Tag: Onondaga Cave State Park

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Oct. 13 – 19, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

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.

Photo via Washington Public Library’s Facebook

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.

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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.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, August 18 – August 24, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

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

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

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

Photo via Movies Made in Missouri Facebook event.

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

Friday, Aug. 22
After several weeks’ hiatus, due to extreme heat and the Washington Town & Country Fair, the Union Farmers Market is back this week! Find local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. Please note that the new location of the market is on the corner of Oak and Main Streets, adjacent to Hansen Park.
Get more details on Facebook.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trippin’

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

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

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

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

Saturday, Aug. 23
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of seven stargazing programs in 2025. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 28 – August 3, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

Although back-to-school time is on the horizon, summer fun activities continue around the area this week. There’s a free concert, it’s the final free drive-in movie of the season, there’s also a free family movie in the gardens of a local winery, plus farmers markets, a back to school safety class, and more.

Tuesday, July 29
Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. author Ed Wheatley will be at the Washington Public Library to talk about his book “From St. Louis To Cooperstown: Legends Born and Made in the Gateway City.” The talk and book signing is sponsored by Friends of the Library and Neighborhood Reads.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 31
Catch a free drive-in showing of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” in the Cinema 1 Plus theater’s parking lot in Washington. The movie will start ~30 mins. after sunset. Parking spots with orange cones will be reserved for drive-in moviegoers. When you arrive, move a cone and claim a space.
Learn more.

Photo courtesy of Timothy J. Fancher

Friday, August 1
Parents can attend a free Back To School Safety Community Event at St. Clair Library from 6-7 p.m. Presented by Compassion Healing and Excellence, led by Timothy J. Fancher, MAPT, BA, AS, founder and 4th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate. This verbal seminar is designed to equip parents, older siblings, and concerned adults with tools to teach kids practical alternatives to “Stranger Danger,” de-escalation skills to handle bullies, safety awareness for public and school settings, and ways to make safety engaging for children. Due to direct discussions on street safety, it’s recommended adults attend without younger children to ensure open, focused conversations. Reserve your spot by emailing Tim directly at timothyfancher@gmail.com

Friday, August 1
The City of Union’s next Concert in the Park will feature the music of Kaleidoscope. The fun is going down at the large pavilion at City Park beginning at 6:30 p.m.

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Saturday, August 2 & Sunday, August 3
The Villa Ridge Farmers Market takes place on the first Saturday and Sunday of the month at Stacked Coffehouse. Find locally made goods, local produce, meat, food, and of course, coffee from Stacked.
Follow the market’s Facebook page to learn more.

Saturday, August 2
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday from 8 a.m. – noon, in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.

Saturday, August 2
Hear live music performed by the duo Scott and Karl at Triple 3 Vineyards in Washington from 2-5 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, August 3
Get ready for the Washington Town and Country Fair with the WashMO Fair Parade. The parade begins at 4 p.m. at Main and Cedar Streets, traveling East to Jefferson Street. Participants will move South on Jefferson, then West on 5th Street to the Elks Lodge at 1459 W 5th Street. 
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

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Thursday, July 31
Follow the yellow brick road to Movie Night in The Gardens! Enjoy a timeless classic under the stars at a screening of “The Wizard of Oz” in the beautiful setting of the Gardens at St. James Winery. It’s the perfect night out for the whole family, pets included.
Get more details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1073981004063629

Friday, August 1 & Saturday, August 2
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting its Balloon Glowdeo event. It’s part hot air balloon festival, part rodeo, and 100% fun! The event will feature food and drink vendors, live music, a petting zoo, and more.
Purchase tickets online.

Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3
The Owensville Regional Arts Council presents a stage performance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.” The play will have three performances, and tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students.
Learn more.

Saturday, August 2
Listen to live music and keep cool while doing so at Hot August Night, Cool Cave Music, a summer concert inside Onondaga Cave in Leasburg. Tickets are $30 per person and space is limited.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 21 – July 27, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

This week is going to be a hot one, but there’s plenty of cool things happening around the area, including a free drive-in movie showing of “Back to the Future,” an open day to play in the water at Lost Hill Lake, an indoor craft fair, and a chance to see the stars at Onondaga Cave State Park.

Thursday, July 24
Head to downtown Washington for the Sunset on the Riverfront, held at Rennick Riverfront Park on the fourth Thursday of each month from 5 – 8 p.m. This family-friendly and free event features local bands, food vendors, beer, wine, and children’s activities.

Thursday, July 24
Head back in time with Marty and Doc Brown with the free drive-in showing of “Back to the Future” at Cinema 1 Plus in Washington. The movie will play in the theater parking lot and will start 30 minutes after sunset. Spots are first come, first serve and movie snacks like popcorn and drinks are available for purchase.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 24
Winehouse 66 in Pacific is hosting a permanent jewelry pop-up with AB Crafts from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Find out more.

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Thursday, July 24
Take your young baker to Washington for a kids’ cupcake decorating workshop on Thursday, July 24 at 4 p.m. at Ambiance Lighting for the business’s Christmas in July event. The decorating workshop is free and the supplies are on a first come, first serve basis.
Learn more.

Friday, July 25
The Union Farmers Market happens on the second and fourth Fridays from 4 – 7 p.m. through September. Find local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. Please note that the location of the market is on the corner of Oak and Main Streets, adjacent to Hansen Park.
Get more details on Facebook.

Friday, July 25
Feeling messy? The you’ll want to attend Mess Fest at the Washington Public Library from 6-7 p.m. Get doused with color as you make your way around the library, and attendees are encouraged to wear white for full impact. The messy mood continues outdoors in the closed off parking lot. Have ooey gooey fun with shaving cream, playdough, and other messy makers at this all ages messy affair!
Get the full details.

Saturday, July 26
Stay cool, find some new crafted items and help a worthy cause at the Beat the Heat Indoor Craft Fair. The fundraising craft show will benefit the Franklin County Foster Closet. There will be plenty of crafters and vendors, along with activities for kids and bingo.
Find out more.

Sunday, July 27
Beat the heat with a day spent at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair. The private event and glamping venue is opening the grounds to the public from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and fun. Admission is $10 for all ages 6 and up.
Get all the details.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, July 25 – Saturday, July 26
Belle City Park Arena in Belle will host Central Family Rodeo Association. The rodeo will happen on both days and concessions will be available on site.
Learn more.

Saturday, July 26 – Sunday, July 27
The Berries & BBQ Wine Trail will happen in Hermann, as several wineries take part in this two-day event. Luscious berries, savory BBQ, and cool, fragrant wine cellars make for a memorable summer weekend in Missouri Wine Country.
Get tickets.

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Saturday, July 26
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of seven stargazing programs in 2025. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 26
Down Home BBQ in Cuba will host a Route 66 car show from 2 – 4 p.m.
Learn more.

Sunday, July 27
It’s worth the short drive to Fenton to see the amazing cars at this free, family-friendly car event where you’ll find everything from exotics, to classic cars, imports, works in progress, and more. Cars & Coffee St. Louis and 1st Phorm are teaming up to bring a monthly car show on the fourth Sunday of each month through October.
Find out more at the Facebook event.