Events in Cedar Rapids, IA

St. Paul’s United Women in Faith hosts the Holiday Fair, a long-standing community tradition and major annual fundraiser celebrating 105 years of impact. Across two days at St. Paul’s, guests can enjoy a family meal, Gingerbread Nook activities for kids, viewing of themed tables, and a luncheon featuring a talk by Pam Moore. Throughout the event, browse the holiday bake shop and cookie walk, shop the crafts boutique, and explore fair trade items. This year’s theme is Music for the Season. Proceeds support the United Women in Faith’s local and global mission projects that benefit women, children, and families, continuing a legacy that has funded hundreds of initiatives.

Enjoy several days of crafting at a hotel crop where all kinds of crafts and crafters are welcome. Each participant has six feet of workspace and may bring a small side table, provided it fits within their area without blocking walkways or affecting neighboring spaces. Cropping is available throughout the night, and a snack table, coffee, water, and tea are provided. Hotel breakfast is included with the room, and participants receive a voucher to use at the on-site Mexican restaurant. Other meals are at your own expense. Hotel rooms are required and must be booked through the designated booking link. Registration is encouraged, as space may fill up. Cancellations are subject to a fee, and refunds are not available within two weeks of the crop.

The NAACP Cedar Rapids recognition luncheon celebrates people making a difference, with the theme “Building Bridges, Creating Belonging.” The program will recognize Monica Challenger with the Keeper of the Flame Award, Dave Markward with the Good Trouble Activist Award, and Otis McGowan with the Standing Ovation “Yes I Can” Branch Award, which is reserved for an NAACP Cedar Rapids member. Speakers include Anne Carter, Wilsee Kollie, and Diamond Roundtree.

Molly Shannon returns to Cornerstone Pub in Tiffin, Iowa for an evening of live music. Enjoy the show with dinner and a drink from the pub while the performance unfolds. Admission is free.

Enjoy an evening of bingo, open to the public for ages 12 and up. Food and beverages are available for purchase, and an entry packet costs $6.

A support group for transgender, non-binary, and gender-fluid people.

Survey Says brings a Family Feud style bar game to Spare Time Cedar Rapids with a live, team-based format that is free to play and open to all ages. Participate solo or build a team of up to eight people. For each question, teams submit what they believe are the most popular responses from surveys of 100 people, earning more points for more popular answers. Points are awarded as long as a top three answer is turned in. The game is structured into four rounds of five questions, and each half ends with a multiplier question where point values are doubled and then tripled. Turn in your top picks and compete for house cash and other prizes.

Brother Ali brings powerful lyrics and dynamic performances to a live hip-hop concert at Gabe's in Iowa City.

Enjoy a Thursday night of food and fun with two hours of unlimited bowling, shoe rental, and unlimited cheese or pepperoni pizza slices for $10.99 per person.

Browse fiction and nonfiction, plus CDs, DVDs, and games at a pay-what-you-wish sale supported by freewill donations. Scanning with any device is not permitted. The Friends of the Coralville Public Library is a nonprofit that supports the library and literacy programs in the community.

This round-table discussion explores multiple pathways of recovery and is open to the public.

Planned as the largest veterans appreciation gathering of the year, this banquet will honor several local veterans nominated by friends and family for their service, sacrifice, and patriotism. Nominations from loved ones are being accepted to recognize additional local veterans. More details will be shared as the event approaches.

This program opens the Museum of Natural History’s gallery spaces after hours for artists of all experience levels to sketch or write alongside campus and community creatives. Each gathering begins in Bird Hall on the third floor of Macbride Hall and may move to other areas of the museum. A new inspiration prompt is offered for every session, and participants can either join a themed creation challenge or focus on personal projects with the exhibits as inspiration. The final portion of the session is set aside for optional sharing and conversation. Because the museum is typically closed during this period, the main Iowa Hall entrance is locked, while other building doors provide access to the Ground Floor. Bird Hall can be reached by stairs or by taking the elevator to the third floor. Extra art materials are provided by Blick Art Materials, and a check-in point in Bird Hall offers a variety of special tools and supplies.

A gala for the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art will be held at The Cedar Rapids Country Club, supporting the museum's education and outreach programs. This warm celebration centers on CRMA's work with learners and the wider community.

This silent mindfulness retreat offers a pause from everyday busyness through sitting and walking meditation, mindful movement, and mindful eating. Guided by mindfulness teacher Chris Klug, the practices support awareness of thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations in the present moment. Brief instructions and opportunities for questions and discussion are available for both new and experienced meditators. Participants can explore silence, contemplative connection with the natural world, and practical mindfulness skills that support resilience, compassion, and clarity in daily life.

Enjoy live music and dancing with Lyle Beaver & Brass Notes.

For more than two decades, Gary Owen has entertained audiences with observational humor and candid storytelling shaped by his personal life, military experience and everyday absurdities. His work spans stand-up, comedy specials, film and television, including appearances in Ride Along, Think Like a Man and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. He also hosts the podcast #GetSome with Gary Owen. Following sold-out comedy club performances, Owen announced his first major North American theater tour, No Hard Feelings.

Experience a lively, request-fueled piano showdown where two skilled performers trade songs, jokes, and singalongs all night. The crowd drives the playlist, with everything from John Lennon to John Legend, Beach Boys to Beastie Boys, and even Disney favorites, and most requests are fair game. Expect plenty of laughs, big choruses, and a chance to hit the dance floor if the mood strikes. This high-spirited show is a popular pick for birthdays, reunions, and bachelorette celebrations. Tickets are $10 in advance or $10 cash at the door if space allows. Buying ahead secures entry, but seats are not guaranteed. All seating is first come, first served, and events frequently reach standing-room-only capacity.

This volunteer workday focuses on camp projects that need an extra hand. Volunteers meet at the Ranger Shop to begin the day and may contribute for the full day or part of it. Dress for outdoor conditions and bring a water bottle. Lunch is provided. To confirm attendance, contact Ranger Josh in advance at joshua.yoder@scouting.org or 319-438-6531.

Browse local vendors offering handmade crafts, unique gifts, and other finds for holiday shopping. The VFW Auxiliary will serve pulled pork sandwiches, walking tacos, chips, and soda, and host a bake sale with homemade treats. Giveaways and other holiday fun are also part of this community market, which supports local small businesses and the VFW.

Settle into a two hour guided experience at Anahata Wellness Co-op that turns attention inward for exploration and self-discovery. Through three QHHT-inspired meditations, participants are invited to enter a personal inner temple, notice symbols and messages at the threshold, meet various facets of self in three chambers, and then rest in a quiet sanctuary of intuition and inner knowing. The focus is on remembering rather than searching, listening rather than pushing, and allowing your own wisdom to surface. No previous meditation or spiritual background is needed, and participants are encouraged to approach the experience with curiosity and a willingness to explore. You may leave with a symbol, a message, a new realization, or simply a deeper sense of connection to yourself. The experience is facilitated by Jess, a Reiki Master, QHHT practitioner, intuitive channel, and energy worker who offers a warm, nonjudgmental space for healing and reflection. Admission is $35 per person.

Discover mental health resources in one place at this annual fair, which brings together organizations focused on mental health. The fair is paired with a craft sale, with table fees supporting local nonprofits that provide mental health services. Guests can shop, connect with organizations, and learn from guest speakers about advocacy, skill-building, and mental health awareness.

Give your Jack-O-Lantern one last hurrah as pumpkins are dropped from the northwest corner of the parking ramp beside Chauncey Swan Park. Bring a gutted pumpkin with all decorations, lighting, stickers, ribbons, and candle wax removed. The event is free, and pumpkins are dropped by the event team. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs to watch, then enjoy outdoor activities and a warm breakfast from local food vendors. Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee and FilmScene popcorn will be available, with activities from the Iowa City Public Library Bookmobile and other partners. Pumpkins that have been painted, coated with preserving sealant, or covered in glitter cannot be composted, and pumpkins may be rejected if they do not meet the event’s standards. The event is presented by New Pioneer Food Co-op and Urban Acres Realtors.

Bring a clothing or fabric project that needs a repair, such as a hole to patch, a button to sew on, jeans to hem, or elastic to replace. Experienced menders and sewing machines will be available. People with needle-and-thread skills who are interested in helping can contact Jane Nesmith.

A full slate of dance activities welcomes student performers with contestant check-in, judged interviews for 11th and 12th grade competitors that are closed to the public, and a series of divisions that include technique for 11th and 12th grade, duets and trios, and solos for grades 7 through 12, all concluding with final awards. An optional master class with University of Iowa Dance Team Coach Jenny Eustice is offered for $50 per dancer. Spectators may enter once doors open and can purchase admission at the door for $10 in cash, with no presale available. Technique and solo rounds take place in the main gym, where bleacher seating is provided. For arrival at Iowa City West High School, park in the north lot near the auditorium and use the main entrance marked by the large W. Videotaping is permitted during the competition, and everyone is asked to respect the performers and their creative work when sharing photos or videos. Photographers and videographers will be on site for marketing purposes, though not every participant may be captured.

Have a child’s car seat checked to help keep them safe in the car. Appointments are required. Sign up online, message the event page, or contact the organizer by email or text.

Bring your furry family members for a festive photo with Santa Paws. A photographer will capture your pup’s holiday moment, and you are welcome to bring your own camera. Holiday cookies will be available, and admission and photos are free. Monetary donations supporting Cedar Rapids’ off-leash dog parks are appreciated. Photos will be edited and emailed after the event. Please keep dogs leashed throughout the celebration. The event does not require a park permit, but permits are required to use the park’s other off-leash areas. A wait to see Santa is typical, so a little patience may be needed.

This annual gala supporting Breakthrough T1D in Cedar Rapids gathers the community for an evening dedicated to advancing progress toward a cure for type 1 diabetes and improving daily life for those affected. Expect a wide-ranging silent auction, a live auction filled with unique offerings, a seated dinner with drinks, and live entertainment, all centered on meaningful fundraising and celebration.

The Royal Ball invites supporters of the Friends of the Animal Center Foundation to a regal gala benefiting the Iowa City Animal Care & Adoption Center. Hosted at Brown Deer Golf Club, the evening features a plated dinner, live music from The FunkDaddies, a Crown Jewel Candy Bar, a silent auction with games, heartfelt stories of lives changed by community support, and surprises along the way. Guests may arrive in formal or cocktail attire, or add a royal touch with a crown or cape. Proceeds from each ticket help fund medical care, behavior support, enrichment, foster supplies, and other vital resources for the thousands of animals served by the Center each year.

Pizza, quality beer, and live music come together in one setting.

Fresh off releasing Magic Lover, the first magic comedy special on Netflix, Justin Willman hits the road with an all-new tour called One for the Ages. Known as the creator and face of Netflix series Magic for Humans and Magic Prank Show, he mixes astonishing sleight of hand with down to earth humor, racking up more than a billion views and connecting with families, comedy fans, and even skeptics. His résumé includes appearances on The Tonight Show, The Today Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and Conan, along with the Magic Castle’s Stage Magician of the Year honor. He has performed at the White House, entertained crowded theaters around the country, and even moved adults to tears with a single card trick. This tour is his largest yet and features brand new material plus surprises. It offers an interactive, laughter filled, sleight of mind experience that is smart, silly, and genuinely astonishing, welcoming audiences of every age and generation.

Free Fallin brings its Tom Petty tribute to The Olympic South Side Theater in Cedar Rapids. Originating in the Minneapolis area, the group has spent nearly two decades performing Petty’s music across the globe, growing into a full-scale concert production. A seasoned lineup delivers a dynamic show packed with the biggest hits, using instruments and wardrobe choices that evoke the look and sound of an authentic Tom Petty concert. The band has toured major stages nationwide and is recognized for its high level of professionalism. Rock fans can expect a night of beloved songs and plenty of moments to sing along.

Enjoy a late-night bowling party with two hours of unlimited bowling, shoe rental, music, and a light show. The experience costs $15.99 per person.

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast featuring pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausage links, biscuits and sausage gravy, coffee, orange juice, and milk. The breakfast is open to the public, and children five and under eat free.

Stop by for samples of hot sauces, seasonings, and rubs, and explore what Saucy Picasceau and AllSpice have to offer.

The annual Lord's Portion Auction marks its 30th year.

Get acquainted with the resident animals at Amazing Space at Indian Creek Nature Center in Cedar Rapids, with opportunities to see them up close and gently touch them. A staff member will be available to introduce the animals and answer questions. This is a relaxed drop in experience without a formal program, so you can stop by at your convenience. Admission is $2 per person, and registration is optional.

Presented by the University of Iowa Department of Theatre Arts, this play by Mary Hamilton, directed by Mary Beth Easley, imagines what happens during the 16-year gap in Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale. King Leo copes with a midlife crisis by starting a dad-rock band with the ghost of his son, while Queen Her and Pauly escape to the forest and consider life without men. Meanwhile, a group of teenagers plots to change the world. With music, love, mistaken identities, a bear, and plenty of hashtags, the play asks whether oppression can be eliminated to make way for a more equitable future.

Learn how to build a closed tropical terrarium and care for your new garden under glass. Choose a $55 or $75 vessel.

Play Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game of bluffing and deduction that pits Good against Evil. A Storyteller guides the game as players share clues, spread misinformation, and try to identify the demon. The sessions include options for newcomers to learn the rules and strategy, as well as opportunities for experienced players to explore new roles, challenging scripts, and special features. Each character has a unique ability, and even players whose characters are killed can remain involved as ghosts seeking victory.

Explore the natural world in a museum classroom filled with local touch-table specimens and seasonally themed play. During the autumn focus, children can celebrate the colors and textures of fall through hands-on discovery. Examine leaves, gourds, pinecones, and acorns at the touch table, make beaded corn cobs with pipe cleaners, try pinecone painting and simple printmaking, and investigate how breezes set autumn leaves in motion. Activities are planned for school-aged children, and curious explorers of any age are welcome.

With school out, the Iowa Children’s Museum will be open for a day of play.

Gather with friends for a teen trivia challenge featuring popular young adult series, including Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, Divergent, and Percy Jackson. Snacks are provided.

Hancher Auditorium teams up with the University of Iowa String Quartet Residency Program to present a close-knit, hourlong concert by Owls in Bird Hall at the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History. Admission is free and no ticket is required, but seating is limited. Owls, an inverted string quartet, features violinist Alexi Kenney, violist Ayane Kozasa, cellist Gabriel Cabezas, and cellist-composer Paul Wiancko, Hancher’s composer-in-residence. This program was originally planned for the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and has been relocated to Bird Hall in Macbride Hall.

Celebrate the theme We are Stardust with a welcoming moon circle that journeys through the zodiac, offering insights into each sign and practical guidance for exploring your natal birth chart. Each gathering focuses on your unique constellation and blends learning with thoughtful reflection. Sessions are offered in person and online. Attendance is $20 per circle, with an optional Sisters of the Moon membership at $30 per month for a deeper experience that includes an Astrological Houses guide, monthly sign-focused worksheets, guided meditations with journal prompts, new and full moon readings and rituals, access to a members site with all materials, quarterly boxes of astro gifts tailored to sun, moon, rising, and Saturn House, and admission to all monthly circles in person or online at Illuminations Center for Enlightenment. A paid-in-full option at $375 adds extra bonuses, including a printed natal chart, a 2026 Moon Journal from Moon Phase Studios, and premium quarterly boxes with additional tools aligned to personal placements. Reservations are handled through Illuminations.

A playful celebration of hands-on exploration for children five and younger, featuring activities designed to support development through play. Each month focuses on a different play schema, with related activities in the party room and an exhibit that brings the theme to life. Caregivers can learn about the science of play from museum educators, take part in guided sensory activities, and discover simple ways to continue the fun at home. Sponsored by Stride Autism Centers.

Enjoy a gentle, beginner-friendly chair yoga class led by Tammy Bayer at First Presbyterian Church of Cedar Rapids, IA. Tammy adapts the session to support different mobility levels so participants can move comfortably and safely. A chair is used for stability, with seated poses and occasional standing options, making it a welcoming choice for those new to yoga, anyone with physical limitations, or anyone who finds traditional classes challenging. No prior experience is required. Sponsored by the Bridges to Opportunities 55+ group, this class is free for participants. A free parking lot is available, and the class meets in a large meeting room that can be reached by ramp or a short set of stairs.

Enjoy a morning of airplanes, coffee, and donuts. Everyone is welcome, whether arriving by air, car, or on foot. Food trucks interested in setting up for a couple of hours are welcome to contact the organizers.

The public is invited to Basket Night, featuring a choice of hamburger, cheeseburger, or tenderloin. Each meal includes French fries and condiments for $10 per person.

Westwood comes back to North Point with a dance and pop set. This Cedar Rapids group performs cover sets alongside original songs, drawing from artists like Childish Gambino, Post Malone, 2Pac, Dayglow, Dua Lipa, No Doubt, Bobby Brown, Paramore, Usher, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Bruno Mars, Gavin DeGraw, and Charlie Puth. North Point is directly behind Raging Rhino. Their own releases are available wherever you listen to music.

Enjoy a free live music set with Sam Day, a cellist trained in the classical tradition. He holds a Bachelor of Music in cello performance from Baylor University in Waco, Texas, and has performed with ensembles including the Abilene Philharmonic and the Waco Symphony. Following a win at the Semper Pro Musical competition, his string quartet appeared at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall in May 2022. He also brings an electric edge to the stage with original arrangements of popular and classic rock performed across the Midwest. Admission is free.

Hosted by 319 Card Shows, this large-scale trading card show offers free admission to the main floor and spans more than 30,000 square feet of displays and deals. Browse 100 eight foot vendor tables featuring Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, One Piece, Disney Lorcana, Gundam, Dragonball Z, baseball and football sports cards, plus collectibles, comics, and games. Families can add access to a dedicated arena for $5 per family that includes bounce houses, mini golf, Connect 4, and other activities, with mini golf, bounce houses, and obstacle courses provided by Spacewalk. On-site barbecue will be available, catered by Backyard BBQ. Vendors can reserve tables for $60 to $80 per eight foot table, and each booked table includes one complimentary BBQ meal, limit one per table.

Learn how to read tarot for yourself and others in a class welcoming both beginners and experienced readers. Class materials are included for $25.

Redemption, a lively cover band, brings a decades-spanning set to Otis' Tailgators Sports Bar in Cedar Rapids, IA, featuring familiar hits from the 1970s through today. The performance blends rock favorites with nostalgic pop, creating a feel-good soundtrack that keeps audiences singing along and on their feet throughout the show.

Party Plan returns for an evening built around good music and a fun atmosphere.

A special open play session of mahjong unfolds at Kendra Scott in the Iowa River Landing in Coralville, Iowa. Space is limited, so reservations are required. Each ticket bundle includes a $25 gift card to use in the store during the event, along with exclusive Kendra Scott shopping offers that make it easy to get a head start on Christmas gifts while you play. Mahjong by Heidi will be available to answer questions. Please bring your NMJL 2026 Card. This gathering is intended for participants who already know the game.

Bob the Drag Queen brings a tour stop to The Englert Theatre with a performance that goes beyond a standard stand-up act. The show draws on a background that spans Broadway, New York Times best-selling authorship, Traitor, Hulu stand-up, and a Drag Race win. Whether already in the know or discovering it for the first time, audiences can look forward to a multifaceted set from a performer with range across comedy and stage.

Seniors can learn a new craft and connect with others in the area during this free, relaxing program. Activities may include paint by number, bath bomb making, and seasonal crafts. The program is hosted in partnership with Home Instead, which offers personalized in-home care plans for seniors and their families.

Share what you have been reading at this relaxed book club. There is no assigned reading, and all reading tastes and amounts are welcome. After the discussion, you can choose an advanced reader copy to take home, and browse the bookstore shelves before or after the gathering.

Meet Iowa women’s basketball transfer Jocelyn Faison at a public autograph signing hosted at Vine Tavern & Eatery in Coralville. The 6-foot-1 guard arrives from Georgia and previously excelled at Langston Hughes High School in Atlanta, where she earned a No. 76 national ranking and was No. 4 in the state of Georgia. Her accolades include Region Player of the Year and First Team All-Region from the Georgia High School Association, along with All-State recognition from the Atlanta Tipoff Club. Autographs are free with a limit of two per person. Aces Sports Memorabilia & Framing will have photos, jerseys, and basketballs available for purchase on site if you need an item to be signed.

Connect with individuals and caregivers living with and coping with the effects of amputation in a positive, caring environment. Participants can share experiences, offer support, learn from one another, and gain information about community resources.

This informal gathering offers space to talk and ask questions about death, dying, mortality, consciousness, and whatever else the subject brings up. Everyone is welcome, and attendance is free. Snacks and tea will be provided. Hailey Dixon, a death doula, hospice volunteer, researcher, artist, and graduate student in Death, Religion, and Culture Studies, will be there for conversation.

Enjoy a free, beginner-level chair yoga class with Tammy Bayer, who can adapt the practice to participants’ needs and mobility levels. Using a chair for support, the class includes seated and occasional standing postures, making yoga accessible for people who are new to it, have physical limitations, or find other classes challenging. No experience is necessary. The class takes place in a second-level meeting room, accessible by elevator or stairs. Registration is voluntary.

Vue Rooftop’s private room overlooking downtown Iowa City sets the scene for a festive pottery painting evening with The Potters’ Obsession. Participants choose one unfinished holiday ceramic from seasonal options such as snowmen, Santas, Christmas trees, mugs, and more. The guided, hands-on workshop includes all paints and supplies, along with one drink ticket. After the session, each piece is glazed and fired by The Potters’ Obsession and will be available for pickup at Vue Rooftop in approximately one week. Create a personal holiday keepsake while enjoying the rooftop views.

Celebrate women-owned small businesses in Mount Vernon.

This seasonal market spotlights small businesses from across the Midwest, bringing together handmade and homemade goods, vintage pieces, repurposed finds, collected items, and homegrown products. Taking place in Iowa’s corridor, it blends shopping with experiences to create a festive setting for holiday gift hunting. Mobile shops are set up indoors, and there are food trucks and live music. Promoted as a standout shopping weekend, it is designed to help you finish the Christmas list. Admission is $10 cash, and children under 12 are free.

Learn how to design and create framed moss wall art using dried and preserved mosses, along with natural materials such as bark, branches, and pods. A gold frame, mosses, and other materials are provided. You may also bring your own foraged dried materials, such as acorns or flowers, to add a personal touch. Choose from an 8-by-8-inch wood frame or a 10.5-by-10.5-inch gold frame.

NewBo City Market hosts a marketplace celebrating businesses owned by people with disabilities. Browse a diverse selection of handcrafted and thoughtfully curated retail goods from local entrepreneurs with disabilities. Shop the market to discover unique finds and show support for these business owners. Business owners with disabilities in the Cedar Rapids area who are interested in participating can contact Nolan Henkle at nolan@newbocitymarket.com or 319-200-4050.

Young readers can practice reading aloud to gentle, certified therapy dogs in a relaxed, judgment-free setting. The program supports reading confidence and literacy skills while helping make reading a positive experience.

Enjoy a two-part chess schedule that starts with an afternoon 5 round g15d2 section, rated US Chess Quick and FIDE Rapid. The evening follows with a 3 round g30d5 section, rated US Dual and FIDE Rapid.

Two pinball tournaments will run concurrently, and players of all skill levels are welcome. Participants pay for their own games. The Fallout Launch Party features open qualifying, with scores tracked on a Stern Insider leaderboard. A Stern Insider Connected account is required to record scores, and each play costs $2. The top eight qualifiers advance to finals, which begin with two four-player games. The top two players from those games move on to a final four-player game. The first $2 entry is divided among game costs, the IFPA, and the prize pool; each additional entry is divided between game costs and the prize pool. The Pinsanity 10 Strike tournament costs $10 per player, with players also paying for their own games. Players compete in groups of three or four. After each round, placements receive strikes: first place gets none, second gets one, third gets two, and fourth gets three. The same strike structure applies in three-player games. Players are eliminated after receiving 10 strikes, and the last player remaining prevails.

Put your Harry Potter knowledge to the test at a trivia fundraiser in support of the Springville Youth Softball League. Teams can include up to eight players, and the entry fee is $25 per person. Questions will cover Hogwarts professors, spells, magical creatures, and more. Space is limited, so early arrival is recommended to secure seating. Prizes will be given for best costume, best Harry Potter themed table decorations, and the most creative team name. The event takes place at the American Legion in Springville. No carry ins are allowed. Proceeds benefit the Springville Youth Softball League.

At Amazing Space at Indian Creek Nature Center in Cedar Rapids, a small group will set out on a guided night hike under the full moon. Prairie and woodland trails will be lit by moonlight, and a flashlight or headlamp is recommended in case of cloud cover. The route visits favorite spots around the property, and wildlife sightings are likely. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Children are welcome, including babies in carriers, and strollers are discouraged. Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome. Cost is $10 per person, with a $5 discount for members. Advance registration is required by 3 pm on the day, and space is limited. These hikes often fill quickly, sometimes the same day, and walk-ins will not be accepted once capacity is reached.

Put your knowledge of Friends to the test at a Friendsgiving-themed trivia night at Foundry Food + Tap in Coralville. Participation is free, prizes include house cash, and all ages are welcome. Bring a team or play solo and take on questions from the classic TV series.

The Pork Tornadoes christen the new Entertainment Center at Cedar Crossing Casino & Entertainment Center with a night-before-Thanksgiving party. One of the Midwest’s most in-demand party bands, they bring high-energy performances and a wide mix of hits from five decades, covering pop, rock, country, and hip hop from artists such as Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, NSYNC, The Killers, Lizzo, Morgan Wallen, and Phil Collins. Their debut EP reached #20 on the Apple iTunes Pop chart and has more than 3 million streams, their cover of Tennessee Whiskey is the 4th most viewed version online, and they have been featured in Rolling Stone for their rendition of In The Air Tonight. They have played over 800 shows for more than 1.5 million fans and have surpassed 40 million video views with a following of over 150,000 on social media. Tickets are available as $25 general admission standing for dancing room, $30 reserved bleacher seating with the ability to choose your seats, and $35 VIP standing that offers access to the party pit right in front of the stage along with a VIP lanyard and a limited edition merchandise item. Attendees must be 21 or older.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a buffet featuring roasted turkey breast with leek gravy, chef-carved pit ham with orange spice glaze, braised chuck roll with mushroom red wine demi, smoked Gouda mashed potatoes, bourbon pumpkin pound cake, and seasonal cobbler. An optional Buffalo Trace bourbon beef rib experience includes a welcome Old Fashioned, beef rib with bourbon demi, and citrus Brussels sprouts. Seasonal signature drinks are also available.

Celebrate Iowa creativity at the Made In Iowa Holiday Market, taking place at Hawkeye Downs Speedway and Expo Center. Explore goods from 150 vendors from across the state, including handmade gifts, home decor, and delicious local treats. Admission is $5 at the door, and kids under 12 get in free. A full vendor list and additional details will be shared soon.

Browse over 100 businesses all under one roof for a lively shopping experience.

Welcome a guest from Tanager Place to share an expressive arts program that uses books, dance, art, and other creative activities to help children and families build confidence, explore emotions, and strengthen inner resilience.

Now in its 45th year, Waypoint’s Tribute to Women of Achievement honors women whose leadership, service, and impact leave a lasting mark on the community. The celebration takes place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex in downtown Cedar Rapids. The program includes time for networking, followed by lunch and an awards presentation recognizing the year’s honorees.

Learn modern calligraphy with a Harry Potter twist at Tavern Blue in Coralville. This beginner friendly workshop features 1.5 hours of expert instruction, a take home starter kit, and a Paper Bar for hands on practice. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. No experience is required, and fans from Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin are all welcome. All materials provided are yours to keep.

Returning after a year away, this free holiday celebration invites visitors to explore hundreds of nativity scenes, highlighted by the historic Armstrong-Smulekoff display. Enjoy community musical performances, take part in a snowflake crafting class, and find kid-friendly activities, with refreshments available. The gathering is hosted at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cedar Rapids.

Experience the beloved holiday story of idealistic George Bailey, presented as a live 1940s radio broadcast. An ensemble brings a few dozen characters to the stage as George faces a crisis on Christmas Eve. With the help of the angel Clarence, he sees the positive impact he has had on his family and community and discovers how deeply he is loved.

Party Plan brings live music to North Point for a night out centered on good times with friends. The night features a live set from Party Plan.

This event supports youth who need to complete rank advancement requirements. Participants will meet at the Ranger shop to begin. Plan for outdoor conditions, wear weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a water bottle. Lunch will be provided, or you may bring your own. To sign up, email hacconservation@gmail.com.

Volunteers are invited to spend a day helping with camp projects and pitching in where it is needed. Check in at the Ranger Shop to get started. Please dress for the weather and being outdoors, and bring a water bottle. Contribute for the whole day or for whatever time you can. Lunch is provided. To confirm attendance, contact Ranger Josh at joshua.yoder@scouting.org or 319-438-6531.

Enjoy goodie deals and take part in the Great Christmas Gnome Hunt.

Create a customized 2-by-2-foot barn quilt on lightweight, exterior-grade aluminum. Choose a design from the Barns & Brews catalog, then select your paint colors during class. All supplies are provided, and no painting experience is needed. The class is limited to 24 people and costs $75 per person, with additional charges for approved custom lettering or designs. Wear painting clothes or a smock, since the paint does not wash out, and bring a beverage of your choice. Payment is by cash or check. A spot is confirmed only after you receive a confirmation email.

This dine in fundraiser donates 10% of sales to the Grant Wood Elementary Parent Teacher Organization. The PTO creates space for parent voices, collaborates with teachers to support the needs of all students, and gives families meaningful ways to stay involved while building relationships with the school principal and Grant Wood teachers. Throughout the year it leads and supports a variety of projects that enrich student experiences, assist teachers and staff, and strengthen the overall school community.

Christopher Ingram, a solo guitarist and vocalist from the Iowa City area, performs at Tavern Blue with a set that spans Southern rock, classic rock, and classic country. Hear favorites from artists like Tom Petty, ZZ Top, The Eagles, and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

International Steinway Artist Jim McDonough presents a warm, personal holiday concert in a solo piano setting at the Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center. The performance evokes the nostalgia of gathering around the piano to share favorite holiday songs and treasured Christmas memories. Presented by the Mount Vernon Fine Arts Association.

The program features Czech carols and well loved holiday music, performed with top tier singing at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids. Right after the performance, a reception offers cookies, hot chocolate, and cider.

A contemplative retreat exploring winter’s quiet and darkness as opportunities for rest, renewal, and spiritual guidance. Through nature-based and inter-spiritual perspectives, gentle Qigong movement, seated practices, Yogic Sleep, sound meditation, Lectio Divina, and prayerful singing bowl sounds, participants are invited to cultivate stillness, restore inner calm, and deepen awareness of an inner Soul Shelter. The retreat also explores how winter’s rhythms can support spiritual renewal, healing, and guidance.

This two day store crop at Scrapmania offers dedicated crafting with private access for registered croppers. The fee is $35 per person. Each participant has about four feet of workspace within a 13,600 square foot store, and everyone is invited to bring a snack to share. Participants also receive a 10 percent discount on in stock merchandise for the duration of the event, with some exclusions. Registration is available in person or by phone at 319-377-9999. If attending with friends, mention it at registration so seating can be arranged together. All registrations are final with no refunds or date changes, so please register only if you can commit.

Organized by Central City GO, this annual town celebration features rides in horse-drawn carriages, special activities and sales at area businesses, a vendor marketplace, crafts and activities for children, a tree parade, and chances to meet Santa and the Grinch. More information is on the way, and a complete schedule will be shared once everything is finalized.

Delve into modern shamanic study in a weekend course at Illuminations Studio that centers on previous lifetimes and soul agreements. Participants engage in guided regression work, exploration of the commitments the soul carries, and healing practices for ancestral lineages. This offering is one part of a quarterly series, is priced at $325, and contributes toward ordination and certification upon completion of all four weekends. A pay-in-full discount is available.

Open to the public as well as club members, this meeting takes place at the Lynn Dunn Memorial Building in the smaller conference room on the left after you enter. A Google Meet link will be provided beforehand for those who prefer to attend online. For updates or any changes, check the club's Facebook page. This gathering is in Central City, IA.

Josh Blue brings an evening of stand-up shaped by sharp observations and quick improvisation, so no two sets are the same. After winning Last Comic Standing in 2006, he built a global headlining career. Highlights include a 2018 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, a set at the William H. Macy Gala during the Just for Laughs festival in Montreal, and recording his fifth hour, Broccoli, at his home club Comedy Works in Denver. In 2021 he placed third on America’s Got Talent, then toured with the As NOT Seen on TV Tour, continuing to perform more than 200 shows each year while challenging stereotypes about disability. He also represented the United States in eight countries with the US Paralympic Soccer Team, including the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, and he is a single father living in Denver with his son and daughter. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Celebrate Halloween weekend with Party Plan, bringing music to North Point for a fun night with drinks.

The Voices of Experience, a 45-member mixed-voice choral ensemble, will perform on Thursday, December 18th. The group will share their unique versions of songs made famous by the Manhattan Transfer, performing a wide range of musical styles.

Browse a holiday market featuring 65 Iowa vendors, including artisans, bakers, and crafters. Discover handmade goods, local treats, and one-of-a-kind finds for gifts, home décor, or a treat for yourself. Admission is $5 at the door, and children under 12 are free.

At NewBo City Market, the Women-Owned Business Market features locally made and carefully curated goods from women entrepreneurs. Explore a range of handcrafted items and retail finds while supporting local small businesses. Women-owned businesses and artists in the Cedar Rapids area who are interested in participating can contact Nolan Henkle at nolan@newbocitymarket.com or 319-200-4050.

Los Lobos perform live in concert, bringing their musicianship to the stage for an evening of music.

Greg Hahn brings a whirlwind of rapid jokes and off-the-wall stories, the style that made him a staple on the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Radio Show. On television he spoofed a presidential campaign, pounded out wild drum solos, and even hosted a blink-and-you-miss-it podcast on Comedy Central’s Tosh.0. His credits include Late Night with Conan O’Brien and Bob and Tom’s Comedy Central special, along with early appearances on Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen, Premium Blend, 30 Seconds to Fame, Make Me Laugh, Pulp Comics, Star Search, Cedric the Entertainer Presents, and Ed McMahon’s Next Big Star, which he won. Before comedy he served as a Marine officer and worked a series of serious jobs while refusing to act serious. His newly released comedy album is playing on SiriusXM. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Celebrate the release of the seventh ACOTAR book at a late-night gathering for fellow Night Court fans. The celebration features ACOTAR trivia, themed drink specials, magical giveaways, and books distributed at midnight. One book purchase per person is required for entry, and attendance is limited to the first 100 people.

Create a customized 2-by-2-foot barn quilt on lightweight, exterior-grade aluminum. Choose a design from the Barns & Brews catalog, and the design will be drawn for you to paint in the colors you select during the class. All supplies are provided, and no painting experience is required. Classes are limited to 24 people, and the fee is $75 per person, with additional charges for custom lettering or designs. Wear painting clothes or a smock, as the enamel paint does not wash out, and bring a beverage of your choice.