Now that 2023 is behind us, we’re plowing into 2024 with a polar vortex. Most of us are cooped up tight, staying warm inside, with no plans to go anywhere. Since I find myself in the same situation, I sat down and started reflecting about the past year in Rocheport.
It is amazing how many things can happen in a small town. We were fortunate to have a bike festival and music festival. The Rocheport Area Merchants Association and its members put on parties, a wine stroll, a chocolate crawl, and brought out-of-town vendors in on Second Saturdays. These events were fantastic and allowed us to celebrate the town with visitors, friends and family. When there wasn’t an event, you could ride a bike free from cars and worry, take long hikes, visit with friends, and swing by the shops.
Rocheport isn’t just about attending events though. It’s a whole lot more. It’s about family and friends who have spent a great deal of time and resources to make Rocheport a safe, vibrant community. It’s about local nonprofits that provide opportunities for the town to get together and celebrate the community: chili dinners, mum sales, and Halloween parties. It’s about residents who happily volunteer to help with town projects like building a children’s park and extending side street parking. It’s about stories of everyone coming together to save the town when floods have come through. I haven’t met such an eclectic group of people more dedicated to each other since I was in the military. It’s a great feeling to know the people of this town genuinely care for each other and this special place.
While the people of Rocheport are the life blood of the town, the area around Rocheport is our nourishment. The town is situated between a series of bluffs, surrounded by vineyards and farmland, and, of course, rivers. In addition to the Katy trail, last year I discovered the hiking trails in Diana Bend and Davisdale Conservation Areas to be fantastic with gorgeous views of Missouri vistas. Definitely, on your next stay in town, consider exploring the lovely areas that surround us.
A few noteworthy events from last year
Biscuits, Beats and Brews – A unique blend of well known musicians and vendors entertained a town for the weekend.
Soul Skate and Dance Party – A fundraiser dance party that featured DJs, dancing, lights, food and drinks.
Barbie Fashion Walk and Party – Attendees dressed up as their version of Barbie and Ken with featured DJs and prizes.
Fourth of July Parade – The town came alive and the mayor lead the procession around town. If the citizens want, he might even lead the parade around a second time!
Wine Stroll – A superb way to go wine, beer and spirit tasting, walking around a historic town while sampling drinks.
Second Saturdays – A cadre of businesses hosted and promoted musicians and food and craft vendors.
Pedaler’s Jamboree – A moving bike festival that started in Columbia and went to Boonville for camping overnight and then back the next day with music and food stops along the way.
Southern Provisions Grand Opening – A new business in town featuring artist sourced home goods and textiles, men’s accessories, cigars and even an antique or two!
City Elections – Even small towns have elections. Go vote!
Fiber Internet – Yes, we had internet before; but my oh my is it fast now.
What’s in store for 2024?
Along with the annual events like the Chocolate Crawl and Wine Stroll, I suspect Second Saturdays will evolve to showcase more local artists and musicians. The Rocheport “jail house” is currently being renovated to be a pavilion that will have live music, libations and maybe a EV charging station. A Rocheport time capsule is being placed within Art off the Trail. And I am especially looking forward to participating this year in the 19th annual MR340 in July, a race on the Missouri River from Kansas City, Missouri to St. Charles, Missouri. Stay in touch to keep in touch! Sign up for our newsletter.
I highly recommend you get on the Rocheport Area Merchants Association email list for early bird pricing on events, event notifications, promotions, etc.
Something to consider
In Rocheport, there are two Bed & Breakfast Inns and a dozen short-stay properties. These get booked quickly in advance. So, if you are considering coming into town for a visit, book early.
