Family events in Cedar Falls, IA

Spend time in the fresh air at the Waterloo Arboretum & Botanical Gardens while learning the art of hula hooping with B. and Brandi. This interactive experience welcomes all ages and every level of experience, whether you are picking up a hoop for the first time or refining your flow with new moves. A selection of colorful hoops in various sizes will be provided. Enjoy approachable instruction, learn playful tricks and techniques, and get moving in a relaxed garden setting. The cost is $10 per attendee, with payment accepted by cash, Venmo, or Cash App.

A family friendly evening kicks off with music bingo that offers chances to win prizes, then transitions into karaoke for the remainder of the event.

An outdoor RC construction setup comes to the Antique Acres show grounds, where a few bucket loads of dirt from a skid loader create a working site outfitted with conveyors, a trommel, a bridge, and dump pits. A tent and tables are planned over the work area to provide shade and cover if it rains, and since everything takes place outside, the weather can affect the day. Attendees can bring items to operate, and equipment can be provided if needed. An enclosed trailer on site is used for daily load in and locked storage overnight, and breakfast is available on the grounds. In addition to the RC activity, the larger show features tractor pulls, live music, a flea market, wood carving, threshing, blacksmithing, and a wide range of antique tractors and steam engines on display. There is no fee from the RC host to participate, but general admission to the show is separate, and donations toward tent costs are accepted.

Live to 9 brings summer evenings of live music to River Place Plaza in downtown Cedar Falls. The community series continues under the leadership of the River Place Neighborhood Association, carrying on a local tradition of live entertainment in the heart of town. It is a relaxed setting to settle in with a lawn chair, meet up with friends, and enjoy performances with food, drinks, shopping, and local businesses close by. The lineup features bands such as Tumblin' Dice, Sideshow Bob, Deja Blue, Jason Christensen Band, The Ice Breakers, and Milk & Honey, creating a season filled with music and neighborhood energy.

Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley, this 10th annual color fun run brings families and friends together for a glow-themed evening that supports local youth. Wear bright neon and take part in a colorful celebration that benefits the organization, including continued improvements to its playground and youth programs. Festivities include a pre-run party with more details to be announced, event registration, and a burst of color to launch the course. Participants can run or walk, and the experience is open to all ages. Awards and prizes will honor the first adult and youth to finish, along with the most colorfully dressed adult and child. Early registration secures an event shirt, and a limited supply may be available after the deadline.

Celebrate mini golf and community spirit at the inaugural Main Street Putt Putt Classic. All ages and abilities are welcome, from seasoned putt putt pros to first time golfers looking for a great time. Play for a cause, with participation supporting Main Street Waterloo, a nonprofit focused on strengthening and revitalizing the historic downtown. Its efforts include supporting local businesses, organizing community events, preserving the area’s character, and helping make downtown a destination for residents and visitors. Teams may consist of 2 or 4 players, making this a fitting outing for families, friends, coworkers, and community groups. Whether aiming for a win or simply enjoying the course, everyone has a place on the green.

Take part in a hands-on bumblebee expedition that explores the science behind these pollinators and the day-to-day work of a bumblebee field scientist. Participants observe gentle capture methods and the steps taken before bees are released safely. The outing is short and easygoing, with an unhurried pace and plenty of time for questions. Attendance is limited to a single family or group to keep the experience personal, and advance registration is required.

A free, themed water ski show inspired by Wii Sports Resort brings ski season to Eagle Lake in Evansdale. The program includes pyramids, barefoot skiing, jumps, swivel skiing, and performances on straps, and it begins with a pre show followed by the main event. Admission and parking are free, concessions are available, and seating is provided on bleachers or with personal lawn chairs or blankets.

Explore the world of bumblebees during a guided expedition at the arboretum. This hands-on walk delves into the science of bumblebees and highlights what a bumblebee field scientist does. Observe careful, temporary captures and the steps involved before the bees are released unharmed. The experience is low impact, short in distance, unhurried, and allows time for questions. Attendance is limited to 12 people. Free with admission or membership to the gardens.

Hands-on farm fun awaits with the NCC Junior Ambassadors Club from the National Cattle Congress. The Hippodrome becomes a bi-weekly hub of agricultural exploration for children ages 3 to 13, featuring a rotating mix of interactive stations like visits with animals at the Sunrise Petting Zoo, shaking cream into butter, and learning about honeybees and poultry. There is also a kids contest with prizes. Admission is $5 per child, and adults or chaperones are admitted at no charge. Lunch is provided at no cost for participating children, and adults or chaperones can purchase lunch for $5. Activities are held indoors so weather is not an issue, and there is free parking for buses, vans, and cars. Pre-registration is encouraged. The club shares appreciation for support from community partners and sponsors.