A List of Eastern Iowa's Festivals, Concerts, Markets, & More for May 2025

May is going to be a VERY busy month in Iowa! Here are some of the big events and activities coming up in Eastern Iowa and beyond in May of 2025:

On the hunt for Eastern Iowa Farmers Markets? Click HERE!

Iowa Tulip Festival

Bloomsbury Farm, Atkins
April 24th through mid-May
"Tulips are coming to Bloomsbury for the first time ever this spring! Immerse yourself in stunning, colorful fields of tulips, snap memorable photos, and meet adorable baby animals!"
Purchase tickets HERE

Tulip Time

Pella, Iowa
May 1st through 3rd
Featuring 300,000+ tulips, parades, street vendors, Dutch dinners, historical tours, live entertainment, a quilt show, a craft market, and more
Admission is free, but some activities require a ticket

What Cheer Flea Market

Keokuk County Fairgrounds, What Cheer
May 1st through 4th
"We will have over 425 vendors taking up 750 spaces over 20 acres!! We have vendors from 12 states!"
Admission is $6 on Thursday and $4 Friday & Saturday - ages 12 and under are free

Freedom FEASTival

Greene Square Park, Downtown Cedar Rapids
Friday, May 2nd from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
"Come out and try some of the best local food trucks & vendors, jam out to live tunes all day long! And don’t miss the high-energy, fun-filled performance by Iowa National Guard’s 34th Army Band 42 Romeo from 5 PM - 7 PM!"
Admission is free

WWE Friday Night Smackdown

Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines
Friday, May 2nd at 6:30 p.m.
Featuring Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, LA Knight, Kevin Owens, Damian Priest, Bianca Belair, Naomi, Tiffany Stratton, Solo Sikoa, Charlotte Flair, Jacob Fatu, and more
Purchase tickets HERE

Jurassic Quest

Xtream Arena, Coralville
Dates/Times
- Friday, May 2nd at 12 p.m.
- Saturday, May 3rd at 9 a.m.
- Sunday, May 4th at 9 a.m.
Featuring true-to-detail & size dinosaurs, an interactive Baby Dinosaur Show & Raptor Training Experience, dinosaur rides, bounce houses, fossil digs, crafts, and more
Purchase tickets HERE

UFC Fight Night

Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines
Saturday, May 3rd at 6 p.m.
"A former flyweight champion looking for his fourth win since moving to 135 pounds, Deiveson Figueiredo is chasing a historic second divisional title, but to move closer to that goal, he'll have to get by Cory Sandhagen, a fellow top-five contender who owns wins over Frankie Edgar, Marlon Vera, and Rob Font."
Purchase tickets HERE

The Sandlot Experience

Des Moines Civic Center
Saturday, May 3rd at 3 p.m.
Featuring a movie screening and a Q&A session with the cast
Cast lineup includes Tom Guiry, Chauncey Leopardi, Marty York, Shane Obedzinski, Brandon Quintin, Victor DiMattia, and Grant Gelt
Purchase tickets HERE

Cinco De Mayo Party

Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds, Davenport
Saturday, May 3rd from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Featuring a fun run, live music, a jalapeno eating contest, inflatables, food vendors, magic, balloon animals, and more
Admission is free

UI Day of Play

Robert A. Lee Recreation Center, Iowa City
Saturday, May 3rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
"This free event, for children ages 5+, will offer a variety of adaptive recreation and inclusive play activities. Spend the morning visiting activity stations, learning new games and new ways to play old favorites."

Odd Mama's Indoor Market

Veteran's Memorial Building, Cedar Rapids
Saturday, May 3rd from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Featuring 50+ vendors and food
Admission is $3 - ages 12 and under are free with a paid adult

Made in Iowa Mother's Day Market

Hawkeye Downs Expo Center, Cedar Rapids
Saturday, May 3rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Featuring 150 vendors
Admission is $5 for ages 13+ - purchase them online HERE

Spring Linn County Fair UTV Ride

Linn County Fairgrounds, Central City
Saturday, May 3rd from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spring Craft Show

Downtown Washington
Saturday, May 3rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Featuring 100 vendors and 10 food trucks

PLAYing in the Park Festival

North Ridge Park, Coralville
Saturday, May 3rd at 12 p.m.
"Get ready to dance, play, and read at this one-of-a-kind music festival! Families can stroll through the brand-new Book Walk, dance along to live performances and take part in hands-on activities designed to spark creativity and exploration. With nature all around and plenty of space to run, climb, and play, this festival is the perfect way to kick off a summer of fun!"
Event is free

Waverly’s Art Walk

Kohlmann Park, Waverly
Saturday, May 3rd from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"Over 30 Midwest artists will showcase and sell their creations, including ceramics, paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and more! Enjoy food vendors, kids’ activities, and live music throughout the day."
Admission is free

Chalk the Walk

1st Street, Mount Vernon
May 3rd & 4th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
"The committee has chosen Henri Matisse’s 'Woman in a Purple Coat' as its large community piece this year. For a $10 donation to the festival, any interested festival participant will be given a set of chalk sticks to create a single 2’ by 2’ square of a portion of this giant 40’ x 80’ Matisse image. When finished, a re-creation of the artwork will appear on Mount Vernon’s historic 1st Street created by dozens of artists of all ages and abilities. This year’s event also will feature the work of up to 166 artists creating original art in 8’ by 10’ rectangles chalked directly onto Mount Vernon’s historic 1st Street."

Maifest

Amana Colonies
May 3rd & 4th
Featuring Maipole Dancers, a parade, live music, a food truck fair, a wine & beer walk, kids' activities, shopping, and more

Comedian Steve Trevino

Hoyt Sherman Place, Des Moines
- Saturday, May 3rd at 7 p.m.
Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids
- Sunday, May 4th at 7 p.m.

Tiffin Emergency Responders' Pancake Breakfast

Tiffin Fire Station
Sunday, May 4th from 6 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Serving pancakes, hash browns, cinnamon rolls, and sausage
Free-will donations accepted

Hike and Pint

Mt. Trashmore, Cedar Rapids
Sunday, May 4th at 12 p.m.
"Join us for an afternoon of scaling Mt. Trashmore in Cedar Rapids! To celebrate our successful climb, we’re headed to Lion Bridge for a couple of beers.
We will meet outside the Recreation building at noon and then we’ll start our ascent!"
Event is free

& Juliet

Des Moines Civic Center
May 6th through 11th
"& Juliet asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way."
Purchase tickets HERE

Seether Concert

McGrath Amphitheatre, Cedar Rapids
Wednesday, May 7th at 7 p.m.
With special guests MAMMOTH WVH and Nonpoint
Purchase tickets HERE

Downtown CR Foodie Crawl

Downtown Cedar Rapids Restaurants
Wednesday, May 7th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
"We'll kick things off with a warm welcome at Cliff's Dive Bar at 5:00 PM. From there, we will split up into 3 groups to visit Bartini, Fireside Tavern and The District CR. We have teamed up with Downtown Cedar Rapids to utilize the Downtown Trolley helping us travel between each stop in style! We'll finish the night at Brick's Bar & Grill before calling it a night."
Purchase tickets HERE

Central Plaza Ribbon Cutting

City Square Park, Marion
Wednesday, May 7th at 4 p.m.
"The Central Plaza at City Square Park features a refrigerated ice-skating loop, enclosure of the Depot Pavilion, year-round public restrooms, live performance space, engaging water features, an interactive play sculpture, public art, seating and more. Perennial plantings, native trees, commemorative bricks and decorative lighting enhance the space."

Comedian Tom Segura

Vibrant Arena, Moline
Thursday, May 8th at 7:30 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Millwork Night Market Season Opener

Millwork District, Dubuque
Thursday, May 8th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Featuring vendors, food, artists, and live music

Cedar Rapids Silent Party

Big Grove Brewery, Cedar Rapids
Friday, May 9th at 8 p.m.
Featuring a silent disco, a photo booth, and 360 video
Purchase tickets HERE

Rock the Block

NewBo City Market, Cedar Rapids
Fridays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- May 9th - Jordan Messerole
- May 16th - Matthew Kane and the Band Greenbrier
- May 23rd - Surf Zombies
- May 30th - Vinyl Alibi
Admission is free

Vintage Market Days

Hawkeye Downs, Cedar Rapids
Dates/Times
- Friday, May 9th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (9 a.m. with pre-purchased tickets)
- Saturday, May 10th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (9 a.m. with pre-purchased tickets)
- Sunday, May 11th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"Gorgeous vintage pieces + hand-crafted goods + architectural salvage + repurposed finds + local eats and treats = an event you won't soon forget!"
Purchase tickets HERE

CRBS Benz Beer Fest

Benz Beverage Depot, Cedar Rapids
Saturday, May 10th from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (VIP hour at 1 p.m.)
Featuring beer sampling, live performances, food trucks, and more
Purchase tickets HERE

Super Saturday Cedar Rapids Toy & Comic Con

DoubleTree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex
Saturday, May 10th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (early bird entry at 9 a.m.
Featuring toys, comics, cosplay, collectables, cards, and special guests Kurt Angle, Tracy Lynn Cruz, Isaak Wells, and Jamie Marchi
General admission is $10 - ages 12 and under are free with a paid adult

Putnam Palooza

Putnam Museum, Davenport
Saturday, May 10th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Putnam Palooza After Dark from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Featuring live music, cultural performances, food trucks, face painting, a foam & bubble party, crafts, and more
Event is free

Monster Jam

Vibrant Arena, Moline
May 10th & 11th at 2 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Spring Beaux Arts Fair

Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds, Davenport
Dates/Times
- Saturday, May 10th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, May 11th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"This art fair sprawls throughout a spacious area that accommodates 100 booths, plenty of free parking, music, food, and daily crowds of 8,000. Enjoy free admission to the museum during the fair."

Fields Of Flight Kite Festival

Bloomsbury Farm, Atkins
May 10th & 11th from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Featuring giant kites, farm activities, photo ops, and more
Purchase tickets HERE

Blippi: Join the Band Tour

Adler Theatre, Davenport
- Sunday, May 11th at 2 p.m.
Des Moines Civic Center
- Monday, May 19th at 6 p.m.

Alice Cooper Concert

Vibrant Arena, Moline
Tuesday, May 13th at 7 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Riverdance: The Next Generation

Five Flags Center, Dubuque
Tuesday, May 13th at 7 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Statm!nt Pop Up Consignment for Adults

Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center
Dates/Times
- Friday, May 16th from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, May 17th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, May 17th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (After Dark Party - early access to the half-price sale, join the waitlist HERE)
- Sunday, May 18th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (half-off day)
"Browse over 100 closets and thousands of gently use items under one roof. We have gently used men + women's clothing, shoes, jewelry, hats and other accessories - name brands, designer & everyday styles."
Admission is free

Coralville Asian Festival

S.T. Morrison Park, Coralville
Saturday, May 17th from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Featuring food vendors, live performances, and more
Admission is free

Marion Arts Festival

Marion Square Park
Saturday, May 17th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Featuring 50 artists, a half marathon & 5K, live music, food vendors, art demonstrations, and more

Marion Kite Festival

Lowe Park, Marion
Saturday, May 17th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Featuring giant kite displays from Great American Kites
Admission is free

Cat Cafe

Marion Public Library
Saturday, May 17th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
"Join us in the Community Room for a fun-filled morning to meet some adorable adoptable cats! Cat-themed activities and books will also be available."
Featuring cats from S.A.I.N.T. Rescue

Quad Cities Topless Cruise for Charity

Starting/ending at Front Street Brewery Taproom, Davenport
Saturday, May 17th 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
All vehicles are welcome - donations are based on vehicle
100% of proceeds will be donated to Honor Flight of the Quad Cities
Register online HERE

Catfish Bend Spring Craft & Vendor Show

Catfish Bend Convention & Event Center, Burlington
Saturday, May 17th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Houby Days

Czech Village, Cedar Rapids
Dates/Times
- Saturday, May 17th from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday, May 18th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Featuring live music, a parade, vendors, food, Chalkfest, balloon glow, a kolache eating contest, and more

Hiawatha Cars & Coffee

Cedar Graphics Parking Lot, Hiawatha
Sunday, May 18th from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
"Whether you have a classic, exotic, muscle car, motorcycle, or daily driver, all vehicles are welcome. Bring the whole family—including your pets—for a fun morning of cars, coffee, and great company!"

Cruise In Night

CVSi Motorsports, Cedar Falls
Wednesday, May 21st at 5 p.m.
All vehicles welcome

Wiz Khalifa Concert

Val Air Ballroom, West Des Moines
Thursday, May 22nd at 8 p.m.
With special guests Chevy Woods, Fedd the God, and DJ Bonics

The Fray Concert

Rhythm City Casino Resort, Davenport
Thursday, May 22nd at 8 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Big Grove Book Fair

Big Grove Brewery, Iowa City
Thursday, May 22nd from 5 p.m.to 8 p.m.
An all-ages book fair hosted in collaboration with Prairie Lights Bookstore & Sidekick Coffee & Books

Island Party

Lindsay Park Yacht Club, Davenport
Friday, May 23rd from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Featuring live music from the Dirt Road Rockers, food trucks, full bar, and more
Event is free and open to the public

Friday Loo

Lincoln Park, Waterloo
Friday, May 23rd from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
"Get ready to groove, dance, and enjoy the summer nights in the heart of Downtown Waterloo. Invite your friends, bring your lawn chairs, and let's make Friday Loo the highlight of your summer!"
Featuring Dead Presidents

Good Makers Market

Cedar County Fair Grounds, Tipton
Dates/Times
- Friday, May 23rd from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, May 24th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"Shop the best hand picked vendors from all around the Midwest. Here you'll find handmade artisan goods, score some amazing vintage, shop our on trend mobile boutiques, eat from our delicious food trucks and listen to local live music."
Admission is $10 for ages 15+

Greater Iowa Swap Meet & Flea Market

Midwest Old Threshers, Mount Pleasant
Dates/Times
- Friday, May 23rd from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, May 24th from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission is free

Odd Mama's Outdoor Market

1216 2nd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
Saturday, May 24th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Featuring 50+ vendors and food
Admission is free

Iowa Renaissance Festival

Middle Amana Community Park
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- May 24th through 26th
- May 31st through June 1st
Featuring comedy shows, swordplay, live music, magic, jousting, vendors, food, and beverages
Purchase tickets HERE

Muddin for MS

Ride begins and ends at Wild Hogs Saloon & Eatery, Walford
Sunday, May 25th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Benefits MS Moments
Register online HERE

Spring Cocktail Classic

NewBo City Market, Cedar Rapids
Tuesday, May 27th from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
"The best and most creative cocktail bars and restaurants in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Corridor have been invited to conquer this springs theme: SIGNATURE SOUNDTRACK. Each competitor will select one album from ANY era, and their cocktail and decorations must capture the essence of that album! Guests will get to sample EACH ONE of their exciting cocktail creations, which will be crafted from Cedar Ridge's award-winning Bagger Vodka."
Ages 21+
Purchase tickets HERE

Comedian Nikki Glaser

Adler Theatre, Davenport
Thursday, May 29th at 7 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Comedian David Spade

Hoyt Sherman Place, Des Moines
Friday, May 30th at 8 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Bellamy Brothers Concert

First Avenue Club, Iowa City
Friday, May 30th at 8 p.m.
With special guest Palomino Band
Purchase tickets HERE

St. Joseph Fun Days

St. Joseph Catholic Parish and School, Marion
Dates/Times
- Friday, May 30th from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Saturday, May 31st from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Sunday, June 1st from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Featuring a carnival, 5K, raffle, games, BINGO, a hog roast, food, a beverage tent, live music, and more
Admission is free

Des Moines Con

Iowa Events Center, Des Moines
Dates/Times
- Friday, May 30th from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Saturday, May 31st from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, June 1st from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
"Des Moines Con is a celebration of comics, toys, TV, film, art, cosplay, games, and all things nerdy. If you're a fan of Batman, the Avengers, Doctor Who, Star Wars, LEGO, Disney, Star Trek, the Walking Dead, Power Rangers, Game of Thrones, etc., you'll probably fit right in at DMC!"
Purchase tickets HERE

Comedian Shane Gillis

Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines
Saturday, May 31st at 8 p.m.
Purchase tickets HERE

Puttin' Around Downtown

Iowa City Downtown District - check-in at 103 E. College Street
Saturday, May 31st from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Featuring 15 holes of golf
"As teams meander their way through custom-made courses, built by each participating establishment, they'll have the chance to enjoy exclusive food and drink specials. This event is perfect for a weekend outing with friends or family!"
Register a team online HERE