heads up to my readers: the next event round up post will be published ahead of Labor Day and will feature a slightly tweaked format. Going forward I’ll be posting events by geographic location and bundling counties/towns together rather than posting them as I do now with Franklin County events in one section, and everything else under the Road Trippin’ section. My hope is it makes it easier to scan each post and find events happening within Franklin County and those communities that border the area (like Eureka) while keeping events in nearby counties and communities in their own section.
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.
Monday, Aug. 24 – Friday, Aug. 28 American Street Edge in St. Clair has recently expanded its training area with a wall removal, and is celebrating with free class offerings for kids and adults that are only available Aug. 24 – Aug. 28. Get the details in this Facebook post.
Tuesday, Aug. 25 On the last Tuesday of every month the Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a Ladies Night event from 6-7 p.m. This is a chance to hang with your friends or meet new ones, plus play games, and bring a snack to share. Find out more.
Wednesday, Aug. 26 Smokin’ Oak Woodfired Pizza in Washington is having a Dine to Donate event to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The Dine to Donate hours are from 5-8 p.m. Learn more.
Thursday, Aug. 27 Sunset on the Riverfront is happening at Rennick Park at the Washington Riverfront from 5-8 p.m. Bring the whole family along with your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy live music performed by The Texas Giants, with food available for purchase by Mosaic Cafe & Catering, Big Boys Grilled Subs and Wings, and BLAST Youth Board Dirty Soda Stand. This month’s kid zone activity will be a petting zoo. Get more info.
Thursday, Aug. 27 The fourth Thursday of every month is Art Club at the Washington Public Library from 6-8 p.m. No art experience is necessary to attend. The event is open to all skill levels and anyone age 16 and up. Find out more.
Friday, Aug. 28 Kick off the ECC music season with an evening of live music, food, and fun under the summer sky at ECC’s Music Festival. Hosted by ECC, the ECC Music Department, Patrons of the Arts, and Metallica Scholars. The free concert includes a live music lineup with Elayna Cusano at 4:30 p.m., Steve Leslie Band at 5 p.m., and Playadors at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds raised will support ECC’s Metallica Scholars Initiative by providing scholarships to students enrolled in workforce and skilled trades programs. Learn more.
Friday, Aug. 28 Grab your boots and your dance partner and head to The Office in WashMo for line dancing with Glittering Grapevine beginning at 7 p.m. Find out more.
Friday, Aug. 28 Market off Main is happening at Hansen Park in Union on the corner of Oak and Main Streets from 4-7 p.m. Shop from local vendors, makers, and producers, and find food and drinks available for purchase. There will be live music performed by Zero Gravity, Hot Tamales Love at First Bite Food Truck and Box Car Express will be the food vendors at the market. Check Facebook for more details.
Friday, Aug. 28 Liberty Field in Pacific is hosting a movie in the park night at 8 p.m. Pack your lawn chairs and blankets and settle in to watch the Pixar film “Cars 3.” Find out more.
Saturday, Aug. 29 The 6th Annual Celtic Festival is happening at the Washington VFW from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Come out for a day filled with live bands, Irish dancers, food, beer, local vendors, Highland games and family fun. Get more details.
Saturday, Aug. 29 Head to Eureka for Charlie’s Believe Fly-In and RC Airshow from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find RC airshow demonstrations, open flying, bounce house, kids activities, music, food and refreshments, plus RC and Non-RC Raffles. Learn more.
Saturday, Aug. 29 The Gus Garrett 1st Annual Memorial Poker Run is happening from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. The funds raised will go towards the Gus Garrett Scholarship. Find out how to participate.
Sunday, Aug. 30 Essence Salon & Spa in Union is hosting a fundraising event to benefit Turning Point Advocacy Services, a nonprofit organization that provides services for domestic violence survivors. Book an appointment online for a haircut, 30 minute massage, chair massage, or 30 minute facial between the hours of 1-4 p.m. and 100% of the proceeds from the services will go to Turning Point Advocacy Services. Learn more.
Advertisement – Thinking about adding on to your home? Contact Brandon with Freelance Services, to help you with the design and permit drawings.
Sept. 1 – 30 Missouri Main Street is a month-long exhibit at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch celebrating 100 years of Route 66 in the Show Me State. Learn more.
Tuesday, Sept. 1 Head to the Washington Public Library for Back to School with the Gilmore Girls from 5-7 p.m. The event is for ages 12 and up and attendees will watch some episodes of the show while crafting a book journal. Find out more.
Tuesday, Sept. 1 The Club House Play Cafe in Sullivan is hosting a Harry Potter themed cookie decorating class for adults and kids. Cost to attend is $30 per person and attendees will decorate magical-themed cookies and play a few fun games along the way. And because no magical night is complete without snacks and drinks, there will be plenty of themed goodies available for purchase. Save your spot.
Wednesday, Sept. 2 The first Wednesday of the month the Washington Public Library hosts Discovering Great Artists Workshop from 4-5 p.m. Artists age 9-18 are invited to attend and create art inspired by great artists throughout history. Get more details.
Thursday, Sept. 3 Music on Main is happening in downtown Union, beginning at 6 p.m. Enjoy live music performed by Richie Callison, and find food and drinks available for purchase from Sip on Main, Savy’s Food Truck, Sip Chicks, and Box Car Express. Find out more on Facebook.
Friday, Sept. 4 The first Friday of every month at Point Labbadie Brewery is the First Friday Jam, an open acoustic jam for all skill levels. Bring your instruments and jump in on the fun or simply sit back (or boogie down!) and enjoy some fantastic picking. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 4 Union’s Concert in the Park is from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., at the large pavilion at City Park. The concert will feature live music by Crossfire. Get more info.
Saturday, Sept. 5 The Bridge Pacific is hosting Rockin’ the Railroad 2026. Admission to the outdoor concert is $2 plus a non-perishable food item for the Agape House. The event begins at 5 p.m. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 5 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is kicking off a series of free drive-in movies with a showing of the 1980s time travel flick “Back to the Future.” The film will start 15 minutes after sunset and parking spaces are on a first come, first serve basis and available spaces are marked by the presence of orange cones. Get more info.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Saturday, Aug. 29 Get ready for a one of a kind picking experience at Nelson Hart Park in St. James. Find rusty treasures, vintage advertising, primitives, petroliana, barn finds and boutique goodies, all in one place for some good ole fashion junkin’! Get more info.
Saturday, Aug. 29 The Rest and Restore Retreat at Second Chance Landing on the Katy Trail in Hermann is offering attendees a Day of Rejuvenation. Enjoy diverse experiences including a sound bowl session, meditation, yoga with self-acupressure techniques, fascia release, yin yoga using auricular beads, time for unwinding and bonding with others, herbal teas, and light refreshments. The retreat is from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Cost is $130 per person. Find out more.
Saturday, Aug. 29 Maramec Springs Park in St. James is hosting Music on the Maramec with Sam Lewis at 6 p.m. Bring your own chair and enjoy food trucks and local beverages. Cost to attend is $25 per car or free attendance with Season Pass. More info.
Saturday, Aug. 29 Head to Linn for some rodeo fun at the NFPB Bull Riding event at the Linn Lions Club Fairgrounds beginning at 8 pm. Get more details.
Friday, Sept. 5 & Saturday, Sept. 6 The 2026 Salem Chamber Rodeo is happening for two days. The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the show kicks off at 7:30 p.m. both nights. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 5 Head to Hermann for the Harvest Festival at Stone Hill Winery, happening from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sample grapes from the vineyards, hear live music, shop from area vendors, and enjoy wine, beer, and food available for purchase. Free admission, get more info.
Sunday, Sept. 6 The first Sunday of each month, the Rolla Writers Club meets from 2-4 p.m. at the Rolla Public Library. Learn more.
Sunday, Sept. 6 The Steelville Country Club is hosting an International Food Tasting event open to all. The event begins at 12 p.m. and cost is $10 a plate. Some of the cuisine will include Hungarian, Filipino, German, Japanese, and more. Get more details.
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!
