2025 Festivals & Events

Get Ready to Celebrate 2025!

Waterloo is gearing up for another incredible year of festivals and events, with something for everyone to enjoy!

From classic car cruises to Irish tunes and cultural celebrations, mark your calendars for these exciting happenings:

Spring into Fun:

  • Fourth Street Cruise (May 24th): Kick off the festival season with a nostalgic trip down memory lane as classic cars line Fourth Street.

Save The Dates:

  • FridayLoo (May 23rd, June 13th, July 18th, August 8th, August 29th): Enjoy a series of Friday night events in Lincoln Park featuring live music, food, and fun.
  • Riverloop Rhythms (May 30th, June 20th, July 25th, August 15th): Groove to the rhythm at the Riverloop Amphitheater with free concerts throughout the summer.

Summertime Sizzle:

  • My Waterloo Days (June 5th-8th): A Waterloo tradition for over 40 years! This multi-day festival in Lincoln Park boasts a parade, concerts, kids’ activities, delicious food, and endless entertainment. Check out mywaterloodays.com for the full schedule.
  • The Great Race (June 22nd): Cheer on participants in this unique cross-country car race with a stop in Waterloo.
  • Mayor’s Fireworks (July 5th): Celebrate Independence Day with a dazzling fireworks display.
  • North Ends Arts and Music Festival (July 19th): Head to Ferguson Fields for a celebration of local arts and music.
  • ¡Fiesta! (July 19th): Celebrate Latino culture with music, dance, food, and vibrant festivities.
  • Iowa Irish Fest (August 1st-3rd): Immerse yourself in Irish culture with live music from local, national, and international bands, dancing, food, and more in Lincoln Park. Don’t miss this chance to experience the biggest Irish celebration in Iowa!
  • Stem and Stein (August 9th): A unique event combining science, technology, engineering, and math with the fun of a beer festival.
  • CedarLoo Slam at Riverside Skate Park (August): Watch talented skateboarders show off their skills in this exciting competition.
  • Cedar Valley Pridefest (August 23rd-24th): A celebration of LGBTQ+ pride with music, entertainment, and community.
  • Food Truck Festival (August 30th): Indulge in a culinary adventure with a wide variety of food trucks offering delicious eats.

Fall Festivities:

  • Iowa OktoberFest (September): Raise a stein and enjoy German food, music, and beer at Anton’s Garden.
  • 115th Annual National Cattle Congress Fair (September 17th-22nd): Experience the excitement of the fair with carnival rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and classic fair food.

Holiday Cheer:

  • Waterloo Lights the Night (November 29th): Kick off the holiday season with this festive event featuring lights, entertainment, and family fun.

Stay tuned for more details and specific dates for some events!

This is just a taste of what Waterloo has to offer in 2025. With a diverse range of events happening throughout the year, there’s always something to celebrate in this vibrant city.

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