Posted in News and Features

Say Sláinte to These 9 Franklin County St. Patrick’s Day Drink Menus

If you could use a little Luck o’ the Irish, then you’ll want to hit up some of the local coffee shops, breweries, restaurants, and other establishments offering special St. Patrick’s Day drink menus. Whether you’re a wee bit excited for the upcoming holiday or you’re ready to slip into your leprechaun outfit, these nine drink menus are sure to have you dancing a jig!

The Washington Coffee Shop, Washington
The menu features items that will appeal to coffee and tea drinkers alike with the Pot of Gold latte, Leapin’ Leprechaun Cold Brew, Irish Apple Chai, Lucky Charms Latte, and Shamrock Frappe.

Good News Blooms, Sips, N’ Sweets, St. Clair
This crafted soda and sweet shop once again flexes its holiday menu muscle with offerings that sound tasty, refreshing, and fun. The Irish themed menu options include the Pot of Gold crafted soda, the Irish sunset tea, and Over the Rainbow Refresher lemonade.

Lang-A-Tang Cafe, New Haven
The cafe has released special drinks for the season like the Lucky Charm, complete with green cold foam, the Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake, Raspberry Mocha, and the White Chocolate Lavender.

Clark Street Cafe & Bakery, Sullivan
The cafe’s holiday drink menu features teas, flavored sodas, and coffees. The options include the Leprechaun Chai, the Nutty Irishmen, Shamrock Italian Soda, Lucky Clover Latte, Rainbow Matcha, Pot of Gold Honey Latte, Irish Cream Dream, and St. Patty Thin Mint.

Andy’s Produce Too Ice Cream Shop, Union
Andy’s in Union’s ice cream shop has paired the iconic Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies with the shop’s Central Dairy ice cream. If you love chocolate and mint, try the thin mint milk shake, available throughout the month of March.

Old Bridgeview Brewing, Washington
You won’t find any green beers here, but as luck would have it, Old Bridgeview Brewing did whip up an Irish red ale called They Killed Kenny and released it just in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

Sarah’s on Central, Eureka
The eatery has two drinks available for St. Patrick’s Day. The Shamrock Bushwacker is a frozen cocktail, while the Shamrock Shakeup is a non-alcoholic treat for all ages.

Serendipity Slush Co., Washington
If you’re looking for a few green drinks, then Serendipity Slush Co. has got you covered. The options include classic cocktails like a Grasshopper or a lime Margarita, along with the Midori Sour slush.

Little Ireland Coffee, Pacific
With a name like Little Ireland, of course you can find tasty St. Paddy’s Day themed coffees and teas on its March menu, along with some of the cutest, coziest Celtic decor around.

Posted in News and Features

10 Places to Find Fish on Fridays in Franklin County During Lent

Whether you observe Lent or you’re just looking for local fish fry Fridays, seafood options, or fish dishes that aren’t fried, there are numerous churches, Knights of Columbus halls, and area restaurants offering diverse Lenten menus.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but rather features selections that span various communities in and near Franklin County to give readers options no matter if you live in Sullivan, Eureka, Washington, or other communities in the area.

Knights of Columbus Hall, Gerald
Bring your appetite to the K of C Hall in Gerald for its Friday all-you-can-eat fish fry. Available from 4-7 p.m., the offerings include fried cod or shrimp, with a number of meatless sides to choose from, along with an assortment of desserts and drinks. Learn more on Facebook.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Washington
Every Friday during Lent, the church is offering a fish fry menu from 4-7 pm. Available as dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru options, the menu will feature catfish and cod, along with sides and desserts for $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 6-12. Find out more on Facebook.

St. Bridget of Kildare Catholic Parish, Pacific
With options that include cod, catfish, shrimp, and sides, the menu is available Fridays from 4-7 p.m. Get more info, including pricing on Facebook.

Que Pasa Mexican Restaurant, Union
If you prefer your fish or seafood with a bit of heat, Que Pasa in Union has Lenten offerings that include fish tacos, shrimp cocktail, seafood fajitas, and more. View all the selections on Facebook.

Muddy Banks Brewing Co., Sullivan
The brewery is offering a fried fish meal every Friday during Lent that consists of fried cod, hushpuppies, and fries. See Facebook for more.

Sarah’s on Central in Eureka
Located a short drive from Franklin County, the Lent offerings at Sarah’s on Central, in Old Town Eureka, go beyond the typical fried fish selections. The menu features items like calamari, shrimp po’boy, shrimp and grits, blackened shrimp pasta, and much more. Get all the details on Facebook.

Robin’s Rustic Nest, St. Clair
The St. Clair eatery’s menu features fried fish selections, along with a salad bar or a number of sides from fries to mashed potatoes or vegetables. Visit the restaurant on Facebook to find more info about the menu and daily specials.

White Rose Cafe, Union
Each Friday during Lent White Rose will offer a Fisherman’s Platter, available in a full or half-size portion. The menu special features coconut shrimp, crab cakes, cod, hushpuppies, a choice of two sides, and assorted house-made dipping sauces. Learn more on Facebook.

Knights of Columbus Hall, Sullivan
Find fried fish, fried shrimp, and baked fish along with a number of sides like green beans, fries, and hushpuppies at the K of C Hall in Sullivan on Fridays. Served from 4-7 p.m., the cost is $15 per adult, or $6 for kids 7-12 and kids ages 6 and under eat free when dining in. Get more information on Facebook.

Old Bridgeview Brewing, Washington
With a Lenten menu available Thursday-Sunday, the brewery offers items like shrimp po’boys, fried fish or fried shrimp baskets, fish sandwiches, and more. Get the menu details on the brewery website.




Posted in News and Features

Five Valentine’s Drink Menus to Try in Franklin County

Next to fall and Christmas flavored drinks, Valentine’s Day drink menus offer some of my favorite ingredients. Many drinks feature flavor profiles that include berries, chocolate, and rose, and so many of the drinks also look gorgeous, by incorporating elements of red and blush hues, as well as botanical or fruit garnishes.

If you’re like me and you want to try Valentine’s drinks, luckily there are several establishments in Franklin County that have a selection of drinks – from cocktails to coffees, crafted sodas, teas, and more.

Scarlett’s Bar & Grill in St. Clair
The establishment has a few themed drinks available, like the Cupid’s Arrow, Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini, and shots like the Chocolate Rose.

SmoothE’s and More in Sullivan
Locally-owned smoothie shop SmoothE’s and More in Sullivan has two Valentine-themed smoothies available. Try the chocolate covered strawberry or the chocolate raspberry cheesecake options while they’re on the menu.

Good News Blooms, Sips, & Sweets in St. Clair
Wet your whistle with a variety of Valentine’s themed crafted sodas like the Be Mine Cherry Vanilla, or Cupid’s Strawberry Cream. There are also special tea drinks including the Cherry Vanilla Love Tea and Sweet Tea Valentine, or lemonades like the Cupid’s Blush.

Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan
The coffee shop, cafe, and bakery has a lovely sounding Valentine’s drink menu with drinks like the Cupid’s Chai, Strawberry Shortcake Mocha, and Love Potion, to name a few.

underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington
Can’t decide on one holiday flavor? Try a Valentine’s coffee flight at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington.

If you try one of the drinks at the above establishments and like it, I’d love it if you would tag me on Facebook.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 9 – 15, 2026

Valentine’s Day is this weekend, and if you want to keep soaking up the love around this holiday, there’s plenty of opportunities this week. From a daddy daughter spa night, to multiple galentine’s events, craft events, and much more. Find even more Valentine’s Day events perfect for couples, friends, or families in this special Valentine’s Day post.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, 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.

Monday, Feb. 9
Washington Green Spa Wellness is hosting a Daddy Daughter Spa Night. The 45-minute experience includes foot soak, scrub + foot massage, co-fin hand treatment + hand and arm massage, hot cocoa + snack cup, plus a single stem rose to take home.
Reserve your spot.

Wednesday, Feb. 11
Oak and Front Kitchen + Bar in Washington is having a Galentine’s Night from 4:30-9 p.m. Sip some wine or your favorite cocktail and enjoy a dessert board with your gals.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 11-Saturday, Feb. 14
Are you ready to get married, but don’t want to plan a wedding? Wish there was a Vegas-style ceremony option right here in Franklin County? For a limited time, there is. The Yes, a Valentine’s Day Wedding event is happening for a few days at the Washington Expo Center. The details have been handled, all you have to do is walk down the aisle and say “I do.”
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Union Branch of the Scenic Regional Library will share Love Letters of the Presidents. This hour long program will feature readings from love letters written by American Presidents.
Register.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Looking for a girls night out? Sip on fun Valentine’s themed drinks at the Galentine’s Day Pop-Up Bar at Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington. There are two seating times available for this special event: from 5-7 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12 & Sunday, Feb. 15
Want to up your cocktail-making game? Then head to Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge in Washington for the Mixology 101 classes. Attendees will learn to make the number one selling cocktail, the Eight Nine Eight Old Fashioned, as well as an Espresso Martini, and a Strawberry Mojito.
Sign up.

Thursday, Feb.12
HOM Healing Center in Pacific is having a Galentine’s event that will feature mini facials, massages, food, and drinks.
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Washington Public Library’s “crafternoon” event is focused on creating a Valentine’s themed craft. All supplies will be provided.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Stop by the newest BB Coffee Lab location on its opening day, from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Present Moment Yoga in Washington is hosting an interactive workshop, led by Dr. Ike who will introduce attendees to the practice of healing qi gong, an ancient Chinese health practice! Qi gong involves slow movements and breath work. Attendees will be invited to participate in the movements, so please wear comfortable clothing.
Register.

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Friday, Feb. 13
Attend a succulent potting bar class with a twist at the plant and sip galentine’s event at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Tickets are $35 and include a free glass of wine, with additional glasses of wine available for $5.
Reserve your spot.

Friday, Feb. 13
Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington is hosting a galentine’s night. Expect cocktails, bites, and lots of cozy, galentine’s vibes.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Enjoy a galentine’s day event with a fun, floral twist at the Main Street Studio in downtown Washington. This Build-An-Arrangement Night is hosted by Joyful Blooms and is a hands-on floral design experience that’s the perfect way to celebrate friendship, creativity, and a beautiful night out together.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
The Union Community Center is hosting a Gather and Grow Open House, free to the public. The event is from 8-10 a.m. and attendees can find information on aging ahead senior center meals and activities, event and party rental, community programs, and volunteer opportunities at the center.
RSVP to attend.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
If you’re looking for a spooky Valentine’s event, head to Terror on Route 66 in Sullivan for Cupid’s Nightmare: A Valentine’s Haunted House.
Get times and ticket info.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
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Saturday, Feb. 14
The Washington Coffee Shop will have live music for Valentine’s Day. Enjoy the sounds of singer Elayna Cusano from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 14
The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan is hosting a Valentine’s event called Denim, Diamonds, and Dancing. The event will feature live music by Justin Bizzle and lots of dancing.
More details.

Sunday, Feb. 15
Keep the galentine fun going at the Galeninte’s Bento Box Decorating event at Thrive Studio & Events in Sullivan. Attendees will frost and decorate their own Valentine’s themed bento cake. Cost is $30, with all supplies provided.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Multiple days and times
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, Feb. 13
Edelweiss Winery & Events in Hermann is hosting a Galentine’s celebration you won’t forget. The “Nowhere to Wear This” themed event means attendees can rock those sparkly outfits that have been hanging out at the back of the closet for way too long.
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having a Valentine’s dinner event fit for a fairy tale. The Carriages & Candlelight event will feature a romantic, candlelit dinner experience with intimate seating, live instrumental music, a catered dinner, professional photo moments, and an open bar, and carriage rides throughout the evening.
Find tickets.

Friday, Feb. 13
St. James Winery is hosting a special Valentine’s Dinner and facility tour. Attendees will enjoy a four-course culinary experience paired with specially selected wine or beer, crafted to elevate every bite. Your evening includes an intimate guided tour where you’ll learn about the winemaking process, enjoy the ambiance, and savor each course as the night unfolds. Let the atmosphere, the pairings, and the company sweep you away.
See the menu and buy 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!