Tag: St. James Missouri

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 28 – August 3, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

Although back-to-school time is on the horizon, summer fun activities continue around the area this week. There’s a free concert, it’s the final free drive-in movie of the season, there’s also a free family movie in the gardens of a local winery, plus farmers markets, a back to school safety class, and more.

Tuesday, July 29
Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. author Ed Wheatley will be at the Washington Public Library to talk about his book “From St. Louis To Cooperstown: Legends Born and Made in the Gateway City.” The talk and book signing is sponsored by Friends of the Library and Neighborhood Reads.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 31
Catch a free drive-in showing of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” in the Cinema 1 Plus theater’s parking lot in Washington. The movie will start ~30 mins. after sunset. Parking spots with orange cones will be reserved for drive-in moviegoers. When you arrive, move a cone and claim a space.
Learn more.

Photo courtesy of Timothy J. Fancher

Friday, August 1
Parents can attend a free Back To School Safety Community Event at St. Clair Library from 6-7 p.m. Presented by Compassion Healing and Excellence, led by Timothy J. Fancher, MAPT, BA, AS, founder and 4th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate. This verbal seminar is designed to equip parents, older siblings, and concerned adults with tools to teach kids practical alternatives to “Stranger Danger,” de-escalation skills to handle bullies, safety awareness for public and school settings, and ways to make safety engaging for children. Due to direct discussions on street safety, it’s recommended adults attend without younger children to ensure open, focused conversations. Reserve your spot by emailing Tim directly at timothyfancher@gmail.com

Friday, August 1
The City of Union’s next Concert in the Park will feature the music of Kaleidoscope. The fun is going down at the large pavilion at City Park beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Freelance Services business ad
Ad purchased by Freelance Services – residential architecture and design.
“My goal is to make your home your castle.”

Saturday, August 2 & Sunday, August 3
The Villa Ridge Farmers Market takes place on the first Saturday and Sunday of the month at Stacked Coffehouse. Find locally made goods, local produce, meat, food, and of course, coffee from Stacked.
Follow the market’s Facebook page to learn more.

Saturday, August 2
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday from 8 a.m. – noon, in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.

Saturday, August 2
Hear live music performed by the duo Scott and Karl at Triple 3 Vineyards in Washington from 2-5 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, August 3
Get ready for the Washington Town and Country Fair with the WashMO Fair Parade. The parade begins at 4 p.m. at Main and Cedar Streets, traveling East to Jefferson Street. Participants will move South on Jefferson, then West on 5th Street to the Elks Lodge at 1459 W 5th Street. 
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

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Thursday, July 31
Follow the yellow brick road to Movie Night in The Gardens! Enjoy a timeless classic under the stars at a screening of “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: https://www.facebook.com/events/1073981004063629

Friday, August 1 & Saturday, August 2
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting its Balloon Glowdeo event. It’s part hot air balloon festival, part rodeo, and 100% fun! The event will feature food and drink vendors, live music, a petting zoo, and more.
Purchase tickets online.

Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3
The Owensville Regional Arts Council presents a stage performance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.” The play will have three performances, and tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students.
Learn more.

Saturday, August 2
Listen to live music and keep cool while doing so at Hot August Night, Cool Cave Music, a summer concert inside Onondaga Cave in Leasburg. Tickets are $30 per person and space is limited.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

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

Posted on by Amanda

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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Ad purchased by Freelance Services – residential architecture and design services. “My goal is to make your home your castle.”

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.

Ad purchased by Soul Refresh. Healing mind, body, and soul in WashMO.

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 Events

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

Posted on 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.


Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County June 16 – June 22

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s lots of kid and family-friendly events, from a bubble experience to a free drive-in showing of Jumanji, as well as two community movie nights, the Franklin County Fair, and the Route 66 BBQ Battle & Bluegrass Festival in Pacific, a three-day affair which will have a family movie night, kid zone, music, and of course, lip-smackin’ barbecue! Check out the entire list of events below.

Tuesday, June 17
The Bubble Bus is rolling into the Union Branch of Scenic Regional Library! Bring the family to the library parking lot for an afternoon of fun with bubbles from the Bubble Bus.
Pre-registration is required for this event.

Tuesday, June 17
Learn how to preserve food in a healthy way at the dehydrating fruit leather event at the Washington Public Library at 6 p.m. 
Learn more at the Facebook event.

Wednesday, June 18
Take a mid-week break for a fun fundraiser for Wally Mills, at The Alley, in Washington. This is a family event so bring the kids. Play music bingo, check out the silent auction items and purchase 50/50 raffle tickets to help Wally and his family with medical expenses.
Learn more.

Wednesday, June 18
Acoustic Jammers will gather again at 6 p.m. at Hansen Park in Union, weather permitting. (Be sure to bring your lawn chairs.) In the event Mother Nature decides to send rain, they will move to The American Legion. Everyone is welcome to come and participate or just come and enjoy the music.

Thursday, June 19 – Sunday, June 22
The Franklin County Fair is held Thursday – Sunday in Union. The event features concessions, entertainment, carnival rides, a petting zoo, and a lot more. 
Get all the details.

Thursday, June 19
Catch a free drive-in showing of Jumanji in the parking lot of Cinema 1 in Washington. Parking spaces are first come, first serve and the movie will start ~30 mins. after sunset.
Learn more.

Friday, June 20 – Sunday, June 22
Liberty Field in Pacific is the site of the Route 66 BBQ Battle & Bluegrass Festival, a three-day extravaganza of mouthwatering BBQ and toe-tapping tunes that is fun for the whole family! Kick off the event by watching the Route 66 classic, Disney’s “Cars” on the lawn, catch performances by bluegrass bands all three days, and enjoy delectable barbecue all weekend long. 
Learn more.

Photo via Route 66 BBQ Battle & Bluegrass Festival’s Facebook event.

Friday, June 20
Rescheduled from Friday, June 13 due to the weather! Head to Gerald for a special Movie Night at Legion Park hosted by the Chief Mason Griffith Foundation! Enjoy family fun with a 50/50 drawing, raffle tickets, and a free will offering benefiting Firefighter Via Family. Food available for purchase: nachos, hot dogs, popcorn! Movie title coming soon — stay tuned! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and loved ones for an unforgettable night under the stars. Let’s show our support and come together as a community.
Learn more.

Friday, June 20
It’s time to dust off those low-rise jeans, grab your butterfly clips, and get ready to party like it’s 1999! The Alley will have 90s-2000s Trivia from 7-10 p.m. and Karaoke from 10 p.m.-12 a.m. The Tipsy Keg will have True North Entertainment playing all your favorite throwbacks starting at 9 p.m. Each bar will have a 90s-2000s themed cocktail or shot.
Find out more and purchase tickets.

Friday, June 20
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.

Friday, June 20
The City of Union’s Lawn Chair Movie Night will feature food from Savy’s Food Truck and will show Sonic the Hedgehog. 
Find out more on the Union Parks Department’s Facebook.

Saturday, June 21
Join  a morning yoga session at the Gerald City Park! Be sure to bring your own yoga mat and dress comfortably. This class is $10/person.
Learn more and sign up and pay.

Saturday, June 21
The Gerald Lions are hosting a celebration that includes a fireworks show at Gerald City Park on June 21.
Learn more.

Sunday, June 22
Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of free ice cream, games, and contests at the Four Rivers Genealogical Society’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase burgers and brats and visit the Museum and Genealogical Society.
Find out more.

Sunday, June 22
The public is invited to an open house from noon to 4 p.m. at Bethel Hills community in Dutzow. There will be an art show, live music, and BBQ available for purchase.
Find out more about Bethel Hills and this event.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, June 20
Shake up your Friday night with a fun, hands-on cocktail workshop at St. James Winery! You’ll mix and enjoy three seasonal cocktails, snack on a charcuterie grazing board, and leave with recipe cards so you can recreate the drinks at home. Your ticket includes, 3 handcrafted cocktails, a charcuterie grazing board, recipe cards to take home, plus 10% off wine purchases during the event.
Get tickets.

Saturday, June 21
Kick off summer with bold flavor and big vibes at the Backyard BBQ, Bourbon & Brews event! Head to St. James for a full day of live music, BBQ food specials, whiskey flights, and a stellar lineup of craft spirit vendors. 
Find out more.

Saturday, June 21
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of off-trail tours of Cathedral Cave. These tours are perfect for people who want to get a more intense cave experience, one that goes beyond the lighted tour with rails and trails. Each tour is led by an experienced guide and requires participants to climb, crawl and get a little muddy. Visitors will spend four to five hours in the cave and will learn about the cave’s geology, biology and history. Each tour is limited to 15 people ages 10 and up, and registration is required. There is a fee of $70 per adult and $50 per child. Safety is our top priority. All interested guests will be asked some questions to determine whether they are able to complete the tour, and they will be shown a video of what to expect inside the cave. The guide will send a list of items to bring, and caving helmets will be provided.
To register, call the park at 573-522-3760.

Saturday, June 21
Celebrate the Summer Solstice with gentle flow yoga in a beautiful, natural setting in St. James. Maramac Spring Park’s overlook will be the site of this outdoor yoga class, which starts at 8 a.m. Participants should bring their own yoga mat, towel, and water.
$15 to participate, payable through cash or Venmo.
Learn more.