Posted in Events

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

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.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County March 17 – March 23, 2025

Typically each Monday morning I create a post highlighting things to do around Franklin County for the week, and while I am still sharing some events, today I’m starting this article with a list of ways to help those in our community who need a hand due to the storms that hit our region on Friday, March 14.

Hands in varying skin tones forming a heart shape

If you know someone in need, or you’re looking for ways to help through donating items, below is a list of businesses that are collecting items for those in need. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and I don’t claim to know every organization, business, or individuals who are helping out, however, I am sharing what I’ve seen posted on Facebook.

And, since things can change rapidly, including what kind of donation items may be needed, I have included a link to each organization or business Facebook page so anyone interested in helping can connect with them directly.

Blessings Are Miracles is a non-profit organization that helps provide everyday essentials to those who need it.

The Competitive Edge Fitness in Union is offering free hot showers for anyone affected by the storms on Monday, March 17, regardless of if they’re a member of the gym or not. The gym is open to the public from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Red Cross of Missouri shared a list of area shelters by county for those displaced by the storm.

Present Moment Yoga in Washington shared a post that anyone affected by the storms can receive a free yoga class.

Stacked Coffeehouse in Villa Ridge has been collecting donations for those in need during business hours. View the shop’s Facebook for more details.

The Novel Nook in Washington while not open to the public yet, is serving as a drop-off site for donations. Since the store isn’t open just yet, definitely reach out via phone or Facebook to coordinate a drop-off time.

Project Linus of Franklin & Crawford County is an organization that collects new blankets for children in need. If you would like to donate new blankets to Project Linus, reach out to them to get details on what they need and to find a drop-off location.

1861 Social House Eatery & Bar in Washington is serving as a drop-off site for donations.

Now, here’s the list of the events happening around Franklin County this week.

Wednesday, March 19
Every Wednesday is Karaoke Night at The Tipsy Keg. Belt out your favorite song, enjoy flash sales and drinks specials, plus happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. Kitchen is open until 9pm!
Find out more.

Thursday, March 20
Stop in to The Tipsy Keg Bingo Night for half priced wings, happy hour, and bingo. Prizes to be won with every game!  
Follow The Tipsy Keg on Facebook for more details.

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

Friday, March 21
Head to The Washington Coffee Shop for the shop’s monthly Open Mic Night. Come out as a spectator or step up to the mic to share your talent with the community.
Find out more at this Facebook event.

Saturday, March 22
Learn the most effective ways to provide everything your plants need to grow and thrive at the Feeding Your Plants Workshop at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist in Washington.
Reserve your spot.

Saturday, March 22
The 25th Annual Spring Bluff Dinner Auction is put on by the Spring Bluff Educational Foundation as a fundraiser to raise funds for the Spring Bluff School District. The community is invited to join in this fun filled night held at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 22
Put on your grooviest outfit and head to The Tipsy Keg! They’ll have a 70s playlist, disco ball and a costume contest. Karaoke starts at 9 p.m., Costume Contest awards are at 11:30 p.m. for 1st and 2nd place prizes. Take advantage of specialty cocktail deals, Tequila Sunrise $5 and Long Island $6
Get more details at the Facebook event.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County Feb. 17 – Feb. 23, 2025

Weather permitting, here’s what’s happening around Franklin County, Missouri this week.

Wednesday, Feb. 19
Explore your creative side and choose from making a St. Patrick’s themed Highlander cow or a Mardi Gras painting at a paint night held at Sip on Main in Union. Included in the ticket price is a pre-traced canvas, plus $5 off food/drink at Sip on Main for that evening.  *UPDATE* Due to snow, this event has been rescheduled to March, 5.
Find out more and register.

Thursday, Feb. 20
Learn how to make and use a sourdough starter, while also learning about sourdough’s amazing gut health benefits. 
Find out more and how to pay for the workshop.

Thursday, Feb. 20 through Sunday, Feb. 23
Escape the ordinary at the area’s newest brewery and winery, Fugitive Bluff Brewery and Winery, located in Berger. The opening weekend festivities will include food, beer, and wine. *UPDATE* Due to snow, Fugitive Bluff has postponed its opening and may open Saturday and Sunday. It is expected to announce its opening plans on Facebook on Friday, Feb. 21.
Find out more.

Photo via Fugitive Bluff Brewery and Winery’s Facebook

Friday, Feb. 21
Do you write poetry, can you deliver a joke with impeccable comedic timing? Are you a singer or musician? All are welcome to share their talent at The Washington Coffee Shop’s Open Mic Night. Or, maybe sitting back with a coffee or tea in hand taking in the music or spoken word of the guests is more your thing. Either way, stop by the coffee shop for an entertaining evening. 
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 22
The same great food and music you’ve come to love at the summertime CajunFest is being held this year indoors in February. The Cajun Night event will feature live music from from Dennis Stroughmatt with Creole Stomp.
Find out more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County Feb. 3 – Feb 16, 2025

Normally I only share a week’s worth of events each week, but with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this post featuring Franklin County events will run for about two weeks, through the holiday weekend.

And, as a reminder, if you want to know what events are coming up in advance, be sure to check out the calendar here on the website. It’s located on the right side of the home page when viewing on desktop, or scroll to the bottom of the home page to find the calendar when viewing the website on your mobile device.

Tuesday, Feb. 4
Drop in to The Washington Coffee Shop from 8 to 9 a.m. for Coffee With a Cop. The event offers a chance to get to the know officers in your neighborhood, ask questions, or voice concerns.
More details.

Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

Thursday, Feb. 6
Regan Caruthers, author of Tragic Magic, will speak about the transformative power of cultivating an inner life at Liberty Hall in Washington. Drawing from her personal journey and themes in her memoir, Regan will share insights on connecting with higher wisdom, embracing divine love, and fostering profound healing.
Learn more and grab your ticket.

Thursday, Feb. 6
Dine to Donate, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Johnny’s Restaurant in Union. The eatery will donate a percentage of sales towards assisting Union Police Officer Kevin Williams, who was involved in an on-duty accident, and the Williams Family, at no extra cost to guests. 
Find out more.

Thursday, Feb. 6
The Tipsy Keg will rearrange the tables in its dining area to make room for a dance floor. From 6 to 9 p.m. stop in to line dance, or just sit back with your drink of choice and watch others boogie. 
Find out more.

Photo credit: via The Tipsy Keg’s Facebook

Friday, Feb. 7
Scenic Regional Library’s Pacific Branch is hosting a local art show. This hour long evening event is free to attend and is co-hosted with amazing local artist Rex Batson.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 8
Held at The Historic John B Busch Brewery Event Center in Washington, the Chicken & Beer Dance promises an evening of good music, dancing, and tasty food! Shotgun Creek will perform live, while the venue will provide some fried chicken. Guests should bring sides for their table to enjoy. No outside drinks are allowed, but the bar will be open. Get all the details and tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 8 
Support a local American Legion while having fun playing bingo! Win prizes during the game and join in a glow dance party after bingo. All proceeds from this ticketed event benefit the Union American Legion Post 297 and local community causes. 
Find out more and get tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 8
Create an adorable planter that will include a vining succulent plant growing into a heart shape. A staff member will lead this class and help you with planting and care tips. 
Find out more and reserve your place.

Photo credit: via Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist’s Facebook

Sunday, Feb. 9
Cheer on your favorite team at a Super Bowl BBQ event! Enjoy pork steaks, half-chickens, and wings prepared by area grill masters and side makers at Washington Lions Club.
Find more information and ticket pricing.

Wednesday, Feb. 12
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair is offering a mid-week Valentine’s Dinner. The four-course menu features an appetizer, soup, entree, and dessert selection, along with a cocktail made by your sweetie! Two seatings are offered, at 5 and 7 p.m. Reservations are required.
Find out more.

Photo credit: via Blondie’s Breezeway Kitchen & Cocktail’s Facebook

Thursday, Feb. 13
The St. Clair Elks Lodge is hosting an Artmazing Valentine’s Paint Nite event. Receive step-by-step guidance during the entire painting process and go home with a finished painting. 
Get tickets and find out more.

Thursday, Feb. 13 – Saturday, Feb. 15
Oak & Front Kitchen + Bar is hosting a multi-course prix fixe menu just in time for Valentine’s Day. The special menus are perfect for couples or friends celebrating Galentine’s, and are taking place Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with two seatings each day. 
Space is limited, reserve your spot.

Friday, Feb. 14
The Tipsy Keg is hosting a special Valentine’s Dinner from 5:30 to 9 p.m., as well as an Anti-Valentine’s Party Night beginning at 9 p.m.
Find out more details about each event.

Saturday, Feb. 15
Liberty Hall’s Cultural Center will be the site for a fun, Valentine’s weekend themed movie event.  Guests can take in a private showing of the movie “50 First Dates” on the big screen while enjoying drinks and a four-course meal inspired by cuisine in the film. Food provided by The Nest Cafe. 
Learn more and grab tickets

Sunday, Feb. 16
Don your most festive, Wonderland-inspired attire and attend the Mad Hatter’s High Tea at Stacked Coffeehouse in Villa Ridge. The ticketed event includes a four-course tea service, a grazing table, activities, and a prize for best dressed. 
Get tickets.