Iowa City's Best-Kept Secret: Free Summer Festivals, Concerts, and Movies
Consistently voted one of the top college towns in the U.S., Iowa City sees most of its visitors during the school year when students are present and Hawkeye sports are in full swing. But summer in the city has its own charms, from shopping outdoors for original artwork in June to the sound of soul music hanging in the August air. Here are some of Iowa City’s summer highlights:
FilmScene in the Park
Every other Saturday, beginning May 27Chauncey 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 12–Sept. 2Ped Mall Stage or Chauncey Swan Park
Dance and enjoy live music from area musicians.
Free Movie Series
Saturdays, May 20–Sept. 23Various 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, such as Strange World, co-directed by Iowa alumnus Don Hall (91BFA).
Farmers Market
7:30 a.m.–noon, Saturdays, May 6–Oct. 28Chauncey 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 2–4Downtown Iowa City
Shop more than 100 local and national art vendors. Also, enjoy regional and ethnic foods, live music, and family activities.
Pride Festival
June 17Downtown Iowa City
This annual event features a colorful parade, followed by a festival featuring vendors and live music.
Downtown Block Party
June 24Downtown Iowa City
This outdoor celebration features dueling pianos, a silent disco, roller skating, and live music. Admission is free, but cups are sold that allow attendees of legal age to enjoy alcoholic beverages in the block party area.
Jazz Festival
June 30–July 2Downtown 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.
Latino Fest
August 26Pedestrian Mall
Head downtown for a day of food and performances, including traditional dance showcases and salsa lessons.
Soul & Blues Festival
Late SeptemberDowntown Iowa City
Finish the summer on a high note with two days of music and dance on the streets of Iowa City.
