Tag: St. Clair Missouri

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Jan. 26 – Feb. 1, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week’s article is a cure for cabin fever a lot of us might have after spending some time snowed in!

There’s lots of opportunities to get crafty, like a paint & sip night at Sip on Main, create a glow in the dark lantern at Pages in Pacific, and make blankets for Project Linus at DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs. There’s also trivia nights, a chance to enjoy dueling pianos at the P-Town Piano Party, Franklin County Back to School Fair’s Mouse Races, a murder mystery dinner, Wash Mo Blues SnowBall, and much more!

With the recent snow, it’s possible that some events scheduled for earlier in the week may get canceled or rescheduled. I try to keep these posts as up to date as possible, but it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!

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

Tuesday, Jan. 27
*Rescheduled from Jan. 6* Get crafty with DIY Advice Cards. Each card will have its own unique theme, artwork, and rules set by its creator – YOU! The cards will feature messages that can help guide you through situations you may encounter during the new year.
Get more details.

Tuesday, Jan. 27
Smokin’ Oak Pizza in Washington’s weekly trivia night is all about great questions, good company, and having a genuinely good time. Every Tuesday expect hot pizzas, cold drinks on tap, plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and—best of all—prizes. Whether you’re a trivia pro or just in it for the fun, everyone’s welcome.
Find out more.

Tuesday, Jan. 27
Head to The Novel Nook in Washington for a unique book club experience where everyone brings their own book! Instead of a single assigned read, participants bring whatever book they’re currently enjoying—fiction, nonfiction, classic, or contemporary—and share highlights, insights, and thoughts with the group. This is a space for book lovers to discover new reads, engage in lively discussions, and connect with fellow readers, all while celebrating diverse literary tastes. Whether you’re deep into a thrilling mystery, an inspiring memoir, or a thought-provoking novel, bring it along and talk books with other readers on the last Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m.
Get the details.

Wednesday, Jan. 28
The Franklin County Silent Book Club will meet at UnderGROUNDS in Washington from 5:30-7 p.m. This nontraditional book club allows you to bring your own book and read in companionable silence, with socializing afterwards with fellow readers. You’ll carve out time for reading, meet new people, and hopefully leave with some new recommendations.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Jan. 28
Brushin’ Whimsy is hosting a paint and sip night at Sip on Main from 6-8 p.m. Attendees have a choice of painting two different winter scenes, cost is $35 per person. Pre-registration required.
Sign up.

Wednesday, Jan. 28
N-Sports Rec Center in Washington is hosting a wine, charcuterie, and bingo night. Cost is $25 per person.
Find out more and reserve your spot.

Thursday, Jan. 29
The Alley in Washington is having a Valentine’s Day Gnome Craft & Cocktails event. Cost is $25 per person and attendees will be create a Valentine’s themed gnome painting and receive one drink with ticket price.
Get tickets.

Friday, Jan. 30
Test your knowledge of music trivia at the Washington Elks Lodge. The Music Trivia night will begin when the doors open at 6:30 p.m., and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $25 per person, drinks are included in price. Outside food is allowed, but outside beverages are not.
Learn more.

Friday, Jan. 30
Do you live with a strange animal? Come to the Washington Public Library from 4-5 p.m. to meet exotic pets and learn how to care for them.
Learn more.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Create a glow in the dark lantern at Pages in Pacific. All materials included, as well as refreshments. $20 each spot with a $5 deposit.
Get more information.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Stop into DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair to make blankets for Project Linus. Bring your own fleece fabric or for a $20 donation use the fleece fabric available at the shop.
Find out more.

Saturday, Jan. 31
*Rescheduled from Jan. 24 due to weather* Chef Alex Blattel is curating a special 4-course dinner and wine pairing at Triple 3 Vineyard. The evening will also include a behind-the-scenes tour of the winery’s production facility. Cost is $133 per person. Seating is limited.
Get tickets.

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Saturday, Jan. 31
P-Town Piano Party is a dueling piano show complete with dinner and a cash bar. This year’s event will be hosted at the Pacific Eagles Hall. Dinner is prepared by Vilcek Catering. Enjoy great songs from all eras as our performers entertain you. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the MVR – IIII Bridge Foundation.
Get more details.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Franklin County Back to School Fair’s Mouse Races. Doors open at 6 p.m. and races begin at 7 p.m. sharp. BYOB and snacks, but soda will be provided. This night of fun and raising money will help kids in the area. Tickets are $20 if you buy ahead of the event and $25 at the door.
Purchase tickets.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Head to Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair for an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner includes four-courses.
Get more info and buy tickets.

Saturday, Jan. 31
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington hosts an Open Mic Night every Saturday from 6-10 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Jan. 31
The Washington VFW is the site of the Winter Wash Mo Blues SnowBall Member Appreciation Night. All are welcome at this event, happening from 7-10 p.m. Enjoy live music by the Faithful Strays, outside food is welcome, but drinks must be purchased at the VFW.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, Jan. 29
Head to Ruthie’s Family Restaurant in Rosebud for an evening of line dancing and dinner.
Find out more.

Friday, Jan. 30 – Sunday, Feb. 1
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Jan. 30 & Saturday, Jan. 31
The Snow Spur Saloon is a winter-themed pop-up bar that’s part of the Winter Roundup event at Brookdale Farms. The pop-up is happening every Friday and Saturday night throughout January and February.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Are you newly engaged and searching for possible wedding venues? The Hermann Wedding Trail is happening on Saturday, and engaged couples are welcome to check out beautiful wedding, reception and rehearsal dinner venues and visit with wedding vendors who will ensure you have the perfect day!
Find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Celebrate National Seed Swap Day with a plant and seed swap at the Rolla Public Library from 1-3 p.m. Attendees should bring packets of seeds to share, as well as houseplants, cuttings, or books.
Get more information.

Sunday, Feb. 1
Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Sunday trivia event on Musicals. The will be hosted trivia outside (weather permitting) starting at 2:30 p.m. You can also stay inside for cozy indoor games, wine tastings and relaxation.
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 News and Features

Want to Help Others, But Don’t Know Where to Start? Check Out By This They’ll Know on Facebook

Posted on by Amanda

If you’ve ever thought about lending a helping hand to those around you, but don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. According to Megan Burridge, founder of a new Facebook group called By This They’ll Know, a lot of people have a desire to help others, but the logistics that can be behind the act of caring for our neighbors can make it feel like it’s too hard to start.

“I truly believe people want to help others but don’t know how,” Megan explains. “I like to use the analogy of attending a wedding reception: you know you’ll end up on the dance floor, but so many people don’t want to go first,” she shares with a laugh. “But once someone does, then more people come out to the dance floor.”

That belief comes from some observations she made during a recent lived experience. In the summer of 2025, Megan’s husband faced some health challenges and during that time she said so many people reached out to her and offered to help. She felt overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness, but it also highlighted some gaps she’s noticed within her faith community.

Megan Burridge, founder of the Facebook group By This They’ll Know. Photo credit: Megan Burridge.

As a Christian, Megan believes a big part of living by that faith involves helping others. However she’s noticed that there can be a gap between churches and individual Christians stepping up to help others when compared to people not affiliated with a particular faith.

“I noticed that most people who are helping are not identifying as Christian,” Megan says.

That didn’t sit well with her and what she believes she’s meant to do as a Christian. Motivated to do something about her observation and taking inspiration from a Bible verse, she formed By This They’ll Know on Facebook. In just a few short months, the group has grown to nearly 500 members. And, during that time, people have made an impact around their communities, especially over the past holiday season.

Just a few examples include member Alyssa and her children who held a food drive every Saturday in November. Alyssa and her kids passed out free hot cocoa to all who made a food donation and collected 1,145 items for local food pantries in the process.

Food donations secured for area food pantries that were collected by member Alyssa and her children in November 2025. Photo credit: Alyssa R., member of By This They’ll Know.

Likewise, several members got together before Thanksgiving and assembled Thanksgiving meal kits, which consisted of canned and dry goods placed in a disposable turkey roasting pan.

Members work together to assemble Thanksgiving meal kits. Photo credit: Kiley M., member of By This They’ll Know.

And another member, Melissa, started a Blessing Box in her neighborhood. Similar to how a Little Free Library works, people can donate items like shelf stable food, hygiene products, scarves, gloves, and more, and the items are available for free, for anyone who needs them.

A Blessing Box filled often contains shelf stable food, hygiene products, and items for cold weather, like gloves or scarves. Photo credit: Melissa F., member of By This They’ll Know.

Although many people think of those in need in November and December, in reality the need for help knows no particular season, but thankfully, neither does kindness and giving. With a solid foundation formed over last fall, By This They’ll Know is on track to continue to grow and give people who are looking for way to help others a starting point. Going forward, Megan hopes to create events where people within By This They’ll Know can get together and get to know each other and build friendships and community with like-minded individuals.

Interested in learning more or getting involved? The group is open to a variety of faiths, as well as those who aren’t affiliated with any religion. Members can reside in Franklin, St. Charles, St. Louis, and Warren County areas, and beyond.

Note: This article is part of a series highlighting volunteer groups, individuals who give back to area causes, and people who are building community, such as the piece I wrote on The Homemade Exchange. If you know someone making a positive impact in or around the Franklin County area, email me at smalltownsocialitemo@gmail.com and I may feature them on the website.

Posted in News and Features

Where to Find Holiday Light Displays

Posted on by Amanda

There’s something about glowing light displays that make this time of year feel extra special. If you’re looking for places to view lights, by either driving through the lights or exploring them on foot, take a look at the list below

St. Clair

Head to Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair to walk through 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.

Union

ReDicsover Union Inc. has released a Holiday Lights Map on its website. The map shows you how to take a self-guided tour of the lights located throughout town.

Eureka

Santa’s Magical Kingdom is a drive-thru light display containing millions of lights that make up a variety of animated scenes. Admission is paid by the carload.
Find out more.

Central Avenue in Eureka is lit up with beautiful holiday displays.
See more.

Washington

Take a drive down East Fifth Street to take in the lights of numerous businesses as well as residences who’ve decked the halls for Christmas. There’s also some beautiful light displays on the historic homes located along Cedar Street (near Tilted Skillet), as well as in the neighborhood near Total Access Urgent Care (Madison Avenue and 47).

Krakow

Facebook users report that a private home located at 5333 Cedar Lane in Krakow features a lighted display set to music.

Rolla

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

Christmas in the Park is happening at Rolla Lions Park from Dec. 11-23 and again from Dec. 26-27. This drive-through light display features displays of several businesses and organizations in Phelps County as well as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and more.
Get more information.

St. Louis and St. Charles Counties

For those up for a road trip, Facebook users report that there are numerous neighborhoods, parks, and other organizations featuring holiday light displays, including Teddy Bear Christmas Land, near Grant’s Farm.

Walk through lights at Grant’s Farm features carousel rides, up close encounters with animals, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as millions of dazzling light displays.
Learn more and get tickets.

Garden Glow is a walk-through lighted display at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Find out more.

Wild Lights is a light display at the St. Louis Zoo.
Get more info.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Dec. 15 – Dec. 21, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

It’s another week of events perfect for making Christmas memories with your family and friends. This week, catch Christmas movies at area theaters, get crafty with some free maker events happening at local libraries, visit holiday pop-up bars, don your ugly Christmas sweaters or Christmas PJs and party at local bars. There’s also lots of chances to visit with Santa or The Grinch, take in holiday light displays, and other holiday celebrations.

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!

Monday, Dec. 15, Wednesday, Dec. 17, Saturday, Dec. 20, Sunday, Dec. 21
Great 8 Cinema in Union is showing classic holiday movies through Christmas Eve for only $2 per person. On Monday and Wednesday, catch “The Polar Express” and on Saturday and Sunday view “Elf” which will also be shown on Monday, Dec. 22 and on Christmas Eve.
Get more info.

Tuesday, Dec. 16
Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch is hosting a holiday music event called A Carpenter’s Christmas with Melissa and Tim. The musicians will perform nostalgic Christmas tunes originally performed by the group The Carpenters. This event is free, but limited to 50 people and registration is required.
Register here.

Tuesday, Dec. 16
The Washington Public Library is hosting a Winter Paint Party. From 6-8 p.m., attendees will work on a painting under the guidance of an instructor.
Find out more.

Back view of white two-story home with a covered patio
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Tuesday, Dec. 16
The 16th Annual Oma’s Soup Night is happening at St. John the Baptist School-Gildehaus. What started in the early 2000s as a simple night of homemade soup and togetherness has grown into a local symbol of generosity and community spirit. The event was founded by Oma Gildehaus who began inviting friends and family to Cowans Restaurant, which she and her husband owned at the time, each December for soup, fellowship, and a shared goal of giving back. After Oma’s passing from cancer in 2009, her loved ones continued her legacy, transforming “Soup Night” into an annual event in her honor — one that now draws families from across the area. Oma’s Soup Night is happening from 5-8 p.m. Attendees can enjoy homemade soup, and in exchange donate canned goods, hygiene products, or a monetary donation of what you’re able. All proceeds go toward community outreach, with over $5,300 and a record of items collected last year.
Get more info.

Wednesday, Dec. 17
The Washington Public Library is hosting a Christmas Crafternoon event. From 4-5 p.m., attendees ages 9 and up will work on a holiday craft.
Learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 18
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington’s “Happy Holidates” continues this week. 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. This week, catch the 80s holiday film “Gremlins.”
Get more info.

Thursday, Dec. 18
The Cigar Vault in Pacific is hosting a Ladies Night. Bring in 2-4 dozen cookies for a cookie swap, enjoy cocktails, cigars, and take home a new piece of permanent jewelry.
Find out more.

Thursday, Dec. 18
Head to Washington for a flashlight candy cane hunt! The event is open for kids ages 1-10, and is $10 per child. The event happens at City Auditorium. Registration required and the deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 16.
Find out more.

Thursday, Dec. 18
Put on your ugliest holiday sweater and stop by Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington. The establishment is offering prizes for the ugliest sweater.
Get more info.

Thursday, Dec. 18
That One Nail Studio in Union is hosting a Nails & New Links Holiday Social. Stop by from 5-8 p.m. for an evening of holiday cocktails and mocktails, as well as JBloom permanent jewelry, and more.
Find out more.

Friday, Dec. 19
Farmers and Merchant Bank in St. Clair is hosting a Selfies with Santa event from 1-3 p.m. Enjoy some cookies and Christmas cheer and get a picture with Santa.
Learn more.

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Saturday, Dec. 20 – Sunday, Dec. 21
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.

Saturday, Dec. 20
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington’s final Five Can Film Series of the season is a showing of “Arthur Christmas” this Saturday. Catch the film for a $6 ticket price, or by donating 5 non-perishable cans of food per movie goer. 
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 20
Santa Claus is coming to Sullivan Bank’s St. Clair location from 9 a.m.-noon! This free event features milk and cookies, as well as a photo with Santa. You’ll leave with a free photo magnet to take home.
Get more details.

Saturday, Dec. 20
Ladies, Littles, and Lattes is having its 3rd Annual Pictures With Santa event. Photos with Santa are only $5 per family (each family takes their own pictures), there’s also face painting, a bounce house, food trucks, and more.
Get information.

Saturday, Dec. 20
Visit with Santa or The Grinch this weekend. The Grinch will be at R&R Ace in St. Clair or visit with Santa at Sullivan Ace. The events at both locations are from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, Dec. 20
There’s another chance to see both Santa and The Grinch at El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant in Union.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 20
Scarlett’s Bar & Grill is hosting its annual Christmas PJ Party from 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m.
Get the details.

Sunday, Dec. 21
Blondies Breezeway in St. Clair is hosting a Pancakes with Santa breakfast event. The breakfast event is from 9 a.m.-noon and children 10 and under eat free.
Learn more.

Sunday, Dec. 21
Dahlia Cafe in Union is hosting a Santa Brunch. Take a photo with Santa, drop off your letters to the North Pole, and enjoy a brunch menu.
Get more info.

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.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
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Thursday, Dec. 18 & Saturday, Dec. 20
The Barn at Brookdale Farms is transformed into The Jingle Joint, a Christmas pop-up bar on select evenings through the holiday season. Guests will be wowed with the festive floor-to-ceiling decorations like twinkle lights, tinsel, garland, and more. Prepare to hum along to holiday tunes, sip cocktails and warm winter drinks.
Find admission prices and more on Facebook.

Friday, Dec. 19 & Saturday, Dec. 20
Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season.
Learn pricing and more info.

Friday, Dec. 19 & Saturday, Dec. 20
Hermann’s holiday pop-up bar called Holly Hof is open Friday and Saturday evenings through the end of 2025. Find cheery cocktails, mocktails, bites, and cozy Christmas décor.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 20
Head to Camp Mihaska in Bourbon for a holiday event featuring live music, reindeer games, hot chocolate, cookie decorating and Christmas crafts, as well as a nativity experience and drive through light display.
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!

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