Tag: Washington Public Library

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Dec. 1 – Dec. 7, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

This week, there’s chances to watch holiday movies, attend craft events, holiday pop-ups, Christmas parades, winter markets, holiday concerts, meals with Santa, holiday light displays, and much more.

Please note I try my best to capture the happenings in our area each week, and some events may be posted too late to make it into the article, so I share those items in my stories throughout the week. Be sure to follow me on Facebook an Instagram to get all the details!

Graphic with text over a photo of Christmas tree and white lights

And, as we move into winter weather, event details may 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!

Monday, Dec. 1, Wednesday, Dec. 3, Saturday, Dec. 6, Sunday, Dec. 7
Great 8 Cinema in Union is showing classic holiday movies through Christmas Eve for only $2 per person. On Monday and Wednesday, catch “A Christmas Story” and on Saturday and Sunday view “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
Get more info.

Tuesday, Dec. 2
Enjoy a holiday concert with music by the Schwarzer Zither Ensemble of Washington. Promoting the tradition, music, and local history of the zither instruments, Schwarzer Zither Ensemble of Washington performs a concert including seasonal and holiday music.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Dec. 3 – Sunday, Dec. 7
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar’s The 898 Hours of Christmas Pop-Up Bar is still happening this week. Drink Christmas-themed cocktails in a cozy, winter wonderland-themed space.
Get more details.

Wednesday, Dec. 3
Get into the spirit of the season at Mistletoe & Mixology, a Holiday Pop-Up at Oak & Front in Washington. Experience festive decorations, holiday cocktails, themed food specials, and house-made Christmas cookies served at every table. The event kicks off on Dec. 3, and will also run on Dec. 10, and Dec. 17. Reserve your spot for $10 per person.
Learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 4
N-Rec Sports Center in Washington is hosting a Bingo Night featuring Taco Loco. Price is $40 per person, and includes bingo, as well as a Taco Loco meal and margarita.
Get more details.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Have breakfast for dinner, and eat pancakes with Santa at St. Gertrude Parish & School in Washington. Have pancakes with all the toppings, beverages, Christmas crafts, and more.
Learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Beginning this Thursday, Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is kicking off a special series called “Happy Holidates.” The special is a dinner and a movie date package on Thursdays, with a holiday twist. For $30 per person, enjoy dinner at Smokin’ Oak, plus admission to a holiday film, popcorn, and a drink.
Get more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
Thacker’s Mini Pub in Gerald is having a Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament. Cost of entry is $20 per person.
Find out more.

Friday, Dec. 5 – Saturday, Dec. 6
Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair is having their annual Grove of Lights holiday light experience. View thousands of dazzling lights, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and s’mores, get photos with Santa, free face painting for kids, and much more.
Purchase tickets.

Friday, Dec. 5
Washington Library is hosting a Build-a-Stuffie and movie night. Attendees will build a new stuffie and then watch a G-rated holiday movie. Registration is required.
Register and learn more.

Friday, Dec. 5
River Sirens Collective is hosting a Ladies Night with IPL hand facials, permanent jewelry, blowouts, chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, Botox specials, and exclusive retail discounts.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have breakfast with Santa & the Grinch at Miller’s Grill in Washington from 8-9:45 a.m. Children have the opportunity for a free photo with Santa & the Grinch and Christmas Cookie Treats with the purchase of breakfast!
Purchase your tickets for the breakfast and learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Robertsville Elementary for a vendor fair and visit from Santa.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have breakfast with Santa at Boles Fire Protection District from 9-11 a.m. in Villa Ridge. This event is free, and also includes station tours by firefighters.
More info.

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Saturday, Dec. 6
New Haven is the site of the Handmade Holiday Mart from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Find seasonal cocktails and samples from Pinckney Bend Distillery, an espresso bar by Lang-A-Tang Cafe, tea and gifts from London Tea Merchant, plus permanent jewelry, custom shirts and mugs, along with flowers, décor, and ornaments by Bright Side Blooms.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The 4th Annual Mingle & Jingle is happening at Triple 3 Vineyard in Washington from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Shop from 50 local makers and visit with Santa from 1-3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The town of Pacific is having a Winter Wonderland Christmas on the Plaza and Parade holiday event. There will be s’mores, hot cocoa, pictures with Santa and much more.
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, Dec. 6
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night every Saturday. Stand up comedy, music, and more is welcome.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Liberty Hall in Washington is hosting The Divines, a Celtic band blending Irish, Old Time, and Americana music.
Get tickets and time info.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Downtown Sullivan will have its Christmas Festival and a lighted Parade.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Riverbend Middle School Craft & Vendor Fair promises to be a festive day of shopping, creativity, and community spirit in Pacific. Browse a wide variety of handmade crafts, unique gifts, home décor, seasonal items, and local vendor products—perfect for getting a head start on your holiday shopping! Enjoy food and fun while supporting our school and local small businesses. All proceeds from booth rentals help support Riverbend Middle School programs and student activities.
Get more details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Union’s City Auditorium for Rock & Roll Bingo. Attendees can bring their own snacks and beverages to this black light bingo night.
Find pricing and other details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Visit with Santa at Sullivan Ace from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Meet Santa Claus at Linny’s Kennel in Union. There will be treats for kids as well as canines at the event.
Get more info.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Thrive Studio and Events in Sullivan is hosting a Holiday Market & Santa Photos event. Expect hot cocoa, shopping with area vendors, and more.
Find all the details.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a Five Can Film Series with a showing of “Elf” this Sunday. Watch classic holiday flicks throughout the Christmas season for a $6 ticket price, or by donating 5 non-perishable cans of food per movie goer. *Editorial note: this article originally stated the special showing of “Elf” was on Saturday. The article has been updated to reflect the correct date for the movie.
Find out more.

Sunday, Dec. 7
Make an embroidered ornament at Yarn Together in Washington. Registration is required, and all supplies are included in workshop price.
Find out more.

Sunday, Dec. 7
St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Washington is having a donuts with Santa event from 10 a.m. – noon.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

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

Weekdays and Weekends in December
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this fall and winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
Head to Augusta for an old fashioned experience at the Christmas Candlelight Walk.
Get more info.

Friday, Dec. 5
The town of Salem is having its Christmas parade, and the theme is Candy Cane Lane, with businesses open late after the parade for shopping.
Find out more.

Friday, Dec. 5 & Saturday, Dec. 6
Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season.
Learn pricing and more info.

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Saturday, Dec. 6
The 2nd Annual Hometown Christmas in Warrenton is the perfect way to slow down and soak in the joy of the holidays with family and friends. There will be a lighted parade, live reindeer, photos with Santa, a Christmas light maze, hot cocoa, and much more.
Learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Christmas in Rosebud will feature fun for all ages, with a petting zoo, tree lighting, parade, face painting, an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more.
More details.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Head to Owensville High School for a Winter Craft Market. There will be food vendors, music, a visit from Santa, gift wrapping, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Dec. 6
St. James is having its Christmas Parade, and “Joy to the World” is the theme of the celebration. See Santa, enjoy cookies and hot cocoa, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Have ice cream for breakfast with Santa Claus at Udderly Moolicious in Warrenton. The menu will feature Belgian waffles topped with ice cream, whipped cream, and other delicious toppings. A photographer will also be onsite to take photos for $15 per family.
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 Nov. 3 – 9, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s Ladies Night Out events, ways to give back to the community, craft fairs, and much more.

Thursday, Nov. 6
Head to Dahlia Cafe in Union from 4-8 p.m. for Dine to Donate Night. Whether you dine in or take out, a portion of every purchase will benefit the United Way — helping support vital programs right here in our community.
Find more info.

Photo via Dahlia Cafe’s Facebook event.

Thursday, Nov. 6
Ace Hardware in Sullivan is hosting a Ladies Night. Catch store-wide sales, giveaways, and more.
Get more info.

Friday, Nov. 7
The Washington Public Library is hosting a Family Sushi Class. Learn to use a sushi mat, work with sticky rice, and choose your own ingredients (vegetarian options and no raw fish). A fun experience for the whole family.
Pre-registration is required.

Friday, Nov. 7
Head to Sullivan to come together as a community and stock the shelves of the Meramec Community Mission. Monetary donations are welcomed as well as food donations.
Get more info.

Friday, Nov. 7
Glittering Grapevine will be teaching beginner friendly line dancing lessons for free at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington.
Find out more.

Friday, Nov. 7
Lang-A-Tang Cafe & Catering is hosting a Grand Opening event to celebrate moving into its new home.
Learn more.

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Saturday, Nov. 8
Crooked Creek Beef in Pacific is hosting a special Farm & Craft Market. Find local honey, farm fresh eggs, tallow skincare products, fresh sourdough and other baked goods. There will be a bounce house, face painting, games, and more.
Get more details.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Head to New Haven for a Chili Supper to benefit the local schools. The event will include food, a kids carnival, raffle, silent auction, and pie auction.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
The 2nd Annual Holiday Craft Show is happening at Immaculate Conception School in Union.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Support local athletes by joining the Pacific Sports Club for their second annual Music Trivia Night and Karaoke.
More info.

Saturday, Nov. 8 & Sunday, Nov. 9
Union Middle School is hosting a Craft Fair.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, Nov. 4
Ladies Night at Red Door & Lillian Grace in Rolla will feature special sales, permanent jewelry, appetizers and drinks, and more.
Find out more.

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Friday, Nov. 7 – Sunday, Nov. 9
Experience the best parts of fall one more time at Fall Farewell Fest at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Shop end-of-season pumpkin deals, sip hot cider, and enjoy all your favorite fall activities before saying goodbye to fall and hello to winter fun.
Learn more.

Friday, Nov. 7 & Saturday, Nov. 8
Fall Campfire Nights continue at Brookdale Farms in Eureka.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
November is National Novel Writing Month, and aspiring and established authors will race to complete a 50,000 word novel from Nov. 1 – 30. The Rolla Public Library is hosting Novel November Writer’s Drop In events on Saturdays in November.
Get more details.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Smith Valley Event Barn in Salem is hosting a Holiday Market. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping at this event that will run from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Meditate with the vision of the wild mustang archetype, a symbol of freedom and resilience, at Mindful Living Coaching’s day retreat in Marthasville.
Get more info.

Saturday, Nov. 8
Downtown Rolla will have a Veterans Day Parade to honor the men and women who have served our country.
Learn more.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Sept. 1 – Sept. 7, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

This weekend is packed with things to do around the area – there’s car shows, food focused events, and festivals galore, from the Celtic Festival and Beerfest in Washington, to WingFest in Union, plus the Harvest Festival in Steelville, the Boots and Bourbon Bash in Rosebud, and many more events.

Thursday, Sept. 4
Are you looking for ways to extend the growing season in your vegetable garden? The Sullivan branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a program called Extending the Growing Season, at 6 p.m. The event is free, but RSVP is required to attend.
RSVP and get more information.

Graphic via Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library’s Facebook

Friday, Sept. 5
Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven is hosting a BBQ pop-up, with Josh Lang cooking up the ‘cue. The event is from 3-5 p.m., or until sold out.
Learn more.

Friday, Sept. 5-Saturday, Sept. 6
The 9th Annual WingFest is going down at the Union Fairgrounds, located at Union City Park. This free two day event will feature food, vendors, live music, wing eating contest, chicken nugget contest, a corn hole tournament, fireworks, face painter, mechanical bull, bounce houses, and a lot more.
Get details on Facebook.

Friday, Sept. 5
The Washington Public Library’s writers’ group, the Washington Wordsmiths, is publishing their second anthology, “‘Doorknobs & Pathways’.” To add to the festivity local authors are invited to bring their work to sell. Come talk to the authors and enjoy festive treats. Copies of “‘Doorknobs & Pathways'” will be available for purchase.
Learn more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
If you’re feeling crafty, then head to DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in downtown St. Clair for a resin wind chime class. The cost if $35 per person, with all materials included in the attendance price, and each attendee will leave with a wind chime.
More details.

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Saturday, Sept. 6
Calling all craft beer lovers, the 19th Annual Washington Jaycees Brewfest is happening at the Washington Farmers Market from 4-8 p.m. Guests of this ticketed event will gain access to 20+ breweries, home-brewers, and distilleries, as well as getting a commemorative Brewfest pint glass. There will be live music and food available for purchase from Ernesto’s Mexican Restaurant, and American Legion Auxiliary will be hosting a bake sale at the event.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
If you’re looking for a spot to chill and listen to live music with an uplifting message, then head to Pacific for Rockin’ the Railroad, a concert put on by The Bridge. The gate opens at 5 p.m. and will feature the music of The Protest, Behold the Beloved, and Cole Abell.
Get all the details.

Saturday, Sept. 6
The Chick-fil-A food truck will be in New Haven, at People’s Savings Bank. A portion of the sales from the day will benefit The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation. The food truck operates on a pre-order basis so the restaurant knows how much food to bring to each mobile location.
Learn more and pre-order here.

Saturday, Sept. 6
The annual VFW Celtic Festival is back for its one-day celebration at the Washington VFW, located at 813 Jefferson St. This ticketed event features, food, a beer tent, festivities, and music.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Andy’s Too in Union’s ice cream shop, located on U.S. 50, is hosting its grand opening. The festivities include family-fun like face painting, as well as a seafood boil, plus more.
Get the details.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Liberty Field in Pacific will be the site of Jimmy Smooths Creepin’ Show, a car show featuring rat rods and bikes, plus music, kids activities, food trucks, a swap meet, and more.
Learn more.

Sunday, Sept. 7
Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer, & Spirits in Union is hosting its grand opening celebration from 1-5 p.m. There will live music by Twisted Fiction, along with free product samples, and giveaways.
More info.

Sunday, Sept. 7
Looking for a rejuvenating experience? Lost Hill Lake Wedding & Events in St. Clair has a workshop for that. Combining the power of breath work with the invigorating effects of ice baths and saunas, attendees will release stress, boost their immune system, and leave feeling refreshed and energized.
Get tickets.

Road Trippin’

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

Tuesday, Sept. 2 – Sunday, Sept. 7
Head to Steelville for Harvest Festival 2025, a several days long event that features music, food, games, and rodeo fun.
More information.

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Thursday, Sept. 4 – Sunday, Sept. 7
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.

Thursday, Sept. 4 – Saturday, Sept. 6
The annual Grape & Fall Festival in St. James kicks off Thursday, and just a few of the festivities include Weiner dog races, a rodeo roping show, street market fair, carnival rides, livestock exhibits, food vendors, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, Sept. 6
Put on your Western wear for the Boots & Bourbon Bash at Copper June’s in Rosebud. This one-day event will feature music, food trucks, spirits from area distilleries, and boot-scootin’ fun.
Get tickets.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening Franklin County April 28 – May 4

Posted on by Amanda

From Star Wars Day festivities, to a market, rodeo, and a 5k, there’s a lot of things going on this week!

Thursday, May 1 – Sunday, May 4
Prepare for May the 4th, also known as Star Wars Day, by stopping by the Washington library’s make & take station to design your very own lightsaber. Fun for all ages while supplies last!
Get more details at the library’s Facebook event page.

Friday, May 2 – Saturday, May 3
Head to the St. Clair Saddle Club for its annual rodeo. Events include barrel racing, bronc riding, tying, roping, and more. 
Learn more.

Saturday, May 3
Take a short trip out to the town of Rosebud for a day of fun, shopping, and discovery at Spring Treasure Day! Browse unique handmade crafts, vintage finds, and special treasures from local vendors.
Find out more at the Facebook event.

Saturday, May 3
Help the Franklin County Foster Closet continue its mission in serving foster families by signing up for its first annual Run for Love race. 
Learn more.

Photo via Run for Love’s signup page.

Saturday, May 3
Stop by the Labadie Station Spring Market to shop a variety of local vendors selling items ranging from hand-made crafts to honey, skin care products, and much more.
Learn more.

Saturday, May 3
If you love the tender meat and amazing flavor of pork steaks, then you need to attend the BBQ Pork Steak Competition at Winehouse 66 in Pacific. The event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Find out more information.

Sunday, May 4
Grief is universal, yet so often, we don’t know how to talk about it or navigate its complexities. This special event, held on International Bereaved Mother’s Day at Liberty Hall in Washington, creates space for reflection, connection, and healing for anyone who has experienced loss—directly or indirectly.
Learn more and get tickets.

Sunday, May 4
All are welcome to stop by The Ridge Church in Villa Ridge for The Ridge Family Outdoor Day. The event features free food and drinks, bounce houses, a petting zoo, a rock climbing wall, face painting, fire trucks, a health fair featuring vendors in the health and wellness space, plus a custom and classic car, truck, and motorcycle show.
Find out more at the Facebook event.

There’s a lot more happening, and if I shared every event in this week’s roundup this article would be pretty lengthy, so take a look at the full list of events happening this week and beyond on the calendar here on the website. If you’re on a mobile device, scroll to the bottom of the page to find the calendar!