Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 23 – March 1, 2026

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.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
Romance author and unapologetic geek.
Author of the Talk Nerdy to Me series.
Download your next binge read.

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 News and Features

10 Places to Find Fish on Fridays in Franklin County During Lent

Whether you observe Lent or you’re just looking for local fish fry Fridays, seafood options, or fish dishes that aren’t fried, there are numerous churches, Knights of Columbus halls, and area restaurants offering diverse Lenten menus.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but rather features selections that span various communities in and near Franklin County to give readers options no matter if you live in Sullivan, Eureka, Washington, or other communities in the area.

Knights of Columbus Hall, Gerald
Bring your appetite to the K of C Hall in Gerald for its Friday all-you-can-eat fish fry. Available from 4-7 p.m., the offerings include fried cod or shrimp, with a number of meatless sides to choose from, along with an assortment of desserts and drinks. Learn more on Facebook.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Washington
Every Friday during Lent, the church is offering a fish fry menu from 4-7 pm. Available as dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru options, the menu will feature catfish and cod, along with sides and desserts for $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 6-12. Find out more on Facebook.

St. Bridget of Kildare Catholic Parish, Pacific
With options that include cod, catfish, shrimp, and sides, the menu is available Fridays from 4-7 p.m. Get more info, including pricing on Facebook.

Que Pasa Mexican Restaurant, Union
If you prefer your fish or seafood with a bit of heat, Que Pasa in Union has Lenten offerings that include fish tacos, shrimp cocktail, seafood fajitas, and more. View all the selections on Facebook.

Muddy Banks Brewing Co., Sullivan
The brewery is offering a fried fish meal every Friday during Lent that consists of fried cod, hushpuppies, and fries. See Facebook for more.

Sarah’s on Central in Eureka
Located a short drive from Franklin County, the Lent offerings at Sarah’s on Central, in Old Town Eureka, go beyond the typical fried fish selections. The menu features items like calamari, shrimp po’boy, shrimp and grits, blackened shrimp pasta, and much more. Get all the details on Facebook.

Robin’s Rustic Nest, St. Clair
The St. Clair eatery’s menu features fried fish selections, along with a salad bar or a number of sides from fries to mashed potatoes or vegetables. Visit the restaurant on Facebook to find more info about the menu and daily specials.

White Rose Cafe, Union
Each Friday during Lent White Rose will offer a Fisherman’s Platter, available in a full or half-size portion. The menu special features coconut shrimp, crab cakes, cod, hushpuppies, a choice of two sides, and assorted house-made dipping sauces. Learn more on Facebook.

Knights of Columbus Hall, Sullivan
Find fried fish, fried shrimp, and baked fish along with a number of sides like green beans, fries, and hushpuppies at the K of C Hall in Sullivan on Fridays. Served from 4-7 p.m., the cost is $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 7-12 and kids ages 6 and under eat free when dining in. Get more information on Facebook.

Old Bridgeview Brewing, Washington
With a Lenten menu available Thursday-Sunday, the brewery offers items like shrimp po’boys, fried fish or fried shrimp baskets, fish sandwiches, and more. Get the menu details on the brewery website.




Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 16-22, 2026

This week there’s paint nights, author events, karaoke and open mic nights, as well as the Singo event in Pacific, which combines bingo and karaoke, plus head to downtown Washington on Saturday to let the good times roll, at the Mardi Gras celebration!

There’s even more events just a short drive from Franklin County, such as the Bridgerton Social event at the Rolla Public Library, a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud, and much more.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, double check with the event venue before heading out!

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

Thursday, Feb. 19
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair is hosting a paint and sip night.
Get more info and register.

Thursday, Feb. 19
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific is hosting a Health and Wellness Fair. The fair is free and open to the public and is happening from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 20
Red Door Liquor & Cigars in Eureka is having a night of international whiskey. Attendees will try over 30 different whiskies from all over the world. There are two seatings, 6 – 7 p.m. or 7:15 – 8:15 p.m. Cost is $45 per person and it includes whiskey sampling and heavy appetizers. 
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 20
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting its karaoke night from 8 p.m.-midnight.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Meet children’s author Constance J. Hagedorn, Ph.D., along with her daughter Ashley, at Red Cedar Inn in Pacific.
Get more details.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Head to Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist for a modern terrarium workshop. Attendees will get help choosing the perfect plants to create a one-of-a-kind terrarium and learn how to care for your terrarium to keep it healthy and happy.
Register and learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Tipsy Keg is hosting a Mardi Gras themed masquerade. Wear your Mardi Gras colors, lots of beads, and a masquerade mask at this fun party. There will be karaoke, dancing, and drink specials throughout the evening.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
For its centennial, “Route 66 expert” and local author Joe Sonderman will present a fascinating look at The Main Street of America at the Pacific Scenic Regional Library Branch.
Get more details.

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Saturday, Feb. 21
Get ready to play bingo while belting out tunes at Singo and Karaoke, at the Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and tickets are $20 per person.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
It’s Mardi Gras in downtown Washington! The celebration will be filled with shopping, food, music, drinks, and New Orleans flair.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21 & Sunday, Feb. 22
Head to Off the Rails Burger Bar in Pacific for a two day seed swap and get a jumpstart on your spring planting.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

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

Friday, Feb. 20
Join Waffles the Mini Highland Cow for a Donut and Hot Chocolate Painting Party in Warrenton.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Gasconade County Threshers Association is hosting a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud. There will be a cash bar, live auction, and alpha gal menu options.
Find the event on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Calling all Bridgerton fans! You are warmly invited to an afternoon of charm, conversation, and spirited competition as we discuss the first half of the newest Bridgerton season and ready ourselves for what comes next at the Rolla Public Library. Enjoy tea, lively discussion, and a selection of quizzes, games and trivia to test your knowledge of the Ton. Regency‑inspired attire is optional, though delightfully encouraged for those wishing to embrace the occasion.
Find out more.

Sunday, Feb. 22
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
Get more info.

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. 9 – 15, 2026

Valentine’s Day is this weekend, and if you want to keep soaking up the love around this holiday, there’s plenty of opportunities this week. From a daddy daughter spa night, to multiple galentine’s events, craft events, and much more. Find even more Valentine’s Day events perfect for couples, friends, or families in this special Valentine’s Day post.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, double check with the event venue before heading out!

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

Monday, Feb. 9
Washington Green Spa Wellness is hosting a Daddy Daughter Spa Night. The 45-minute experience includes foot soak, scrub + foot massage, co-fin hand treatment + hand and arm massage, hot cocoa + snack cup, plus a single stem rose to take home.
Reserve your spot.

Wednesday, Feb. 11
Oak and Front Kitchen + Bar in Washington is having a Galentine’s Night from 4:30-9 p.m. Sip some wine or your favorite cocktail and enjoy a dessert board with your gals.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 11-Saturday, Feb. 14
Are you ready to get married, but don’t want to plan a wedding? Wish there was a Vegas-style ceremony option right here in Franklin County? For a limited time, there is. The Yes, a Valentine’s Day Wedding event is happening for a few days at the Washington Expo Center. The details have been handled, all you have to do is walk down the aisle and say “I do.”
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Union Branch of the Scenic Regional Library will share Love Letters of the Presidents. This hour long program will feature readings from love letters written by American Presidents.
Register.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Looking for a girls night out? Sip on fun Valentine’s themed drinks at the Galentine’s Day Pop-Up Bar at Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington. There are two seating times available for this special event: from 5-7 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12 & Sunday, Feb. 15
Want to up your cocktail-making game? Then head to Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge in Washington for the Mixology 101 classes. Attendees will learn to make the number one selling cocktail, the Eight Nine Eight Old Fashioned, as well as an Espresso Martini, and a Strawberry Mojito.
Sign up.

Thursday, Feb.12
HOM Healing Center in Pacific is having a Galentine’s event that will feature mini facials, massages, food, and drinks.
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Washington Public Library’s “crafternoon” event is focused on creating a Valentine’s themed craft. All supplies will be provided.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Stop by the newest BB Coffee Lab location on its opening day, from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Present Moment Yoga in Washington is hosting an interactive workshop, led by Dr. Ike who will introduce attendees to the practice of healing qi gong, an ancient Chinese health practice! Qi gong involves slow movements and breath work. Attendees will be invited to participate in the movements, so please wear comfortable clothing.
Register.

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Friday, Feb. 13
Attend a succulent potting bar class with a twist at the plant and sip galentine’s event at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Tickets are $35 and include a free glass of wine, with additional glasses of wine available for $5.
Reserve your spot.

Friday, Feb. 13
Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington is hosting a galentine’s night. Expect cocktails, bites, and lots of cozy, galentine’s vibes.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Enjoy a galentine’s day event with a fun, floral twist at the Main Street Studio in downtown Washington. This Build-An-Arrangement Night is hosted by Joyful Blooms and is a hands-on floral design experience that’s the perfect way to celebrate friendship, creativity, and a beautiful night out together.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
The Union Community Center is hosting a Gather and Grow Open House, free to the public. The event is from 8-10 a.m. and attendees can find information on aging ahead senior center meals and activities, event and party rental, community programs, and volunteer opportunities at the center.
RSVP to attend.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
If you’re looking for a spooky Valentine’s event, head to Terror on Route 66 in Sullivan for Cupid’s Nightmare: A Valentine’s Haunted House.
Get times and ticket info.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
Advertisement – Calling all romance girlies! Download your next binge read like Nerdy Words, book one in The Talk Nerdy to Me Series.

Saturday, Feb. 14
The Washington Coffee Shop will have live music for Valentine’s Day. Enjoy the sounds of singer Elayna Cusano from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 14
The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan is hosting a Valentine’s event called Denim, Diamonds, and Dancing. The event will feature live music by Justin Bizzle and lots of dancing.
More details.

Sunday, Feb. 15
Keep the galentine fun going at the Galeninte’s Bento Box Decorating event at Thrive Studio & Events in Sullivan. Attendees will frost and decorate their own Valentine’s themed bento cake. Cost is $30, with all supplies provided.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

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

Friday, Feb. 13
Edelweiss Winery & Events in Hermann is hosting a Galentine’s celebration you won’t forget. The “Nowhere to Wear This” themed event means attendees can rock those sparkly outfits that have been hanging out at the back of the closet for way too long.
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having a Valentine’s dinner event fit for a fairy tale. The Carriages & Candlelight event will feature a romantic, candlelit dinner experience with intimate seating, live instrumental music, a catered dinner, professional photo moments, and an open bar, and carriage rides throughout the evening.
Find tickets.

Friday, Feb. 13
St. James Winery is hosting a special Valentine’s Dinner and facility tour. Attendees will enjoy a four-course culinary experience paired with specially selected wine or beer, crafted to elevate every bite. Your evening includes an intimate guided tour where you’ll learn about the winemaking process, enjoy the ambiance, and savor each course as the night unfolds. Let the atmosphere, the pairings, and the company sweep you away.
See the menu and buy tickets.

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!