No matter if you’re looking to celebrate Valentine’s with your sweetheart, your gal pals, or your kiddos, there’s unique and festive events happening in and around Franklin County throughout the week and weekend of Valentine’s Day.
Wednesday, Feb. 11-Saturday, Feb. 14 Are you ready to get married, but don’t want to plan a wedding? Wish there was a Vegas-style ceremony option right here in Franklin County? For a limited time, there is. The Yes, a Valentine’s Day Wedding event is happening for a few days at the Washington Expo Center. The details have been handled, all you have to do is walk down the aisle and say “I do.” Learn more.
Thursday, Feb. 12 Looking for a girls night out? Sip on fun Valentine’s themed drinks at the Galentine’s Day Pop-Up Bar at Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington. There are two seating times available for this special event: from 5-7 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m. Get more info.
Friday, Feb. 13 &Saturday, Feb. 14 Make your reservations for a four-course dinner at Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington. Get more details.
Friday, Feb. 13 &Saturday, Feb. 14 Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having a Valentine’s dinner event fit for a fairy tale. The Carriages & Candlelight event will feature a romantic, candlelit dinner experience with intimate seating, live instrumental music, a catered dinner, professional photo moments, and an open bar, and carriage rides throughout the evening. Find tickets.
Friday, Feb. 13 &Saturday, Feb. 14 Oak and Front Kitchen + Bar is offering a special Valentine’s dinner on Friday and Saturday. The chef curated menu features filet with vegetables and drink specials available both days. Reservations are recommended as walk-in seating will be limited after 4:30 p.m. on each day. Find out more.
Friday, Feb. 13 Attend a succulent potting bar class with a twist at the plant and sip galentine’s event at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Tickets are $35 and include a free glass of wine, with additional glasses of wine available for $5. Reserve your spot.
Friday, Feb. 13 Enjoy a galentine’s day event with a fun, floral twist at the Main Street Studio in downtown Washington. This Build-An-Arrangement Night is hosted by Joyful Blooms and is a hands-on floral design experience that’s the perfect way to celebrate friendship, creativity, and a beautiful night out together. Find out more.
Friday, Feb. 13 St. James Winery is hosting a special Valentine’s Dinner and facility tour. Attendees will enjoy a four-course culinary experience paired with specially selected wine or beer, crafted to elevate every bite. Your evening includes an intimate guided tour where you’ll learn about the winemaking process, enjoy the ambiance, and savor each course as the night unfolds. Let the atmosphere, the pairings, and the company sweep you away. See the menu and buy tickets.
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Friday, Feb. 13 Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington is hosting a galentine’s night. Expect cocktails, bites, and lots of cozy, galentine’s vibes. Find out more.
Saturday, Feb. 14 Spend Valentine’s Day at McKelvey Vineyards and enjoy dinner, champagne and live music! Buffet dinner from 5-7 p.m., with live music with The Bright Side from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and include dinner and a glass of champagne. Find tickets.
*Editorial note* this article has been updated to reflect the cancellation of the Valentine’s dinner by Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan.
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and this week there’s lots of opportunities to create crafts, take in a local art exhibit, play black light bingo, and celebrate National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day or indulge in spicy, flavorful cuisine in WashMo’s Cajun Night.
You can also take a Valentine’s Day cookie decorating class, or grab your girlfriends and attend numerous Galentine’s events such as the Rosebud Winter Wine Walk, or events at a couple area wineries. Other Valentine’s events include the Love Shack Valentine’s Pop-Up Bar, and a family-friendly storybook breakfast event.
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.
Thursday, Feb. 5 Head to the Union Branch of the Scenic Regional Library for Booze and Boos program, a paranormal history program of many of the beer barons of St Louis, plus a few extras from around the US. Registration is required.
Friday, Feb. 6 The Pacific Branch of Scenic Regional Library is hosting its annual Local Art Show co-hosted with local artist Rex Batson! Original works by local artists will be on display, so join us for an art-loving evening celebrating the many creative talents of our community. Event begins at 6 p.m. Get more details.
Saturday, Feb. 7 Celebrate National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day at area Silver Spoon Ice Cream locations in and around Franklin County in Washington, Eureka, or House Springs. Learn more.
Saturday, Feb. 7 WashMo Cajun Night is a free event with live music and dancing, plus food and drinks available for purchase! Plate includes one entrée with rice, beans, and cornbread, choices include Etoufee, beef brisket, gumbo , Cajun sausage, lemon chicken, and new this year, the Bayou wing basket, prepared by Blues Hog. Learn more.
Saturday, Feb. 7 Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington is having a pop-up bakery event featuring by His grace Baked goods, made by local baker Lauren Sloan. The event is from noon-3 p.m. Find out more.
Saturday, Feb. 7 Pop into the makerspace at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair location to work on your valentine boxes. We will have a few boxes, paper, glue, stickers, paint, and more while supplies last. This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted. This class may involve messy crafts or activities. Please dress to be messy! Register here.
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Saturday, Feb. 7 It’s Black Light Bingo Night at the Gerald Lions Club beginning at 7 p.m. Find out more.
Sunday, Feb. 8 Attend a “Heartstrings” paint class at DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in St. Clair. Cost is $35 per person, and supplies are included. Get more info.
Sunday, Feb. 8 Head to Union to Piccadilly Par 1 for a Super Bowl party, beginning at 4 p.m. Find more details.
Sunday, Feb. 8 Muddy Bank Brewing in Sullivan is hosting a Valentine’s Day Cookie Decorating class at 2 p.m. This kid-friendly event must have an adult help them during the class. Each attendee will receive a cookie decorating kit with 6 cookies to decorate during the class and guidance by the instructor. Learn more and buy tickets.
Sunday, Feb. 8 Want to support young entrepreneurs? Head to N-Rec Sports Center in Washington for Youth-Preneur Showcase from noon-3 p.m. and support local kids selling their products. Learn more.
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Sunday, Feb. 8 Catch the Big Game at Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge in Washington. Tickets are $35 per person, and tickets are limited to 30 people. Attendees will enjoy the game in an uncrowded environment and a menu of beer, Carbliss Seltzers, soda, water, and a snack food buffet. Find out more and buy tickets.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Multiple days and times Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard. Get pricing and more info.
Friday, Feb. 6 The Love Shack is a Valentine’s Pop-Up Bar at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Spend the night line dancing, enjoying drinks, and a food truck, in a fun, love-themed space. Find out more.
Saturday, Feb. 7 Spend a cozy afternoon of wine tasting, shopping, and small-town charm at the Winter Wine Walk in Rosebud from noon-4 p.m. Tickets are $20 online & $30 day of the event. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through town as you sample a variety of wines from local wineries, paired with complimentary snacks at each stop. It’s the perfect excuse to explore local businesses, catch up with friends, and support our community—all while sipping something delicious. Get more information.
Saturday, Feb. 7 Head to St. James for a Galentine’s Celebration Tea Party at Prairie Barn Winery. Enjoy an afternoon tea including sweet and savory food selections. One glass of wine, slushy or non-alcoholic beverage included. Seats are limited at $25 per person. Find out more.
Saturday, Feb. 7 Learn how to paint a cuddly Highland cow at a paint & sip event at Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta. The event is from 1-3 p.m., and is $30 per person. Get tickets.
Saturday, Feb. 7 Gather your favorite gal pals for an afternoon of wine, relaxation, and all-around Galentine’s fun at St. James Winery! Sip your favorite St. James Winery wines, enjoy a cozy and festive atmosphere, and treat yourself to unique experiences and offerings. We’re building an inspiring lineup of makers, artisans, and wellness vendors—so expect a day full of discovery, indulgence, and memorable moments. Learn more.
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Saturday, Feb. 7 It’s a Galentine’s Glow Bingo Party at The Factory on Jackson in Salem. The fun begins at 6 p.m. Get more info on Facebook.
Saturday, Feb. 7 & Sunday, Feb. 8 Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a family-friendly Valentine’s event. The Be Our Valentine: An Enchanted Storybook Breakfast will feature character moments, storybook magic, plus food and mimosas available for adults. 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!
A couple of years ago, friends Mary Stevens and Judy Mattox felt called to make meals for people in need. At first they organized a small group that served meals at their shared church, and while that was a successful effort, they both felt led to do more, but in order to do that they’d need to take a couple leaps of faith, like registering as a nonprofit, finding a kitchen where they could prep and cook meals, and raise funds.
Feeding on Faith has been official since November of 2024, after everything was finalized – from becoming a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, to meeting health department requirements, to finding a kitchen and place to serve meals, all of which took about six months.
Things really started to pick up for the organization once they were able to begin organizing community meals served at the Marylou Community Building in Truesdale, located in Warren County, which started this past summer and is still going strong.
Mary, left, and Judy, right, are the duo behind the nonprofit Feeding on Faith. Photo credit: Feeding on Faith via Facebook.
The meals they’ve served have changed along with the seasons, over the summer the ladies served items like “walking tacos” for lunch at the concession pavilion located outside of the Marylou Community Building. During that time, they fed a lot of kids since school wasn’t in session, as well as some single adults, retirees, and families.
Mary and Judy say they still see “a pretty good mix of people” at each community meal, with many return attendees.
“We see a lot of families and we hear the same thing each time: ‘you don’t know how much this helps,'” Mary shares.
And since the women both feel like creating this nonprofit was a calling from God, it’s important that the help they provide often looks like the kind of comforting meal you’d get if you were invited to a friend’s house for dinner.
Casserole meals are popular dishes, but the ladies have also made hearty meals like scalloped potatoes and ham, soups and chili, as well as sandwiches and chips, and chili dogs. Although both ladies love to cook for others, Judy is the baker of the two, so every meal also includes a dessert of some sort.
Although they’re a fairly new organization, they’ve made a significant impact for those in need. So far, they’ve served over 900 meals to the community, helping to feed people at the community meal events as well as providing meals to nearby shelters.
“We really wanted to serve 2,000 meals last year, but in the beginning we had some delays with renting a kitchen,” Mary explains.
In addition to feeding people at the every other Monday community meals, some of the shelters and other groups they’ve provided meals for include a domestic abuse shelter and they’ve helped make lasagnas for the Lincoln County chapter of the nation-wide meal train program called Lasagna Love.
Having access to the space inside Marylou Community Building once every other week means they have a place to keep their supplies, a requirement per the health department, but also it means they’re able to preserve any leftovers and purchase more perishable ingredients in advance.
“We were able to buy a freezer, so now we can buy things when they’re on sale,” Judy says.
The ladies make all the meals that they serve to the community. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
As a nonprofit they rely on donations and volunteers, and whenever they’re able to make ingredients and funds stretch, the more people they’re able to help. Mary shares that since they’re such a new organization, a lot of volunteers at Feeding on Faith have been friends and family, although they also welcomed a Girl Scout Troop to help serve a community meal last year.
And there’s also been support from individuals and organizations in the community, including Cuivre River Electric, Long Row Lavender Farm, Woodbridge Corp., Sam’s Club in Wentzville, and many more. Without those donations – of both funds and supplies – the nonprofit wouldn’t have been able to make such a profound impact.
Planning for the future
Both Judy and Mary see Feeding on Faith expanding to help even more people.
“Judy wants a food truck,” Judy says with a laugh.
The women hope to grow the nonprofit by purchasing a food truck or food trailer so they can be mobile to meet, and feed, people where they’re at.
“That’s this year’s partial goal,” Mary adds.
Mary also envisions having a bigger space that’s all their own, so they can have premade, frozen meals ready to help people whenever they need it.
“We’re very grateful to be able to use this space, but unfortunately we don’t have access to it all the time,” Mary shares of the Marylou Community Building. “I’d love to make up individual meals in advance and put them in the freezer at our own place so that if someone reaches out and needs a meal for that day, we can easily help.”
Mary and Judy work together to make multiple lasagnas in an assembly style at the Marylou Community Building in Truesdale. In January 2026, the Feeding on Faith community meal was lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and dessert. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
The next community meal served at the Marylou Community Building in Truesdale is on Monday, Feb. 2, from 5-6:30 p.m. If you’d like to learn more about Feeding on Faith, you can follow the organization on Facebook, or visit its website.
Note: This article is part of a series highlighting volunteer groups, individuals who give back to area causes, and people who are building community, such as the piece I wrote on The Homemade Exchange. If you know someone making a positive impact in or around the Franklin County area, email me at smalltownsocialitemo@gmail.com and I may feature them on the website.
This week’s article is a cure for cabin fever a lot of us might have after spending some time snowed in!
There’s lots of opportunities to get crafty, like a paint & sip night at Sip on Main, create a glow in the dark lantern at Pages in Pacific, and make blankets for Project Linus at DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs. There’s also trivia nights, a chance to enjoy dueling pianos at the P-Town Piano Party, Franklin County Back to School Fair’s Mouse Races, a murder mystery dinner, Wash Mo Blues SnowBall, and much more!
With the recent snow, it’s possible that some events scheduled for earlier in the week may get canceled or rescheduled. I try to keep these posts as up to date as possible, but 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. 27 *Rescheduled from Jan. 6* Get crafty with DIY Advice Cards. Each card will have its own unique theme, artwork, and rules set by its creator – YOU! The cards will feature messages that can help guide you through situations you may encounter during the new year. Get more details.
Tuesday, Jan. 27 Smokin’ Oak Pizza in Washington’s weekly trivia night is all about great questions, good company, and having a genuinely good time. Every Tuesday expect hot pizzas, cold drinks on tap, plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and—best of all—prizes. Whether you’re a trivia pro or just in it for the fun, everyone’s welcome. Find out more.
Tuesday, Jan. 27 Head to The Novel Nook in Washington for a unique book club experience where everyone brings their own book! 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. This is a space for book lovers to discover new reads, engage in lively discussions, and connect with fellow readers, all while celebrating diverse literary tastes. Whether you’re deep into a thrilling mystery, an inspiring memoir, or a thought-provoking novel, bring it along and talk books with other readers on the last Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. Get the details.
Wednesday, Jan. 28 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. Learn more.
Wednesday, Jan. 28 Brushin’ Whimsy is hosting a paint and sip night at Sip on Main from 6-8 p.m. Attendees have a choice of painting two different winter scenes, cost is $35 per person. Pre-registration required. Sign up.
Wednesday, Jan. 28 N-Sports Rec Center in Washington is hosting a wine, charcuterie, and bingo night. Cost is $25 per person. Find out more and reserve your spot.
Thursday, Jan. 29 The Alley in Washington is having a Valentine’s Day Gnome Craft & Cocktails event. Cost is $25 per person and attendees will be create a Valentine’s themed gnome painting and receive one drink with ticket price. Get tickets.
Friday, Jan. 30 Test your knowledge of music trivia at the Washington Elks Lodge. The Music Trivia night will begin when the doors open at 6:30 p.m., and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $25 per person, drinks are included in price. Outside food is allowed, but outside beverages are not. Learn more.
Friday, Jan. 30 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. Learn more.
Saturday, Jan. 31 Create a glow in the dark lantern at Pages in Pacific. All materials included, as well as refreshments. $20 each spot with a $5 deposit. Get more information.
Saturday, Jan. 31 Stop into DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair to make blankets for Project Linus. Bring your own fleece fabric or for a $20 donation use the fleece fabric available at the shop. Find out more.
Saturday, Jan. 31 *Rescheduled from Jan. 24 due to weather* 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.
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Saturday, Jan. 31 P-Town Piano Party is a dueling piano show complete with dinner and a cash bar. This year’s event will be hosted at the Pacific Eagles Hall. Dinner is prepared by Vilcek Catering. Enjoy great songs from all eras as our performers entertain you. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the MVR – IIII Bridge Foundation. Get more details.
Saturday, Jan. 31 Franklin County Back to School Fair’s Mouse Races. Doors open at 6 p.m. and races begin at 7 p.m. sharp. BYOB and snacks, but soda will be provided. This night of fun and raising money will help kids in the area. Tickets are $20 if you buy ahead of the event and $25 at the door. Purchase tickets.
Saturday, Jan. 31 Head to Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair for an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner includes four-courses. Get more info and buy tickets.
Saturday, Jan. 31 The Office Bar & Grill in Washington hosts an Open Mic Night every Saturday from 6-10 p.m. Find out more.
Saturday, Jan. 31 The Washington VFW is the site of the Winter Wash Mo Blues SnowBall Member Appreciation Night. All are welcome at this event, happening from 7-10 p.m. Enjoy live music by the Faithful Strays, outside food is welcome, but drinks must be purchased at the VFW. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Thursday, Jan. 29 Head to Ruthie’s Family Restaurant in Rosebud for an evening of line dancing and dinner. Find out more.
Friday, Jan. 30 – Sunday, Feb. 1 Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard. Get pricing and more info.
Friday, Jan. 30 & Saturday, Jan. 31 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. 31 Are you newly engaged and searching for possible wedding venues? The Hermann Wedding Trail is happening on Saturday, and engaged couples are welcome to check out beautiful wedding, reception and rehearsal dinner venues and visit with wedding vendors who will ensure you have the perfect day! Find out more on Facebook.
Saturday, Jan. 31 Celebrate National Seed Swap Day with a plant and seed swap at the Rolla Public Library from 1-3 p.m. Attendees should bring packets of seeds to share, as well as houseplants, cuttings, or books. Get more information.
Sunday, Feb. 1 Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Sunday trivia event on Musicals. The will be hosted trivia outside (weather permitting) starting at 2:30 p.m. You can also stay inside for cozy indoor games, wine tastings and relaxation. 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!
Small Town Socialite 