Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri July 13 – July 26, 2026

Over the next two weeks, there’s recurring events like Market Off Main, Sunset on the Riverfront, and more, plus lots of free programs at area libraries, including an America 250 trivia night, craft events, plus a historical storytelling event about the Washingtons. There’s also a Christmas in July pop-up event in downtown Union, several fundraisers, an outdoor movie, Union Pacific Railroad’s Big Boy is rolling into the area for a whistle stop, and a whole lot more.

As a reminder, always double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled, rescheduled, or experiences weather delays.

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

Various dates and times
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a few special movie events throughout the summer. There are kid films series that are $2 a viewing, as well as a flashback cinema series, which offer a second chance to catch a classic flick on the big screen.
Find out more on Facebook.

Various dates and times
Great 8 Cinema in Union and Sullivan 6 Cinema are also featuring a special kids summer film series that kicks off mid-May and runs through late August. Additionally, the admission is $2, and there are $5 value combos available.
Get details on Facebook.

Multiple days
The USDA Summer Food Service is partnering with the Washington Public Library to help area families to provide food service beginning Monday, June 29 and continuing on every Mondays until public school starts. The food service includes 7 days of breakfast and lunch, with fresh fruit, vegetable, and dairy. This service is for families with children ages 1-18. Pickup is at the Washington Public Library on Mondays between 4-6 p.m.
Get more info.

Multiple days
Scenic Regional Library and Foundations for Strengthening Families are partnering to help area families with summer food service beginning Monday, June 29 through Monday, August 17. The service will provide one week’s worth of breakfast and lunch items for kids, available while supplies last. Food pickup will be in each library branch’s parking lot and pickup times and days vary by each branch.
Find pickup days and times.

Tuesday, July 14
The Washington Public Library has a monthly event called Crafting and Creativity that is free to attend and attendees will create a craft that they get to take home. This month’s craft is a gnome succulent planter. The event begins at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Tuesday, July 14
Washington Historical Society is having its monthly Evening at the Museum event beginning at 7 p.m.
Get more info.

Tuesday, July 14
The St. Clair Branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a Meet the Washingtons event beginning at 7 p.m. The evening will feature interesting and unique storytelling of our nation’s First Family through this lively presentation.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 16
Head to the Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library for 250 Years of American Trivia beginning at 6 p.m. Attendees must register for the event on the library’s website.
Get more info and register.

Thursday, July 16
The Alley is partnering with Wanderlust Chocolate for a Pairing Party. Sample four varieties of Cognac, thoughtfully paired with handmade chocolates.
Registration required to attend.

Friday, June 17
The St. Clair Saddle Club continues its 5D Barrel Racing series beginning at 6 p.m.
Find out more.

Friday, June 17
Round Up Event Space in St. Clair is hosting a Tailgate Sale in the grassy lot next to the event space from 5-8 p.m. Shop from area vendors and try bites from food truck Hot Tamales Love at First Bite.
Get more details.

Saturday, July 18
Franklin County Jeeps is hosting a car show at Union High School to benefit the Gruen Family to help support them due to Dan Gruen’s accident that left him unable to work. Check out the entry fees for cars and other info.

Saturday, July 18
Downtown Union will be the site of a festive Christmas in July pop-up event filled with unique gifts, handmade goods, sweet treats, and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether you’re getting a head start on shopping or just love a good reason to celebrate, this is the perfect way to mix sunshine with a little sparkle. Grab your friends, wear your favorite festive gear, and come shop local!
Find out more.

Saturday, July 18
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. throughout the market season. Find fresh produce and local meat from Bardot Farms, along with a variety of items from local vendors including plants, artwork, homemade baked items, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, July 18
Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch is hosting a Jurassic Paint Party from 1-3:30 p.m. Adults and teens are invited to paint a glowing wooden dinosaur under black lights all while watching the movie:Jurassic World: Rebirth.
Registration required to attend.

Sunday, July 19
Liberty Hall in Washington is hosting a showing of the beloved Broadway hit, “Love Letters.” This play is A. R. Gurney’s timeless story of connection, longing, and the letters that shape a lifetime. Doors open at 5 p.m. with a Roux 66 tasting of sweet and savory bites and wine, with the performance starting at the Cultural Center at 6 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person.
Get tickets.

Sunday, July 19
The Book Booth in Washington is hosting a Sewing 101 event from 2-4 p.m. Attendees will learn how to use a sewing machine and sew on a button and buttonhole. Cost is $40 to attend.
Register and learn more.

Sunday, July 19
To celebrate National Ice Cream Day, Silver Spoon Ice Cream in downtown Washington will have raffles and giveaways including free ice cream, swag, and more.
Get more info.

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Monday, July 20
Union Pacific Railroad’s legendary Big Boy 4014 train is rolling into Pacific and is scheduled to make a whistle stop approximately between 11:30 – 11:45 a.m. Head to Pacific Station Plaza, where there will be celebrations and excitement planned from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find mini pancakes, snow cones, and other cold treats as well as information provided by area historical societies, along with a variety of family-friendly displays.
Learn more.

Wednesday, July 22
Franklin County Silent Book Club meets every month at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington. The event is from 5:30 – 7 p.m. and attendees bring their own book selections and read silently for the first hour. The last 30 minutes of the event is dedicated to chatting with others in attendance, or for continued solo reading.
Get more info.

Thursday, July 23
The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch is having a Christmas in July craft at 6 p.m. Make a no sew quilted Christmas ornament.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 23
Sunset on the Riverfront is a monthly free event at the Washington Riverfront. The event is from 5-8 p.m. and will feature music by Sweet Rukus, food vendors Ramblin Rooster, Oxfest Music Charity Music Festival, and Boxcar Express Ice Cream, and children’s activities by The Monkey Bus.
Get more info.

Friday, July 24
Head to downtown Union for Market off Main from 4-7 p.m. The event will feature local vendors, plus food and drinks available for purchase, and live music.
Find out more.

Saturday, July 25
The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch is offering a STEAM Ahead Science program for kids on Saturday, July 25. Kiddos will be getting hands on with science involving themes of paleontology and microbiology! Attendees need to register for this program to reserve their spot.
Register and learn more.

Saturday, July 25
St. John and St. James Episcopal Church in Sullivan is hosting a free community movie night, with a showing of the family-friendly film “How to Train Your Dragon.” The event begins at 7 p.m. and will feature drinks, popcorn, hot dogs, chips, and dessert. Attendees should bring a chair or blanket to sit on and watch the movie.
Find out more.

Saturday, July 25
Head to the St. Clair Elks Lodge for the Charlie’s Angels Poker Run benefit. The poker run begins at 11 a.m.
Get more info.

Road Trippin’

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

Multiple dates from June – August
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having Camp Brookdale, a summer camp event for kids. This screen-free day camp event will give kids an outdoor, adventure themed experience all summer long.
Learn more.

Tuesday, July 14 – Saturday, July 18
The 79th Annual Crawford County Fair in Cuba will have live music, games, fair rides, food, a truck and tractor pull, and livestock exhibits.
Get the complete schedule of events.

Friday, July 17 & Saturday, July 18
Head to Hermann for Books & Booze: A Grownup Book Fair, which will be two days of the magic of the school book fair, with all the excitement, stacks of stories, local authors, and grown-up beverages.
Get more info.

Friday, July 17 – Sunday, July 19
The Gasconade County Threshers Association Steam Engine and Antique Tractor Show is happening at Rosebud Community Park. The weekend will feature antique tractors and steam engines, flea market, crafters and artisans, live music, draft horse and tractor pulls, plus tractor games and a parade. There will also be food available for purchase, plus a car show on Sunday.
Find out more.

Saturday, July 18
Marthasville is hosting a truck and tractor pull beginning at 6:30 p.m. There will be food and drink available for purchase.
Get more info.

Saturday, July 18
RGM Farms in Bourbon is hosting a monthly event called Social Saturdays. Every month is a different themed event with entertainment, food, and most of all, community. This month’s theme is summer picnic and the fun begins at 3 p.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, July 18
Onondanga State Cave Park in Leasburg is continuing its stargazing series called Starry Sky Nights. Join astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot to view the cosmos with a high-powered telescope. These events are free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. Although a telescope will be provided, visitors are welcome to bring viewing devices of their own.
Find out more.

Monday, July 20
Enjoy free trolley rides for kids and families on the Hermann Trolley to commemorate the arrival of Union Pacific Railroad’s legendary Big Boy 4014 train making a whistle stop in Hermann.
Find more details.

Saturday, July 25 & Sunday, July 26
Hermann’s Berries and BarbQ Wine Trail is a memorable summer weekend event that features a delicious curated menu of local berries, barbecue dishes, and wine. Tickets are limited and are $35 per person.
See the menu and purchase tickets.

Saturday, July 25
Country music star Neal McCoy will perform at Meramec Music Theater in Steelville at 2 p.m. Ticket prices vary.
Get more info.

Saturday, July 25
Head to Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James for the Art, Craft, Wine, and Cheese Fest from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Celebrate National Wine and Cheese day, while also discovering handmade crafts, original art, upcycled treasures, delicious treats, and of course, wine and cheese at the event.
Free entry, learn 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 Aug. 25 – Aug. 31, 2025

It’s Labor Day Weekend this week, and if you’re staying close to home during this final holiday of the summer, then rest assured that there’s plenty of things to do!

Wednesday, Aug. 27
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 dedication to conversation, or continued reading.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Aug. 27
Brushin’ Whimsy is hosting a paint night at Sip on Main in Union from 6-8 p.m.
Find out more and register.

Photo via Sunset on the Riverfront Facebook event

Thursday, Aug. 28
Head to downtown Washington for the 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.

Friday, Aug. 29
Do some stargazing at Cedar Creek Hotel & Event Venue in New Haven. From 7-9 p.m., take in the dazzling night sky by gazing through a 30 inch telescope, and learn how to use a camera on a telescope to take pictures with an astrophotography center adjacent to the main telescope. Attendees will have to climb a ladder to reach the large scope. The event will be cancelled if there is cloud cover or inclement weather.
Learn more.

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Friday, Aug. 29
Stop in to Pickneybend Distilling in New Haven to take part in the establishment’s monthly cocktail class. Attendees will receive three cocktails they’ve made themselves, plus receive a discount on bottled spirit purchases. Cost is $30 per person.
Find out more and sign up.

Saturday, Aug. 30
Make and learn how to care for a hanging moss ball planter at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery in Washington. The cost to attend is $35 per person, and registration is required.
Get registered.

Road Trippin’

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

Monday, Aug. 25
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for Art After Hours Paint & Sip event, happening from 6-9 p.m. The theme for the event is camping, the fee is $40 and admission price includes supplies.
Get tickets and more info.

Wednesday, Aug. 27
There’s free line dancing starting at 6 p.m. this, and every, Wednesday night at The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville.
Learn more.

Thursday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 31
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.

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Saturday, Aug. 30
Celebrate the start of the grape harvest at Stone Hill Winery’s free Harvest Festival. Head to the Hermann winery for festivities such as a grape stomping photo op, a behind the scenes tour, games and a scavenger hunt, live music, plus wine, slushies, and beer by the glass, and a lot more.
Get more details.

Saturday, Aug. 30
Bring your classic car, truck, sports car, Jeep, anything with wheels you love, to Prairie Barn Winery in St. James. This is a non-judged, no-prizes event—just a great time with fellow car and truck enthusiasts!
Get more details.

Saturday, Aug. 30
Enjoy a concert at Music in the Park, at Maramec Spring Park in St. James. Forrest McCurren will perform from 6-8 p.m., admission is $20 per car.
Find out more.

Saturday, Aug. 30
There’s a free women’s medicinal drum circle happening in Marthasville. This monthly meetup aims to foster mindfulness and community among women in the area.
Learn more on Facebook.

Saturday, Aug. 30
The Homemade Exchange is a monthly meetup at the Owensville branch of Scenic Regional Library. This free event is a meeting of people who exchange homemade items, from homemade baked goods and canned items, to soaps, crafts, and more.
Find out more.

Posted in News and Features

Shawcuterie Gourmet Grazing Offers Tailored Charcuterie Experiences

Charcuterie, or grazing boards and boxes full of cold meats, cheeses, fruits and more, have become increasingly popular over the past several years, due to the often beautiful presentation of the boards and yummy combinations of ready-to-eat finger foods. While you can often find charcuterie options on the menu at some area wineries, breweries, wine bars, and cafes and restaurants, there’s also a new business that is bringing charcuterie selections to you.

Earlier this year, Devon Shaw launched a mobile charcuterie business called Shawcuterie Gourmet Grazing. The grazing board menu features several custom options, such as boards that feed groups from two up to 15 people.

Larger groups or anyone hosting a private party like bridal or baby showers, weddings, and even corporate events, may also opt for the mobile charcuterie cart, which provides an interactive experience, allowing guests to customize their own personal charcuterie box with items like cheeses, fruits, nuts, olives, and meats.

Although Devon does a lot of private events, she and her mobile charcuterie cart have also made appearances at public gatherings, like Sunset on the Riverfront in Washington. I had the pleasure of meeting Devon and trying her charcuterie at the most recent Sunset on the Riverfront.

I selected items I wanted for my custom charcuterie box, like fresh fruit, cheese, meat, and dark chocolate covered caramel for a sweet finish. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

Of course there’s always food vendors at these public events, but on the hot, late June evening of Sunset on the Riverfront, seeing the charcuterie cart, with its selection of chilled items, was a very welcome site.

The custom charcuterie box I had was a feast for the eyes as well as the belly thanks to the way Devon artfully arranged my selections. Everything I ate was also delicious, but as a true cheese and chocolate lover, those were my favorite items – and if it had been a possibility, I could’ve just had a girl dinner with a box full of those two items. But, alas, a girl can’t live on cheese and chocolate alone! The turkey, salami, crackers and fresh fruit were also filling and refreshing.

You can catch Shawcuterie Gourmet Grazing in Washington next week at Sage Bee Prep Academy’s First Bee Day Bash on Tuesday, July 15 at 6 p.m. The event will feature other food and drink vendors, a bounce house, face painting, and other kid-friendly activities.

The Socialite recommends Shawcuterie Gourmet Grazing!

The details:
Find Shawcuterie on Facebook or Instagram to stay updated on events.
Visit the business’s website to learn more or to order.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County May 19 – May 25, 2025

This week there’s a lot going on in and around Franklin County – Sunset on the Riverfront happens this Thursday, there’s a few community markets, opportunities to hear live music, and get crafty, plus some unique events happening just a short drive from Franklin County. As a reminder, I don’t list every event that’s on the calendar here in the weekly roundup post, including events happening in the first half of the week. Be sure to look at the calendar of events to see everything! Note that you can find the calendar at the bottom of the home page if you’re viewing the site on a mobile device.

Thursday, May 22
Head to downtown Washington for the May 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.

Photo via Downtown Washington, Inc.’s Facebook event.

Thursday, May 22 and Friday, May 23
Stacked Coffeehouse in Villa Ridge is going to be out and about in the community doing coffee “pop-ups” from a mobile coffee trailer. On Thursday, catch Stacked at St. John the Baptist School in Villa Ridge from 7:30 – 9 a.m., and on Friday, find Stacked at The Novel Nook in Washington from noon – 2 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, May 23
The Union Farmers Market happens on the second and fourth Fridays from 4 – 7 p.m. through September. Find local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. SPECIAL NOTICE – This week’s market will happen at 10 E. Locust St., across from City Hall.
Get more details on Facebook.

Friday, May 23
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have live music from Tom Norton starting at 7 p.m. 
Learn more.

Saturday, May 24
Enjoy live music while you take in the beautiful scenery at Triple 3 Vineyard, when SWeet Ruckus plays from 2 – 5 p.m. 
Learn more at the Facebook event.

Saturday, May 24
The Sullivan Community Market is happening from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Muddy Banks Brewing. Shop local vendors and makers, find locally grown produce and baked goods, and listen to live music.
More details.

Sunday, May 25
Learn how to make a custom Welcome Mat for your home at this class held at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan, from 3 – 6 p.m. Ticket price includes materials to create the mat.
Get tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Saturday, May 24
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of seven stargazing programs in 2025. 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.

Saturday, May 24
Get ready for a relaxing day on the river at Brookdale Farms’ first Eureka Floats event of the season!
More information.

Sunday, May 25
Take a short drive to Fenton to see the amazing rides at a free, family-friendly car event where you’ll find everything from exotics, to classic cars, imports, works in progress, and more. Cars & Coffee St. Louis and 1st Phorm are teaming up to bring a monthly car show on the fourth Sunday of each month through October.
Find out more.