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.
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.
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.
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.
Whew! There’s so much happening this week! Trunk or treats, adult Halloween celebrations, and spooky fun? Yep. Fall festivals, free outdoor movies, and markets? Got those too! Plus, there’s line dancing at a local winery, a wine dinner at a local restaurant, car shows, and a whole lot more.
Tuesday, Oct. 14 Make a bubbling cauldron at the monthly Crafting & Creativity event at the Washington Public Library. The event is from 6-7 p.m. and is open for ages 12+. Register for the event.
Wednesday, Oct. 15 Mangia Bella restaurant in Washington is hosting a wine dinner. This five-course dinner requires a reservation, which can be made through open table. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 Take part in some beginner friendly line dancing at McKelvey Vineyards from 6-9 p.m. Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 17 On the third Friday of each month, The Washington Coffee Shop hosts an Open Mic Night. Singers, musicians, poets, and spoken word artists are welcome to share their talents with the crowd. Learn more at The Washington Coffee Shop’s Facebook page.
Friday, Oct. 17 It’s the final Union Farmers Market of the season! Visit the market to shop vendors, get food from Savy’s Food Truck, enjoy live music, and bring the little ones for the Trunk or Treat happening during the market. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 Create a stained glass pumpkin at a class held at Shattered Glass in Washington. No experience is necessary to participate in the class, but registration is required. Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 17 Free Halloween Carnival and Trunk or Treat at St. Gertrude Parish & School in Krakow. The trunk or treat will happen in the parking lot, with concessions available in the cafeteria. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 It’s the 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat at The Sage Bee in Washington. In addition to the trunk-or-treat lineup, the teachers are planning some sensory stations and fun Halloween activities and games for the kids to enjoy! Open to the public, anyone is welcome! Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 St. Vincent De Paul School in Marthasville is hosting a Trunk or Treat event from 6:30-9 p.m. Find food, candy, and prizes for the best trunk! More info.
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Friday, Oct. 17 Head to Pacific for the Witches and Warlocks, adult street party. This event will feature vendors, food trucks and live music by Covering Fire, as well as costume contests, raffle drawings, and more. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18 The 2nd Annual U Town Show Down is happening this Friday and Saturday at the Union Fairgrounds and will feature a car show, semi truck show, plus a derby, and food trucks. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18 Gerald Area Library and Once Upon a Time Bookstore is hosting a sidewalk sale. Find quilts, needlework, purses, ribbon, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, books, puzzles, and much more. Get all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is hosting a free drive-in movie showing of the film “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” Parking is first come, first served, and concessions are available. Get more info, including movie time.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Meramec State Park in Sullivan is hosting a Halloween Spooktacular. Head to the campground area of the park for pumpkin carving, trick or treating, a movie at the amphitheater, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Andy’s Produce in Union is hosting a Fall Vendor event. Find handmade items, food trucks, locally made goods, plants, produce, and more. Get more details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Muddy Banks Brewing Co. in Sullivan is hosting its annual Opetober Fest, to celebrate the release of its Opetober Marzen beer. The festivities begin at noon and include live music and a chili cook-off. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Ladies, Littles, and Lattes is hosting its second annual Trick or Treat Trail in Union. This day time event features indoor trick or treating, plus fun activities like a bounce house, horse rides, face painting, and food trucks Savy’s Food Truck, Smokey D’s, and Poppy Co. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Head to The Tipsy Keg in Washington for a night of fun and costumes at the venue’s BOOze and BOOs event. Guests can expect karaoke, drink specials, costume contests, and more. Find all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 The Franklin County Humane Society is hosting Paw Fest from 3-9 p.m. There will be games, food trucks, a market, and information about the cuddly four-legged friends FCHS helps. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 The Moose Lodge in Union is holding a Craft Fair. Stop by the event to shop local crafters and makers. Find event time and more.
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Saturday, Oct. 18 The Novel Nook and Yarn Together are hosting a Witch and Stitch party. At this free event, guests will watch the movie “Hocus Pocus” while working on their current fiber arts project (if they choose). The event is free, but registration is required to attend. Get the details and register.
Saturday, Oct. 18 American Legion in Washington is having a Tank or Treat from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This event is for children up to age 12. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Thursday, Oct. 16 – Sunday, Oct. 19 Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, try tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 You won’t want to miss Trunk or Treat at The River at Eureka. There will be games, crafts, snow cones, popcorn, hot dogs, a smores station, an outdoor movie, and more. This is a free event from 6-8 p.m. and all are welcome! Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 Owensville is hosting a series of free, family-friendly movies this fall, with the final event culminating in a special “campfire” viewing of the animated film “Coco” on Friday, October 17. The movie will be shown at Buschman Park in Owensville, and will start at 6:30 p.m. Find out more.
Friday Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18 Step Into The Hollows at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. This fall, the woods come alive. Deep in the shadows of Brookdale Farms lies The Hollows—a haunted walking trail where every rustle, flicker, and shadow may not be what it seems. On this immersive haunted experience, you’ll journey through winding paths shrouded in fog and darkness, guided only by lantern light and the pounding of your heart. Whispers in the trees, figures that vanish into the night, and sudden terrors at every turn will keep you on edge until the very end. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 – Sunday, Oct. 19 Happening every weekend in October, Hermann Oktoberfest features beer, food, music, games, and more. Get all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Owensville Parks & Rec Dept. is hosting Market in the Park Saturday, October 18 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Memorial Park, along Hippy Holler, at 796 Parker Drive, Owensville, MO 65066. Bargain hunters won’t want to miss this sale. Severe weather reschedule will be 10/19. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 18 It’s Hallowine at St. James Winery. This ticketed event will include wine slushies, a wine and candy flight, tarot card readings, a haunted wine cellar tour, plus contests for the best witches cackle and best costume. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Head to Papa’s Diner/Super Smoker’s BBQ in Eureka for the Gearheads and Grub event. Find live music, food, cars, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 The 573 Vintage Market in Linn will feature 50+ handpicked, upscale, one-of-a-kind vendors, plus food trucks and much more. Find more info.
Saturday, Oct 18 This Saturday is the final Starry Sky Nights program of the year at Onondaga State Park in Leasburg. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 18 & Sunday, Oct. 19 Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Murder Mystery Weekend, and the theme is Witch Way to the Wine. With two showings, the event will feature food and complimentary water and tea, with wine and beer available for purchase. Attendees of the murder mystery dinner are encouraged to dress in costume. Get tickets.
Sunday, Oct. 19 Clancy’s Pour House in Rosebud is hosting a pop-up family movie and bonfire night with the showing of the film “Hocus Pocus.” The fun begins at 6 p.m. Find out more.
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.
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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.
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