Free events in Dubuque, IA

Jessie Rebik leads an exploration of painting as a visual language within Western art. The program traces the rise of oil painting and its ties to realism and pictorial representation, then examines how artists across movements have approached the relationship between representation, surface, emotion, and meaning. It also looks closely at the material, physical, and expressive qualities of paint. No registration is necessary. A free-will donation is accepted. Bringing a lunch or a snack is welcome, and coffee and cookies are provided.

RatchetJaw kicks off the night before Saving Abel takes the stage for a rock-filled evening at Mississippi Moon Bar. The concert marks a return to the venue. Admission is free.

DBQFest Art and Makers Fair is a free, two-day juried arts festival taking place in downtown Dubuque. Expect a range of art and makers with vendors set up in Washington Park. It runs over the weekend of August 8–9, 2026.

Celebrate community wellness at a free walk and run featuring 3.1 mile and 1 mile routes, paired with a health and wellness expo that highlights resources and encourages connection. Participants can choose the distance that suits them, enjoy music from a live DJ after crossing the finish line, and learn about services available in the community. Everyone is welcome, including families, friends, and neighbors, for a friendly fitness experience that supports diversity and a healthier community.

Free outdoor yoga returns with B-1 Yoga at the gazebo on the Dubuque Riverwalk. This summer series is open to the entire community and welcomes all experience levels. Classes are free to attend, and voluntary donations are collected each week to support a charity chosen by that session’s instructor. Bring a mat, a water bottle, and a friend to enjoy movement, fresh air, and a sense of connection in a relaxed setting.

The longest-running arts fair and festival in Iowa fills historic Washington Park in downtown Dubuque with a free, family-friendly celebration of art, music, creativity, and community. Across two days, discover work from 57 regional artists and makers and enjoy performances by more than 150 professional musicians and performers, along with hands-on art activities, youth showcases, theater, yoga, poetry, community organizations, and local food trucks. The Visual Artists & Makers Market features original paintings, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, woodworking, glass art, photography, textiles, and more, all available directly from the artists. Live music and performances span two stages in the park, the Ironside Main Stage and the Gazebo Stage, with a diverse lineup that ranges from jazz, singer-songwriter, and R&B to classical ensembles, family entertainment, youth dance and music, live radio theater, electronic sets, Shakespeare theater, classical crossover violin, and spoken word. Headlining sets include Allison Mahal and Sun Centauri. A new After Hours program extends the festivities into the evening with free, no-cover performances at downtown venues, including The Goose with Lame Witch and Ion Alexakis and The Lift featuring Joel Sires and Run Dog. Beyond the music, look for yoga, poetry, theater, interactive art experiences, community booths, and a variety of food options, with beverage service provided by EJ’s Wine Shop. Some streets around Washington Park will be closed during festival hours and parking restrictions will be in effect. DBQFest is a volunteer-powered program of the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society, supporting artists and creative experiences throughout the region.

A festive weekend features a waterball contest, a community parade, and a celebration afterward with music, food, concessions, and activities for families. Some streets will be temporarily closed during the waterball contest for safety. The festivities support local charitable organizations.

This free bimonthly support group at Smokestack welcomes adults across the LGBTQ+ spectrum as well as anyone who is exploring gender identity or sexual orientation. Typical attendance is 8 to 12 people, often from their early 20s through early 50s, and participation is open to anyone 18 and older. No advance registration is required, and both attendance and discussion remain confidential. The meeting takes place on the second floor and is accessible by elevator, and accessible restrooms are available. Masks are encouraged but optional. Gatherings begin with casual time to connect, with complimentary refreshments available. A facilitator shares announcements, then the group moves into a structured sharing period in which anyone who wishes may speak for several minutes without interruption or feedback. The session concludes with additional informal conversation, where participants can receive feedback if they want it.

Dubuque Pizza Ranch offers a family friendly deal where kids eat free with a qualifying purchase. Buy an adult buffet at the regular price and receive one complimentary kid’s buffet. Children 12 and under are eligible for the free kids buffet, and that includes ages 11 and 12. It is a simple way to enjoy a meal together while keeping costs in check.

Explore emotions and the world around you through hands-on art that pairs creativity with mindfulness. Activities draw inspiration from nature to spark ideas, encourage reflection, and build calm focus while you create. Open to every skill level, this free program offers a relaxed setting to experiment, connect with feelings, and develop your own creative expression.

A brief storytime tailored to little ones with a playful weekly theme. This session features the book Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and celebrates ABC Day. Attendees are encouraged to wear letters or bring an item with their name on it. The program is free and open to the public. Open play is available before or after storytime.

NAMI Peer to Peer offers a free, eight-part education series for adults living with mental health conditions who want to deepen self-understanding and strengthen recovery skills. Led by facilitators with training and lived experience, the sessions blend hands-on activities, guided discussion, and video learning. The program emphasizes a private, supportive setting where participants can connect with peers, exchange encouragement, and grow together. Expect a welcoming focus on recovery education, compassion, and practical insights from people who truly relate.