Events in Ames, IA

The market at The Milford returns with a Central Iowa Junk Jaunt edition, with more details for the September market to be announced soon. The team is taking a summer market break in August, so there is no market that month, and July served as the final market before the hiatus. Please note that the Milford stop on the Central Iowa Junk Jaunt is always closed on Sunday so the space can be refreshed and weekend guests can check out peacefully.

In this irreverent twist on fairy tales, Ella, a Cinderella who has a few more chapters behind her, storms the storybook to challenge the myth of happily ever after. Rather than repeating the familiar plots, she writes the messy aftermath, where real life collides with make-believe and the whole realm feels the shock. Former ingenues now grown and princes with frayed nerves confront what comes after that perfect moment. The production blends fast-paced farce, old-school vaudeville, the snap of sketch comedy, and a touch of Rocky Horror style for an off-the-rails adventure long past midnight.

Prepare for a high-energy rock and roll show that keeps the momentum up and the dance floor moving. The music has even stretched late into the night before, a nod to how lively it can get. It is a dance-forward set, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.

A live performance featuring a blend of blues and classic rock, a touch of country, and a selection of original songs. The set moves through these styles for a varied mix.

A lively round of bingo returns with irreverent humor, sarcastic banter, and prizes that lean toward the questionable. Despite the name, it is not in a back alley. It takes place inside Daisy’s, where air conditioning and cold drinks set a comfortable scene. Expect plenty of chaos and questionable choices. Early arrivals can grab a massive 12-inch, half-pound footlong and a drink before settling in for bingo that probably will not make a grandma proud.

Iowa State Cyclones Football faces Utah Football at Jack Trice Stadium. Children younger than 2 do not need a ticket. A general public sale is planned for this event.

Purple Ribbon Beef sets up at the Ames Main Street Farmers' Market with high quality, dry aged beef, surrounded by a larger lineup of vendors offering fresh produce, baked treats, flowers, and handmade goods from Iowa-based small businesses. The scene includes live music and free activities for children, adding to a welcoming community atmosphere. For extra convenience, preordering is available for quick pickup at the Purple Ribbon Beef stand.

Stop by the Ames Farmers Market on Main Street.

Remy’s Fun Walk/Run is a family-friendly walk and run at Hickory Grove County Park for the entire family, including furry family members. The event is hosted in memory of Remy, a beloved Greater Swiss Mountain Dog who passed away from bone cancer on June 16, 2018 at age 7. Participants can enjoy a beautiful fall walk around the trail at Hickory Grove Lake, then grab lunch from Alley’s Sandwiches and Wraps food truck after the walk. All money from registrations goes to the Chase Away K-9 Cancer Foundation.

Now in its 14th year, the Ames Psychic & Paranormal Expo is billed as one of the Midwest’s standout gatherings, featuring more than 40 vendors. Explore readings with psychics and mediums, appearances by paranormal teams, information on haunted locations, and a marketplace that includes healings, reiki, reflexology, stones and gems, drums, tarot cards, shamanic practices, candles, herbs, and books. Admission is $5 per day and also includes access to presentations throughout the day at no additional charge. Talks may feature ghost hunters, gallery readings, and sessions on developing intuition. Seating for speaker sessions is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Updates are shared on the Psychic and Paranormal Expo page and the Ames Psychic & Paranormal Expo - 14th Annual 2026 page, and all posts are subject to host approval.

The event features original country music from Madison Kolbet, shaped by her small-town roots and strong family ties. An Iowa native who discovered her love of music in middle school, she has continued to hone her craft through songwriting and frequent co-writing with collaborators across the country.

A new celebration of nonfiction storytelling arrives in Ames as the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, Octagon Center for the Arts, and Ames Main Street launch the Ames Documentary Film Festival in conjunction with the longstanding Octagon Arts Festival. The event spotlights compelling real-world narratives through short documentaries, each running under 40 minutes. Set in a university community, it nods to the academic strengths of Iowa State University and brings filmmakers, scholars, and the public together to honor the craft of documentary and the influence of higher education on this art form. Supported by the Discover Ames Community Grant Program, the rollout included a public announcement, a call for films and outreach to creators, the unveiling of final selections, and the release of the festival schedule leading up to its debut.

The 55th annual Octagon Art Festival fills Main Street in downtown Ames with original work by approximately 100 artists from across the Midwest. Explore ceramics, jewelry, paintings, fiber art, photography, garden art, sculptures and more, alongside live music and other entertainment. Food trucks and additional food vendors are on hand, and families can stop by a children's art area for hands on creativity. This outdoor event is held on pavement and will proceed in all weather. There is no admission fee. Organized by the Octagon Center for the Arts, a nonprofit community art center in downtown Ames.

Enjoy a free community screening of ParaNorman. The concession stand will be open with items available at cost. Please note that the start time may change.

A monthly book sale takes place in the Nevada Public Library's basement. Visitors can shop for books at this recurring event.

Queers & Beers welcomes everyone to an LGBTQIA+ happy hour that takes place on the first Friday of each month. Connect with fellow queer community members in a relaxed setting and enjoy a safe, inclusive space to mingle and unwind.

Iowa State faces West Virginia in a college football matchup at Jack Trice Stadium. Families should note that children younger than 2 do not need a ticket.

In celebration of Homecoming, the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine and VMAA are hosting a tailgate at the college featuring a buffet, tours, and shuttle buses running to and from Jack Trice Stadium. The buffet is $25 per person. A VMAA membership FB ticket is $60 per person, and the same rate applies to the member’s family and friends. Parking at the CVM is free.

Ada Hayden Park hosts the first annual Mind Over Miles 5k, a chip timed fundraiser that directs all proceeds to provide mental health counseling for underserved people in Story County. Participants of every age and ability are welcome, with runners, walkers, and kids encouraged to take part. A kids run is included, and that registration comes with a packet and a medal. The 5k uses a shotgun start. Race registration includes a t-shirt, with sizes guaranteed for early entries and limited availability afterward. Packet pickup is available before the event as well as on race day. Entry fees are $40 for the 5k and $10 for the kids run.

Everyone is welcome to enjoy a free community dinner served in the parish hall. Hosted at Sacred Heart Church, it offers a friendly place to share a meal and connect with neighbors.

Settle in at London Underground for a relaxed book club with Ellyn, a co-owner, and Bailey, a bookseller. There is no assigned title, so participants can simply share what they have been reading while enjoying a drink. The bar offers a broad cocktail list as well as a range of mocktails. Attendees receive 20 percent off all purchases for 20 minutes following the book club.

Network with community members, Alliance participants, and local business owners at a relaxed, drop-in Business After Hours reception with drinks and appetizers. Member businesses host these gatherings each month to make it easy to build relationships across the community. The event is free, and Alliance members attend at no cost.

Swan Lake unfolds in a full scale staging by World Ballet Company with a live orchestra bringing Tchaikovsky’s score to life. A cast of 50 international dancers tells a story of fate, magic, and the struggle between good and evil, complemented by more than 150 hand sewn costumes and carefully crafted sets. Signature moments include the Dance of the Little Swans and the Black Swan’s 32 fouettés. The performance runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 20 minute intermission, and is recommended for ages 5 and up. World Ballet Company, based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, tours beloved classics across the nation with performances welcoming both newcomers and longtime ballet fans. The ensemble features renowned artists representing over ten countries and has performed in more than 300 cities for audiences exceeding 500,000.

This week highlights Nevada Cub Pride with plenty of spirit. Enjoy live music at Bricktown Bakery and kids activities on the Nevada Public Library lawn while browsing a diverse mix of vendors.

During Witches Walk, downtown businesses stay open later than usual and offer light bites and beverages for a festive evening across downtown. While tailored to adults, it is open to all and dressing up is encouraged. A costume contest takes place at Della Viti, with winners determined by the loudest applause from the crowd. Presented by Della Viti with support from Members1st Credit Union. A separate Downtown Trick or Treat event provides a kid-focused option.

Mark your calendar for this event. Further information will be announced soon.

At Stagecoach Stables, the Masterson Method Weekend Course provides a hands-on immersion for horse owners, therapists, and trainers. Participants learn to notice and use a horse’s subtle visual responses to find and relieve accumulated tension in key areas that influence performance, strengthening communication and partnership. A student from Minnesota, Tracy Morgan, praised the approach as a way to connect with a horse on a deeper level. This course is presented as the practical next step after Beyond Horse Massage, and attendees are expected to have read the book or watched the DVD beforehand. The techniques, developed by Jim Masterson and shared with hundreds of learners worldwide, form the foundation of the instruction. Tuition is $545, and the course is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork for continuing education credit.

Mania: The ABBA Tribute comes to Stephens Auditorium in Ames for a high-energy celebration of ABBA. All ages are welcome and seating is reserved. A password pre-sale is available with the code DANCING.

Look for the main shelter house in Ada Hayden Park as the meeting point. Participants will register first, then the walk will set off.

The 2026 Campustown Fall Classic brings miniature golf to the Campustown Business District, with holes set up at select businesses. Participation is free. A list of specific hole locations will be shared at a later date.

A fundraising Frozen 5K from Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer® takes place at the Ames/ISU Ice Arena, where participants complete 35 laps to honor those impacted by cancer. The $35 entry includes a Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer® t-shirt, and rental skates are provided. Signing up ahead of time is encouraged. Each registration supports innovative cancer research through the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation.

An after-work, come-and-go reception with drinks and appetizers, designed to help community members build relationships with Alliance members and business owners. Welcoming those who are new to the area or the Alliance, it offers a relaxed setting for networking across the community. These receptions are hosted monthly by member businesses. Business After Hours is free, and Alliance members attend at no cost.

Featuring a Great Pumpkin Market theme in collaboration with Downtown Trick or Treat 2026, this family friendly evening includes trick or treating downtown, live music taking place at Bricktown Bakery, and activities for kids on the Nevada Public Library lawn. Browse market vendors during the final market of the 2026 season.

Embark on a Halloween-themed geocaching adventure at McFarland Park after dark, combining a seasonal atmosphere with hands-on GPS navigation. Family members and friends can search for glowing jack-o'-lanterns and themed caches hidden throughout the park while learning a bit about the holiday's roots. Expect friendly fun with not-too-scary surprises and the chance to enjoy an autumn evening together. The experience welcomes all ages and every experience level, from first-time explorers to seasoned cache seekers. Space is limited, and advance registration is recommended.

AniAmes returns in 2026 with a fresh twist, offering an experience that unfolds step by step. A new storytelling journey is taking shape from the very first moments. Venture onto The Forest Path, where the opening chapter begins to reveal itself.

Downtown Ames welcomes ghouls, ghosts, goblins, and characters of all kinds for community trick-or-treating. Families can enjoy a festive outing together and get to know the downtown area. Costumes are encouraged for babies, toddlers, kids, and parents, so creative looks are part of the fun. Sponsored by Duckworth Wearing and 3M.

This fall show features seasonal savings with a spooky twist. The organizer is welcoming vendor inquiries from those interested in taking part.

Celebrate the season with a fall show featuring spooky deals to discover. Prospective vendors can apply through the event’s application form.

Jack Trice Stadium hosts a Big 12 showdown as Oklahoma State takes on Iowa State. Expect a physical contest where field position plays a key role, late-game choices carry extra weight, and composure under pressure can shift the result. Both programs bring hard-hitting styles and momentum-swinging drives, so just a few pivotal snaps may determine the outcome.

A casual, intimate evening for the NFTS Mom's Group focuses on sharing stories of angels, with space for laughter, tears, and healing. This peer-led gathering is facilitated by Kristine Vanderwiel, NFTS Family Support Coordinator. It will be held in a private room at The IowaStater Restaurant at the Gateway Hotel, with complimentary food and beverages provided. RSVP is requested to help with ordering. Those new to NFTS are welcome. Sponsored by Everyone's Eden.

The basement of the Nevada Public Library hosts a recurring book sale each month.

The Friends of the Nevada Public Library Board meets to review current priorities and ways to volunteer. The conversation centers on board matters and opportunities to support the library through service.

Man of La Mancha, a widely popular musical inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote, unfolds against the backdrop of the Spanish Inquisition. In a prison cell, Cervantes awaits trial and, with the other inmates, stages a play that tells the tale of the elderly Alonso Quijana, who takes on the name Don Quixote and embarks on a quest to set the world right. The score draws on Spanish colors and includes classics such as "The Impossible Dream," "I, Don Quixote," "Dulcinea," "I Really Like Him," and "Little Bird." The original 1965 production received five Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

Tickets are on sale for the largest annual fundraiser supporting efforts to improve the lives of cats in Warren County, Iowa. This gathering celebrates recent milestones, expresses gratitude to supporters, and raises essential funds to continue the work. Look for a refreshed slate of activities this year alongside longtime favorites, including a basket auction and plenty of good food. Attire is flexible, from casual to formal, so wear whatever feels comfortable.

Dog-Eared hosts Krystal Duran, a TikTok creator and author of the upcoming book More Than Just a Plant, for an author conversation at Prairie Moon Winery. Blending education with entertainment, she aims to make plant care approachable for all. Tickets include a copy of the book. The carnivorous bog planter workshop presented by Back Alley Houseplants is sold out.

At Hilton Garden Inn Ames, a graduation ceremony recognizes the Leadership Ames Class of 39, highlighting their dedication, hard work, and growth after a year focused on strengthening leadership skills and deepening community involvement. The event opens with a casual social hour, then dinner is served before a presentation and the formal graduation program. Afterward, there is additional time to reconnect and the event concludes. Keynote remarks are delivered by Stephanie Salasek. As a child she was sometimes sidelined and teased with nicknames, yet today she works with subject matter experts who aim to be recognized as strong leaders with high emotional intelligence and as effective speakers. Her experience spans college administration, health care, corporate training, and secondary teaching. She emphasizes a "people first problem second" approach and encourages breaking the script with a good sense of humor.

Seniors in Story’s Community Conversations is a free monthly program that connects older adults, caregivers, and professionals who support the aging community for learning and dialogue. Each gathering explores current topics related to aging, wellness, available resources, and quality of life, encouraging meaningful discussion in a welcoming, community-focused setting. This installment includes a member spotlight featuring Visiting Angels, with the educational presentation to be announced. Complimentary coffee and breakfast items are provided. RSVP is encouraged. Hosted at Sixty Forward.

Business After Hours is a relaxed, drop-in networking reception with drinks and appetizers. It brings community members together with Alliance participants and local business owners, and is especially useful for those who are new to the area or to the Alliance. Attendance is free, and the format is come and go, so arrivals and departures are flexible. Member businesses host these gatherings each month to make it easy to start conversations, build relationships, and expand professional connections across the community.

Patio Bar and Grill presents a country music performance delivered by standout talent. A straightforward, high-quality showcase for anyone who appreciates the genre.

College football fans can catch the Iowa State Cyclones taking on Kansas State at Jack Trice Stadium. Tickets will be available to the general public, and children younger than 2 may attend without a ticket.

Browse a monthly book sale in the basement of the Nevada Public Library.