This weekend in Ames, IA

New to the Runners United Nevada Race Series, this 5k trail run circles Hickory Grove Lake at Hickory Grove County Park. Participants can race, run, jog, or walk the chip-timed course while taking in quiet lakeside scenery. Proceeds support the Nevada High School Cross Country program. Entry options include a $35 tier with chip timing and a t-shirt for early registrants, or a $25 tier with chip timing only. Awards will be presented following the race.

Purple Ribbon Beef will be at the Ames Main Street Farmers' Market with premium dry-aged beef and convenient pre-order pickup. The market showcases a growing mix of local vendors with fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and handcrafted items from Iowa small businesses. Visitors can enjoy live music and free activities for kids while browsing, whether stocking the freezer or planning meals for the week.

Join the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market for a community day of local vendors and special entertainment. There will be joyful face painting along with the Ames Bookmobile, plus live music from Asphalt & Stained Glass. The market also features a Salsa Contest (sign-up is provided on the event page).

Crafters of all ages can gather with fellow fiber arts enthusiasts to work on personal projects. Knitting, crochet, embroidery, and other fiber crafts are all welcome. Please bring your own materials.

Sam’s Summer Tournament Series takes place at Sam’s Place in Ames, Iowa and features a double elimination pool tournament with cash prizes. Entry is $25 with a $5 green fee, and an optional $20 side pot is available. A Break and Run pot will be in play. Race lengths will be set based on turnout. Expect competitive play throughout the event, and the field welcomes participants of all skill levels.

Pinball enthusiasts can gather at Time Out for a monthly tournament featuring 6 to 8 rounds of match play in groups of 3 to 4 players. Prizes are awarded to first, second, and third place. As an IFPA event, there is a 1 dollar participation fee, and games are pay to play.

Catch Bronwyn for a live Americana and bluegrass show at Alluvial Brewing Company. The performance starts at 7:00 PM, and tickets are available through Bandsintown.

Excite Experiences is bringing a free, casual tour party to Ames to celebrate fifteen years. Attendees can meet the team, get an early look at the 2027 tour lineup, and connect with fellow travelers who share a love of exploration. The event highlights stories and memories from the past fifteen years along with what is coming next, plus giveaways, homemade chocolate chip cookies, and refreshments. The atmosphere is relaxed with no sales pitch, just conversation about great trips and inspiration for future adventures. Guests are welcome to invite a friend and arrive curious.

Music on the Porch brings live tunes to Evergreen Lane Historical Complex at Briggs Terrace, featuring JD's Trio with Deb, Steve, and Jack. Bring a chair or a blanket for comfortable seating and enjoy time with family and friends while taking in the performance.