Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri October 6 – 12, 2025

It’s October and that means it’s time for fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and spooky fun! This week there’s opportunities to hear live music, a number of community fall festivals, a fall outdoor market, a free drive-in showing of the movie “Addams Family Values,” Oktoberfest events, and a lot more!

Thursday, Oct. 9
Music on Main in Union continues this week with live music by Paul O’Duo, with food and drink available to purchase from Hagies 19. The fun begins at 5 p.m.
Learn more.

Photo via ReDiscover Union on Facebook
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Thursday, Oct. 9
Liberty Hall’s Dynamic Women Speaker Series continues with Rooted in Resilience, a transformative evening of community, healing, and inspiration—bringing together storytelling, art, and real conversation. Hosted at Liberty Hall in partnership with the Four Rivers Arts Council, this one-night event features Raylene Hollrah, a nationally recognized speaker and three-time cancer survivor, and Anne Molasky, a local artist whose powerful work invites us to reflect, rise, and reconnect.
Get tickets.

Friday, Oct. 10
Line dancing kicks off at “The Office” Bar & Grill from 6 – 9 p.m., and there will be lessons all night.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 10
Downtown Union will have its homecoming parade. Bring the whole family out to watch the parade and support Union High School’s homecoming. The fun starts at 2 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Oktoberfest at St. Clare Catholic Church in St. Clair from noon – 6 p.m. will feature a fried chicken dinner, music, pull tabs, bingo, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is hosting another free drive-in movie, and this week’s film is “Addams Family Values.”
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Register for the free “Out of the Darkness” suicide prevent walk in Union. The 5th Annual walk also includes food trucks, raffle, bounce house, face painting, along with tables for resources and information on suicide awareness.
Learn more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
If you’re looking for a tasty homemade sweet treat, consider stopping by the bake sale benefitting American Legion Auxiliary. The event is from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. in Union.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Bring your plants or seedlings to trade with fellow plant lovers at the Swallows Nest in Washington Learn about different species and care tips, while exploring unique plant art and accessories to enhance your collection. Join in and celebrate your passion for gardening!
Get the details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
Mt. Zion Baptist Church in St. Clair is hosting a Fall Community Event. There will be prizes and giveaways as well as vendors and fun for the whole family.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The Fall Labadie Outdoor Market will take place from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Find goods from 30+ vendors, including food vendors. The market will also take place on the same day as the Labadie Community Association’s Chili Cook Off.
Get more details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
First Baptist Church of Gray’s Summit is hosting a Fall Festival. Beginning at 11 a.m. and running until 2 p.m., the event will have live music and free food (burgers, hot dogs, chips, water), bounce house, barrel train rides, face painting, games, crafts, and a bake sale at this free event.
More information is on Facebook.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Super Steven’s Camp Fundraiser is happening at Old Farm Winery in Catawissa. The event will have live music, vendors, a silent auction, quilt raffle, and food from Dynasty Manna food truck.
Learn more.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Stop by Essence Salon & Spa at its new location at 15 S. Oak St., during its open house from 1-3 p.m.
Get more info.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Andy’s Produce in Union is hosting Pumpkin Palooza from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Enjoy face painting, ice cream, pumpkin crafts, a food truck, and more.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Oct. 9 – Sunday, Oct. 12
Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, try tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages.
Learn more.

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Friday, Oct. 10
The 3rd Annual Pat Hofherr Memorial Spaghetti Dinner is a chance to honor St. James Winery founder Pat Hofherr with an evening of family, food, and tradition. This special night includes a guided cellar tour, an engaging conversation with Peter Hofherr, CEO and 2nd-generation owner, and of course, a classic Rosati-style spaghetti dinner. Your ticket includes a hearty spaghetti dinner and a glass of wine, making it a warm and memorable way to celebrate Pat’s legacy and the community she helped build.
Tickets are $25 and are available online.

Friday, Oct. 10 & Saturday, Oct. 11
Step Into The Hollows at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. This fall, the woods come alive. Deep in the shadows of Brookdale Farms lies The Hollows—a haunted walking trail where every rustle, flicker, and shadow may not be what it seems. On this immersive haunted experience, you’ll journey through winding paths shrouded in fog and darkness, guided only by lantern light and the pounding of your heart. Whispers in the trees, figures that vanish into the night, and sudden terrors at every turn will keep you on edge until the very end.
Learn more.

Friday, Oct. 10 – Sunday, Oct. 12
Happening every weekend in October, Hermann Oktoberfest features beer, food, music, games, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The 46th Annual Old Iron Works Festival is happening from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Maramec Spring Park in St. James. Admission is $20 per car or free with Season Pass. There will be two stages with live music and entertainers, as well as crafters & artisans, kid’s games, demonstrations, plus food and beverage vendors and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The Fall Festival will kick off at 10 a.m. at Bland City Park, with a chili cook-off, craft festival, and tractor pull.
Learn more on Facebook.

Saturday, Oct. 11
The Rosebud Country Music Festival will host a lineup of 10 musicians, as well as vendors throughout the event, which runs from 3 p.m. -11:30 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Oct. 11 & Sunday, Oct. 12
The pumpkin patch at Three Girls and a Tractor is open on Saturday and Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. both days.
Get more info.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Oktoberfest in Old Town Eureka will be a day packed with fall fun, live music, food, drinks, and local vendors! Sip seasonal brews and festive cocktails, enjoy live performances from local musicians, shop with amazing vendors and makers, feast on delicious eats from area favorites, soak up the atmosphere with family and friends!
Learn more.

Sunday, Oct. 12
Head to Augusta Winery for a DIY Witch Hat Craft & Sip event beginning at 12 p.m. The ticket price includes a wine flight, all supplies, and attendees can enjoy live music in the beer garden after the painting event, from 1-4 p.m.
Learn more.

Posted in Events

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

This weekend is packed with things to do around the area – there’s car shows, food focused events, and festivals galore, from the Celtic Festival and Beerfest in Washington, to WingFest in Union, plus the Harvest Festival in Steelville, the Boots and Bourbon Bash in Rosebud, and many more events.

Thursday, Sept. 4
Are you looking for ways to extend the growing season in your vegetable garden? The Sullivan branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a program called Extending the Growing Season, at 6 p.m. The event is free, but RSVP is required to attend.
RSVP and get more information.

Graphic via Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library’s Facebook

Friday, Sept. 5
Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven is hosting a BBQ pop-up, with Josh Lang cooking up the ‘cue. The event is from 3-5 p.m., or until sold out.
Learn more.

Friday, Sept. 5-Saturday, Sept. 6
The 9th Annual WingFest is going down at the Union Fairgrounds, located at Union City Park. This free two day event will feature food, vendors, live music, wing eating contest, chicken nugget contest, a corn hole tournament, fireworks, face painter, mechanical bull, bounce houses, and a lot more.
Get details on Facebook.

Friday, Sept. 5
The Washington Public Library’s writers’ group, the Washington Wordsmiths, is publishing their second anthology, “‘Doorknobs & Pathways’.” To add to the festivity local authors are invited to bring their work to sell. Come talk to the authors and enjoy festive treats. Copies of “‘Doorknobs & Pathways'” will be available for purchase.
Learn more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
If you’re feeling crafty, then head to DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in downtown St. Clair for a resin wind chime class. The cost if $35 per person, with all materials included in the attendance price, and each attendee will leave with a wind chime.
More details.

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Saturday, Sept. 6
Calling all craft beer lovers, the 19th Annual Washington Jaycees Brewfest is happening at the Washington Farmers Market from 4-8 p.m. Guests of this ticketed event will gain access to 20+ breweries, home-brewers, and distilleries, as well as getting a commemorative Brewfest pint glass. There will be live music and food available for purchase from Ernesto’s Mexican Restaurant, and American Legion Auxiliary will be hosting a bake sale at the event.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
If you’re looking for a spot to chill and listen to live music with an uplifting message, then head to Pacific for Rockin’ the Railroad, a concert put on by The Bridge. The gate opens at 5 p.m. and will feature the music of The Protest, Behold the Beloved, and Cole Abell.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Sept. 6
The Chick-fil-A food truck will be in New Haven, at People’s Savings Bank. A portion of the sales from the day will benefit The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation. The food truck operates on a pre-order basis so the restaurant knows how much food to bring to each mobile location.
Learn more and pre-order here.

Saturday, Sept. 6
The annual VFW Celtic Festival is back for its one-day celebration at the Washington VFW, located at 813 Jefferson St. This ticketed event features, food, a beer tent, festivities, and music.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Andy’s Too in Union’s ice cream shop, located on U.S. 50, is hosting its grand opening. The festivities include family-fun like face painting, as well as a seafood boil, plus more.
Get the details.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Liberty Field in Pacific will be the site of Jimmy Smooths Creepin’ Show, a car show featuring rat rods and bikes, plus music, kids activities, food trucks, a swap meet, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, Sept. 7
Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer, & Spirits in Union is hosting its grand opening celebration from 1-5 p.m. There will live music by Twisted Fiction, along with free product samples, and giveaways.
More info.

Sunday, Sept. 7
Looking for a rejuvenating experience? Lost Hill Lake Wedding & Events in St. Clair has a workshop for that. Combining the power of breath work with the invigorating effects of ice baths and saunas, attendees will release stress, boost their immune system, and leave feeling refreshed and energized.
Get tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, Sept. 2 – Sunday, Sept. 7
Head to Steelville for Harvest Festival 2025, a several days long event that features music, food, games, and rodeo fun.
More information.

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Thursday, Sept. 4 – Sunday, Sept. 7
Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, tuck into tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages.
Learn more.

Thursday, Sept. 4 – Saturday, Sept. 6
The annual Grape & Fall Festival in St. James kicks off Thursday, and just a few of the festivities include Weiner dog races, a rodeo roping show, street market fair, carnival rides, livestock exhibits, food vendors, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Put on your Western wear for the Boots & Bourbon Bash at Copper June’s in Rosebud. This one-day event will feature music, food trucks, spirits from area distilleries, and boot-scootin’ fun.
Get tickets.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 14 – July 20, 2025

This week is the Crawford County Fair, the free drive-in movie series continues in Washington, plus there’s a local farmers market, barbecue events, an outdoor yoga experience, and a lot more happening.

Thursday, July 17
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington continues its free drive-in showings this week with a screening of “Mamma Mia.” Weather permitting, the show will begin after sunset in the parking lot. Parking spaces are first come, first serve, with concessions available for purchase.
Follow the theater on Facebook to stay updated.

Friday, July 18
Teens can gather at the Washington Public Library for the Teen Paint and Pizza Party. Create an original masterpiece under the guidance of a paint instructor. Materials will be supplied. Registration required. Call 636-390-1070 to register. Ages 12 & Up.
Find out more.

Friday, July 18
On the third Friday of each month, The Washington Coffee Shop hosts an Open Mic Night. Singers, musicians, poets, and spoken word artists are welcome to share their talents with the crowd. 
Learn more at The Washington Coffee Shop’s Facebook page.

Saturday, July 19
Rennick Pavilion at the Missouri Riverfront in Washington will be the site of Blessings Are Miracles’ free BBQ.
Learn more.

Photo via Blessings Are Miracles’ Facebook post.

Saturday, July 19
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens every on the first and third Saturdays in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.
Get more details on Facebook.

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Saturday, July 19
Head to the Union American Legion for the 3rd Saturday BBQ, beginning at 11 a.m. until sold out! Menu includes full slab of ribs, 1/2 slab ribs, chicken, brats, pork steaks, and more.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, July 15 – Saturday, July 19
Hood Park in Cuba is the site of the Crawford County Fair! Kicking off on Tuesday, July 15 and running through Saturday, July 19, the fair will include food vendors, agricultural and live stock shows, entertainment, and carnival rides. The fun gets started with a fair parade on July 15, at 6 p.m. 
Find the full schedule of events on Facebook.

Friday, July 18 – Sunday, July 20
Where can you find antique tractors, steam engines, a flea market, food, music, and fun activities like a cast iron skillet throwing contest and a bale throw? In Rosebud at the Steam Engine & Antique Tractor Show.
Find the full schedule.

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Saturday, July 19
Flow at the Spring at Maramec Spring Park in St. James. Stretch, breathe, and flow in a natural environment at this outdoor morning yoga class. Bring yoga mat, towel, and water to class. $15 fee to attend class.
Sign up details found here.

Saturday, July 19
Watch truck and tractor pulls at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Hillsboro.
Find more info on Facebook.

Saturday, July 19
Head to St. James Winery for a stunning summer evening in the heart of the Meramec Highlands! Settle in at the Taproom for a four-course dining experience showcasing seasonal flavors, local ingredients, and expertly crafted pairings from St. James Winery and Public House Brewing Company. Limited seating available!
Get more info and tickets.

Posted in News and Features

Get Fabulous Food and Desserts at Ruthie’s Family Restaurant in Rosebud

Building on last week’s article about Strike Axe Coffee and this video of my experience of my day in Rosebud, today I’m sharing about a restaurant we dined at. While there are more restaurants in Rosebud than I could’ve dined at during one day, my hubby and I decided to grab a bite at Ruthie’s Family Restaurant, located on Highway 50.

When it comes to the vibes and the food, the restaurant offers what I feel like is a classic homestyle dining experience, with a menu that features items like burgers, wraps, and sandwiches, and hearty, tasty daily specials.

We perused the menu and just when I was set on ordering a Rueben (one of my favorites, and the menu notated it as a Ruthie’s recommended item) we decided splitting a meal would be the way to go to make sure we saved room for dessert, because, priorities!

A daily special at Ruthie’s – Italian beef on garlic cheese bread and fries. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

When it came to food, we decided to split that day’s special: an Italian beef sandwich served on garlic cheese bread, served with a side of au jus and we ordered the fries as our side. It was a pleasantly warm day, and since we’d decided to dine outside, we each had a beer to wash down our meal (it was an IPA from Mothers, and a perfect complement to the weather).

The sandwich was excellent, stacked high with plenty of well-seasoned Italian-style beef, which gets flavor from pepperoncini peppers, Italian herbs, and a delicious au jus. Adding all that juicy meat to garlic cheese bread is a truly genius move and the added toasting helps the bread hold up to a dip in the au jus. As wonderful as the sandwich and fries were, I’m glad we shared the meal because the sweets at Ruthie’s just looked too amazing to pass up.

The banana cream pie was just one delectable dessert selection at Ruthie’s Family Restaurant. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

Although the offerings were many on that day – ranging from rich and fudgy chocolate cake and Reese’s cake to a refreshing-sounding lemon blueberry along with fruit and cream pies – we decided on the banana cream pie.

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On the first bite, I got a wave of nostalgia, since it took me back to the flavor and texture of cream pies that I’ve enjoyed in years past that were lovingly made by some of my relatives that have since passed away.

With its buttery, flaky crust, thick and creamy banana filling and lovely whipped cream topping, we really enjoyed it. Honestly, I’d drive back to Rosebud just for a slice of this pie.

If you have a sweet tooth, I’d plan on ordering a couple of desserts to go, and if you don’t split a meal with a companion, then just know you’ll leave with a to-go box, because the portions are quite generous. Even though I adored the food and beer, and although I don’t have a huge sweet tooth, I’d love to make another trip to Ruthie’s and try a few of their shareable appetizers, as well as more of their desserts.

The Socialite recommends Ruthie’s Family Restaurant!

The details:
207 US-50, Rosebud
Find Ruthie’s on Facebook