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Waterloo is a city that truly knows how to celebrate! Discover the impressive array of over 17 annual festivals and recurring events that make Waterloo a vibrant hub of activity year-round.
From downtown celebrations to neighborhood gatherings, the city is alive with energy all year round.
A Look at Our Annual Festivals
Waterloo is renowned for its vibrant community spirit, a quality best showcased through the impressive number of festivals and events it hosts annually. In 2025 alone, residents and visitors can look forward to at least 17 distinct festivals and recurring event series, offering a diverse range of experiences throughout the year.
The city truly comes alive with celebrations catering to various interests. For instance, music lovers have multiple opportunities to enjoy live performances, with two dedicated concert series – FridayLoo and Riverloop Rhythms – each running for multiple dates throughout the summer. These alone contribute nine separate events to Waterloo's lively calendar.
Cultural immersion is a cornerstone of Waterloo's festival scene. The Iowa Irish Fest, a multi-day event attracting nearly 20,000 attendees from across the Midwest and beyond, is a prime example of the city's commitment to celebrating diverse heritage. Additionally, ¡Fiesta! offers a vibrant celebration of Latino culture, while Cedar Valley Pridefest champions LGBTQ+ pride.
Beyond music and culture, Waterloo hosts events that appeal to a wide array of passions. Car enthusiasts can rev their engines at the Fourth Street Cruise. Foodies can indulge at the Food Truck Festival. Even traditional agricultural roots are celebrated with the 115th Annual National Cattle Congress Fair, a multi-day event steeped in history.
From the spring kick-off with the Fourth Street Cruise in May, through the bustling summer months with flagship events like My Waterloo Days (a 40+ year tradition), and into the festive fall with Iowa OktoberFest and the National Cattle Congress Fair, there's a consistent rhythm of celebration in Waterloo. The year culminates with the twinkling lights of Waterloo Lights the Night in November, ensuring that the city's festive spirit shines bright from spring to holiday season. This rich calendar of events truly solidifies Waterloo as a city that knows how to celebrate, offering an abundance of opportunities for community connection and entertainment every year.
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