This Month in Waterloo
July in Waterloo: Festivals and Summer Fun
Plan out your month in Waterloo by finding local live music and events!
Summer is in full swing, and the July calendar in Waterloo is absolutely packed. Whether you are looking to rock out at an outdoor concert, celebrate the 4th of July, test your skills at a skateboard competition, or immerse yourself in local cultural festivals, we have you covered.
Grab your calendar and start planning your perfect month with these standout events and attractions.
Midwest Regional Show Ski Tournament
Waterhawks Ski Club plays host to ski teams from across the region! Teams will compete across three days of intense choreography, theatrical themes, and elite athletic ski stunts to see who claims the regional crown.
🗓️ Friday, July 24 – Sunday, July 26
📍Eagle Lake
Iowa Irish Fest
Experience Iowa’s biggest Irish cultural celebration! Featuring incredible music, traditional dance, authentic food, and community fellowship, this three-day festival brings the spirit of Ireland to the heart of Lincoln Park.
🗓️ July 31 - August 2
📍 Lincoln Park, Downtown Waterloo
Reoccurring Events
Cinder Fest
Get ready for a unique theme park celebration highlighting fiery flavors, games, and entertainment! Cinder Fest brings late-night weekend hours to Lost Island Themepark. Experience the fiery choices of the Fire Runner Food Challenge and stick around every evening for live fire dance performances.
🗓️ Every Friday & Saturday (July 3 – August 15, 2026) | 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM
📍 Lost Island Themepark
Bike Night 🆓
A massive gathering for motorcycle enthusiasts and music lovers featuring a live, performance by a popular regional band. Expect great music, local food and drinks, and a fantastic outdoor concert atmosphere.
The Chocolate Crackers
🗓️ Thursday, July 9 | 6:30-9:30PM
Six Pack Jack
🗓️ Thursday, July 16 | 6:30-9:30PM
FULL CIRCLE Band
🗓️Thursday, July 23 | 6:30-9:30PM
Irishfest Bike Night with Dry Run Creek
🗓️Thursday, July 30 | 6:30-9:30PM
Water Hawks Ski Team Shows 🆓
If you miss their big tournament weekends, you can still catch the Waterhawks performing their full, high-energy themed ski shows every single week! Watch stunning pyramids, barefooting lines, jump stunts, and comedy routines that make for a classic summer night out on Eagle Lake.
🗓️ July 3, 10, 17, 31 (Fridays) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Eagle Lake
Waterloo Urban Farmer’s Market 🆓
Stock up on fresh, locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and delicious baked goods. Connecting the community directly with local growers, bakers, and makers is the best way to support our small businesses.
🗓️ Every Saturday morning (July 4, 11, 18, 25) | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍RiverLoop Expo Plaza (460 Jefferson St.)
Waterloo Bucks Baseball
Catch high-level Northwoods League baseball action offering classic, affordable summer entertainment for sports fans and families. The home games feature fan giveaways, classic ballpark snacks, and an energetic stadium environment.
📍Riverfront Stadium
Cedar Valley Arboretum Garden Walks
Take a peaceful stroll through acres of beautifully curated display gardens, prairie spaces, and shade trees. The grounds provide a refreshing escape into nature, with educational signage highlighting regional plant and flower species.
🗓️ Check their event calendar below
Isle Oasis Live Music
The Isle Casino turns into a premier weekend destination featuring live sets from popular regional bands, refreshing drinks, and an energized, casual summer concert environment.
🗓️ Every Friday & Saturday night throughout July | 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM
📍Isle Casino Hotel