Union Missouri – Page 8 – Small Town Socialite

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 28 – August 3, 2025

Posted on July 28, 2025July 28, 2025 by Amanda

Although back-to-school time is on the horizon, summer fun activities continue around the area this week. There’s a free concert, it’s the final free drive-in movie of the season, there’s also a free family movie in the gardens of a local winery, plus farmers markets, a back to school safety class, and more.

Tuesday, July 29
Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. author Ed Wheatley will be at the Washington Public Library to talk about his book “From St. Louis To Cooperstown: Legends Born and Made in the Gateway City.” The talk and book signing is sponsored by Friends of the Library and Neighborhood Reads.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 31
Catch a free drive-in showing of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” in the Cinema 1 Plus theater’s parking lot in Washington. The movie will start ~30 mins. after sunset. Parking spots with orange cones will be reserved for drive-in moviegoers. When you arrive, move a cone and claim a space.
Learn more.

Friday, August 1
Parents can attend a free Back To School Safety Community Event at St. Clair Library from 6-7 p.m. Presented by Compassion Healing and Excellence, led by Timothy J. Fancher, MAPT, BA, AS, founder and 4th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate. This verbal seminar is designed to equip parents, older siblings, and concerned adults with tools to teach kids practical alternatives to “Stranger Danger,” de-escalation skills to handle bullies, safety awareness for public and school settings, and ways to make safety engaging for children. Due to direct discussions on street safety, it’s recommended adults attend without younger children to ensure open, focused conversations. Reserve your spot by emailing Tim directly at timothyfancher@gmail.com

Friday, August 1
The City of Union’s next Concert in the Park will feature the music of Kaleidoscope. The fun is going down at the large pavilion at City Park beginning at 6:30 p.m.

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

Saturday, August 2 & Sunday, August 3
The Villa Ridge Farmers Market takes place on the first Saturday and Sunday of the month at Stacked Coffehouse. Find locally made goods, local produce, meat, food, and of course, coffee from Stacked.
Follow the market’s Facebook page to learn more.

Saturday, August 2
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday from 8 a.m. – noon, in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.

Saturday, August 2
Hear live music performed by the duo Scott and Karl at Triple 3 Vineyards in Washington from 2-5 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, August 3
Get ready for the Washington Town and Country Fair with the WashMO Fair Parade. The parade begins at 4 p.m. at Main and Cedar Streets, traveling East to Jefferson Street. Participants will move South on Jefferson, then West on 5th Street to the Elks Lodge at 1459 W 5th Street.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

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Thursday, July 31
Follow the yellow brick road to Movie Night in The Gardens! Enjoy a timeless classic under the stars at a screening of “The Wizard of Oz” in the beautiful setting of the Gardens at St. James Winery. It’s the perfect night out for the whole family, pets included.
Get more details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1073981004063629

Friday, August 1 & Saturday, August 2
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting its Balloon Glowdeo event. It’s part hot air balloon festival, part rodeo, and 100% fun! The event will feature food and drink vendors, live music, a petting zoo, and more.
Purchase tickets online.

Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3
The Owensville Regional Arts Council presents a stage performance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.” The play will have three performances, and tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students.
Learn more.

Saturday, August 2
Listen to live music and keep cool while doing so at Hot August Night, Cool Cave Music, a summer concert inside Onondaga Cave in Leasburg. Tickets are $30 per person and space is limited.
Find out more.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 21 – July 27, 2025

Posted on July 21, 2025July 21, 2025 by Amanda

This week is going to be a hot one, but there’s plenty of cool things happening around the area, including a free drive-in movie showing of “Back to the Future,” an open day to play in the water at Lost Hill Lake, an indoor craft fair, and a chance to see the stars at Onondaga Cave State Park.

Thursday, July 24
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.

Thursday, July 24
Head back in time with Marty and Doc Brown with the free drive-in showing of “Back to the Future” at Cinema 1 Plus in Washington. The movie will play in the theater parking lot and will start 30 minutes after sunset. Spots are first come, first serve and movie snacks like popcorn and drinks are available for purchase.
Learn more.

Thursday, July 24
Winehouse 66 in Pacific is hosting a permanent jewelry pop-up with AB Crafts from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Find out more.

Ad purchased by Soul Refresh. Healing mind, body, and soul in WashMO.

Thursday, July 24
Take your young baker to Washington for a kids’ cupcake decorating workshop on Thursday, July 24 at 4 p.m. at Ambiance Lighting for the business’s Christmas in July event. The decorating workshop is free and the supplies are on a first come, first serve basis.
Learn more.

Friday, July 25
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. Please note that the location of the market is on the corner of Oak and Main Streets, adjacent to Hansen Park.
Get more details on Facebook.

Friday, July 25
Feeling messy? The you’ll want to attend Mess Fest at the Washington Public Library from 6-7 p.m. Get doused with color as you make your way around the library, and attendees are encouraged to wear white for full impact. The messy mood continues outdoors in the closed off parking lot. Have ooey gooey fun with shaving cream, playdough, and other messy makers at this all ages messy affair!
Get the full details.

Saturday, July 26
Stay cool, find some new crafted items and help a worthy cause at the Beat the Heat Indoor Craft Fair. The fundraising craft show will benefit the Franklin County Foster Closet. There will be plenty of crafters and vendors, along with activities for kids and bingo.
Find out more.

Sunday, July 27
Beat the heat with a day spent at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair. The private event and glamping venue is opening the grounds to the public from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and fun. Admission is $10 for all ages 6 and up.
Get all the details.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, July 25 – Saturday, July 26
Belle City Park Arena in Belle will host Central Family Rodeo Association. The rodeo will happen on both days and concessions will be available on site.
Learn more.

Saturday, July 26 – Sunday, July 27
The Berries & BBQ Wine Trail will happen in Hermann, as several wineries take part in this two-day event. Luscious berries, savory BBQ, and cool, fragrant wine cellars make for a memorable summer weekend in Missouri Wine Country.
Get tickets.

Saturday, July 26
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, June 26
Down Home BBQ in Cuba will host a Route 66 car show from 2 – 4 p.m.
Learn more.

Sunday, July 27
It’s worth the short drive to Fenton to see the amazing cars at this 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 at the Facebook event.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, July 14 – July 20, 2025

Posted on July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 by Amanda

This week is the Crawford County Fair, the free drive-in movie series continues in Washington, plus there’s a local farmers market, barbecue events, an outdoor yoga experience, and a lot more happening.

Thursday, July 17
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington continues its free drive-in showings this week with a screening of “Mamma Mia.” Weather permitting, the show will begin after sunset in the parking lot. Parking spaces are first come, first serve, with concessions available for purchase.
Follow the theater on Facebook to stay updated.

Friday, July 18
Teens can gather at the Washington Public Library for the Teen Paint and Pizza Party. Create an original masterpiece under the guidance of a paint instructor. Materials will be supplied. Registration required. Call 636-390-1070 to register. Ages 12 & Up.
Find out more.

Friday, July 18
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.

Saturday, July 19
Rennick Pavilion at the Missouri Riverfront in Washington will be the site of Blessings Are Miracles’ free BBQ.
Learn more.

Photo via Blessings Are Miracles’ Facebook post.

Saturday, July 19
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens every on the first and third Saturdays in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.
Get more details on Facebook.

Saturday, July 19
Head to the Union American Legion for the 3rd Saturday BBQ, beginning at 11 a.m. until sold out! Menu includes full slab of ribs, 1/2 slab ribs, chicken, brats, pork steaks, and more.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, July 15 – Saturday, July 19
Hood Park in Cuba is the site of the Crawford County Fair! Kicking off on Tuesday, July 15 and running through Saturday, July 19, the fair will include food vendors, agricultural and live stock shows, entertainment, and carnival rides. The fun gets started with a fair parade on July 15, at 6 p.m.
Find the full schedule of events on Facebook.

Friday, July 18 – Sunday, July 20
Where can you find antique tractors, steam engines, a flea market, food, music, and fun activities like a cast iron skillet throwing contest and a bale throw? In Rosebud at the Steam Engine & Antique Tractor Show.
Find the full schedule.

Ad purchased by Soul Refresh. Healing mind, body, and soul in WashMO.

Saturday, July 19
Flow at the Spring at Maramec Spring Park in St. James. Stretch, breathe, and flow in a natural environment at this outdoor morning yoga class. Bring yoga mat, towel, and water to class. $15 fee to attend class.
Sign up details found here.

Saturday, July 19
Watch truck and tractor pulls at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Hillsboro.
Find more info on Facebook.

Saturday, July 19
Head to St. James Winery for a stunning summer evening in the heart of the Meramec Highlands! Settle in at the Taproom for a four-course dining experience showcasing seasonal flavors, local ingredients, and expertly crafted pairings from St. James Winery and Public House Brewing Company. Limited seating available!
Get more info and tickets.

News and Features

Shawcuterie Gourmet Grazing Offers Tailored Charcuterie Experiences

Posted on July 10, 2025 by Amanda

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.