Tag: Pacific Missouri

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 20 – April 26, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

It’s a big week for events around Franklin County, there’s community wide yard sales, flea market, and a vintage pop up market, plus farmers markets in Union and Pacific. The first Sunset on the Riverfront of the season happens this Thursday in Washington, plus annual events are happening this weekend like the WashMo BBQ & Bluesfest, and the P-Town Pub Crawl in Pacific.

There’s also line dancing, black light bingo, fundraising events, and the Franklin County Humane Society’s Strut Your Mutt event featuring a dog parade, contests, and more. Find out all the information about the events happening in Franklin County and nearby communities this week below.

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

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

Tuesday, April 21
The Washington Library is hosting a Mini Introduction to the Akashic Records event at 6 p.m. This 45-minute mini class starts with a brief overview of the Akashic Records, what they are, how they work, and how they can be used for soul-level insight, clarity, and self-understanding.
Learn more.

Wednesday, April 22
Celebrate National Library Week with a book-related craft event at the Washington Public Library. The event is from 4-5 p.m.
Find out more.

Thursday, April 23
The Power of the Purse fundraising event is a way to have a fun night out that raises funds for Franklin County United Way.
Get tickets.

Thursday, April 23
Kick up your heels with line dance lessons with instructor Jessica Blankis at Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific. It’s free, but donations are graciously accepted.
Get details.

Thursday, April 23
The first Sunset on the Riverfront event is happening in downtown Washington from 5-8 p.m. Get ready for an evening of fun, food, drinks, and music. Please note that the April Sunset on the Riverfront event is taking place at the Farmers Market due to construction happening at the riverfront park.
Find out more.

Friday, April 24 – Sunday, April 26
Get ready for a weekend full of delicious barbecue and toe-tapping music. The annual WashMo BBQ & Bluesfest is happening from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon.
Find pricing and more info.

Friday, April 24
Grace United Methodist Church in Sullivan is having its annual barbecue. The menu will include a choice of brats or pork steaks, with sides including potato salad, baked beans, cole slaw, and a dessert. The event runs from 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. and drive-through or all you can eat dine-in options are available.
Learn more.

Friday, April 24
The Annual David Arand Memorial Golf Tournament is happening at 1 p.m. at Birch Creek Golf Club in Union. The final day for signing up for the event is Thursday, April 23.
Get more info.

Friday, April 24
The first Union farmers market of the year starts at 4 p.m. The Market off Main is happening at the intersection of Oak & Main Street, adjacent to Hansen Park. Expect to find goods from local vendors, crafters, and growers, along with delicious eats from regional food trucks.
Get all the info on Facebook.

Friday, April 24
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington to take part in line dancing lessons by Glittering Grapevine beginning at 7 p.m.
Learn more.

Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Whether you’ve been dreaming about upgrading your kitchen, adding another bathroom or bedroom, a new deck or an outdoor space, Freelance Services can help with that! Reach out today to talk about your project!

Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26
A two-day treasure hunt is happening at Terror on Route 66. Find goods from a variety of vendors at this spring flea market.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Do you love vintage items like books, antiques, and collectibles? Then you’ll want to drop by the American Legion in Union for the Vintage Pop Up Market held from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Be sure to grab a bite of something yummy at one of the on-site food trucks.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 25
The 4th Annual P-Town Pub Crawl kicks off at 11 a.m. The crawl begins and ends at the same location and attendees will be shuttled around to various watering holes in Pacific including Brown Jerry’s BBQ, Pacific Brewhaus, Pacific Eagles, and American Legion, and more. Cost is $35 per person.
Find tickets.

Saturday, April 25
St. Bridget Kildare Catholic School is hosting a mother/daughter dance with an 80s theme. The event is from 6-8 p.m. and cost is $20 per person.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Get ready for an evening of glow in the dark music themed bingo for a worthy cause. The St. Clair Elks Lodge is hosting the event, with proceeds from the bingo night benefiting St. Clair High School Baseball. Doors open at 5 p.m., with bingo beginning at 6 p.m. and tickets are $30 in advance, $40 at the door, and $240 for a table of 8.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 25
The Washington Fairgrounds Pavilion is the site of the Franklin County Humane Society’s Strut Your Mutt event, happening from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This fun-filled afternoon will be feature contests, activities, and dog demonstrations. Enjoy a short dog parade around the park, watch exciting demos, browse vendor booths featuring pet-related items, and take part in contests and other activities throughout the event.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 25
Frisco Farmhouse in Pacific is hosting a farmers market that will feature meat, sourdough, eggs, produce, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Eagle Ridge Estates is hosting a community-wide yard sale. The sales kick off at 7 a.m. and go until 1 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 26
The Club House Play Cafe in Sullivan is having a closet clean out. Stop by the establishment from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m. for an indoor yard sale and play day.
Get the details.

Sunday, April 26
The St. Clair VFW will have a black light bingo event beginning 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.

Friday, April 24
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting a laid-back spring night of instructor-led line dancing, music, and good company.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Head to Rolla’s historic downtown for the 5th Annual Spring Craft Festival. Discover original and handmade creations such as jewelry, furniture, clothing, home accessories, paintings and prints, books, wooden crafts, toys and much more.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Join representatives from Missouri State Parks and Edward Jones in celebrating Founders Day on the Katy Trail at the Treloar Trailhead. Enjoy live music, visit with team members from Missouri State Parks and Edward Jones, mulch trees in the Burkhardt Grove, take a tram ride to Peers, or assist in a honeysuckle hack to remove invasive species along the trail.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Ownesville is hosting its first ever strongman games event called O-Town Showdown. This free event will feature tremendous displays of strength like pressing logs and car lifting. The fun kicks off at 9 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having Baby Animal Days at the farm. This family-friendly outdoor event will feature 4H groups showing off their baby animals. The animals will vary by day, but should include chicks, goats, bunnies, bottle calf, and ponies. Other attractions will be open as well as a concession stand.
Find out more.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in Advertorial Feature

Professional Development and Networking Group in Pacific Helps its Partners Build Knowledge, Business Connections

Posted on by Amanda

There’s a new networking group made up of a diverse set of entrepreneurs that’s challenging the way traditional networking meetings operate. That group is called Businesses 4 Businesses, and its weekly meetings bring together business owners and professionals who are focused on building knowledge, making connections, and exchanging resources. Facilitated by Sam Hyndrich, Pacific resident and accountability coach behind the business Your Accountability Bestie, the group is bringing a fresh perspective on networking to the Franklin County area. 

Building a unique networking experience, while providing members with value, professional development, and business growth is what’s behind the Businesses 4 Businesses philosophy. The group is not affiliated with any larger networking organizations or specific industries, and has a membership that includes professionals you might expect to see at a more traditional networking group, like contractors, realtors, and insurance agents, as well as people with creative businesses, those in hospitality, and the medical field. There’s also diversity of experience, with members who are just beginning to build their business as well as those who are much further along in their entrepreneurial journey.

“There’s lots of networking opportunities in the area, but it feels like you’re attending the same meeting over and over,” Sam says.

Striving to create an atmosphere that doesn’t feel like members are attending the same meeting each week, the meetings follow a rotating schedule – speed networking one week, a member or visitor presenting a problem for the “hot seat” the next, a presentation that teaches a specific business-related skill the following week, and a presentation from a member on their business the last week of each month. 

Dr. Max Orris giving a professional development presentation on marketing. Photo via Businesses 4 Businesses on Facebook.

Yet, networking is a core part of what they do, and the group, often referred to as B4B by its members, has been implemented with an accountability piece built in, and members set individual goals, plus an action plan to meet them. 

“It has helped me get honest perspectives from other entrepreneurs. I am more persistent now because I listened to advice that was given and it has paid dividends. I have already surpassed an annual goal thanks to the accountability [and support],” one member shares. 

There are opportunities to collaborate with other professionals in the group through informal open networking before and after the meetings, as well as discussions during the meetings. There’s also an educational component built into B4B.

Learning new things and challenging beliefs 

Being a business owner means finding solutions and that’s best done through an expanded knowledge base. Although the internet has plenty of information, it can present content that confirms your doubts and biases, or that isn’t always applicable. At least once a month a member will present on a topic like marketing or using AI. Learning during these presentations is two fold: members can see how to integrate the information into their own businesses and ask the presenter questions about their process for an even deeper dive.

Challenging existing beliefs can be one of the best ways to grow as an individual and as a professional, and a core part of attending B4B meetings centers around challenging beliefs. 

“B4B has helped me gain new insights on my business that I wouldn’t have seen within the echo chamber of my own company. I’ve gained new knowledge and ideas that I don’t think I would have without it,” explains member Tyler Catt, who owns Sip on Main.

One way this is achieved is through the opportunity for members and visitors alike to spend time in the hot seat. While the name might sound a little intimidating, the hot seat offers a chance to present a current business struggle, while every person in the room has the opportunity to offer possible solutions. Through this collective effort, the person in the hot seat leaves with new insights, fresh perspectives, and a viable path to solve their problem. 

Dr. Justin Mann, a visitor at a recent B4B meeting, jumped into the hot seat for advice on a business problem. Photo credit: Amanda Bretz_The Socialite.

But members and visitors alike can gain insights without spending time in the hot seat, since the structure of the meetings naturally leads to organic conversations. As member Alex Edwards, who is in the insurance industry shares, “When I go in and vent about the challenges of my business, I get immediate solutions on how to fix the problems.”

Speed networking

On the first Wednesday of each month the group has a speed networking session. The six minute mini networking sessions work similar to a speed dating event. People sit across from each other and each person has three minutes to speak, but rather than everyone in attendance giving their business’s “elevator pitch” over and over, attendees draw questions from a jar to help guide the conversation. The questions are thought-provoking and scenario based, with topics such as sharing a recent business struggle and how they dealt with it. 

While three minutes may not seem like a long time to talk to someone, connections are made as members and visitors alike share their experiences, with the questions presenting a chance for business owners to share what has helped them in their entrepreneurial journey. 

The monthly speed networking meetings offer a chance for visitors and members to connect one-on-one. Photo via Businesses 4 Businesses on Facebook.

Visitors are encouraged to attend any meeting, but the speed networking events offer the opportunity for visitors to present their business to members and other visitors in a one-on-one experience. No matter when a visitor attends, they’re always met with enthusiasm and a group who wants to help. 

“You can expect to be welcomed and to walk into a room full of people that want to know about you and how we can help you,” Sam says.

Giving back

Although the room is full of busy entrepreneurs juggling their businesses, family life, and other commitments, during any given meeting you can expect to hear about upcoming community fundraisers or other philanthropic opportunities.  

“A lot of our members are on boards and lead foundations, and they’re allowed to talk about those things in our meetings because other people in the group like giving back individually and we give back as a group,” Sam describes.

During the holidays the group will use some of its leftover funds provided by membership dues to support community causes like Angel Tree donations and adopting a family in need in the community. 

If you’re interested in attending a meeting or you would like to know more about Businesses for Businesses, you can find out more on Facebook, or call/text 636-306-5636. The group meets each Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 228 E. Union St. in Pacific. Visitors are always welcome, but are encouraged to DM on Facebook or reach out by phone to ensure there’s an accurate head count for the meeting’s lunch order.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 23 – March 29, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

The Easter bunny is hopping into Franklin County this week! There are bunny-themed breakfasts, Easter-themed activities, games, and more happening around the area. There are also egg hunts for kids, teens, and the young at heart!

In addition to the Easter festivities, there are craft events, a pop culture trivia night, the first farmers market & craft fair of the season at Kaleidoscope Consignment in Pacific, plus this weekend it’s the 45th Annual Wurstfest in nearby Hermann, a mother-daughter event at Brookdale Farms in Eureka, the Outdoor Spring Flea Market at Half Crocked Antiques in Bourbon, and much more.

Pro tip: minimize disappointments and save gas (hello, price increase!) by double checking with event venues before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances!

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

Thursday, March 26
The Union Branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a “Crafternoon” event at 2 p.m. Attendees can bring a craft project of their choosing and work among other craft-loving people. What could be better than working on a project and making new friends in the process?
Learn more.

Thursday, March 26
Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan is hosting a Craft Night. Attendees will create a DIY painted tote bag from 5-6 p.m. and cost is $25 per person.
Find out how to register.

Friday, March 27
The Washington Public Library is having a teen Easter egg hunt inside the library from 6-6:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Friday, March 27
Teens, grab your friends and get ready for a fun night under the lights at Liberty Field in Pacific. Try your luck at finding the “Golden Egg” at the 4th Annual Teen Easter Egg Hunt.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Easter Eggstravaganza at First Baptist Church Washington will feature egg hunts, games, crafts, food, prizes, and much more. It will be a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family, and everything is completely free!
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Head to Gerald Legion Park for an Easter egg hunt beginning at 10 a.m.
More details.

Saturday, March 28
Make a fleece tie blanket to help a child in need at Project Linus of Franklin & Crawford County’s Make a Blanket event at the Union Branch of Scenic Regional Library. The event is from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
RSVP to attend.

Saturday, March 28
St. Clair’s annual community Easter egg hunt at Orchard Park is happening at 11 a.m. Attendees can expect hot dogs, chips, and drinks while supplies last.
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, March 28
Have breakfast with the Easter bunny at Miller’s Grill. Enjoy scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes, with orange juice, milk or coffee from 8 – 9:45 a.m. Children big and small have the opportunity for a FREE photo with the Easter Bunny and get an Easter cookie with the purchase of a breakfast.
Learn where you can purchase tickets.

Saturday, March 28
Get ready to time-travel through pop culture at the Pop Culture, Decades of Trivia at the Pacific Eagles. Trivia questions will range from the swinging sixties to the tech-savvy 2000s as well as exploring iconic moments, unforgettable music, groundbreaking movies, and the trends that defined each era.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 28
The Knights of Columbus Hall in Washington is hosting the Franklin County Backstoppers Dinner Auction to assist families of fallen first responders.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is having an Open Gym from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and it’s the perfect chance for kids to jump, tumble, climb, and play in a high-energy, supervised environment. It’s all about moving, laughing, and having a blast with friends—new and old!
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Pacific Community Park is the place to be for an adult glow-in-the-dark egg hunt you won’t want to miss! Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. and the fun starts at 8 p.m.
Advance ticket purchase required.

Saturday, March 28
Triple 3 Vineyard is having a five-course dinner crafted by Chef Alex, and the menu is perfectly paired with selections from Triple 3 wines. Following the meal, guests will have the unique opportunity to tour the vineyard’s production facility. Don’t miss this memorable evening of fine dining and wine exploration.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Boles Fire Protection District in Villa Ridge is having a free breakfast with the Firefighters, Chief Officers, and Board of Directors as well as a special visit from Good Bunny.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 29
Kaleidoscope Consignment in Pacific is hosting the first Farmers Market & Craft Fair of the season from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. You’ll find sourdough, plants, crafts, and more. Enjoy food from Hot Tamales Love at First Bite food truck.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 29
Head to Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan for an Easter themed cookie decorating class that kicks off at 2 p.m. Decorate half a dozen cookies under the guidance of the instructor and take home your cookies at the end of class.
Register for class.

Back view of white two-story home with a covered patio
Advertisement – If you’re thinking about updating your outdoor space, reach out to Brandon with Freelance Services.

Road Trippin’

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

Wednesday, March 25
Enjoy an evening with your friends or that special someone in one of the historic buildings at The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance. The venue will provide the candlelight, a table to sit by the fire, tabletop activities and the ambiance—you bring dinner and drinks. After dinner, take a scenic walk through the Boone Home to watch the beautiful sunset. The event is for ages 18 and up; cost is $5 per person.
Pre-registration is required.

Friday, March 27-Sunday, March 29
The 45th Annual Hermann Wurstfest celebrates the town’s 160-year sausage-making history. From sausage sampling and competitions to kraut-making classes, German dancing, live music, and the highly-anticipated Wiener Dog Derby, dog costume contest, and talent show – there’s something for everyone.
Find out more.

Friday, March 27
It’s Mother-Daughter Ranch Night at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Enjoy BBQ, games, animal encounters, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 28
Half Crocked Antiques in Bourbon is having an Outdoor Spring Flea Market. The event is from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having a helicopter Easter egg drop. This ticketed event includes hunting for the 10,000 filled eggs dropped from a helicopter, as well as pictures with the Easter bunny, ziplines, slides, and much more.
Get tickets.

Saturday, March 28
Marthasville Area Chamber of Commerce is having an egg hunt at the ball fields at 10 a.m. Egg hunts will be organized by age groups, and kids ages 0-10 can participate. There will also be opportunities to get photos with the Easter bunny.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Brooks and Young Realty in Warrenton is hosting a Bunny Fun Day from 1-3 p.m. Take pictures with the Easter bunny, play games, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 28
Balducci Vineyards in Augusta is having a very special Easter celebration! There will be plenty of prizes and an egg-hunting activity for children followed by Instagrammable moments with Sunny The Bunny! Free for kids and the Egg hunt begins at 11:30 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Take your kiddos to the Youth Easter Egg Hunt at Kircher Park in Eureka from 10 a.m. – noon. There will also be a pancake breakfast provided by the Knights of Columbus, crafts, photos, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, March 28
Marthasville is having an adult Easter egg hunt from 6-8 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Head to Warrenton for an Easter Eggapalooza at Fellowship Baptist Church. The event will feature an egg hunt, bounce house, horse rides, face painting, obstacle course, food, music, and prize giveaways!
Get more info.

Sunday, March 29
The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville is having a Cornhole Tournament beginning at noon. Cost is $10 per person.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 29
Berry Park in Eureka is hosting an Easter egg hunt from 1-3 p.m. Play games, find eggs, kiddos can get their faces painted, and much more.
Find out more.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in Events

Seven St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations Around Franklin County

Posted on by Amanda

Whether you’re looking for a St. Patrick’s Day bash that’s fun for the whole family, want to kick back with a cocktail or beer at a bar, or take in a parade, there are a few ways to celebrate everyone’s favorite Irish holiday around Franklin County this year.

Friday, March 13 & Saturday, March 14
The Tipsy Keg in Washington is hosting a two-day long St. Paddy’s Day Celebration that will include karaoke along with food and drink specials.
Learn more.

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

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

Saturday, March 14
Spy leprechauns, four-leaf clovers, and pots of gold at the city of Pacific’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The fun kicks off at 11 a.m.
Get more details.

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

Saturday, March 14
Looking for a way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day that ‘s a bit more low-key? Hear Celtic tunes by the musical group The Divines at Liberty Hall in Washington. This ticketed event will also include one drink with admission.
Get tickets.

Saturday, March 14
Although not in Franklin County, the nearby community of Defiance will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The event includes a 5k, parade, and festivities that include live music by several bands throughout the day, as well as specials at the area wineries, restaurants, bars, and other establishments.
Get the details.