Tag: travel

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 23 – March 1, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Get ready for another fun-filled week of Franklin County events with book clubs, a puzzle race, line dancing, black light bingo, a comedy night, a paint and sip event, and an open mic night.

Ready to hit the road? There’s even more events just outside of Franklin County such as a 2000’s themed trivia night, an 80’s themed murder mystery, a winter wine tasting event, and winter bridal shows.

Just a heads up – always double check with the event venue before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled for some reason!

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

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Teams of up to six friends will race to be the first team to complete the same 500-piece puzzle in 60 minutes at the Washington Public Library’s Puzzle Race event. Space is limited to six teams and pre-registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Join the book club perfect for the overcommitted reader. The Bring Your Own Book book club at The Novel Nook.  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.
Get all the details.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
The Scenic Regional Library Branch in Pacific is hosting a showing of the historic 1926 feature film- The Flying Ace- with a live musical accompaniment by Cherry and Jerry, a St. Louis duo that plays ragtime, blues, and jazz music from the 1900s-1920s, including well-known hits from Scott Joplin, W.C. Handy, Irving Berlin, as well as lesser-known gems. Registration is required to attend.
Get more info and register.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
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.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 25
Do you have a small business and are interested in becoming a vendor at the St. Clair Farmers Market this season? Attend an informational meeting for potential market vendors at the St. Clair Library at 6:30 p.m.
Get the details.

Thursday, Feb. 26
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific will have line dancing from 6-7:30 p.m. The event is free, but donations are accepted.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 27
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is the site of Donuts and Diapers, a sweet morning designed for little ones and the grown-ups who love them. Happening from 9-11 a.m., the event features fresh donuts, open gym play, and quality bonding time in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Get tickets and more details.

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Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Gerald for a unique paint and sip night that focuses on creating a piece of art that highlights the Northern Lights. Seats are limited.
Secure your spot.

Friday, Feb. 27
Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist is seeking motivated individuals interested in building a long‑term career in the green industry and are hosting a Career Fair to learn more about available opportunities across horticulture, landscaping, retail operations, greenhouse, and additional areas within our growing organization. The fair is from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Help support Project Linus of Franklin and Crawford County and create something with your hands. The nonprofit is hosting its monthly Make a Blanket day from 10 a.m. – noon at the Scenic Regional Library Union Branch. Attendees will make fleece blankets to benefit local children, and can bring their own supplies or donate $20 for blanket making supplies.
RSVP requested, find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 28
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Clover Bottom is hosting a Comedy Night Dinner & Dance. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m., the comedy show by Mike Maxwell at 7 p.m., and live music by Steve Leslie after the comedy show.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Enjoy an evening of Black Light Bingo at the IC School Parish Center in Union. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and bingo begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Learn about seed starting at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Participants will use reusable pots, domes and trays to plant tomato and pepper seeds. This is the perfect class to get a head start on your vegetable plants for spring!
Get the details.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington for the bar’s weekly Open Mic Night. Share your musical or stand up talent at the event, happening from 6-10 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, Feb. 27
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a special night for mamas and their favorite little cowboys at the The Mother-Son Ranch Night. This western-style evening is all about quality time, connection, and good old-fashioned fun — without the pressure of a traditional “dance.”
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 27
Defiance Ridge Vineyards is hosting a 2000’s themed trivia night. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. and trivia starts at 7 p.m., with a $25 per team cost.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Love a good murder mystery event? Then you won’t want to miss the 80’s themed event in Owensville.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28 & Sunday, March 1
The Meramec River Wine Trail’s Winter Wine Tasting Event will feature wine and food pairings from numerous wineries in the region – from Steelville to St. James. This self-guided tour is $30 per person, with tickets available for purchase online.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 28
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is hosting The Magic of Maples, a fun and informational event that highlights history of making maple products in Missouri and how to make maple products today. The event is free, but registration is required.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 1
The Wildflower Wedding Market is happening from noon-4 p.m. at The Venue at Wildflower Ridge. Meet with wedding planners, decorators, photographers, caterers, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 1
Folky Fish Fest and Spencer Manor are teaming up to host an afternoon of delicious food and live music as a fundraiser for the second year of Folky Fish Jam Camp. Last year’s jam camp welcomed 30 students from the surrounding areas, where they spent the day learning and jamming with Festival Performing Artists thanks to donations and funding from local organizations and individual community members. This year help offer the camp to as many young folks as possible via student scholarships.
Find out more.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
Romance author and unapologetic geek.
Author of the Talk Nerdy to Me series.
Download your next binge read.

Sunday, March 1
Brookdale Farms is hosting a Winter Bridal Show. This one-stop planning event, features immersive venue tours, stunning décor inspiration, and direct access to the best wedding pros in the business in one elegant afternoon.
Get tickets and find out more.

Sunday, March 1
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
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 News and Features

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

Posted on by Amanda

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 Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Jan. 19 – Jan. 25, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week don’t miss your chance to try curated dinner and drink events happening at Oak & Front and Triple 3 Vineyard. There’s also a magical family-friendly breakfast happening at Brookdale Farms in Eureka, as well as a chance to warm up with a chili cook-off at St. James Winery.

Not a foodie? There’s also a casino night at the Washington Elks, a board game fundraiser for the Augusta Museum, a speed dating and singles mixer happening at The Alley, along with a bridal show, a prom planning event, an 80s night, a journaling workshop, and much more.

As a reminder, winter weather may force a 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!

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

Monday, Jan. 19
Two Sparrows Bridal Bridal Company in downtown Washington is hosting a prom event from noon – 7 p.m. called Prom, But Make it Fancy. Attendees will enjoy a beautifully styled afternoon complete with food, a dirty soda bar, music, picture-perfect photo ops, and hair and makeup done in store while you plan your prom look.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Jan. 21
Oak & Front is hosting a Barrels and Beef Prime Rib Dinner. The three-course meal consists of Argentine shrimp cocktail and stuffed mushrooms as starters, a beef prime rib dinner, and a decadent poached pear to finish the evening, each served with a trio of bourbons selected to match the moment. Tickets are $80 per person, with tip included in the ticket price.
Find out more and reserve your spot here.

Thursday, Jan. 22
Washington Green Spa & Wellness is hosting a Journaling Workshop with Jess. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and costs $35 per person to attend, and the workshop is limited to eight attendees.
Learn more.

Thursday, Jan. 22
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge is having an 80s Night. Leg warmers, acid wash jeans, neon colors, and big hair welcome!
Find out more.

Friday, Jan. 23
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. This event repeats on Jan. 30.
Learn more.

Friday, Jan. 23
The Washington Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Casino Night at the Washington Elks Lodge from 6-10 p.m. Have fun at the Blackjack, Poker, Craps, and Roulette Tables, with each attendee getting $10k in “Casino Cash” to gamble with upon entry. Exchange your winnings for entries into the jackpot prize drawings! Tickets include appetizers, desserts, casino games, and open bar. $75 each, or 8 for $550.
Find out more.

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Friday, Jan. 23
Shattered Glass Designs in Washington is hosting a Winter Cardinal Paint & Sip event. Create a beautiful cardinal on a canvas using paint and crushed glass at this class.
Learn more.

Friday, Jan. 23
Dance the night away with line dancing led by Glittering Grapevine kicks off at 6 p.m. at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington.
Get more details.

Saturday, Jan. 24
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington hosts an Open Mic Night every Saturday from 6-10 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Jan. 24
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.

Sunday, Jan. 25
Bring your family and friends for an evening of fun, laughter, and board games while supporting a fundraiser for the future Augusta Museum restroom. Attendees can make a suggested $5 donation per person. The evening will include a wide variety of board and card games for all ages, as well as popcorn and light snacks during play. The bar will be open, with all proceeds going back to support the museum.
Get more info.

Sunday, Jan. 25
The Alley in Washington is hosting a Speed Dating & Singles Mixer. Meet new people in a relaxed environment without the tedium of scrolling apps or the pressure of small talk, with short guided conversations built into the event. Cost is $20 to attend, with an immediate $20 reimbursement in arcade credits. Age groups are broken into 20s, 30s, 40–55, and 55+.
Learn more.

Sunday, Jan. 25
The WashMo Booktok Book Club is a 21+ book club that reads popular “Booktok” selections in the romance, fantasy, thriller, and romcom genres. If you’re looking to meet new people and read more books, you’re invited to the group’s first meeting of 2026 from 10-11 a.m. at Lang-a-Tang Café in New Haven. And since the members love to chat all things books, if you haven’t read “How My Neighbor Stole Christmas” and “Merry Christmas You Filthy Animal” by Meghan Quinn no worries, there will still be plenty of book yapping to jump in on! There will also be fun book scrapping supplies and light refreshments supplied.
Check out the Facebook group to learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, Jan. 23 & Saturday, Jan. 24
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 & Sunday, Jan. 24-25
Winter Round-Up at Brookdale Farms is a family-friendly winter festival packed with outdoor fun, live entertainment, and cozy seasonal activities for all ages. From interactive hayride shows and hands-on crafts to inflatables, s’mores by the fire, and hot cocoa!
Find out more and get tickets.

Advertisement – Static web, advertorial, and other advertising opportunities available. View packages or email smalltownsocialitemo@gmail.com

Saturday, Jan. 24
St. James Winery is hosting a Chili Cookoff. From 3–5 p.m., sample all the mouthwatering entries and vote for your favorite! Tasting tickets are $5 and available at the door.
Learn more.

Saturday, Jan. 24
If you’re getting married later this year, you’ll want to attend the Brookdale Farms Bridal Show.
Get more information on Facebook.

Sunday, Jan. 25
Yet another event is happening at Brookdale Farms in Eureka this weekend. Have an enchanted meal at the Once Upon a Morning: Storybook Pancake Breakfast. Guests are encouraged to wear fairytale attire, or their PJs for this cozy, family event and will enjoy a hot cocoa bar, pancakes, story time moments, and more.
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 Jan. 12 – Jan. 18, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s chances to get crafty, hear live music, play black light bingo, paint & sip night, as well as a knit & sip event, plus you can shop at the huge indoor garage sale at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center, and much more.

As a reminder, events may change or 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!

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

Tuesday, Jan. 13
Washington Public Library’s Crafting and Creativity event continues with an opportunity to make a dried orange winter garland.
Get more information.

Wednesday, Jan. 14
Head to Washington Public Library for a Bird Feeder Crafternoon event from 4-5 p.m. Make a bird feeder ornament from supplies provided by the library.
Find all the details.

Thursday, Jan. 15 & Saturday, Jan. 17
Birdie’s Bakeshop in Washington is having a Winter Wonderland cookie decorating class. Times, age/baking experience levels, and prices differ for each class.
Get all the info.

Friday, Jan. 16
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. This event repeats on Jan. 23 and 30.
Learn more.

Friday, Jan. 16
Winter Wonderland Paint & Sip Fundraiser, benefitting the Union Community Center is from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Enjoy light snacks, sips, and lots of winter cheer as you paint. Cost is $35 per person and all materials are supplied.
Reserve your spot.

Friday, Jan. 16
Sip wine or other beverages at McKelvey Vineyards while participating in some beginner-friendly line dancing brought to you by Glittering Grapevine.
Find out more.

Saturday, Jan. 17
Head to the Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch for a Board Game Battle Royale. Pit yourself against other board game aficionados and see who is the real Game Night Gladiator!
Register here.

Saturday, Jan. 17
It’s the 3rd Annual Garage Sale at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center. This indoor garage sale features a variety of vintage treasures, along with crafts, and baked goodies. The event is from 7 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
Get more details.

Advertisement – Static web, advertorial, and other advertising opportunities available. View packages or email smalltownsocialitemo@gmail.com

Saturday, Jan. 17
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington hosts an Open Mic Night every Saturday from 6-10 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Jan. 17
Head to Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan to enjoy live music by Lauren Ash. Lauren will perform from 5-8 p.m.
Find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Jan. 17
Play black light bingo at St. Anthony Catholic School in Sullivan from 5-11 p.m.
More details.

Sunday, Jan. 18
Thrive Studio and Events in Sullivan is hosting a Knit & Sip event. In this hands-on Chunky Blanket Making Class you’ll learn step-by-step how to create a cozy, stylish couch throw blanket: no experience needed. Dirty Soda Bar is included in admission price so you can enjoy a build-your-own dirty soda while you work.
Get more info.

Sunday, Jan. 18
The Washington Bridal Extravaganza is happening at the Elks Lodge from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. This event is free to attend.
Find out more on Facebook.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, Jan. 16 & Saturday, Jan. 17
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. 17 & Sunday, Jan. 18
Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is hosting a winter Murder Mystery Dinner event on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $50 per person and include entertainment, a catered meal, tea, and water, with wine, beer, and soda available for purchase.
Purchase tickets.

Back view of white two-story home with a covered patio
Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Reach out to Freelance Services today for help with your addition or renovation drawings.

Saturday, Jan. 17 & Sunday, Jan. 18
Winter Round-Up at Brookdale Farms is a family-friendly winter festival packed with outdoor fun, live entertainment, and cozy seasonal activities for all ages. From interactive hayride shows and hands-on crafts to inflatables, s’mores by the fire, and hot cocoa!
Find out more and get 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!