Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri May 18 – May 31, 2026

This event post is a little different than the typical event roundup. With summer coming I’m switching things up and posting event articles every two weeks. I know that summer schedules tend to get busier and people want to see what’s happening a bit further out, so I hope the every two week articles will help!

Memorial Day weekend is summer’s official kickoff and the holiday celebrations in our area range from a Memorial Day themed market, parades and services, and an open lake day at Lost Hill Lake. This week there’s also Music on Main in Union, line dancing in Washington, and a food drive event called Popsicles with Paramedics.

The week following Memorial Day has a little bit of something for everyone, like Sunset on the Riverfront in WashMo, Route 66 BBQ and Bluegrass festival in Pacific, as well as the annual Fireman’s Picnic in Gerald, plus a lot more.

Remember to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled.

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

Throughout May
Vero Fitness in Pacific is having its annual free week, allowing non-members access to the gym and group fitness classes, throughout the entire month of May. There’s special events, group fitness classes, and more happening all month.
Get more details.

Various dates and times
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a few special movie events throughout the month and into the summer. There are kid films series that are $2 a viewing, as well as a flashback cinema series, which offer a second chance to catch a classic flick on the big screen.
Find out more on Facebook.

Various dates and times
Great 8 Cinema in Union and Sullivan 6 Cinema are also featuring a special kids summer film series that kicks off mid-May and runs through late August. Additionally, the admission is $2, and $5 value combos.
Get details on Facebook.

Tuesday, May 19
Head to St. Clair for a handmade card making class from 12-4 p.m.
Learn more.

Thursday, May 21
Meramec Ambulance District is excited to host its annual Popsicles with Paramedics, and this year it’s a food drive to support local families in need. Come out, meet your local paramedics, enjoy some fun activities, and cool off with a popsicle while making a difference in our community. The event will have bounce houses, ambulance tours, popcorn, slushies, plus collecting donations for Agape Help House in Pacific.
Check out the details.

Thursday, May 21
Hansen Park in Union will host its next Music on Main event featuring live music by Denver Wade Trent, food and drinks by Hagies 19, and treats from Boxcar Express.
Get all the info.

Friday, May 22
Take part in a free line dancing class at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington from 7-10 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 23
Frisco Farms in Catawissa is hosting a Memorial Day themed market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shop from a variety of vendors, including honey, antiques, farm fresh goods, and much more.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 23
Robertsville State Park is hosting a Birds, Bees, and Blossoms Fest from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. This free event will feature a presentation by World Bird Sanctuary,  as well as arts and crafts tables, local vendors, nonprofit organizations, and educational booths, all related to our native plants and wildlife.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 23
The Sullivan Community Market is happening at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan. Stop by from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and shop from local growers, producers, and craft vendors.
Get more info.

Sunday, May 24
Enjoy live music by Cruisin’ 66 Bass, wine, and bites at Triple 3 Vineyard from 2-5 p.m.
Learn more.

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Monday, May 25
Head to Union for the Union American Legion’s Memorial Day parade, service, and meal event. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m., with service at 11 a.m., and the meal to follow. Choose from fried chicken or pork steak, along with a number of sides, and dessert.
Learn more.

Monday, May 25
Washington’s Memorial Day observance will be held at American Legion Post 218’s Home. The program starts at 10 a.m.
Get more details.

Monday, May 25
Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair is having it’s first Open Lake Day of the season from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Open Lake Day is your chance to relax, play, and enjoy everything Lost Hill Lake has to offer—no reservations needed.
Learn more.

Wednesday, May 27
The Franklin County Silent Book Club is happening at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar from 5:30-7 p.m. Bring your own book and read in silence for an hour, with the final 30 minutes of the event dedicated to chatting with others or continued reading on your own.
Find out more.

Thursday, May 28
The monthly Sunset on the Riverfront is happening from 5-8 p.m. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and drinks.
Get more info.

Friday, May 29-Sunday, May 31
The second annual Route 66 BBQ and Bluegrass is happening in Pacific all weekend. Head to Liberty Field for live music, tasty barbecue, kids activities, and more.
Get more info.

Friday, May 29
Shaw Nature Reserve is hosting a curated tasting experience where botanicals inspire every sip at the Flora Flights event.
Purchase tickets and find out more.

Saturday, May 30
The annual Gerald Fireman’s Picnic is happening at Legion Park, beginning at 11 a.m. Enjoy live music, fireman challenge games, concessions, bingo, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 30
Support young entrepreneurs and quench your thirst at the Kids Lemonade Stand Contest at Once Worn in Union from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 30
Wagon Days is free family fun at Longmeadow Rescue Ranch in Union. Spend a day with rescued ranch animals, take a wagon ride through the 165-acre facility, enjoy food and beverages are available for sale, or pack your own picnic lunch.
More info.

Sunday, May 31
Triple 3 Vineyard is hosting River Valley Co. for a DIY Hat Bar. If you’ve ever wanted a one-of-a-kind custom hat, this is your chance to create it. River Valley Co. is incredibly talented and brings a wide variety of accessories and details to help you design a hat that’s perfectly you.
Get more info.

Sunday, May 31
Find homemade sourdough, authentic tamales, handmade soaps, honey, plants, custom jewelry, and more at the Kaleidoscope Farmers Market & Craft Fair in Pacific beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, May 22
Marthasville City Park will host a free concert from 7:30-10 p.m. featuring the music of The Silver Rain Band.
Learn more.

Friday, May 29-Saturday, May 30
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is the home of Folky Fish Fest, a two-day celebration of music, arts, craft and food vendors, workshops and so much more.
Get more details.

Friday, May 29
Gather the family, including your furry friends, for a night of fun in the beautiful Gardens at St. James Winery with a showing of the animated film “Cars.”
More info.

Saturday, May 30-Sunday, May 31
The 573 Vintage Market is happening two days at Linn Lions Club Fairgrounds. Find your newest vintage treasure at this event featuring area vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 30
If you love Bourbon, whiskey, or other spirits, then you’ll want to head to Augusta for the Missouri Spirit Festival from 3-7 p.m.
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

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Dec. 1 – Dec. 7, 2025

This week, there’s chances to watch holiday movies, attend craft events, holiday pop-ups, Christmas parades, winter markets, holiday concerts, meals with Santa, holiday light displays, and much more.

Please note I try my best to capture the happenings in our area each week, and some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, so I share those items in my stories throughout the week. Be sure to follow me on Facebook an Instagram to get all the details!

Graphic with text over a photo of Christmas tree and white lights

And, as we move into winter weather, event details may change or events may get rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!

Monday, Dec. 1, Wednesday, Dec. 3, Saturday, Dec. 6, Sunday, Dec. 7
Great 8 Cinema in Union is showing classic holiday movies through Christmas Eve for only $2 per person. On Monday and Wednesday, catch “A Christmas Story” and on Saturday and Sunday view “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
Get more info.

Tuesday, Dec. 2
Enjoy a holiday concert with music by the Schwarzer Zither Ensemble of Washington. Promoting the tradition, music, and local history of the zither instruments, Schwarzer Zither Ensemble of Washington performs a concert including seasonal and holiday music.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Dec. 3 – Sunday, Dec. 7
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar’s The 898 Hours of Christmas Pop-Up Bar is still happening this week. Drink Christmas-themed cocktails in a cozy, winter wonderland-themed space.
Get more details.

Wednesday, Dec. 3
Get into the spirit of the season at Mistletoe & Mixology, a Holiday Pop-Up at Oak & Front in Washington. Experience festive decorations, holiday cocktails, themed food specials, and house-made Christmas cookies served at every table. The event kicks off on Dec. 3, and will also run on Dec. 10, and Dec. 17. Reserve your spot for $10 per person.
Learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 4
N-Rec Sports Center in Washington is hosting a Bingo Night featuring Taco Loco. Price is $40 per person, and includes bingo, as well as a Taco Loco meal and margarita.
Get more details.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Have breakfast for dinner, and eat pancakes with Santa at St. Gertrude Parish & School in Washington. Have pancakes with all the toppings, beverages, Christmas crafts, and more.
Learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Beginning this Thursday, Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is kicking off a special series called “Happy Holidates.” The special is a dinner and a movie date package on Thursdays, with a holiday twist. For $30 per person, enjoy dinner at Smokin’ Oak, plus admission to a holiday film, popcorn, and a drink.
Get more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
Thacker’s Mini Pub in Gerald is having a Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament. Cost of entry is $20 per person.
Find out more.

Friday, Dec. 5 – Saturday, Dec. 6
Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair is having their annual Grove of Lights holiday light experience. View thousands of dazzling lights, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and s’mores, get photos with Santa, free face painting for kids, and much more.
Purchase tickets.

Friday, Dec. 5
Washington Library is hosting a Build-a-Stuffie and movie night. Attendees will build a new stuffie and then watch a G-rated holiday movie. Registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Friday, Dec. 5
River Sirens Collective is hosting a Ladies Night with IPL hand facials, permanent jewelry, blowouts, chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, Botox specials, and exclusive retail discounts.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have breakfast with Santa & the Grinch at Miller’s Grill in Washington from 8-9:45 a.m. Children have the opportunity for a free photo with Santa & the Grinch and Christmas Cookie Treats with the purchase of breakfast!
Purchase your tickets for the breakfast and learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Robertsville Elementary for a vendor fair and visit from Santa.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have breakfast with Santa at Boles Fire Protection District from 9-11 a.m. in Villa Ridge. This event is free, and also includes station tours by firefighters.
More info.

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Saturday, Dec. 6
New Haven is the site of the Handmade Holiday Mart from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find seasonal cocktails and samples from Pinckney Bend Distillery, an espresso bar by Lang-A-Tang Cafe, tea and gifts from London Tea Merchant, plus permanent jewelry, custom shirts and mugs, along with flowers, décor, and ornaments by Bright Side Blooms.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The 4th Annual Mingle & Jingle is happening at Triple 3 Vineyard in Washington from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Shop from 50 local makers and visit with Santa from 1-3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The town of Pacific is having a Winter Wonderland Christmas on the Plaza and Parade holiday event. There will be s’mores, hot cocoa, pictures with Santa and much more.
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night every Saturday. Stand up comedy, music, and more is welcome.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Liberty Hall in Washington is hosting The Divines, a Celtic band blending Irish, Old Time, and Americana music.
Get tickets and time info.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Downtown Sullivan will have its Christmas Festival and a lighted Parade.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Riverbend Middle School Craft & Vendor Fair promises to be a festive day of shopping, creativity, and community spirit in Pacific. Browse a wide variety of handmade crafts, unique gifts, home décor, seasonal items, and local vendor products—perfect for getting a head start on your holiday shopping! Enjoy food and fun while supporting our school and local small businesses. All proceeds from booth rentals help support Riverbend Middle School programs and student activities.
Get more details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Union’s City Auditorium for Rock & Roll Bingo. Attendees can bring their own snacks and beverages to this black light bingo night.
Find pricing and other details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Visit with Santa at Sullivan Ace from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Meet Santa Claus at Linny’s Kennel in Union. There will be treats for kids as well as canines at the event.
Get more info.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Thrive Studio and Events in Sullivan is hosting a Holiday Market & Santa Photos event. Expect hot cocoa, shopping with area vendors, and more.
Find all the details.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a Five Can Film Series with a showing of “Elf” this Sunday. Watch classic holiday flicks throughout the Christmas season for a $6 ticket price, or by donating 5 non-perishable cans of food per movie goer. *Editorial note: this article originally stated the special showing of “Elf” was on Saturday. The article has been updated to reflect the correct date for the movie.
Find out more.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Make an embroidered ornament at Yarn Together in Washington. Registration is required, and all supplies are included in workshop price.
Find out more.

Sunday, Dec. 7
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Washington is having a donuts with Santa event from 10 a.m. – noon.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

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

Friday, Dec. 5
Head to Augusta for an old fashioned experience at the Christmas Candlelight Walk.
Get more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
The town of Salem is having its Christmas parade, and the theme is Candy Cane Lane, with businesses open late after the parade for shopping.
Find out more.

Friday, Dec. 5 & Saturday, Dec. 6
Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season.
Learn pricing and more info.

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Saturday, Dec. 6
The 2nd Annual Hometown Christmas in Warrenton is the perfect way to slow down and soak in the joy of the holidays with family and friends. There will be a lighted parade, live reindeer, photos with Santa, a Christmas light maze, hot cocoa, and much more.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Christmas in Rosebud will feature fun for all ages, with a petting zoo, tree lighting, parade, face painting, an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more.
More details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Owensville High School for a Winter Craft Market. There will be food vendors, music, a visit from Santa, gift wrapping, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
St. James is having its Christmas Parade, and “Joy to the World” is the theme of the celebration. See Santa, enjoy cookies and hot cocoa, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have ice cream for breakfast with Santa Claus at Udderly Moolicious in Warrenton. The menu will feature Belgian waffles topped with ice cream, whipped cream, and other delicious toppings. A photographer will also be onsite to take photos for $15 per family.
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 Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Oct. 27-Nov. 2, 2025

This week there’s lots of fall events like markets and other shopping experiences, aspiring bakers can attend a sourdough workshop, and there’s numerous Trunk or Treat events happening. You can find all the Halloween-related events happening through 11/2 here.

Tuesday, Oct. 28
Discover the art of sourdough while learning how it can benefit your gut at Roux 66 in Washington. In this hands-on class, you’ll mix, shape, and practice the techniques behind creating a delicious sourdough loaf and explore why sourdough is easier to digest than conventional breads, and how fermented foods can support a healthier gut microbiome.
Register here.

Photo via Roux 66’s Facebook event.

Tuesday, Oct. 28
The Washington Public Library is hosting a Teen Haunted Gingerbread House Make & Take. Drop in and construct a haunting “gingerbread” house out of graham crackers, frosting, and candies. All materials will be provided. Ages 12 & Up.
Register here.

Wednesday, Oct. 29
Swallows Nest Boutique and Cafe in Washington is hosting a Shoptober event from 3-8 p.m. Shop, sip, dine, and get a tarot card reading for $20.
Get more info.

Wednesday, Oct. 29
Shiloh Baptist Church in Robertsville is having a Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat. The event will have free food and kids activities.
Learn more.

Thursday, Oct. 30
Head to St. Clair Library for a Trick R Treat event that includes games, candy and fun.
Find out more.

Thursday, Oct. 30
Lost Hill Lake Weddings and Event venue in St. Clair is hosting a Halloween themed Puff n’ Paint event.
Get more info and register here.

Friday, Oct. 31
Looking for a fun & safe trunk-or-treat? Watermark Church located at 41 St Andrews Drive in Union will have hot dogs, popcorn, candy & other fun treats from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 31
Get the caffeine you’ll need to fuel your Halloween plans! On Halloween morning, Just Hank’s coffee trailer will be parked at RC Roofing on Fifth St. in Washington and the first 100 customers will receive a free coffee!
Get more info including times.

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Friday, Oct. 31
First Baptist Church in Belle will host a night full of family-friendly fall fun including games for all ages to play, a cake walk, bounce house, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy and so much more!
Find out time and location.

Friday, Oct. 31
Free kid friendly indoor and outdoor fun at the Fall Fling at Life Stream Church in Washington. The event includes Trunk or Treat, bounce houses, games, hotdogs, and candy.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 1
Route 66 Goodies in Pacific is hosting a Fall Market. The event will run from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Find the event on Facebook for more details.

Saturday, Nov. 1
The St. Clair Saddle Club is hosting a free family fun night.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Nov. 1
Autumn Nights is an adults shopping experience in downtown Washington. Visit multiple businesses for fun, food, and shopping.
Learn more.

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Saturday, Nov. 1 & Sunday, Nov. 2
Area St. Louis artists are hosting a boutique show at Shaw Nature Reserve. Featured artwork includes ceramic, wood and metal sculpture, painting, folk art, photography, jewelry, basketry, and more on display and available for purchase throughout the rustic cabins at the Dana Brown Overnight Center.
Get more info.

Road Trippin’

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

Multiple dates and times in Oct.
Think you’re brave enough to venture into Terror on Route 66? Step into this haunted attraction in Sullivan for the ultimate in spine-tingling entertainment.
Get more info.

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Monday, Oct. 27
Think you know your horror, from slashers to campy creeps? Put your spooky smarts to the test at our Halloween Spooktacular Trivia Night—a frightfully fun evening of laughs, drinks, and horror-movie bragging rights at Brookdale Farms. Rounds will cover iconic Halloween films, monsters, haunted history & lore, and seasonal pop culture. Costumes encouraged! Dress as your favorite monster or Halloween icon—the best costume wins a prize.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 31
New Salem Baptist Church in Owensville is having a Trunk ‘R Treat in Maciejewski’s Parking Lot in Owensville. The event features free treats, free hotdogs, trunk decorating contest, and more!
Get more info.

Friday, Oct. 31
First Baptist Church in Belle will have games for all ages to play, including a cake walk, a bounce house, face painting, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy and, a pet costume contest.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 1
Maggie Grace’s on Main in Warrenton is hosting a Fall/Christmas Market.
Get the details.

Saturday, Nov. 1
St. John the Baptist School in Villa Ridge will have a Trunk or Treat along with a haunted forest and hayride beginning at 5 p.m.
Get the details.

Multiple dates and times until Nov. 2
Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka is the home of Fright Fest, happening on select nights until Nov. 2. Find haunted mazes, scare zones, live shows, and more.
Learn more.