This Month in Waterloo
September in Waterloo: Hello Fall!
Plan out your month in Waterloo by finding local live music and events!
September in Waterloo is action-packed and filled with non-stop excitement! Immerse yourself in rich cultural celebrations at IBosnaFest and Iowa Oktoberfest, feel the energy of livestock shows and classic fair fun at the historic National Cattle Congress, or rev up your engine with food trucks and show cars at Cruise Uni. Whether you are craving authentic global eats, live music, or classic community traditions, Waterloo has everything you need to make the most of the season!
Grab your calendar and start planning your perfect month with these standout events and attractions.
Food Truck Festival
Waterloo's Food Truck Festival is returning for its 6th year! Come out and enjoy regional food trucks, a live DJ, and college football on the big screen.
🗓️ September 5 | 11AM-6PM
📍RiverLoop Expo Plaza
4th Annual University Ave Cruise
Join the fun on University Avenue in Waterloo for Cruise Uni! Starting with parking at noon, the event features a Show & Shine from 3:00 to 6:00 PM followed by cruising at 6:00 PM, bringing together a lot full of cars and good people for a full day of community. Attendees can enjoy a huge variety of eats from eight food trucks offering BBQ, grilled favorites, donuts, snacks, sweets, frozen treats, and more.
🗓️ September 6 | Show & Shine 3-6PM | Cruise at 6 PM (Parking starts at noon)
📍3810 University Ave, Waterloo, Iowa
Live Music with Open Swim
Catch Open Swim live on stage at Screaming Eagle Bar & Grill! The band returns for an 8:30 PM show, offering a great night of live music, drinks, and food.
🗓️ September 19 | 8:30 - 11:30 PM
📍Screaming Eagle Bar & Grill
National Cattle Congress
Celebrate tradition and community at the historic National Cattle Congress Fair, returning to Waterloo, Iowa! Experience a multi-day showcase packed with livestock exhibitions, thrilling rodeos, live music, carnival rides, and your favorite fair treats across the iconic grounds and historic venues. Bring the whole family to explore the rich agricultural heritage, enjoy continuous entertainment, and make unforgettable memories.
🗓️ September 24–27
📍 257 Ansborough Ave, Waterloo, IA
Iowa Oktoberfest
Raise a stein and experience the ultimate celebration of German heritage, music, and food at Iowa Oktoberfest in downtown Waterloo! Dust off your dirndls and lederhosen, grab your steins, and join the party around Anton's Garden and along East 4th Street. Enjoy authentic German cuisine, flowing beer, live polka and music, fun games, and classic contests.
🗓️ September 25–26
📍Anton's Garden
IBosnaFest
Celebrate the vibrant traditions, music, and community spirit of Bosnia at the 2nd Annual IBosnaFest in Waterloo, Iowa! The daytime festivities kick off at the RiverLoop Amphitheatre with authentic food, cultural displays, and family-friendly entertainment. As the sun sets, the celebration moves to the Waterloo Convention Center for an unforgettable evening featuring live music, traditional Folklor, dancing, and open-floor dancing that brings the entire community together.
Daytime Celebration:
🗓️ September 26 | 1:00 – 5:00 PM
📍 RiverLoop Amphitheatre
Evening Celebration:
🗓️ September 26 | 6:30 PM – 12:00 AM
📍 Waterloo Convention Center
Reoccurring Events
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 May-October | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍RiverLoop Expo Plaza (460 Jefferson St.)
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 | 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM
📍Isle Casino Hotel