Iowa City's Best-Kept Secret: Free Summer Festivals, Concerts, and Movies
With a reputation for literary excellence and a vibrant downtown, Iowa City is consistently voted one of the top college towns in the U.S. Most people find themselves in this charming town during the school year—here to learn, enjoy a Hawkeye game, or another academic endeavor. Yet many do not realize that summer, when Iowa City is at its sleepiest, is one of the best times to enjoy it.
On brand, Iowa City is an art lover’s oasis during the season of sunshine. From shopping unique artwork outdoors in June, to the sound of sweet jazz hanging in the heavy, humid air in July, you don’t want to miss Iowa City in the summertime. Here are some of its one-of-a-kind offerings:
FilmScene in the Park
Every other Saturday, May 27-September 17Chauncey Swan Park
Grab a blanket and stake out a spot in the grass to watch a film under the stars on a massive outdoor screen.
Friday Night Concert Series
Fridays, May 13-August 19Ped Mall Stage or Chauncey Swan Park
Enjoy live music from area musicians.
Free Movie Series
Saturdays, May 21-August 20Various Locations
Outdoor movies will be played at locations across the Iowa City area, including parks and the airport. Most are family friendly, and some showings have UI connections, like Field of Dreams, written by Iowa Writers’ Workshop graduate W.P. Kinsella (78MFA), as well as Big Hero 6 and Raya and the Last Dragon, directed by Iowa alumnus Don Hall (91BFA).
Iowa City Farmers Market
7:30 a.m. – noon, Saturdays, May through OctoberChauncey Swan Parking Ramp
Enjoy the bounty of the season, including farm-fresh produce, eggs, and meat—along with coffee, baked goods, and newly cut flowers.
Iowa Arts Festival
June 3-5Downtown Iowa City
Shop more than 100 local and national art vendors. Also, enjoy regional and ethnic foods, live music, and family activities.
Iowa City Pride Festival
June 18Downtown Iowa City
This annual event features a colorful parade, followed by a festival featuring vendors and live music.
Downtown Block Party
June 25Downtown Iowa City
This outdoor celebration features dueling pianos, a silent disco, roller skating, live music, and more. Admission is free, but cups are sold that allow attendees of legal age to enjoy alcoholic beverages within the block party area.
Iowa City Jazz Festival
July 1-3Downtown Iowa City
Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy three days of live musical performances from two stages. This annual tradition, featuring well-known musicians and up-and-coming entertainers, typically concludes with fireworks that sparkle over the Old Capitol.