Tag: Union Missouri

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri May 4 – May 10, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s ways to celebrate Mom with brunches, markets, and more. Then there are community festivals this weekend like Founders Day in Union and Miller’s Landing Day in New Haven. If you’re feeling crafty, there’s a create your own lightsaber event at the Washington Public Library, and a craft fair at the St. Clair KC Hall.

There’s also chances to hear free live music at Music on Main in Union, and the first Sunset on the Rails of the season in Pacific. Another free music event is the ECC Pops concert that brings together East Central College, The Pride of Washington High School, Saint Louis University, and Lindenwood University for a performance at the Washington Fairgrounds.

Remember to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled.

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

Monday, May 4
Celebrate “Star Wars” day also known as May the Fourth, at the Washington Public Library. Create your own lightsaber at this family-friendly crafting event.
Get more info.

Throughout May
Vero Fitness in Pacific is having its annual free week, allowing non-members access to the gym and group fitness classes, throughout the entire month of May. There’s special events, group fitness classes, and more happening all month.
Get more details.

Wednesday, May 6
Skip the awkward small talk and get straight to real connections at the Businesses 4 Businesses speed networking event in Pacific from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. This fast paced event is built for ambitious professionals who want to meet like minded people, exchange value, and grow their business without wasting time. Expect quick rotations, deeper conversations, and connections that go further than a generic elevator pitch.
RSVP to attend.

Thursday, May 7
Music on Main is happening in Union. Enjoy the music of Claudia Rose, grab a bite from food truck Messy Bettie’s, and a drink from Sip on Main. The concert begins at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Thursday, May 7
Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan is hosting a plant and sip night from 6-8 p.m. Personalize a recycled container for your succulent planter and decorate a sugar cookie. Cost is $35 per person. Included in price: container, soil, succulent, glass of sangria or soft drink and cookie.
Register to attend.

Friday, May 8
Grab your lawn chairs and head to downtown Pacific for a beautiful evening of live music, community, and sunset views at Pacific Station Plaza for a Sunset on the Rails concert. Featured band is Cody & The Chameleons, and the event is from 6-9 p.m.
Find out more.

Friday, May 8
Join East Central College along with The Pride of Washington High School, Saint Louis University, and Lindenwood University as they put on their annual Pops Concert on the Fairgrounds in Washington. The theme for this year is “A Moment in Time.” The concert is free to attend, and there will be concessions available for purchase.
Learn more.

Friday, May 8
Market on Main, the Union Farmer’s Market, is happening from 4-7 p.m. Find items from local producers, makers, and vendors, as well as food from food trucks.
Get more info at ReDiscover Union on Facebook.

Friday, May 8
Make some memories under the stars with your loved ones at a family-friendly outdoor movie night at Our Lady of Lourdes in Washington. Enjoy “The Prince of Egypt” on the big screen in a kid-friendly atmosphere, complete with delicious popcorn and refreshing beverages. Bring the whole family for an evening of smiles, laughter, and connection. The fun begins at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
The KC Hall in St. Clair will have a craft fair from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find goodies from handmade jewelry, to scrubs, soaps, jellies, tumblers, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 9
The Sullivan Community Market kicks off its season at 9 a.m. at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan. The market runs the second and fourth Saturdays from May through September.
Vendor and entertainment info for this week’s market.

Saturday, May 9
The 2026 Founders Day celebration in Union is happening at the City Park, as well as in the town square area. Find the full list of the locations and times of locations online.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9
Head to East Central College for a free evening of stargazing. Join other stargazers at the lower parking lot at dusk. Bring your viewing equipment and chairs to enjoy the experience.
Get the details.

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Saturday, May 9
Celebrate Miller’s Landing Day in New Haven from 3 p.m. – dusk. The day’s festivities include music, food, children’s activities, crafts, and a fireworks display to cap off the event.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
The Clubhouse Play Cafe in Sullivan is having a Mother’s Day celebration. Kids can play, while moms can enjoy a beverage, with a special Mother’s Day photo backdrop on site to commemorate the day.
Find costs and more info.

Saturday, May 9
Sullivan Eagles Hall will light up the night for a great cause at a black light bingo event! Enjoy a fun-filled evening of glowing bingo, prizes, and community spirit—all to support the Franklin County Safe House.
Get tickets and find out more.

Saturday, May 9
McKelvey Vineyards’ Car Cruise is happening from 1-5 p.m. The full bar and menu will be open all day from noon to 8 p.m. with live music from 2-6 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
Frisco Farmhouse in Catawissa is having a Mother’s Day Market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shop local farmers, producers, and artisans to treat the mother in your life.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9
Bring the family out to Crooked Creek Farmers Market for a morning of animals, food, and country fun from 8:30 a.m – noon. Find 4H demonstrations, face painting, sourdough, farm fresh eggs, and more.
Get the details.

Sunday, May 10
Celebrate mom in style with a special Mother’s Day brunch buffet at Triple 3 Vineyard’s Trinity Hall. Enjoy a delicious spread of gourmet dishes, seasonal favorites, and fresh ingredients—all served in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This is the perfect way to show appreciation to the amazing moms in your life.
Purchase tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Thursday, May 7
Relax & unwind with pampering. light nibbles, mocktails, samples, swag bag and a unique shopping experience at Maggie Grace in Warrenton.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
Find unique treasures at the Mother’s Day pop-up market at Red Door Cigars in Eureka from 1-5 p.m. Shop from vendors offering permanent jewelry, sweet treats, beauty and self-care products, and much more.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 9
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Spend the day enjoying a delicious brunch, fresh spring air, and the simple joy of time together on the farm. With blooming flowers, peaceful countryside views, and a warm welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting to slow down and celebrate the woman who does so much for everyone else.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 9
Marthasville Fire Protection District is the site of a plant auxiliary sale, just in time for Mother’s Day and spring planting! Happening from 8-11 a.m., find everything from hanging baskets, to flowers, vegetables, and more.
Get more details.

Sunday, May 10
Treat mom to a Mother’s Day Brunch at Root Food + Wine in Augusta. Enjoy a 3-course meal, bloody marys or mimosas, for $50 per person.
Get more info.

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 April 27 – May 3, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s crafting opportunities, spring markets, the Route 66 Centennial celebrations kick off this week, plus there’s local Kentucky Derby parties, and a lot more.

Remember to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled.

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

Wednesday, April 29
Get a jump start on your gift for mom at the Mother’s Day Crafting event at The Washington Public Library at 4 p.m.
Get more details.

Friday, May 1
The Washington Public Library is having a Gilmore Girls Coffee, Art, and Watch Party from 1-4 p.m. The library will provide supplies to make a “coffee art” print while watching a few episodes of the iconic TV series. Feel free to bring snacks! 
Find out more.

Friday, May 1
Grab your bestie and join for a fun, feel-good night at the HoM Healing Center in Pacific from 6–8 p.m. at the Sips, Shopping, and Self-Care event. Spend the evening enjoying sips, shopping with amazing local vendors, having self-care + wellness experiences, and all the good vibes.
Get more info.

Friday, May 1
Union’s first Concert in the Park of the season is happening from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the large pavilion located at 575 Christina Ave. in Union. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the evening of free music.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington is celebrating “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports!” Spend the evening in your finest garb – hats, fascinators, seer suckers, pastels. The race will be on at 5:57pm, but the entire evening will be filled with proper ladies and gentleman sipping on mint juleps…and Eight Nine Eight’s other incredible cocktails.
Check out the details.

Saturday, May 2
Franklin County Foster Closet’s Run for Love 5k is a fun way to kick off Foster Care Awareness Month! Join as a runner, walker, couch supporter or sponsor.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2
First Baptist Church in St. Clair is having a Family Feud night. The event is free, and childcare will be provided. Dinner, including gluten-free options, will also be provided.
Get more info.

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Saturday, May 2
Attend the Kentucky Derby Party at Mangia Bella’s at Elijah McLeans in Washington. The event is from 4-10 and will feature games live music, and more.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 2
The Labaddie Spring Outdoor Market is happening from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Shop from local makers and food vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2
Head to the Washington Riverfront for a morning of riverfront yoga by Present Moment Yoga. The sunrise practice begins at 7 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Celebrate Kentucky Derby Day at McKelvey Vineyards, there will be live music all day with three bands, drink specials, and a party full of people in their finest Derby wear. $5 cover at the door.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2
Union Community Center’s First Annual Spring Market is happening from 8-3 p.m. This fun, family-friendly event will feature a variety of local crafters and vendors offering handmade goods, unique finds, and small-business favorites. Enjoy concessions and drinks while you shop and support our community. This Spring Market is a fundraiser event, with proceeds benefiting programs and activities at the Union Community Center.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2
Celebrate the grand opening of an equine therapy organization in St. Clair. Hoof to Heart Healing offers a one of a kind, hands-on experience with horses that supports emotional growth, nervous system balance, and meaningful connection…all in a calm, guided environment that complements licensed mental health care.
Get all the details.

Sunday, May 3
Get crafty at R&R Ace Hardware in Sullivan the Plant, Paint & Sip event from 2–4 p.m. For $30 per person, you’ll get everything you need to create your own custom potted plant. Pick out your pot, paint it your way, and plant your greenery—all materials included. While you work, enjoy your choice of two flavors of boozy slushies. Seats are limited and are paid via Venmo.
Reserve your spot.

Road Trippin’

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

Wednesday, April 29
The Route 66 Centennial Car Show and Cruise-In is happening in Rolla from 3-7 p.m. See classic rides and enjoy food, drinks, and desserts available for purchase from local vendors.
Find out more.

Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3
Explore a unique selection of handmade goods and crafts from local vendors while enjoying award-winning wines and live music at this free event on Blumenhof Winery’s patio.
Get more details.

Saturday, May 2
Maramec Spring Park in St. James is having a Bugs, Birds, and Blooms Pollinator festival from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn about Missouri’s natural resources, buy native plants, purchase from food and craft vendors, and enjoy live entertainment.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
Step back in time and experience pioneer life at the Pioneer Day celebration in Warrenton. From 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Warrenton branch of Scenic Regional Library will have fun activities, demonstrations, crafters, food, live music and more!
More info.

Saturday, May 2
Enjoy an afternoon of sipping, savoring, and celebrating local pours and flavors at Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta. Celebrate a special “Farm to Table” edition of the vineyard’s Wine with Friends Market! This event will be extra special with the appearance of some furry friends from Meyer Mini Farms from 1-4 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 2
The Route 66 Centennial celebration in Rolla is happening from 2-7 p.m. and will feature live music, a cruise-in, food trucks, and family activities.
Get more info.

Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3
Back for its second weekend, Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having Baby Animal Days at the farm. This family-friendly outdoor event will feature 4H groups showing off their baby animals. The animals will vary by day, but should include chicks, goats, bunnies, bottle calf, and ponies. Other attractions will be open as well as a concession stand.
Find out more.

Sunday, May 3
Celebrating the rich legacy of the Mother Road, America’s Main Street, the Route 66 Centennial Traveling Exhibit will be on view in Cuba beginning May 3 and running until September 14. The exhibit marks two major milestones: the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the 250th anniversary of the United States. The exhibit is free and will be open to the public.
Find all the celebratory details.

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

Franklin County Sports Club Brings Elite Level Coaching to Franklin County Youth

Posted on by Amanda

Started by Alex Moraes, Franklin County Sports Club provides a high-quality, competitive soccer experience to the youth of Franklin County, ensuring that every player reaches their full potential both on and off the field. The organization provides elite training and coaching opportunities for players of all backgrounds.

Its focus is on youth athletes ages four to 18 in Franklin County and the surrounding areas, it has been well received by families in the area, and its programs are growing. FCSC has partnered with local organizations, schools, and soccer professionals to provide an environment where young athletes can grow their skills, build character, and compete at the highest levels.

Players in the FCSC programs come from schools across the county, with athletes playing alongside each other although they may not attend the same school. Photo via Franklin County Sports Club on Facebook.

“The goal is to elevate Franklin County athletes and to be more competitive,” Alex shares.

Currently Franklin County Sports Club has a number of programs, including competitive soccer, a high-level training and game environment for dedicated players looking to challenge themselves and grow in the game, MLS Go Rec Soccer, which is a program that prepares players to go from recreational play to the pros. There are also programs built around specific skillsets like ball mastery and goalkeeping, as well as improving overall athletic performance, and soccer camps.

The club operates under the guidance of four core values – community, integrity, excellence, and respect. 

“Our four values reflect the organization’s leadership,” he says.

Alex is the current president, executive director, and head coach at FCSC. There are three other board members – Scott Alberson, vice president and treasurer, David Pope, secretary, goalkeeping coach, and assistant coach, and Jason Schmelz, advisor, goalkeeping trainer, and head coach.

Getting the organization started

Organizations with a big vision and strong leadership like FCSC’s don’t just form overnight, but Alex shares that once he had the idea for the club, things came together quickly – in about one year. Taking a leap of faith and encouraged by his wife Maria to do something for the youth of Franklin County, Alex created a business plan and marketing strategy to ensure the organization’s success.

“We knew we wanted to do a nonprofit because we didn’t want anybody to own Franklin County Sports Club,” he explains.

Another area of importance was to integrate elements of Franklin County history and the value of community into every aspect of the organization, right down to its badge. The three curved lines at the bottom represent the three rivers present in Franklin County, the Meramec, Missouri, and Bourbeuse, and the badge itself features a minimalist design that is reminiscent of historic German soccer badges, to honor the German settlers in Franklin County.

Elements from Franklin County are represented in the FCSC badge, such as the three rivers represented at the bottom. Photo via Franklin County Sports Club on Facebook.

Once the plans were in place on paper, the organization gained momentum quickly, and received the necessary licensing needed, as well as recruiting board members and sponsors. Franklin County Sports Club obtained its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2024 and launched its first spring league in 2025.

Alex points to numerous people and organizations within the Franklin County community with helping FCSC gain its footing so quickly – from Brenda Kleinheider, original developer and former owner of N-Sports Rec Center in Washington, to gaining sponsors like Bank of Washington.

Educational and sports background

Alex was born and raised in Honduras, and soccer was a major part of the culture he grew up in. He is a former semi-professional goalkeeper as well as a former member of the Honduras U-17 Youth Men’s National Team. Prior to launching FCSC, he coached with St. Louis Scott Gallagher SC and Lou Fusz Athletic, leading teams to regional playoffs and tournament titles.

Alex Moraes poses with youth athletes at the club’s Golden Goal Night event. Photo via Franklin County Sports Club on Facebook.

Alex attended Lindenwood University and was a triple undergraduate major in political science and government, public administration, and economics. He also holds an MBA in international business from Lindenwood. 

In February 2025, after nearly a decade and a half of living in the U.S. under a student visa and later an H-1B visa, Alex became an official American citizen.

“I always wanted to study abroad and I came here to change my family tree,” he shares. 

With his drive to help others succeed, his commitment to building a sports club that will change the lives of the youth in Franklin County, and leading an organization that’s fostering community, Alex is a living embodiment of what it means to chase the American Dream in today’s world.

To find out more about Franklin County Sports Club, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, or visit its website. 

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 20 – April 26, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

It’s a big week for events around Franklin County, there’s community wide yard sales, flea market, and a vintage pop up market, plus farmers markets in Union and Pacific. The first Sunset on the Riverfront of the season happens this Thursday in Washington, plus annual events are happening this weekend like the WashMo BBQ & Bluesfest, and the P-Town Pub Crawl in Pacific.

There’s also line dancing, black light bingo, fundraising events, and the Franklin County Humane Society’s Strut Your Mutt event featuring a dog parade, contests, and more. Find out all the information about the events happening in Franklin County and nearby communities this week below.

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

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

Tuesday, April 21
The Washington Library is hosting a Mini Introduction to the Akashic Records event at 6 p.m. This 45-minute mini class starts with a brief overview of the Akashic Records, what they are, how they work, and how they can be used for soul-level insight, clarity, and self-understanding.
Learn more.

Wednesday, April 22
Celebrate National Library Week with a book-related craft event at the Washington Public Library. The event is from 4-5 p.m.
Find out more.

Thursday, April 23
The Power of the Purse fundraising event is a way to have a fun night out that raises funds for Franklin County United Way.
Get tickets.

Thursday, April 23
Kick up your heels with line dance lessons with instructor Jessica Blankis at Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific. It’s free, but donations are graciously accepted.
Get details.

Thursday, April 23
The first Sunset on the Riverfront event is happening in downtown Washington from 5-8 p.m. Get ready for an evening of fun, food, drinks, and music. Please note that the April Sunset on the Riverfront event is taking place at the Farmers Market due to construction happening at the riverfront park.
Find out more.

Friday, April 24 – Sunday, April 26
Get ready for a weekend full of delicious barbecue and toe-tapping music. The annual WashMo BBQ & Bluesfest is happening from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon.
Find pricing and more info.

Friday, April 24
Grace United Methodist Church in Sullivan is having its annual barbecue. The menu will include a choice of brats or pork steaks, with sides including potato salad, baked beans, cole slaw, and a dessert. The event runs from 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. and drive-through or all you can eat dine-in options are available.
Learn more.

Friday, April 24
The Annual David Arand Memorial Golf Tournament is happening at 1 p.m. at Birch Creek Golf Club in Union. The final day for signing up for the event is Thursday, April 23.
Get more info.

Friday, April 24
The first Union farmers market of the year starts at 4 p.m. The Market off Main is happening at the intersection of Oak & Main Street, adjacent to Hansen Park. Expect to find goods from local vendors, crafters, and growers, along with delicious eats from regional food trucks.
Get all the info on Facebook.

Friday, April 24
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington to take part in line dancing lessons by Glittering Grapevine beginning at 7 p.m.
Learn more.

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Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26
A two-day treasure hunt is happening at Terror on Route 66. Find goods from a variety of vendors at this spring flea market.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Do you love vintage items like books, antiques, and collectibles? Then you’ll want to drop by the American Legion in Union for the Vintage Pop Up Market held from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Be sure to grab a bite of something yummy at one of the on-site food trucks.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 25
The 4th Annual P-Town Pub Crawl kicks off at 11 a.m. The crawl begins and ends at the same location and attendees will be shuttled around to various watering holes in Pacific including Brown Jerry’s BBQ, Pacific Brewhaus, Pacific Eagles, and American Legion, and more. Cost is $35 per person.
Find tickets.

Saturday, April 25
St. Bridget Kildare Catholic School is hosting a mother/daughter dance with an 80s theme. The event is from 6-8 p.m. and cost is $20 per person.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Get ready for an evening of glow in the dark music themed bingo for a worthy cause. The St. Clair Elks Lodge is hosting the event, with proceeds from the bingo night benefiting St. Clair High School Baseball. Doors open at 5 p.m., with bingo beginning at 6 p.m. and tickets are $30 in advance, $40 at the door, and $240 for a table of 8.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 25
The Washington Fairgrounds Pavilion is the site of the Franklin County Humane Society’s Strut Your Mutt event, happening from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This fun-filled afternoon will be feature contests, activities, and dog demonstrations. Enjoy a short dog parade around the park, watch exciting demos, browse vendor booths featuring pet-related items, and take part in contests and other activities throughout the event.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 25
Frisco Farmhouse in Pacific is hosting a farmers market that will feature meat, sourdough, eggs, produce, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Eagle Ridge Estates is hosting a community-wide yard sale. The sales kick off at 7 a.m. and go until 1 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 26
The Club House Play Cafe in Sullivan is having a closet clean out. Stop by the establishment from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m. for an indoor yard sale and play day.
Get the details.

Sunday, April 26
The St. Clair VFW will have a black light bingo event beginning at 2 p.m.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, April 24
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting a laid-back spring night of instructor-led line dancing, music, and good company.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Head to Rolla’s historic downtown for the 5th Annual Spring Craft Festival. Discover original and handmade creations such as jewelry, furniture, clothing, home accessories, paintings and prints, books, wooden crafts, toys and much more.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Join representatives from Missouri State Parks and Edward Jones in celebrating Founders Day on the Katy Trail at the Treloar Trailhead. Enjoy live music, visit with team members from Missouri State Parks and Edward Jones, mulch trees in the Burkhardt Grove, take a tram ride to Peers, or assist in a honeysuckle hack to remove invasive species along the trail.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Ownesville is hosting its first ever strongman games event called O-Town Showdown. This free event will feature tremendous displays of strength like pressing logs and car lifting. The fun kicks off at 9 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having Baby Animal Days at the farm. This family-friendly outdoor event will feature 4H groups showing off their baby animals. The animals will vary by day, but should include chicks, goats, bunnies, bottle calf, and ponies. Other attractions will be open as well as a concession stand.
Find out 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!