Rolla Missouri – Page 2 – Small Town Socialite

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Nov. 24 – Nov. 30, 2025

Posted on November 24, 2025November 28, 2025 by Amanda

Happy Thanksgiving week! If you or someone you know is looking for a Thanksgiving meal, there are several places offering free meals. There are also bars hosting Thanksgiving Eve experiences, and after Thanksgiving, there’s holiday events kicking off on Friday, like the Holiday Parade of Lights in Washington, plus Small Business Saturday, and a lot 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!

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!

Wednesday, Nov. 26
White Rose Cafe in Union will offer a Thanksgiving meal featuring turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, and a roll for $12.99. The meals are available for eat in or take out.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Nov. 26
The Knights of Columbus in Washington is having a Thanksgiving Eve Dance. Pulse band will perform beginning at 8 p.m.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Nov. 26
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have Thanksgiving Eve Tunes by Tommy Norton. There will be $5 burgers from 4-9 p.m.
Get more info.

Wednesday, Nov. 26-Wednesday, Dec. 10
Kicking off the day before Thanksgiving and running through Dec. 10 is Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar’s The 898 Hours of Christmas Pop-Up Bar. Drink Christmas-themed cocktails in a cozy, winter wonderland-themed space.
Get more details.

Thursday, Nov. 27
The Knights of Columbus in Gerald is hosting its 7th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. This free meal is available to the community for in person or take out, but RSVP is appreciated for meal planning purposes.
Learn more and RSVP.

Thursday, Nov. 27
United Methodist Church in St. Clair will have its 21st Annual Free Thanksgiving Meal from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Find out more.

Thursday, Nov. 27
Lang-A-Tang Cafe in New Haven is having its 5th free Thanksgiving To-Go Meals from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Get more details.

Friday, Nov. 28-Sunday, Nov. 30
Blumenhof Winery in Dutzow is hosting a Kristkindl Markt featuring locally made goods from a variety of vendors and fun, free, family-friendly festivities. Stay warm with fire pits, heaters, hot coffee, cocoa, and delicious hot, mulled wine.
Learn more.

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Friday, Nov. 28
Downtown Washington will be aglow during the Holiday Parade of Lights. The parade starts at 6 p.m. and will feature over 70 beautifully lit parade floats, antique cars, bands, and walking groups. Santa will also make an appearance at the end of the parade for the tree lighting at the corner of Main and Elm Streets.
Find parade route and other details on Facebook.

Friday, Nov. 28
After the Holiday Parade of Lights, head to John G.’s in Washington for an evening of Christmas carols performed by Melissa Frey.
Get more info.

*Saturday, Nov. 29* RESCHEDULED 12/6/25
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, Nov. 29
Petals and Plants in Sullivan will have free pictures with The Grinch from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Santa is coming to R&R Ace in St. Clair from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. There will be additional visits from Santa, as well as The Grinch, throughout the holiday season.
Learn more.

Saturday, Nov. 29
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, Nov. 29
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is kicking off its Five Can Film Series with a showing of “The Polar Express.” 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.
Find out more.

*Saturday, Nov. 29* CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER
United Bank of Union is hosting a Small Business Saturday vendor event. Find local vendors to shop from, live music, food trucks, photos with Santa, and more.
Get the details.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Santa Claus is coming to Harmony Health & Wellness in St. Clair. Santa will be on site from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and the establishment will have specials on gift cards and retail as part of Small Business Saturday.
Get the details.

Saturday, Nov. 29
The Gerald Lions Club is getting into the holiday spirit with a Christmas-themed trivia night. Attendees can get prizes for trivia as well as for best decorated table and ugly sweaters.
Find out costs and other details.

Sunday, Nov. 30
The Washington Farmers Market will be the site of an Olde Fashioned Christmas event. The event will feature horse-drawn wagon rides, marshmallow roasting, photos with reindeer, local choirs and the Washington Brass Band, along with hot chocolate and hot cider, Christmas crafts, cookie decorating, face painting, plus a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Learn more.

Sunday, Nov. 30
First Christian Church in Washington is hosting a Christmas Tree Lighting event that will include themed games, crafts, activities, a barrel train, live music, cookies + cocoa, a hot dog roasting station, and Just Hank’s Coffee on-site.
Get more details.

Road Trippin’

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

Wednesday, Nov. 26
The Outfield Sports Bar and Grill in Marthasville is hosting a ticketed Thanksgiving Eve Party that will feature dueling pianos.
Get more info.

Friday, Nov. 28 & Saturday, Nov. 29
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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Friday, Nov. 28 – Wednesday, Dec. 31
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.

Saturday, Nov. 29
Bland is kicking off the Christmas season with a celebration at Bland City Park. There will be a Christmas parade, photos with Santa, cocoa and sweet treats, kids crafts, and chili.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 29
The Homemade Exchange in Owensville is hosting its monthly meetup. Head to the Scenic Regional Library’s Owensville Branch for a chance to connect with others in the community and exchange homemade/homegrown items one-for-one.
Find out more.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Nov. 3 – 9, 2025

Posted on November 3, 2025November 3, 2025 by Amanda

This week there’s Ladies Night Out events, ways to give back to the community, craft fairs, and much more.

Thursday, Nov. 6
Head to Dahlia Cafe in Union from 4-8 p.m. for Dine to Donate Night. Whether you dine in or take out, a portion of every purchase will benefit the United Way — helping support vital programs right here in our community.
Find more info.

Thursday, Nov. 6
Ace Hardware in Sullivan is hosting a Ladies Night. Catch store-wide sales, giveaways, and more.
Get more info.

Friday, Nov. 7
The Washington Public Library is hosting a Family Sushi Class. Learn to use a sushi mat, work with sticky rice, and choose your own ingredients (vegetarian options and no raw fish). A fun experience for the whole family.
Pre-registration is required.

Friday, Nov. 7
Head to Sullivan to come together as a community and stock the shelves of the Meramec Community Mission. Monetary donations are welcomed as well as food donations.
Get more info.

Friday, Nov. 7
Glittering Grapevine will be teaching beginner friendly line dancing lessons for free at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington.
Find out more.

Friday, Nov. 7
Lang-A-Tang Cafe & Catering is hosting a Grand Opening event to celebrate moving into its new home.
Learn more.

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Saturday, Nov. 8
Crooked Creek Beef in Pacific is hosting a special Farm & Craft Market. Find local honey, farm fresh eggs, tallow skincare products, fresh sourdough and other baked goods. There will be a bounce house, face painting, games, and more.
Get more details.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Head to New Haven for a Chili Supper to benefit the local schools. The event will include food, a kids carnival, raffle, silent auction, and pie auction.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
The 2nd Annual Holiday Craft Show is happening at Immaculate Conception School in Union.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Support local athletes by joining the Pacific Sports Club for their second annual Music Trivia Night and Karaoke.
More info.

Saturday, Nov. 8 & Sunday, Nov. 9
Union Middle School is hosting a Craft Fair.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, Nov. 4
Ladies Night at Red Door & Lillian Grace in Rolla will feature special sales, permanent jewelry, appetizers and drinks, and more.
Find out more.

Friday, Nov. 7 – Sunday, Nov. 9
Experience the best parts of fall one more time at Fall Farewell Fest at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Shop end-of-season pumpkin deals, sip hot cider, and enjoy all your favorite fall activities before saying goodbye to fall and hello to winter fun.
Learn more.

Friday, Nov. 7 & Saturday, Nov. 8
Fall Campfire Nights continue at Brookdale Farms in Eureka.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
November is National Novel Writing Month, and aspiring and established authors will race to complete a 50,000 word novel from Nov. 1 – 30. The Rolla Public Library is hosting Novel November Writer’s Drop In events on Saturdays in November.
Get more details.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Smith Valley Event Barn in Salem is hosting a Holiday Market. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping at this event that will run from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Meditate with the vision of the wild mustang archetype, a symbol of freedom and resilience, at Mindful Living Coaching’s day retreat in Marthasville.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Downtown Rolla will have a Veterans Day Parade to honor the men and women who have served our country.
Learn more.

Events

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

Posted on August 18, 2025August 18, 2025 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.

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.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, June 23 – July 6, 2025

Posted on June 23, 2025June 29, 2025 by Amanda

Fourth of July celebrations kick off this weekend, so this event post covers two full weeks of community fairs, celebrations, festivals, and other events happening in Franklin, Gasconade, and Crawford Counties – and beyond. Read on for all the fun things going on over the next two weeks!

Tuesday, June 24 – Saturday, June 28
Spanning five days of fun, The Meramec Community Fair will include a parade to kick things off, pageants, truck and tractor pull, livestock exhibits, rodeo, demolition derby, carnival rides, food, concerts, and more.
Find out more.

Wednesday, June 25
Head to the Washington Public Library at 1 p.m. for Tommy Terrific’s Wacky Magic Show, a laugh-out-loud comedy coupled with sensational magic that’s ideal for all ages.
Get more information.

Wednesday, June 25
The Bubble Bus is pulling into the St. Clair Branch of Scenic Regional Library from 11 a.m. – noon.
Register for this free event.

Wednesday, June 25
The Franklin County Silent Book Club is hosting its monthly meeting at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington. Bring your book of choice, order a beverage, and sit and read in companionable silence, followed by a short period dedicated to conversation, or continued reading.
Learn more.

Wednesday, June 25
Are you looking to reduce stress, release what no longer serves you and step into a more powerful, aligned version of yourself? Come together in a safe, judgement free space for a heart opening, healing, transformative evening of holotropic breathwork.
Register for the event.

Thursday, June 26
Head to downtown Washington for the June 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, June 26
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is hosting a free drive-in showing of the 1971 film “Willy Wonka” in its parking lot. Parking is first come, first served, with concessions available for purchase.
Learn more.

Friday, June 27
Singles, here’s your chance to meet people in a fun, new way, at The Tipsy Keg’s Lock & Key event! This 21+ event starts off with drinks and music from a DJ. And attendees will sign up with the bartender to receive your lock or key. There will be beer pong, foosball, corn hole and pool for you to play while mingling, along with a raffle.
Check out more details.

Saturday, June 28
Pacific’s 23rd Annual Car Show includes food, live entertainment, and lots of cars.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 28
Be part of history and catch an amazing fireworks display at the Missouri State Record 1 Million Firecrackers event in Union, happening from 6 – 8 p.m. The free event will also feature an adult hot dog eating contest and kids ice cream eating contest. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Bring your lawn chair and settle in for an evening of fun.
Get location and other details.

Saturday, June 28
St. Clair is hosting Freedom Fest at Orchard Park. The all-day event kicks off at 11 a.m. and will include food, a bounce house and kids activities, a beer garden, live music, and a fireworks display.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 28
St. Gerald’s Catholic Church in Gerald will host a cafeteria style meal on Saturday, June 28 from 2 – 7 p.m. The dine in or carry out meals consist of choice of fried chicken or kettle beef, plus sides and desserts.
Get more information.

Thursday, July 3
The City of Union is hosting an Independence Day celebration at Veterans Memorial Park that includes live music, a beer garden, food trucks, activities for kids, and a fireworks display after dark.
Find out more.

Thursday, July 3
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington will host a free drive-in showing of “Independence Day” with concessions available for purchase. Parking spaces are first come, first served.
Get more details.

Thursday, July 3
New Earth Fest is a conscious music and healing arts gathering, kicking off its first iteration July 3 – 6 at Lost Hill Lake in St Clair. Activities include yoga, meditation, music, hiking, breathwork, connection with likeminded people, and more. Admission varies from day passes to the full weekend event, which includes on-site camping, or glamping.
Learn more and get tickets.

Friday, July 4
Celebrate Independence Day with a dazzling fireworks display in Sullivan. The event is open to all area residents. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and patriotic spirit.
Find out more.

Friday, July 4
This year’s fireworks celebration at Lions Lake in Washington will mark its 100th year. Bring blankets or lawn chairs and watch the magic unfold in the night sky!
Find out more.

Saturday, July 5
Head to New Haven to watch a truck and tractor pull, hosted by New Haven Community Youth Fair.
Get all the details.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, June 26
Follow the yellow brick road to Movie Night in The Gardens! Enjoy a timeless classic under the stars and watch “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.

Friday, June 27
The town of Owensville is hosting a picnic and fireworks festival on Friday, June 27. There will be a flag raising, beer garden, cake walk, bake sale, food, kids events, and a fireworks display at Memorial Park in Owensville.
Get the details.

Saturday, June 28
Do you bake, sew, grow a garden, or create handmade goods? Connect with other likeminded people at The Homemade Exchange, happening at the Owensville Library from 9 – 10 a.m. Bring items like homemade jam, cookies, fresh veggies from the garden, or a handmade craft and swap it, one-for-one, with an item another person brought to the exchange.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 28
Bland is hosting a fireworks and fundraising event on Saturday, June 28. Bland Police and Bland Fire Department will run the concession stands, which will serve fish sandwiches and tater twisters, with proceeds going to kids in need in the community.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 28
Head to Salem for an antique and vintage junking day with a homestead farmers market twist, happening at Smith Valley Event Barn.
Get the details.

Saturday, June 28
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a stargazing event. 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.

Sunday, June 29
It’s worth the short drive to Fenton to take in the amazing cars at a free, family-friendly car event at 1st Phorm Headquarters. You’ll find everything from exotics, to classic cars, imports, works in progress, and more at this car show.
Get more information.

Wednesday, July 2 – Saturday, July 5
Rolla Lions Club 90th Annual Carnival will feature several games, food, and carnival rides. Lions Club Park, located at 1061 S. Bishop Ave. in Rolla is adding a sensory-friendly celebration to the always popular free fireworks shows on July 4 and 5. This year’s event will include a brand new drone show on July 3 at 11 p.m. SkyGlow Drones will present a dazzling display of lights, movement, and music that promises to be a can’t-miss experience.
Find out more.

Thursday, July 3
Cuba will have a fireworks display at dusk at Hood Park.
Find out more at the City of Cuba’s Facebook page.

Friday, July 4
The town of Salem will host a parade in downtown, at 6 p.m. The celebration’s theme is Vintage Americana.
Get more details.

Friday, July 4
The town of St. James will have fireworks on the Fourth at dusk.
Learn where to watch and what time.

Saturday, July 5
Rosebud is hosting a fireworks display at the Rosebud Community Park. Be sure to arrive early and grab treats from the concession stand, open from 5 – 8 p.m., and catch candy from the kids candy cannon at 7:30 p.m.
Find out more.