Community events in Iowa City are easily some of the most spirited in the state with enthusiast sporting events, exciting festivals, and fresh markets- the city is always buzzing.  Agents in our Iowa City office shared the events they mark on their calendars and look forward to attending year after year. "There are small events happening all the time in the area, from sports, music, and art to rallies to organized bike rides. Iowa City has something for everyone."

Sporting Events

Iowa City is home to the beloved University of Iowa Hawkeyes, and with that comes many Hawkeye sporting events. U of I offers a variety of men's and women's sports from gymnastics to wrestling, basketball to football, and everything in between. Arguably the most followed sporting event would be men's football, which has a large and devoted fan base. The Hawkeyes belong to the ultra-competitive Big Ten Conference, one of the oldest athletic conferences in the country, and have formed long-standing rivalries with other notable schools in the conference. In addition to thrilling games at Kinnick Stadium, the Homecoming at Iowa, an event that began over 100 years, and FryFest, an event honoring the coaching career of Hayden Fry, are also fan favorites. If football isn't quite your thing, attend an Iowa Heartlanders hockey game or attend a basketball game or wrestling match which were also highly suggested.

Fairs & Markets

Managed by the Iowa City Parks & Recreation, the Iowa City Farmers Market is a well-organized and attended weekend activity that offers locals fresh produce and regional foods every Saturday during the spring-fall months. You'll often find more than delicious foods at the Farmer's Market, including one-of-a-kind crafts and entertainment. And if you have kiddos, don't forget to check out the Kids Market event in the fall. Summer of the Arts is an impressive sponsor-supported community program that offers a variety of free fun and cultural events all throughout the year. With a concert series, moving series, Jazz Festival, Arts Festival, and Blues Festival, there is always something to attend. And although this program is named Summer of the Arts they also have a Holiday Thieves Market in December. So bring a chair and stake out a spot on the Pentacrest and enjoy! Enjoy and appreciate the outdoors at The Johnson County Fair held each summer at the Johnson Country Fairgrounds. The grounds consist of multiple buildings, barns and booths, a horse arena, and a grandstand for entertainment. The Johnson Cunty Fair has all your favorites including rides, farm animals, music, and fair food!  And maybe unique to this fair would be a talent show, but it's also great, "we like the Bill Reilly Talent Search the most!"

Festivals & Entertainment

Iowa City is also known for its world-class entertainment & live music venues like the Hancher Auditorium at the University of Iowa which displays Broadway-class performances. A  vibrant gem of a venue is The Englert Theatre which shows several community & professional theater programs. FilmScene is an ongoing entertainment option for those looking to feel inspired through storytelling. Founded in 2011, FilmScene opened its doors as a full-time cinema on the Pedestrian Mall in downtown Iowa City and has shown over 300 movies a year to film lovers in the area. FilmScene offers classes or camps for those looking to learn new skills. Downtown Block Party is just like it sounds,  a 14-block party located in downtown Iowa City! Equipped with dueling pianos, silent discos, roller skating, and more adventurous activities, this block party is truly unique and completely free! Come celebrate diversity at the Iowa City PRIDE Festival, it's one of the oldest continuous PRIDE celebrations in the nation! The Unity March begins at noon with entertainment to follow. History buffs will love attending West Branch's Herbert Hoover Hometown Days because it celebrates the town's most "well-known resident," former President, Herbert Hoover. The event that takes place in August has a variety of fun games and races for all ages to enjoy.

Holidays

Iowa City knows how to celebrate a holiday, especially Independence Day! Many agents suggested 4th of July festivities in and around Iowa City. Here are a few favorites, Coralville 4thFest- enjoy a free concert on July 3rd and fireworks on the 4th. North Liberty Blue & BBQ. Travel south to Wellman to attend the City of Wellman's 4th of July Fest- Huge parade kicks off on Main Street in the morning and family-friendly events take place downtown until the firework production at dusk. It's so fun with "lots of local vendors, and all-day events at the park!"

Neighboring Communities

Southwest of Iowa City

Kalona, a neighboring community within a thirty-minute drive from Iowa City holds many events that bring in crowds from all over. A few favorites include Kalona Days which consists of a parade and plenty of activities for kids! In the fall, come back to the area for the Kalona Fall Festival, where the town showcases its beautiful historic buildings that are open to the public and participate in the craft and food fair. Washington Ridiculous/Ag Days has been causing a ruckus for over 70 years! This event is a three-day event filled with crazy deals and sidewalk sales from local Washington vendors. Midwest Central Railroad is located an hour south of Iowa City and is well worth the drive for those who want to travel aboard a nostalgic ride back to yesteryear. In October book a ticket on the Midwest Haunted Rails, or The Great Pumpkin Train, and come again in December to take a magical ride on the North Pole Express. Riverside TrekFest, otherwise known as "The official future birthplace of Captain James. T. Kirk," is an event that revolves around the beloved Star Trek character and includes an Intergalactic Pet Show, Inflatables, Demo Derby, Trivia Contest, and more space-themed events. You don't need to be a Star Trek fan to have a blast at this festival!

Northwest of Iowa City

Northwest of Iowa City resides the Amana Colonies, a region that honors its German heritage with seven authentically preserved villages. The Amana Colonies host a ton of festivals including Winterfest, Maifest, Oktoberfest and Tannenbaum Forest. You can also find a Renaissance Festival held several times throughout the year. For those looking for more information on the Amana Colonies view this guide, for others continue to visit and explore this rich, cultural landmark! To learn more about the Iowa City area and what it has to offer like community events and favorite restaurants – check out our Iowa City community page. View homes for sale, find an agent, and learn more about the town.