Iowa statewide events

Centennial Park becomes a showcase for regional artists displaying their work alongside live musical performances and interactive art demonstrations. Families can enjoy hands-on activities while exploring diverse artistic mediums from local and visiting creators.

Over 150 hot air balloons from around the world create a breathtaking display in the skies above Memorial Balloon Field. The nine-day festival includes evening balloon glows, drone shows, live music, and family activities that celebrate the wonder of flight.

This outdoor arts festival transforms the scenic lakeside setting into an open-air gallery featuring regional artists and craftspeople. Visitors can purchase unique handmade items while enjoying live music and food vendors in the beautiful park setting.

This three-day music festival near Des Moines features major headliners including Tyler, The Creator; Kacey Musgraves; and Lana Del Rey. The event combines chart-topping performers with emerging artists across multiple stages in a scenic outdoor setting perfect for music discovery.

Lincoln Park transforms into a celebration of Irish culture featuring live music from local, national, and international bands performing traditional and contemporary Irish music. The festival includes Irish dancing, authentic cuisine, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly activities that honor Irish heritage.

The iconic Iowa State Fair returns with eleven days of agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and famous fair food. Visitors can experience everything from livestock competitions to concerts at the Grandstand, making it one of the nation's premier state fair experiences.

Cedar Valley’s signature summer tasting event, Stem & Stein invites guests downtown to sample craft beers, domestic beers, and wines over 40 breweries and wineries. Attendees also receive a commemorative tasting glass to remember the evening.

This intimate three-day festival celebrates the craft of songwriting with performances by Jeff Tweedy, Joy Oladokun, and other acclaimed artists across downtown venues. The event combines concerts with educational workshops, offering music fans unique insights into the creative process behind their favorite songs.

This authentic Oktoberfest celebration features beer tastings from Iowa's finest breweries alongside traditional German music, games, and food in historic Uptown Marion. Attendees receive commemorative tasting glasses while enjoying stein-holding contests, hammerschlagen, and festive entertainment that celebrates German heritage.

The Mississippi River provides a stunning backdrop for this arts festival featuring regional artists, live music, wine & beer tastings, and cultural performances. This celebration’s combined music and visual arts displays creates an immersive, locally celebrated cultural experience.

Uptown Marion's historic district hosts this seasonal market featuring fresh fall produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and local wines. The morning event includes live musical entertainment and local vendors in a charming downtown atmosphere.

The University of Iowa Symphony Orchestra presents a classical music concert featuring talented student musicians and guest artists. This free event at the School of Music showcases the school’s music program while providing the community with access to a professional-quality performance.

This special performance celebrates local musical heritage through an evening of diverse musical styles and performances. Also at the University of Iowa’s Voxman Music Building, the audience can enjoy the rich cultural traditions that define Johnson County's artistic landscape.

This after-hours, adults-only shopping event combines retail therapy with sweet treats for a delightful evening of indulgence and discovery. Stroll through historic Uptown Marion, where local businesses offer chocolate samples while shoppers browse unique merchandise.

The University of Iowa's Jazz Repertory Ensemble performs classic and contemporary jazz standards in an intimate concert setting. This free performance, part of an ongoing series of performances at the school, gives audiences an evening of sophisticated music from the school’s young and upcoming talent.