Iowa statewide events

Celebrate Asian cultures at NewBo City Market during this free, family-friendly festival themed "The Story of Us." Savor authentic and fusion food, explore cultural exhibits and enjoy live entertainment, a fashion show, lion dance and martial arts. With 50-plus vendors, it's a vibrant day of connection and discovery.

Experience Iowa's largest German heritage festival at the Amana Colonies Festhalle Barn. This four-day celebration fills the historic villages with polka music, hearty German food and beer, traditional competitions and a festive parade. Rooted in community tradition, Amana's Oktoberfest offers a memorable celebration for visitors of all ages. Prost!

Rediscover the eclectic Valley Junction Main Street District during this free bi-annual Gallery Night. Local galleries showcase new artwork by regional, national and international artists, offering original pieces, custom jewelry, ceramics, glass and folk art. Shops and restaurants stay open, making it one of the district's largest merchant events.

Take a night off at Coram Deo Bible Church with clean, family-friendly comedy from Tim Hawkins. Enjoy his hilarious music parodies and stand-up on marriage, parenting and Midwest life, including "The Chick-fil-A Song." Limited VIP tickets add early entry and a meet-and-greet photo.

Journey through The Monkees' catalog at Hoyt Sherman Place Theater. Micky Dolenz, the band's last surviving member, celebrates its 60th anniversary with hits performed in chronological order. Between songs, he shares personal anecdotes about the groundbreaking TV show and his remarkable music career. A nostalgic night for fans.

Pedal for a cause at Iowa's longest-running Cranksgiving, starting and ending at SingleSpeed Cedar Falls. Part bike ride, part food drive and part scavenger hunt, this charity event benefits the Northeast Iowa Food Bank and Cedar Bend Humane Society. Bring a bike, bag, lock and a big smile.

Kick off the season on Main Street in Manning the Friday after Thanksgiving. This traditional celebration features a lighted parade, the mass lighting of Main Street and the arrival of Santa Claus. Enjoy carriage rides, live music, a food truck and special children's activities for a festive family evening.

Rally your troops and build a lighted float for the annual parade in downtown Atlantic. Snuggle up for fireworks and the parade starting at 6 p.m., then warm up with treats along Chestnut Street served by community organizations while shopping for loved ones. Prizes and bragging rights await.

Experience the magic of the season at Stephens Auditorium with the Iowa State University Holiday Concert. This enchanting evening features the ISU Symphony Orchestra alongside the Iowa State Singers, Iowa Statesmen, Cantamus and Lyrica choirs. A festive celebration of music perfect for launching your family's holiday traditions in Ames.

Bring Branson magic to the Corning Opera House with an all-star holiday revue. Enjoy Broadway veteran Joseph Pokorski, Columbia Records artist AJSR, cruise star Delani Ditto and America's Got Talent performer Johnny Lonestar. A high-energy Trick Roper rounds out this rope-twirling, gun-spinning night of festive entertainment for all ages.

Celebrate the King's Christmas songbook at the Five Flags Theater in Dubuque. Internationally renowned Elvis tribute artist Anthony Shore and his All-Star Band, complete with a horn section, perform holiday classics and Presley's biggest hits. This intimate, festive revue appeals to audiences of all ages.