Tag: Scenic Regional Library

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 27 – May 3, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s crafting opportunities, spring markets, the Route 66 Centennial celebrations kick off this week, plus there’s local Kentucky Derby parties, and 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.

Wednesday, April 29
Get a jump start on your gift for mom at the Mother’s Day Crafting event at The Washington Public Library at 4 p.m.
Get more details.

Friday, May 1
The Washington Public Library is having a Gilmore Girls Coffee, Art, and Watch Party from 1-4 p.m. The library will provide supplies to make a “coffee art” print while watching a few episodes of the iconic TV series. Feel free to bring snacks! 
Find out more.

Friday, May 1
Grab your bestie and join for a fun, feel-good night at the HoM Healing Center in Pacific from 6–8 p.m. at the Sips, Shopping, and Self-Care event. Spend the evening enjoying sips, shopping with amazing local vendors, having self-care + wellness experiences, and all the good vibes.
Get more info.

Friday, May 1
Union’s first Concert in the Park of the season is happening from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the large pavilion located at 575 Christina Ave. in Union. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the evening of free music.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington is celebrating “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports!” Spend the evening in your finest garb – hats, fascinators, seer suckers, pastels. The race will be on at 5:57pm, but the entire evening will be filled with proper ladies and gentleman sipping on mint juleps…and Eight Nine Eight’s other incredible cocktails.
Check out the details.

Saturday, May 2
Franklin County Foster Closet’s Run for Love 5k is a fun way to kick off Foster Care Awareness Month! Join as a runner, walker, couch supporter or sponsor.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2
First Baptist Church in St. Clair is having a Family Feud night. The event is free, and childcare will be provided. Dinner, including gluten-free options, will also be provided.
Get more info.

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Saturday, May 2
Attend the Kentucky Derby Party at Mangia Bella’s at Elijah McLeans in Washington. The event is from 4-10 and will feature games live music, and more.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 2
The Labaddie Spring Outdoor Market is happening from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Shop from local makers and food vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2
Head to the Washington Riverfront for a morning of riverfront yoga by Present Moment Yoga. The sunrise practice begins at 7 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Celebrate Kentucky Derby Day at McKelvey Vineyards, there will be live music all day with three bands, drink specials, and a party full of people in their finest Derby wear. $5 cover at the door.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2
Union Community Center’s First Annual Spring Market is happening from 8-3 p.m. This fun, family-friendly event will feature a variety of local crafters and vendors offering handmade goods, unique finds, and small-business favorites. Enjoy concessions and drinks while you shop and support our community. This Spring Market is a fundraiser event, with proceeds benefiting programs and activities at the Union Community Center.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2
Celebrate the grand opening of an equine therapy organization in St. Clair. Hoof to Heart Healing offers a one of a kind, hands-on experience with horses that supports emotional growth, nervous system balance, and meaningful connection…all in a calm, guided environment that complements licensed mental health care.
Get all the details.

Sunday, May 3
Get crafty at R&R Ace Hardware in Sullivan the Plant, Paint & Sip event from 2–4 p.m. For $30 per person, you’ll get everything you need to create your own custom potted plant. Pick out your pot, paint it your way, and plant your greenery—all materials included. While you work, enjoy your choice of two flavors of boozy slushies. Seats are limited and are paid via Venmo.
Reserve your spot.

Road Trippin’

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

Wednesday, April 29
The Route 66 Centennial Car Show and Cruise-In is happening in Rolla from 3-7 p.m. See classic rides and enjoy food, drinks, and desserts available for purchase from local vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3
Explore a unique selection of handmade goods and crafts from local vendors while enjoying award-winning wines and live music at this free event on Blumenhof Winery’s patio.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 2
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is having a Bugs, Birds, and Blooms Pollinator festival from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn about Missouri’s natural resources, buy native plants, purchase from food and craft vendors, and enjoy live entertainment.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Step back in time and experience pioneer life at the Pioneer Day celebration in Warrenton. From 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Warrenton branch of Scenic Regional Library will have fun activities, demonstrations, crafters, food, live music and more!
More info.

Saturday, May 2
Enjoy an afternoon of sipping, savoring, and celebrating local pours and flavors at Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta. Celebrate a special “Farm to Table” edition of the vineyard’s Wine with Friends Market! This event will be extra special with the appearance of some furry friends from Meyer Mini Farms from 1-4 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
The Route 66 Centennial celebration in Rolla is happening from 2-7 p.m. and will feature live music, a cruise-in, food trucks, and family activities.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3
Back for its second weekend, 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.

Sunday, May 3
Celebrating the rich legacy of the Mother Road, America’s Main Street, the Route 66 Centennial Traveling Exhibit will be on view in Cuba beginning May 3 and running until September 14. The exhibit marks two major milestones: the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the 250th anniversary of the United States. The exhibit is free and will be open to the public.
Find all the celebratory details.

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 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.

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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 Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 13 – April 19, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Get ready Franklin County, we’re in for a week of exciting spring events and entertaining fundraisers! This week, you can spend an afternoon crafting at a local library, experience a “smart zoo,” take in live music, take part in DIY group classes like crafting nights or cookie decorating classes, and a whole lot more.

Looking ahead to the weekend, there’s community fundraisers, the 2026 Missouri Book Festival, a craft fair, a city wide yard sale, a roaring 20s themed pub crawl, plus there’s plenty of events happening within a short drive of Franklin County like wine tastings, a grandparents brunch, and a star-gazing event.

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 14
The monthly Crafting and Creativity event at the Washington Public Library is all about decorating the community read book “Speak to Me of Home.” Don’t have a copy of that book? Feel free to bring your favorite book to decorate at this free event.
Learn more.

Tuesday, April 14
Silver Edge Self-Defense at American Street Edge – St. Clair. This 55+ self-defense and mobility class is on a limited trial of two classes to gauge interest. Attend on Tuesday for the second of the two trial classes to learn practical self-defense, mobility, balance, fall prevention, and building real confidence in a safe, controlled environment. These classes are designed for the 55+ age group and are effective without being overly intense. The 30 minute class starts at 2:30 p.m. and attendees can come for free.
Get more info on Facebook.

Wednesday, April 15
Have a zoo experience unlike any other at Lowe’s Parking Lot in Washington when Wild Adventures: A Smart Zoo Experience comes to Washington. The event is from 2-7 p.m. and features hyper-realistic and fully animatronic animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, pandas, monkeys, a smoke breathing 40-foot King Cobra, brand new dinosaurs, and more.
Find out more.

Thursday, April 16
Music on Main continues at the intersection of Oak & Main in downtown Union. Enjoy live music performed by Dave Alans, with food and refreshments available for purchase by Elmer’s Tavern and Boxcar Express Ice Cream.
Get more info.

Thursday, April 16
It’s the one month anniversary of American Street Edge’s grand opening. To celebrate, this Thursday only, both kids and adult classes are completely FREE! School opens at 3:30 p.m., kids class at 4:30 p.m. (ages 6 to 12) and the adult class is at 6 p.m. (ages 13 and above). As part of the celebration, one lucky new student (kid or adult) who attends that day will be randomly selected to receive a special gift from American Street Edge!
Learn more.

Thursday, April 16
Experience the flavors of Puerto Rico at the Washington Public Library’s Taste of Puerto Rico event with food made by Jess from Little Lost Kitchen! Discover traditional dishes, ingredients, and cooking techniques while enjoying a delicious, hands-on culinary experience.
Must register to attend.

Thursday, April 16
Grab your besties and head to The Painted Home in downtown Washington for Girlfriend Craft Night. This event will feature a Clipboard Class where attendees will design their own custom clipboard using IOD transfers or paint inlays. In addition to the crafts, expect music, chatting, and lots of fun and creativity. Attendees can BYOB and snacks.
Purchase tickets.

Friday, April 17
Help raise funds for Labaddie Elementary School at the Annual Dinner Auction Fundraiser, held at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center in Washington.
Get more info.

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Friday, April 17
DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair is hosting a beginner cookie decorating class for all ages. The paid non-refundable class fee of $40 will hold your spot and includes a 6 cookie decorating kit, with everything you need to decorate your cookies and a box to take them home in.
Sign up.

Saturday, April 18
The 2026 Missouri Book Festival is happening from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Washington Public Library. Discover new authors and mingle with other book lovers at this annual event.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss the First Annual Jeffrey White Memorial Foundation Golf Tournament at Meramec Lakes Golf Course in St. Clair. Cost is $100 per person/$350 team of 4. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Shotgun Scramble 11 a.m. Dinner, beer, water and soda provided.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
Step back into the Roaring Twenties for a 1920s inspired pub crawl in Union filled with speakeasy vibes, classic cocktails, and a little Prohibition era mischief. Dress to the nines or not, sip your way through participating stops, and enjoy a night of jazz age energy and surprises because the best speakeasies never give away all their secrets.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Create your own Tea Garden using a variety of herbs at this workshop held at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery. You will learn how to care for and harvest fresh ingredients from this garden to make your own medicinal tea.
Save your spot.

Saturday, April 18
The St. Clair Saddle Club is having a Family Fun Day featuring free hot dogs, games, and activities for all ages.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
The Union Moose Lodge is hosting a Craft Fair that is open to the public. Shop from area vendors from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Attend the city wide yard sale in New Haven, which is happening from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. There’s also a pop-up BBQ at Save-a-Lot, so get your fix after you’ve hit some of the yard sales.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair branch is hosting a tea and paper doll event from 1-2 p.m. Enjoy a spot of tea and cut out paper dolls at this free event for kids.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, April 14
Countryside Farm & Market in Cuba is having a Plant & Sip event where attendees will make a hanging basket. The event begins at 6 p.m. and attendees will have the opportunity to make their own hanging basket arrangement.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18 & Sunday, April 19
It’s the Spring Wine Tasting Event, happening at participating wineries in the St. James area. Enjoy wine tastings at establishments including St. James Winery, Prairie Barn Winery, Spencer Manor Winery, Peaceful Bend, and Eagles Landing.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
The Legends subdivision in Eureka is having a community spring garage sale event. The sale is from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
The first Starry Sky Night of the season is happening at Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg. Join astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot to view the cosmos with a high-powered telescope.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
Country Cousins Antique Mall in Leasburg is having an outdoor flea market beginning at 8 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Attend the Ladies Night Out Shop Hop in historic Rosebud, happening from 4-9 p.m. Grab your girlfriends and make plans for a fun night out of shopping, sips, and good times.
Get more details.

Sunday, April 19
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for Grandparents Garden Brunch. Attendees of this ticketed event will enjoy a brunch buffet, crafts, and games, with the option to take carriage rides for an additional fee.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 19
Spend a spring afternoon along Historic Route 66 with a guided wine and food experience in the heart of the Ozark Highlands with a 5-course wine pairing dinner.
Get tickets.

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

Posted in News and Features

Meet New People and Swap Homemade Goods at The Homemade Exchange in Owensville

Posted on by Amanda

Although Facebook and other online communities have several groups that are set up for bartering or can be considered “buy nothing” groups, one community emerged earlier this year that’s taking the idea of swapping goods with people in your community one step further.

On the last Saturday of each month, a group of people get together at the Scenic Regional Library’s Owensville Branch to trade homemade and homegrown goods with one another.

Homegrown veggies like garden fresh tomatoes, sponges made from dried luffa plants, as well as homemade baked and canned goods are a few items from a past event. Photo credit: Taylor Miller via Facebook.

In June, Owensville resident Taylor Miller decided to create The Homemade Exchange based on an idea she’d seen online. These monthly meetups offer people based in the Owensville area an opportunity to connect with others, chat, and exchange items on a free, one-for-one basis.

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Items can range from homegrown flowers, herbs, and vegetables, to baked goods, and handmade items. Other edible items at past events have included home canned goods like salsas, jams and jellies, spices and seasoning blends, as well as eggs, homemade teas and homemade apple cider vinegar. Non-food items are also welcome, like handmade art, homemade soaps, or similar items.

“We’ve had an average of about 10 people show up each month,” Taylor says.

The growth has been mostly organic, although Taylor has shared a few Facebook ads to help spread the word about the events. The meeting space inside the library has capacity for just over 30 people, so there’s room for the events to grow.

Although it’s still early days, she can see how The Homemade Exchange might grow beyond its current iteration, and is open to the possibility of holding the exchange meetups in additional local communities. And since the exchanges center around anything homegrown or homemade, Taylor plans to keep the exchanges going throughout the winter.

“I think it gives people something to do and a little socialization to look forward to throughout the winter, too,” she explains.

Homegrown herb and flower bundles as well as garlic and baked goods are a few edible items that have been brought to past exchanges. Artists have also brought items like prints of paintings they’ve created. Photo credit: Taylor Miller via Facebook.

While Taylor’s been happy with the growth of the event and the variety of items brought to the monthly meetings, some things she’d love to see at future gatherings include homemade woodworking pieces, homemade cheese, and non-food items like fiber arts, such as crochet and knit pieces.

There’s a Facebook group for the meetups, but Taylor says that people don’t have to connect in that way in order to attend the monthly events.

“People can just show up,” she shares.

The next Homemade Exchange event is happening Saturday, Nov. 29 at the Scenic Regional Library Owensville Branch from 11:15 a.m. – noon. Follow The Homemade Exchange on Facebook to stay up to date with the monthly meetups.