4:00 pm: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance at the MU Family Impact Center
– April 1, 2026
The Countdown is On! Only 13 days left until Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) begins at the MU Family Impact Center! Free tax assistance by IRS-certified volunteers.
Walk-in only – first come, first served!
Mark your calendar and spread the word—free tax help is almost here!
12:00 pm: First Thursday Book Discussion @ Columbia Library
– April 2, 2026
Columbia Public Library
100 W. Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203
Phone: (573) 443-3161
The biography "The Sea Captain's Wife: A True Story of Mutiny, Love, and Adventure at the Bottom of the World" finally gives Mary Ann Patten, the first woman to command a merchant vessel as captain, her due. Author Tilar J. Mazzeo draws on new archival research from nineteenth-century women's maritime journals and on her own expedition to the Southern Ocean and Antarctica in search of Mary Ann's route. Thrilling, harrowing and heroic, "The Sea Captain's Wife" is the story of one woman who, for love, would do what was necessary to survive.
Join us online for an exhilarating journey through the history of U.S. women astronauts with Valerie Neal, emerita curator from the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum and expert on human spaceflight.
Sally Ride became a household name as the first American woman in space, but scores of equally impressive women have also made their mark. "On a Mission: The Smithsonian History of U.S. Women Astronauts" spans 45 years and 61 astronauts to share the epic journeys of women who made space for themselves in a male-dominated field.
Valerie Neal interviewed many of these astronauts to bring their experiences to life, offering a culturally insightful history of their achievements and challenges. Collectively, these women have completed more than 100 space shuttle missions and over 30 long-duration stays on the International Space Station and Russian Space Station Mir. They continue to contribute to present-day space exploration efforts.
"On a Mission" includes 50 black-and-white photographs to complement the historical account. With its sweeping look from the first women astronauts to Christina Hammock Koch, currently training for NASA’s Artemis II mission, this book is an inspiring and thorough tribute to unsung women's history.
Register now to take part in this inspirational discussion!
Valerie Neal is a space historian and curator emerita at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. Her specialty is human spaceflight, space technology and space science in the space shuttle era and beyond. At the Museum, she collected more than 1500 artifacts of the shuttle era, curated three exhibitions and eight documentary programs for the Smithsonian Channel, published books and articles growing from her research, lectured in the U.S. and abroad and gave many interviews for U.S. and international media.
Before joining the Museum, Neal was a writer and editor for numerous NASA publications. She participated in underwater astronaut training in Alabama and mission support in Houston for four space shuttle missions. She has taught American studies and writing courses at multiple universities. She holds Ph.D. and M.A. degrees in American studies and a B.A. degree in English and history.
Whether you're planning a trip, trying to find your way around an unfamiliar city, or just curious about what the rest of the world looks like, the Google Maps app is a great tool! This introductory class will teach you about helpful features that can be used on all mobile devices. Please download the app to your phone or tablet and bring it along.
9:00 am: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance at the MU Family Impact Center
– April 6, 2026
The Countdown is On! Only 13 days left until Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) begins at the MU Family Impact Center! Free tax assistance by IRS-certified volunteers.
Walk-in only – first come, first served!
Mark your calendar and spread the word—free tax help is almost here!
At this online presentation, Children’s Grove will share the science of kindness, highlight programming and their collaboration with Columbia Public Schools. The Youth Kindness Ambassadors from local high schools will discuss their experiences and how kindness has shaped their lives as they strive to make our world a kinder place for all.
Looking for a way to release the stress of the week?
Join Inner Bloom Wellness for Bloom & Brew, a weekly women’s gathering designed to help you intertwine mind, body, and spirit. Yoga | Tea | Art | Community
Tea by: Steep & Bloom
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or have never stepped on a mat, you are welcome here. Bring your mat, grab a tea, and let’s grow together.
Limited spots available to ensure a small-group experience.
4:00 pm: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance at the MU Family Impact Center
– April 8, 2026
The Countdown is On! Only 13 days left until Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) begins at the MU Family Impact Center! Free tax assistance by IRS-certified volunteers.
Walk-in only – first come, first served!
Mark your calendar and spread the word—free tax help is almost here!
Our popular backpack camping class is returning this spring. Check below for details, and call us to register at 573.874.7460 or go online: https://bit.ly/4rNMcbZ
BACKPACK CAMPING: LEAVE THE RV AT HOME!
Learn basic packing, hiking, fire building, cooking and setting up camp skills.
There could be an opportunity to follow up the class with a weekend backpacking trip for an additional fee if there is enough interest. Pre-registration required.
6:00 pm: QueermUnity Coffee at The Grind Coffee House
– April 9, 2026
Join us for coffee, smoothies, tea, and sweet treats as we sit around and enjoy the company. Our monthly coffee meet ups are very casual and a great way to meet others in the group. We meet at the Grind (South Location)
For two unforgettable days in mid-Missouri, Heartland Lifestyle Festival brings together the best in health, wellness, sustainability, music, local makers, and community resources—all in one vibrant, inspiring space. This isn’t just a festival—it’s a movement.
Explore powerful speakers and hands-on workshops.
Discover local artisans and essential community resources.
Enjoy live music that keeps the energy flowing.
Savor incredible food vendors.
Relax in our beverage garden featuring local breweries, cider companies, and distilleries.
Whether you’re looking to level up your wellness journey, support local businesses, connect with like-minded neighbors, or simply spend a beautiful weekend celebrating community—this is where it all comes together.
Come curious. Leave inspired. Tickets available now.
9:00 am: 1 Year Anniversary Tent Sale at American Outdoor Brands
– April 11, 2026
Get ready — the American Outdoor Brands Factory Outlet is bringing back its Tent Sale Event, and it’s shaping up to be bigger and better than ever.
After an incredible Grand Opening last year, this one-year celebration is all about saying thank you with even deeper deals, more gear, and a full day of outdoor-focused fun.
This is a ONE-DAY-ONLY event you won’t want to miss. Whether you're upgrading your setup or stocking up for the season, there’s something here for every outdoor enthusiast.
You’ll find a wide selection, including:
🍔 Grills, gear, and outdoor accessories
🎯 Shooting sports equipment
🎣 Fishing gear and essentials
🥩 Meat processing equipment
🔄 Reloading supplies
Expect major savings across the board — but keep in mind, everything is while supplies last. The best finds tend to go fast.
Bring your friends, bring the family, and make a day out of it. Whether you know exactly what you’re after or just want to browse, there are plenty of deals waiting to be discovered.
📍 Don’t miss your chance — deals this good don’t stick around for long!
10:00 am: "Pinwheels of Possibilities" Child Abuse Prevention Month Parade and Resource Fair
– April 11, 2026
The Office of Child Advocate, in collaboration with multiple State of Missouri agencies, is excited to present the 2nd Annual Child Abuse Prevention Month Parade and Resource Fair—a meaningful community event focused on raising awareness and supporting families.
This year’s theme, “Pinwheels of Possibilities,” represents hope, resilience, and the brighter futures that are possible when communities come together to protect children and strengthen families. It’s a powerful reminder that small actions—like a pinwheel spinning in the breeze—can symbolize big change when we all play a part.
The parade will showcase a variety of participants, including local businesses, community organizations, and state agencies that work year-round to serve children and families. Expect a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere as groups come together to celebrate prevention, awareness, and community support.
In addition to the parade, families are invited to attend a free Resource Fair held on the South Capitol Lawn from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity to connect directly with local programs, learn about available services, and discover helpful resources designed to support families, caregivers, and children.
Whether you're attending to show support, gather resources, or simply enjoy a positive community event, this is a day centered around making a difference.
Event Details:
📅 Date: April 11
🕙 Time: 10:00 a.m.
📍 Location: Traditional Parade Route A & South Capitol Lawn
📅 Registration Deadline: March 27
Come be part of a day that celebrates hope, strengthens connections, and helps build a safer, brighter future for children in our community.
Calling all crafters! Do you have a surplus of supplies? Leftover materials from a past project? Bring them to our craft supply swap and go home with new materials to help spark some inspiration! We’ll help facilitate the swapping. Everyone is welcome, even if you don't bring anything.
Bring supplies to swap during the event OR drop them off the day before (Friday, April 10) at the Welcome Desk.
Guidelines for supplies to swap:
Any small supplies must be brought in a container or resealable bag.
Items should be in good condition, clean and usable.
Please do not bring opened containers of glue, paint, etc.
Any items left at the end of the program will be considered a donation to the library.
2:00 pm: Rainbow Readers Book Club at The Center Project
– April 11, 2026
Calling all book nerds! Have you been looking for the coolest and queerest book club of all time? Look no further!!
Rainbow Readers meets every 2nd Saturday from 2-3pm! Mark your calendars for this month’s meeting and comment "Add me" to join the Facebook group and stay up to date on the current book.
This month’s meeting:
Saturday, January 10th, from 2-3pm
4:00 pm: Cooking Date Night at Back 2 Basics, BOOK NOW 4 2026
– April 11, 2026
Cook Up a Perfect Date Night
Find your flavor balance—where culinary meets compromise.
Learn New Culinary Skills
Unique Date Night
Cook and Create Memories
Spice Up Your Date Night!
Discover the joy of cooking together with our exclusive culinary classes.
Master the Art of Connection Transform your date night into a hands-on culinary journey. Learn new skills, explore bold flavors, and create lasting memories together in an intimate, fun setting.
Elevate Your Date Night Go beyond dinner and a movie. Learn practical culinary skills together in a supportive, intimate setting, and bring new flavors to your home kitchen.
Cook, Learn, Love Explore new skills and flavors as a couple. Guided by Chef Ashley, you’ll create a delicious meal and lasting memories in a relaxed, romantic atmosphere.
Class Schedule & Menus Discover the perfect recipe for a memorable evening with our Date Night Cooking Classes! Each class offers an intimate culinary experience for two, featuring hands-on instruction, delicious recipes, and fun-filled activities designed to spark your creativity in the kitchen.
Spaces are exclusive, with seating limited to just 5 couples per session. Classes often fill up fast, so don’t wait to secure your spot. Click the 'Book Now' button below to reserve your evening of food, fun, and connection!
5:00 pm: Next Stop Comedy at Bur Oak Brewing -- 01/16
– April 11, 2026
Next Stop Comedy brings the best comedians, with new lineups every time, straight to your neighborhood for an unforgettable night of laughter! Our shows feature top-tier talent from across the country, delivering high-energy performances in intimate, local venues. Whether you need an exciting date night, you're a die-hard comedy fan, or you're just looking for a fun night out, Next Stop Comedy guarantees big laughs, great vibes, and an experience you won’t want to miss.
Continue the celebration of CoMo women after the show & join us for the official That's What She Said Columbia After-Party at Silverball Saloon! The party will start immediately following the show from 9:00-11:00 p.m. The party will be in their speakeasy space, so enter through the exlcusive alley entrance.
Your ticket to the after-party includes a complimentary signature cocktail or mocktail. Additional beverages and food will be available for purchase.
Party-goers will also enjoy music from DJ Jonny Fuzion (dancing is encouraged, but not required).
PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS RESTRICTED TO THOSE 21 & UP!
For two unforgettable days in mid-Missouri, Heartland Lifestyle Festival brings together the best in health, wellness, sustainability, music, local makers, and community resources—all in one vibrant, inspiring space. This isn’t just a festival—it’s a movement.
Explore powerful speakers and hands-on workshops.
Discover local artisans and essential community resources.
Enjoy live music that keeps the energy flowing.
Savor incredible food vendors.
Relax in our beverage garden featuring local breweries, cider companies, and distilleries.
Whether you’re looking to level up your wellness journey, support local businesses, connect with like-minded neighbors, or simply spend a beautiful weekend celebrating community—this is where it all comes together.
Come curious. Leave inspired. Tickets available now.
2:00 pm: Flour to Fork: A Pasta Making Workshop with Back 2 Basics Cooking
– April 12, 2026
Discover the art of pasta-making in this hands-on workshop! You’ll craft Fettuccine with creamy alfredo, Lasagna layered with a rich meat ragu and a luscious ricotta-cheese mixture, plus prepare fresh Cavatelli to freeze and enjoy at home. Learn essential techniques like making dough, shaping pasta, and pairing sauces for the perfect dish. Seating is limited so grab yours today!
18+ or 13-17+ with an adult. Everyone needs their own ticket so grab yours today!
9:00 am: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance at the MU Family Impact Center
– April 13, 2026
The Countdown is On! Only 13 days left until Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) begins at the MU Family Impact Center! Free tax assistance by IRS-certified volunteers.
Walk-in only – first come, first served!
Mark your calendar and spread the word—free tax help is almost here!
Looking for a way to release the stress of the week?
Join Inner Bloom Wellness for Bloom & Brew, a weekly women’s gathering designed to help you intertwine mind, body, and spirit. Yoga | Tea | Art | Community
Tea by: Steep & Bloom
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or have never stepped on a mat, you are welcome here. Bring your mat, grab a tea, and let’s grow together.
Limited spots available to ensure a small-group experience.
Join us online for a conversation with author Brad Taylor on his latest work, "Shadow Strike," book 20 of the "Pike Logan" series.
After its forces are devastated in the latest war in the Middle East, a rogue group of Iranian regime officials plan to strike back at their enemies once and for all. The first step in their brazen plot is the assassination of the Israeli prime minister. And there’s only one assassin with the skills to pull it off: Abdul Rahman, known in the shadows as the Ghost.
When a routine prison transfer is ambushed, the Ghost escapes and is given the assignment. The only man who can hunt him down is the one who stopped him before: Pike Logan. The Ghost may hold the key to an escalation that will upend the worldwide balance of power, and if Pike fails, the fallout will be global.
Register today to learn why the "Pike Logan" series has readers buzzing.
About the Author: Brad Taylor is the author of the New York Times bestselling "Pike Logan" series. He served for more than twenty years in the U.S. Army, including eight years in 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, commonly known as Delta Force. He retired as a Special Forces lieutenant colonel and now lives in Charleston, South Carolina.
Popular music has always been a powerful tool in shaping public opinion and sharing the news of the day. It is built into the DNA of our democracy. Chris Vallillo's celebrates our country's 250th anniversary by exploring how music has been used as a political and social tool throughout the history of our nation.
Vallillo will perform a wide range of music from the Revolutionary War through the political songs of the 19th century and the dust bowl ballads of Woody Guthrie right on up to the protest songs of the '50s, '60s and today. Including well known pieces with obscure ones, Vallillo will share the music, history and the back stories of the music that shaped the course of our nation.
A singer-songwriter and instrumentalist with an affinity for American roots music, Vallillo is a skilled six-string and bottleneck slide guitarist who incorporates original and traditional material in his performances. Perhaps the archaeology degree Vallillo earned at Beloit College helped him see the important little details of life which imbue his songs with a sense of history. His music echoes the influences of Mississippi John Hurt, Norman Blake, Doc Watson and John Fahey.
Are you looking for work or thinking of changing careers? Then mark your calendar and plan to attend this job fair. Bring your current résumé and dress for success. Eight to twelve employers are expected to be in attendance recruiting for various positions.
4:00 pm: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance at the MU Family Impact Center
– April 15, 2026
The Countdown is On! Only 13 days left until Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) begins at the MU Family Impact Center! Free tax assistance by IRS-certified volunteers.
Walk-in only – first come, first served!
Mark your calendar and spread the word—free tax help is almost here!
Our popular backpack camping class is returning this spring. Check below for details, and call us to register at 573.874.7460 or go online: https://bit.ly/4rNMcbZ
BACKPACK CAMPING: LEAVE THE RV AT HOME!
Learn basic packing, hiking, fire building, cooking and setting up camp skills.
There could be an opportunity to follow up the class with a weekend backpacking trip for an additional fee if there is enough interest. Pre-registration required.
Join travel Journalist Bill Clevlen (also known as "Bill on the Road") to hear about his latest travel guide, "Presidential Road Trips: 100 Places to Explore and Experience the History of American Presidents."
This new book aims to inspire travelers to see first-hand where presidents were born, tour the historic homes where they lived as adults, and visit gravesites, memorials and presidential museums all around the U.S.
Books will be available for sale and signing following the talk.
Looking for a way to release the stress of the week?
Join Inner Bloom Wellness for Bloom & Brew, a weekly women’s gathering designed to help you intertwine mind, body, and spirit. Yoga | Tea | Art | Community
Tea by: Steep & Bloom
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or have never stepped on a mat, you are welcome here. Bring your mat, grab a tea, and let’s grow together.
Limited spots available to ensure a small-group experience.
Our popular backpack camping class is returning this spring. Check below for details, and call us to register at 573.874.7460 or go online: https://bit.ly/4rNMcbZ
BACKPACK CAMPING: LEAVE THE RV AT HOME!
Learn basic packing, hiking, fire building, cooking and setting up camp skills.
There could be an opportunity to follow up the class with a weekend backpacking trip for an additional fee if there is enough interest. Pre-registration required.
In Texas, the Krause List targets 850 books focused on race and LGBTQia+ stories — triggering sweeping book bans across the U.S. at an unprecedented rate. As tensions escalate, librarians connect the dots from heated school and library board meetings nationwide to lay bare the underpinnings of extremism fueling the censorship efforts. Despite facing harassment, threats and laws aimed at criminalizing their work, the librarians’ rallying cry for freedom to read is a chilling cautionary tale.
Enjoy this free screening of "The Librarians," a documentary film by Kim A. Snyder and presented in partnership with PBS station KMOS. (Not rated, 92 minutes.)
A panel discussion will follow the film.
Adults and teens. Please register to save your seat.
This full-day, in-person training will teach you how to reach out and provide initial support to an adult who may be developing a mental health or substance use challenge, and help connect them to the appropriate care. Presented by Compass Health Network. The course will teach you how to apply the ALGEE action plan:
Assess for risk of suicide or harm
Listen nonjudgmentally
Give reassurance and information
Encourage appropriate professional help
Encourage self-help and other support strategies
This course is open to participants who live or work in Missouri and is being offered to you at no cost by Missouri's Department of Mental Health. Lunch provided.
Thalia Ho, creator of the award-winning blog "Butter and Brioche" and author of "Wild Sweetness," explores the five tastes of dessert and beyond in her new book, "Bittersweet."
In "Bittersweet: The Five Tastes of Dessert and Beyond," Thalia Ho explores the five tastes and distills their ability to transform desserts into something memorable. Bitter brings complexity, sweet tempers and comforts, sour surprises, salt can offset or enhance and umami satisfies.
This stunning cookbook offers more than 100 inspired recipes to elevate what your last bite can be — adventurous, otherworldly and unforgettable.
Register today and learn how to take your sense of taste to the next level.
Thalia Ho is the author of "Wild Sweetness" and "Bittersweet: The Five Tastes of Dessert and Beyond," and the creator of the acclaimed food blog "Butter and Brioche," which won both Editor’s and Reader’s Choice in SAVEUR Magazine’s awards. Her work has been featured in numerous print and online media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, the Guardian and more. Ho has collaborated creatively with an array of international brands, including Valrhona and Gucci, and has done work for radio, television, podcasts and film. Ho resides in Australia but travels the world often in pursuit of sweetness.
Looking for a way to release the stress of the week?
Join Inner Bloom Wellness for Bloom & Brew, a weekly women’s gathering designed to help you intertwine mind, body, and spirit. Yoga | Tea | Art | Community
Tea by: Steep & Bloom
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or have never stepped on a mat, you are welcome here. Bring your mat, grab a tea, and let’s grow together.
Limited spots available to ensure a small-group experience.
6:30 pm: CoMo Marriage Conference at Forum Christian Church -- 05/01 & 05/02
– May 1, 2026
CHOSEN | COMO Christian Marriage Conference 2026
Do you desire to invest in your marriage but feel stretched thin by the pace of life, responsibilities, and constant demands? In the busyness of work, parenting, and everyday pressures, it’s easy for marriage to slip into survival mode rather than intentional connection. Yet Scripture reminds us that our marriages matter deeply—to God, to our families, and to our witness.
This spring, we invite you to pause, refocus, and remember that your marriage is CHOSEN.
The COMO Christian Marriage Conference is a two-day experience designed to encourage, strengthen, and renew your marriage through Gospel-centered teaching, meaningful conversations, laughter, and practical next steps you can take home with you. This weekend is intentionally created to help couples reconnect with God and with each other—no matter your season of marriage.
REGISTRATION OPTIONS
Earlybirdregistrationis$65(January15-March15)
Registration is $85 per couple (this includes lunch for two on Saturday) March 16 - April 30
9:00 am: CoMo Marriage Conference at Forum Christian Church -- 05/01 & 05/02
– May 2, 2026
CHOSEN | COMO Christian Marriage Conference 2026
Do you desire to invest in your marriage but feel stretched thin by the pace of life, responsibilities, and constant demands? In the busyness of work, parenting, and everyday pressures, it’s easy for marriage to slip into survival mode rather than intentional connection. Yet Scripture reminds us that our marriages matter deeply—to God, to our families, and to our witness.
This spring, we invite you to pause, refocus, and remember that your marriage is CHOSEN.
The COMO Christian Marriage Conference is a two-day experience designed to encourage, strengthen, and renew your marriage through Gospel-centered teaching, meaningful conversations, laughter, and practical next steps you can take home with you. This weekend is intentionally created to help couples reconnect with God and with each other—no matter your season of marriage.
REGISTRATION OPTIONS
Earlybirdregistrationis$65(January15-March15)
Registration is $85 per couple (this includes lunch for two on Saturday) March 16 - April 30
Tickets available now.