Summer is officially here and there's so much to see and do here in Eastern Iowa! Check out a list of big events happening this July, listed in the following order:

• Eastern Iowa County Fairs
• Linn County
• Johnson County
• Cedar Valley
• Dubuque Area
• Quad Cities Area
• Other Eastern Iowa Cities
• Additional Big Iowa Events

*For a list of 4th of July fireworks and other Independence Day-related events, click HERE!*

Eastern Iowa County Fairs

• Buchanan County Fair, Independence
  • July 7th through 12th
  • Featuring a concert from Eli Young Band & Chayce Beckham (July 10th), a demo derby, and races
• Central Iowa Fair, Marshalltown
  • July 8th through 11th
  • Featuring a concert from Sammy Kershaw & Sierra Griggs (July 11th), races, and a color run
• Cedar County Fair, Tipton
  • July 8th through 12th
  • Featuring a concert from Randy Houser & Conway Turley (July 11th), a rodeo, races, a truck & tractor pull, and a demo derby
• Lee County Fair, Donnellson
  • July 8th through 12th
  • Featuring a rodeo, a demo derby, races, and a truck & tractor pull
• Wapello County Expo, Ottumwa
  • July 11th through 18th
  • Featuring a kiddie tractor pull, Barnyard Olympics, and a lip sync battle
• Keokuk County Expo, Sigourney
  • July 13th through 18th
  • Featuring Figure 8 Races, a foam party, and a rodeo
• Winneshiek County Fair, Decorah
  • July 13th through 18th
  • Featuring a concert from Travis Denning, Confederate Railroad, & Kayley Green (July 18th), races, and a rodeo
• Henry County Fair, Mount Pleasant
  • July 14th through 20th
  • Featuring a demo derby, pro wrestling, and a kids' pedal pull
• Franklin County Fair, Hampton
  • July 15th through 19th
  • Featuring concerts from Anne Wilson (July 16th) and Craig Morgan (July 18th), a rodeo, and races
• Delaware County Fair, Manchester
  • July 13th through 19th
  • Featuring concerts from Daughtry & Crossfade (July 16th) and Koe Wetzel & Kolby Cooper (July 17th), motocross, a draft horse show, a truck & tractor pull, a demo derby, and races
• Floyd County Fair, Charles City
  • July 13th through 19th
  • Featuring a tractor pull, races, Tuff Trucks, and a demo derby
• Muscatine County Fair, West Liberty
  • July 15th through 19th
  • Featuring concerts from Confederate Railroad (July 16th) and Josh Ross & Mark Chesnutt (July 18th), races, and a truck & tractor pull
• Allamakee County Fair, Waukon
  • July 15th through 19th
  • Featuring a concert from Tracy Byrd and Tyler Richton and the High Bank Boys (July 17th), a truck & tractor pull, motocross, a rodeo, and Tough Trucks
• Black Hawk County 4-H & FFA Fair, Waterloo
  • July 19th through 23rd
  • Featuring mutton busting, a power wheel derby, and Ag Olympics
• Washington County Fair, Washington
  • July 19th through 24th
  • Featuring a rodeo, Mud Pit & Drag Bog, motocross, a demo derby, and a truck & tractor pull
• Grundy County Fair, Grundy Center
  • Jul 20th through 25th
  • Featuring races and Tuff Trucks
• Fayette County Fair, West Union
  • July 21st through 25th
  • Featuring a concert from Nate Smith, Lauren Watkins, & Steve Schroeder (July 25th) and races
• Great Jones County Fair, Monticello
  • July 22nd through 26th
  • Featuring concerts from Bailey Zimmerman & Chandler Walters (July 23rd), Megan Moroney & Colin Lynch (July 24th), Riley Green & Hannah McFarland (July 25th), and Gary Allan & Rice Rodeo (July 26th), a draft horse show, a truck & tractor pull, bull riding, and ATV Big Air
• Clinton County Fair, DeWitt
  • July 22nd through 26th
  • Featuring a rodeo, mounted shooting, a tractor pull, and a demo derby
• Johnson County 4-H & FFA Fair, Iowa City
  • July 25th through 29th
  • Featuring a truck & tractor pull, drag races, and fireworks
• Louisa County 4-H & FFA Fair, Columbus Junction
  • July 27th through August 1st
  • Featuring pro wrestling, tournaments, and a talent show
• Dubuque County Fair, Dubuque
  • July 28th through August 2nd
  • Featuring concerts from Dylan Marlowe & Atlus (July 30th) and Sleep Theory & Alborn (July 31st), races, a truck & tractor pull, and a demo derby
• Jackson County Fair, Maquoketa
  • July 28th through August 2nd
  • Featuring a concert from Dylan Scott & Ashley Cooke (August 1st), truck & tractor pulls, races, and a demo derby
• Mitchell County Fair, Osage
  • July 28th through August 2nd
  • Featuring a truck & tractor pull, a demo derby, Tuff Trucks, and Bulls & Barrels

LINN COUNTY

“Weird Al” Yankovic Concert

• Alliant Energy PowerHouse, Cedar Rapids
• Wednesday, July 1st at 7:30 p.m.
• With special guest Puddles Pity Party
• Purchase tickets HERE

Savannah Bananas UMPIRE UNMASKED Comedy Show

• Pickle Palace, Cedar Rapids
• Thursday, July 2nd at 7 p.m.
• "Hosted by Vincent Chapman 'the Dancing Ump,' UMPIRE UNMASKED, features comedians turning life’s curveballs into punchlines and knocking every set out of the park. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just here for a good time, this show guarantees premium laughs, good vibes and the kind of late-night excitement that is sure to leave you in stitches."
• Featuring Doug Thompson, Tim Sullivan, and Danny Franks
• Purchase tickets HERE

Rock the Block

• NewBo City Market, Cedar Rapids
• Fridays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Dates/Bands
  • July 3rd - Matthew Kane and the Band Greenbrier
  • July 10th - Star Trucker
  • July 17th - BRETT NEWSKI Duo
  • July 24th - The Dead Century
  • July 31st - Vinyl Alibi
• "Grab some food from Market Shopkeepers, enjoy a drink from the bar, and experience an unforgettable season of performances in the Market Yard!"

READ MORE: Check Out These Free Summer Concert Series in the Corridor & Cedar Valley

Kernels Baseball

• Veterans Memorial Stadium, Cedar Rapids
• Dates/Times
  • Tuesday, July 7th at 6:35 p.m. (Mr. Shucks's B-Day Party)
  • Wednesday, July 8th at 12:05 p.m. (UFG Insurance Day/Youth Baseball Gate Giveaway)
  • Thursday, July 9th at 6:35 p.m. (90's Baseball Movie Night/Sandlot Jersey Auction/Special Appearance from Thomas Ian Nicholas)
  • Friday, July 10th at 6:35 p.m. (Especially For You Race Against Breast Cancer Night/Jersey Auction)
  • Saturday, July 11th at 6:35 p.m. (Special Olympics Iowa Night)
  • Sunday, July 12th at 1:05 p.m. (Kickoff to RAGBRAI)
  • Friday, July 17th at 6:35 p.m. (Christmas in July)
  • Saturday, July 18th at 6:35 p.m. (Iowa Lottery Night at the Ballpark)
  • Sunday, July 19th at 1:05 p.m.
  • Tuesday, July 28th at 6:35 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 29th at 12:05 p.m.
  • Thursday, July 30th at 6:35 p.m.
  • Friday, July 31st at 6:35 p.m. (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Night/Jersey Auction)
• Purchase tickets HERE

Eat. Drink. & Be Marion.

• Uptown Marion
• Thursday, July 9th from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• "As you make your way through the Uptown Marion District, you’ll stop into participating businesses to enjoy food, drinks, shopping, and live entertainment. Along the way, try your luck at carnival-style game stops throughout Uptown. Use your game tickets to play, win prizes, and add a little friendly competition to your night."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Moonlit Movie Series

• Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park, Marion
• Friday, July 10th from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Showing How to Train Your Dragon (2025)
• "Bring your blanket or lawn chair, enjoy activities such as inflatables and glitter tattoos, and watch How to Train Your Dragon! Activities begin at 7 p.m., and the movie will begin at dusk (around 8:30 p.m.). Outside food and drink are permitted but select snack vendors will be onsite during each event. Guests should bring chairs or blankets for general lawn seating."

Mount Vernon Heritage Days

• Downtown Mount Vernon
• June 10th & 11th
• Featuring a fun run/5k, a drone show, a parade, a car show, food, games, kids' activities, and more

Uptown Marion Market

• City Square Park, Marion
• Saturday, July 11th from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Monarch Fest

• Amazing Space at Indian Creek Nature Center, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, July 11th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Featuring caterpillar adoption (registration opens July 6th), crafts, a plant giveaway, butterfly releases, a photo op station, food trucks, and more

CRBT Movies on the Riverbank

• McGrath Amphitheatre, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, July 11th at 7 p.m.
• Showing Lilo & Stitch (2025)
• "The gates open and free kids’ activities begin each date at 7:00 p.m. The movie will begin at sunset. On-street parking is available. Tiered, natural lawn seating is offered. People are also encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. Food vendors are on-site. Event admission is free."

Cedar Rapids Psychic & Paranormal Expo

• Palo Community Center, Palo
• Dates/Times
  • Saturday, July 11th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 12th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Featuring 30+ vendors, merchandise, readings, treatments, paranormal investigators, presentations/speakers, and more
• Admission is $5 each day

George Michael Reborn

• Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids
• Thursday, July 16th at 7:30 p.m.
• "George Michael Reborn is the ultimate concert escape that features absolutely no lip syncing, spot-on dance moves and celebrates the iconic image of the 80s star down to the ripped jeans. From the early WHAM! days hits like 'Wake Me Up Before You Go Go', to the sensual melodies of 'Careless Whisper' to the arsenal of hits from the groundbreaking 'Faith' album, [Robert] Bartko embodies the beloved pop star."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Music Under the Moon

• Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park, Marion
• Saturday, July 18th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Featuring live music from Beyond the Blonde
• "The concerts are free to attend, with activities beginning at 6 p.m. and music beginning at 7 p.m. Guests should bring chairs or blankets for general lawn seating. Outside food and drink are permitted and select vendors will be onsite during the event, including Hyvee, Pitas, The Freeze, and Kona Ice." 

Cedar Rapids Night Meet

• Marion Airport, Marion
• Saturday, July 18th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Featuring live music, a beer garden, food trucks, airstrip runs, and more
• Cost is $10 per car to take part

Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market

• Downtown Cedar Rapids
• Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • July 18th

Cypress Hill Concert

• McGrath Amphitheatre, Cedar Rapids
• Tuesday, July 21st at 7 p.m.
• With special guest Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
• Purchase tickets HERE

Walker Pickle Days

• Walker, Iowa
• July 24th & 25th
• Featuring food, live music, a pickle-eating contest, fried pickles, a 5k, a firefighters' breakfast, live music, a movie in the park, a parade, and more

The Street Food Festival 2

• Ellis Park, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, July 25th from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• "Join us & other local food trucks & vendors for our second annual The Street Food Festival, with a great day of good eats, music, face painting, raffles & fun for the entire family! 15% of all sales will be donated to our local shelters & food pantries! PLUS 50% of our sales this day will be donated to our local shelters & food pantries! We will also be handing out 100 book bags to children 13 years and under & 400 FREE Egg Rolls & Crabmeat Rangoons!"

Brown Farm Pioneer Days

• Brown Farm, Central City
• July 25th & 26th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Featuring field demonstrations, a petting zoo, kids' activities, a flea market, the 'Parade of Power,' food, tractor games, and more

3rd Annual Hot Rod & Custom Car Show

• Pizza World/Voodoo Brewing Co., Cedar Rapids
• Sunday, July 26th from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Featuring live music, food & drinks, 50/50 raffles, and more
• Cost is $15 per car entry -proceeds benefit the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital

JOHNSON COUNTY

Savannah Bananas Games

• Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City
• July 3rd & 4th at 7 p.m.
• Games are SOLD OUT

Iowa City Jazz Festival

• Downtown Iowa City
• July 3rd through 5th
• Featuring two stages with live music, artist booths, food vendors, a beverage garden, fireworks, and more

Bourbon & Blues Festival

• Cedar Ridge Distillery, Swisher
• July 3rd through 5th
• "Get ready for days filled with soulful blues tunes, delicious bourbon cocktails, and a festive atmosphere perfect for celebrating America. Event is FREE to attend and food and drinks are available for purchase!"

Blues & BBQ

• Centennial Park, North Liberty
• Saturday, July 11th from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Featuring live music, BBQ vendors, a beverage garden, inflatables, a rock wall, games, and more

Saving Abel Concert

• First Avenue Club, Iowa City
• Saturday, July 11th at 8 p.m.
• Special guest TBA
• Purchase tickets HERE

Summer Sidewalk Sales

• Downtown Iowa City
• July 16th through 19th
• "Each year in July the sidewalks are filled with tables and tents for Downtown Iowa City’s Annual Sidewalk Sales, a tradition that began in 1968. Shoppers are invited to come downtown July 16 – 19 to experience the four-day savings extravaganza..."

Solon Beef Days

• Main Street, Solon
• July 17th & 18th
• Featuring a parade, live music, food, tournaments, a fun run, a beer tent, a carnival, and more

Drive-In Movies at the Hangar

• Iowa City Municipal Airport
• Saturday, July 18th from 9 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.
• Showing Galaxy Quest (1999)

Aimee Mann Concert

• Englert Theatre, Iowa City
• Wednesday, July 22nd at 7:30 p.m.
• With special guest Kimon Kirk
• Purchase tickets HERE

Swisher Fun Days

• Downtown Swisher
• July 24th & 25th
• Featuring live music, a street dance, a 5k, a kiddie tractor pull, tournaments, a vendor market, and more

Elemental Circus

• Centennial Park, North Liberty
• Sunday, July 26th at 5 p.m.
• "Performers will channel fire, air, water and earth at the Elemental Circus. Attendees can expect spinning fire torches and hoops, multiple aerialists suspended from the stage’s roof, water juggling tricks, acrobalance and more at one-hour show."

CEDAR VALLEY

27th Annual George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame Induction Weekend

• Waterloo Convention Center, Waterloo
• July 9th through 11th
• Featuring wrestling trivia, a silent auction, an autograph session, an induction ceremony, a comedy show, a seminar, a wrestling show, and more

Felix Grundy Festival

• Grundy Center, Iowa
• July 10th & 11th
• Featuring a parade, a 5k, live music, food vendors, and more

Fayette Wine, Beer & Art Festival

• Upper Iowa University, Fayette
• Saturday, July 11th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Featuring unlimited wine & beer tastings, live music, local art vendors, and food trucks
• Purchase tickets HERE

Live to 9

• River Place Plaza, Cedar Falls
• 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Dates/Bands
  • July 11th - Deja Blue
  • July 24th - Jason Christensen Band

Night Market

• Cedar Falls Downtown District
• Wednesday, July 15th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Featuring "shopping and dining throughout the district while supporting your favorite market vendors"

Hudson Days

• Hudson, Iowa
• July 16th through 18th
• Featuring live music, vendors, food, a parade, tournaments, and more

Friday Loo

• Lincoln Park, Waterloo
• Friday, July 17th at 5:30 p.m.
• Featuring live music from Jeni Grouws Band, drinks, and food vendors

24th Annual Dysart Car Show

• Main Street, Dysart
• Friday, July 17th from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Entry fee is $20 per vehicle

Waverly Heritage Days

• Waverly, Iowa
• July 17th through 19th
• Featuring a craft market, live music, food vendors, a beverage tent, a parade, a car show, fireworks, and more

Dunkerton Days

• Dunkerton, Iowa
• July 17th through 19th
• Featuring mud volleyball, a car show, a parade, live music, vendors, food, a free kids' carnival, and more

Sumner Days

• Sumner, Iowa
• July 17th through 19th
• Featuring a talent show, community movie night, a parade, family activities, fireworks, and more

¡Fiesta!

• Waterloo Center for the Arts, Waterloo
• Saturday, July 18th from 1 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• "¡Fiesta! is a free, family-friendly festival that features food, entertainment and education focusing on Latin American countries. Special features include taqueria trucks and other Latin American food vendors, live entertainment, traditional dance performances, and children’s activities including crafts, games (among them the beloved piñata), and face painting."

Not Quite Brothers at RAGBRAI

• Independence, Iowa
• Thursday, July 23rd at 8 p.m.

Sidewalk Sales

• Cedar Falls Downtown District
• July 24th & 25th
• "Join participating retailers in the Cedar Falls Downtown District during their business hours and snag some summer sales! Downtown sidewalks will be lined with deals you won't want to miss!"

Prairie Lakes Car Show

• Prairie Lakes Church, Cedar Falls
• Saturday, July 25th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• "Check out our amazing lineup of classic cars, custom motorcycles, and specialty vehicles while the kids enjoy plenty of activities just for them—inflatables, face painting, and more. We'll also have a raffles, giveaways, and food trucks onsite to purchase lunch. Whether you're a car enthusiast or just looking for a great family outing, there’s something for everyone!"
• Pre-registration is $15 per vehicle, or $20 per vehicle day-of

Heritage Fest 2026

• Floyd County Museum, Charles City
• Saturday, July 25th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• "Come out and enjoy games, crafts, music, a vendor fair, and more! Heritage Fest is free to attend and fun for everyone."

Iowa Irish Fest

• Downtown Waterloo
• July 31st through August 2nd
• Featuring classes & workshops, vendors, food, live entertainment, Highland Games, sheep herding, family activities, a 5k, and more
• Purchase tickets online HERE

Parkersburg Fun Days

• Parkersburg, Iowa
• July 31st through August 2nd
• Featuring contests & tournaments, a car show, a parade, food trucks, and more

DUBUQUE AREA

Whiskey Myers Concert

• Back Waters Amp, Dubuque
• Saturday, July 4th at 6:30 p.m.
• With special guest Taylor Hunnicutt
• Purchase tickets HERE

Mr. Fun Presents: Global Games

• Packard Pavilion Amphitheater, Dubuque
• Friday, July 10th from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
• "Join Mr. Fun for a lively, hands-on cultural adventure featuring fascinating toys and games from around the globe. With more than 20 years of experience entertaining families, Mr. Fun blends history, laughter, and interactive fun into one unforgettable program. Watch exciting demonstrations, try out new skills, and explore games and traditions from cultures near and far. It’s an engaging experience for kids and adults alike!"

Hairball Concert

• Back Waters Amp, Dubuque
• Friday, July 10th at 6:30 p.m.
• With special guests The Pork Tornadoes and The Deal Breakers
• Purchase tickets HERE

Asbury Music In The Park Festival

• Asbury Park, Asbury
• Saturday, July 11th from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Featuring live entertainment, inflatables, a petting zoo, games, free ice cream, food & beverage trucks, and more

Tri-State Drone Show

• Dubuque County Fairgrounds, Dubuque
• Friday, July 17th at 5 p.m. - drone show at dusk
• "Get ready for an unforgettable night! We’re bringing electric skies, the best live beats and amazing local eats. Enjoy a delicious variety of food trucks and more while you take in the atmosphere. As the stars come out, cutting‑edge drones will paint the night sky with dazzling, high‑tech visuals. There’s something for everyone—live music from Kind of a Big Deal, plus a FUN ZONE for kids of all ages."
• Tickets are $10 for ages 11+ - purchase them online HERE

QUAD CITIES AREA

Luke Bryan Concert

• Vibrant Arena, Moline
• Friday, July 10th at 7 p.m.
• With special guests Shane Profitt, Lauren Watkins, RaeLynn, and DJ Rock
• Purchase tickets HERE

Switchfoot Concert

• Rhythm City Casino Resort, Davenport
• Saturday, July 18th at 8 p.m.
• With special guests Fuel and Lit
• Purchase tickets HERE

Silverstein Concert

• Capitol Theatre, Davenport
• Saturday, July 18th at 7 p.m.
• With special guests Origami Angel and Ally Nicholas
• Purchase tickets HERE

Annual Patriot Ride

• Begins at Gypsy Highway, Davenport
• Saturday, July 18th - ride leaves at 10:30 a.m.
• Featuring multiple stops, food, raffle tickets, a silent auction, and more
• Registrations is $20 for drivers & $10 for passengers
• Proceeds benefit local veterans

Bix Jazz Festival

• Rhythm City Casino Resort, Davenport
• Dates/Times
  • Thursday, July 30th from 5 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.
  • Friday, July 31st from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday, August 1st from 11 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.
• Featuring live jazz music, food, dance instruction, special events, and more
• Purchase tickets HERE

David Lee Roth Concert

• The Rust Belt, Moline
• Friday, July 31st at 8 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

OTHER EASTERN IOWA CITIES

Bellevue Heritage Days

• Friday, July 3rd from 9 p.m. to 11:15 p.m.
• Show is FREE with a Bellevue Heritage Days Button/Band

Walcott Truckers Jamboree

• World's Largest Truck Stop, Walcott
• July 9th through 11th
• Featuring a concert from Little Texas and Angela Meyer & The Western Stars (July 10th), Trucker Olympics, live music, 175+ exhibits, fireworks, an antique truck display, food, and more

Gavin DeGraw Concert

• Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel (Outdoor Arena), Tama
• Friday, July 10th at 8 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Wyoming Fair

• 409 Green Street, Wyoming
• July 9th through 11th
• Featuring inflatables, a truck & tractor pull, an ATV pull, bubble soccer, a car show, food, a petting zoo, a BBQ competition, and more

Tour de Brew 2026

• Millstream Brewing Co., Amana
• Saturday, July 11th from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• "It’s the 25th year for this scenic, FUN-filled ride through the Amana Colonies and Iowa County. We’ve got “hydration stops” with $1 Beer at one stop, Rescue Pups & Cats and of course tons of surprises along the route. The 30-mile ride ends with a Free After-Party at Millstream and is open to all with live music by the pFat Back Boys (1-4pm) and Retro Rockits (5-9pm). Ice-cold Millstream beer along with your favorite food trucks 12-8pm: Moy’s Food from the Streets & County Line BBQ."
• Register online HERE
• Proceeds benefit Amana Colonies Trails, American Legion Marengo, and Safe Haven of Iowa County

Symphonic Blast

• Crapo Park, Burlington
• Saturday, July 11th at 8 p.m.
• "Set on the scenic bluffs above the Mississippi River, Symphonic Blast is Southeast Iowa’s can't-miss summer tradition — a FREE outdoor concert packed with patriotic favorites and orchestral showstoppers with FIREWORKS! Bring the whole family, grab a blanket or lawn chairs, and enjoy an evening of music, community, and celebration under the open sky."

Kalona Bluegrass Festival

• Windmill Ridge Campground
• July 17th through 19th
• See a band lineup HERE

Grinnell Ridiculous Day 2026

• Downtown Grinnell
• Saturday, July 18th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• "The Chamber’s annual Ridiculous Day, sponsored by American Brawn, encourages local Grinnell residents to shop locally with Grinnell downtown businesses. Retailer businesses will host special discounts and deals for consumers to take advantage of, while non-retail businesses and non-profit organizations host activities."

Pork Tornadoes RAGBRAI Concert

• Marshalltown Downtown Historic District
• Wednesday, July 22nd at 8:45 p.m.
• Concert is FREE

Nordic Fest 2026

• Decorah, Iowa
• July 23rd through 25th
• Featuring craft vendors, Nordic dancers, historical demonstrations and exhibitions, a beverage garden, live music, family activities, and more

Elkader Sweet Corn Days

• Elkader, Iowa
• July 23rd through 26th
• Featuring a vendor fair, sweet corn, Chalk the Walk, live music, a movie in the park, a drink tent, carnival rides, fireworks, a 5k, and more

Pickle Palooza

• Appleberry Orchard, Donnellson
• Friday, July 24th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• "Spend a relaxing summer evening with friends and family while enjoying delicious pickle dishes, refreshing drinks and live entertainment from Heather's & Co. Explore Appleberry Acres and the Petting Farm, where you can enjoy activities and meet and feed the goats."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Backbone Bluegrass Festival

• 1356 110th St, Strawberry Point
• July 24th through 26th
• See a band lineup and purchase tickets HERE

Ink & Aces Tattoo Expo

• Wild Rose Casino & Hotel, Clinton
• Dates/Times
  • Friday, July 24th from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday, July 25th from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 26th from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• "This three-day event is filled with world-class tattoo artists from all over the country. Multi award-winning artists like Ink Master contender Mat Valles will be competing for locally made custom trophies, bragging rights, and a prize provided by Wild Rose. Attending guests will have the rare opportunity to work with artists directly to plan their next tattoo or witness others act as canvas for these artists inked imagination."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Great River Days

• Muscatine Riverfront
• July 29th through August 2nd
• Featuring carnival rides, live music, a beer tent, food, and more
• Admission is $5 for ages 13+

What Cheer Flea Market

• Keokuk County Fairgrounds, What Cheer
• July 30th through August 2nd
• "Check out one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest!! We open up at 7 am each day and close around 5 pm each day, except on Sunday it will be 2 pm. We will have around 425 vendors taking up 750 spaces over 20 acres!! Come see why we have shoppers from over 33 states at each market!"
• Admission is $7 on Thursday and $5 on Friday & Saturday

Stone Temple Pilots Concert

• Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, Riverside
• Friday, July 31st at 7 p.m.
• With special guests Candlebox and Buckcherry
• Purchase tickets HERE

ADDITIONAL BIG IOWA EVENTS

35th Goodguys Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals

• Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines
• Dates/Times
  • Friday, July 3rd from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Saturday, July 4th from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 5th from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Featuring over 5,000 vehicles, fireworks, contests, a swap meet, live music, a Family Fun Zone, and more
• Purchase tickets HERE

Saturday in the Park Festival

• Grandview Park Municipal Bandshell, Sioux City
• Saturday, July 4th
• Headliners
  • Main Stage
    • Joe Bonamassa
    • Marcus King Band
    • Evan Honer
  • The Abe Stage
    • Tech N9ne
    • 2DEAD BOYZ
• Admission is FREE

Journey Concert

• Casey's Center, Des Moines
• Tuesday, July 7th at 7:30 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Ziggy Marley Concert

• Vibrant Music Hall, Waukee
• Thursday, July 9th at 7:30 p.m.
• With special guest J Boog
• Purchase tickets HERE

Gavin DeGraw Concert

• Surf Ballroom, Clear Lake
• Thursday, July 9th at 7 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Russell Dickerson Concert

• Preservation Plaza, Arnolds Park
• Friday, July 10th at 7:30 p.m.
• With special guest Echo Rebellion
• Purchase tickets HERE

Legally Blonde The Musical

• Des Moines Playhouse
• July 10th through July 26th
• "UCLA sorority president Elle Woods has her life planned: marry her Harvard Law-bound boyfriend, Warner Huntington III, and live happily ever after as a politician’s wife. However, that dream comes crashing down when Warner breaks up with her. Determined to win him back, Elle decides to attend Harvard Law and learns more about herself than she ever imagined."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Queensrÿche Concert

• Surf Ballroom, Clear Lake
• Saturday, July 11th at 8 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Beaverdale Bluegrass Festival

• Tower Park, Des Moines
• Saturday, July 11th at 2 p.m.
• "Each year, nearly 2,000 neighbors come together for a relaxed summer evening filled with live music, good food, and great company. It’s one of those nights where you plan to stay for an hour and somehow end up closing the place down. Music kicks off at 2:30 PM and rolls through the evening, with a lineup of live bluegrass, local food trucks, cold beer, and plenty of space to spread out with friends and family."

Tyler Childers Concert

• Casey's Center, Des Moines
• Wednesday, July 15th at 7:30 p.m.
• With special guest Wednesday
• Purchase tickets HERE

Lil Wayne Concert

• Casey's Center, Des Moines
• Thursday, July 16th at 8 p.m.
• With special guest 2 Chainz
• Purchase tickets HERE

Post Malone & Jelly Roll Concert

• Jack Trice Stadium, Ames
• Friday, July 17th at 7 p.m.
• With special guest Carter Faith
• Purchase tickets HERE

Waukee Arts Festival

• Centennial Park, Waukee
• Dates/Times
  • Friday, July 17th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, July 18th from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• "In addition to the 100+ artist exhibits and headlining concerts, our festival also features acoustic music acts throughout the day, food vendors offering varied fare, unique beer garden, kids activities and entertainment for the whole family."

The 90s vs Y2K Bar Crawl

• Begins at Hessen Haus, Des Moines
• Saturday, July 18th from 4 p.m. to midnight
• "This 90s vs Y2K Bar Crawl will take you through some of Des Moines’s best bars for a night of pure nostalgia and non-stop fun. Relive the days of scrunchies, flip phones, low-rise jeans, and iconic jams as you sip, dance, and throw it back with your crew."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Pupchella 2026

• Paws and Pints, Des Moines
• Saturday, July 18th from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Featuring a DJ, a foam party, vendors, carnival games, ice cream for dogs and humans, and more
• First-time visitors must register their dog - get more information HERE

Des Moines Water Lantern Festival

• Riverview Park, Des Moines
• Saturday, July 18th at 6 p.m.
• "Enjoy an evening of music, food, and fun as you design your own personal floating water lantern, then watch as thousands of lanterns light up the water."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Cinderella's Tom Keifer Band

• Surf Ballroom, Clear Lake
• Sunday, July 19th at 7 p.m.
• With special guest L.A. Guns
• Purchase tickets HERE

Delta Waterfowl Duck Hunters Expo

• Iowa Events Center, Des Moines
• Dates/Times
  • Friday, July 24th from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, July 25th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 26th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• "Experience the Delta Grand National Calling Championship, explore Delta's Hunting Heritage Booths, browse the newest gear, celebrate conservation at the Champions of Delta luncheon, or join fellow waterfowlers at Friday's Duck Hunters Grand Banquet (Presented by Reeds Wholesale) with raffles and live auctions."
• Purchase tickets HERE

David Lee Roth Concert

• Surf Ballroom, Clear Lake
• Saturday, July 25th at 8 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Dude Perfect - Squad Games Tour

• Casey's Center, Des Moines
• Saturday, July 25th at 6 p.m.
• "By transforming the arena floor into a battle zone surrounded by fans on all sides, the Squad Games Tour delivers a fully immersive live experience that brings audiences closer to the action than ever before. Inspired by their fan-favorite Squad Games video series, this new format captures the energy of a live sporting event as the Dudes face off against some of their favorite athletes, creators, and Dude Perfect staff in the high-energy games and over-the-top challenges that bring the Dude Perfect universe to life."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Des Moines Tea Festival

• Mainframe Studios, Des Moines
• Sunday, July 26th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• "Spend the day exploring tea from 15+ vendors, offering a wide range of flavors—from bold and rich to light and floral. Sample teas, shop your favorites, and connect with fellow tea lovers."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Hinterland Music Festival

• St. Charles, Iowa
• July 30th through August 2nd
• Concert Lineup
  • Thursday, July 30th
    • Katseye
    • beabadoobee
    • Ashnikko
    • Audrey Nuna
    • Jane Remover
    • Frost Children
    • Porch Light
  • Friday, July 31st
    • Lorde
    • MUNA
    • Snow Strippers
    • Paris Paloma
    • Sofia Isella
    • Saint Avangeline
    • Amble
  • Saturday, August 1st
    • Mumford & Sons
    • Jessie Murph
    • The Format
    • Santigold
    • CMAT
    • Waylon Wyatt
    • Julia Wolf
  • Sunday, August 2nd
    • Kali Uchis
    • Young Miko
    • Geese
    • Wet Leg
    • Suki Waterhouse
    • Audrey Hobert
    • Samia
    • Haute & Freddy
• Purchase tickets HERE

2026 National Balloon Classic

• Memorial Balloon Field, Indianola
• July 31st through August 8th
• Featuring balloon rides, balloon glows, live entertainment, drone shows, competitions, kite displays, and more
• Purchase tickets HERE

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READ MORE: Concerts & Comedy Shows Coming to Iowa in 2026 [LIST]