Events in Waterloo, IA

Breastfeeding Moms' Community at Guiding Star Cedar Valley offers a welcoming place for mothers to connect, share stories, and receive support throughout their breastfeeding journey. Expecting parents, those currently nursing, and those in the weaning stage are all encouraged to take part. The gathering focuses on a calm, friendly atmosphere with encouragement from fellow moms, guidance on common breastfeeding challenges, and practical tips for nursing, pumping, and navigating life with little ones. Babies and young children are welcome. This gathering is free and open to all moms.

The Chick-fil-A food trailer visits the UNITE Credit Union parking lot for a convenient lunch stop. It suits a quick work break, a pause during errands, or anyone craving something different. Local vendors are featured throughout the season, and there are chances to win prizes during that time. Friends and coworkers are welcome, and arriving hungry is a great idea.

A feel-good evening at The Mall at College Square celebrates fun, style, and good vibes with lively music, shopping, sweet treats, casual games, and photo moments, all in one place alongside a standout mix of vendors. Guests can browse, snack, laugh, and unwind while making memories. Cute pics and prizes to be won round out a night created just for the girls.

Experience Balkan Night outdoors at Lost Woods with live music. Bring friends and kids for a memorable evening.

Country artist Adam Calvert takes the stage at the 116th National Cattle Congress Fair. Entry to his performances is included with fair admission or a Superpass. Shows take place in the Pavilion following the fair’s Ranch Broncs and Bull Riding Challenge. A rising presence in Nashville’s country scene, this independent touring artist has performed across more than 35 states, earning a reputation for energetic, crowd-pleasing sets. He has shared bills with Rodney Atkins, HARDY, Joe Nichols, Lonestar, Neil McCoy, Craig Campbell, Chris Janson, Phil Vassar, Parmalee, and others. His achievements include multiple Josie Music Awards presented at the Grand Ole Opry, with honors such as Fan Choice, Single of the Year, Vocalist of the Year, Rising Star of the Year, and Music Video of the Year.

Celebrating its fifth year, this trail race at George Wyth Memorial State Park offers prepared trails, fully stocked aid stations, and post race food and drinks. It welcomes both newcomers to trail running and experienced runners for a supportive day on the dirt.

The walk takes place at the Celebration Shelter. Created as a community fundraiser from the Children’s Tumor Foundation, this NF Walk raises awareness of neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis, genetic conditions that affect more than four million people around the world, and helps accelerate research that leads to better treatments. Family friendly by design, it brings together people living with NF, their families, friends, and supporters to connect, encourage one another, and move progress forward. Events like this are held in cities across the United States. Every step helps fund research, improve care, and move closer to better treatments and, one day, a cure. Registration is free. Participants can start or join a team, invite friends and family, and walk to make a difference.

The Evansdale Farmers Market in Evansdale, Iowa features a variety of vendors with goods that include crafts, flowers, and fresh vegetables. A food stand offers a hearty lineup such as breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches on Texas toast, all-beef hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and walking tacos, along with beverages and chips. Homemade baked treats are highlighted, and special orders are welcomed.

3rd Offense will perform at Oktoberfest in downtown Waterloo. More information will be announced soon.

The duo Beauty and the Beat brings live music to the patio.

Madison Kolbet takes the stage at The Mall at College Square with her full band, performing original country songs shaped by small-town roots and close family ties. An Iowa native, she discovered her love of music in middle school and has continued to grow as a songwriter, often collaborating with creatives from across the country.

A relaxed, peer-supported evening for NFTS moms focuses on sharing stories of their angels in a space that welcomes laughter, tears, and healing. Discussion is guided by Allison Maahs, an NFTS mom and Director of Family Support, together with Katie Stedman and Abby Luehmann, both NFTS moms and Angel Ambassadors. The gathering takes place at SingleSpeed Brewing Co. in Waterloo. Complimentary food and beverages are provided. Newcomers to NFTS are welcome, and an RSVP is requested to help with planning.

A screening of the 2006 film Children of Men by Alfonso Cuaron, rated R. Set in 2027, the story examines worldwide infertility, repressive authoritarian rule, and entrenched xenophobia. The program includes an introduction that considers the strengths of Cuaron’s vision and how it differs from PD James’s novel, followed by the feature.

This three-part, in-person class supports expecting parents with practical skills for the early weeks after birth. Sessions focus on physical recovery and emotional well-being, evidence-based newborn care, and starting breastfeeding with confidence. The format blends instructor-led learning, hands-on practice, and candid conversation about expectations and real-life realities. By the end of the series, both parents can feel informed, supported, and ready for the first stretch of life with a new baby. The class is valued at $75.

This monthly open mic at the Loft takes place on the last Wednesday of each month. Performers who want a longer set can contact the Local Noise page to request additional time.

Led by St. Croix Hospice Bereavement Staff, this monthly in-person support group provides a compassionate space to navigate grief and loss. Each gathering explores a different topic related to grieving, with facilitators offering guidance and practical tools for coping. Anyone who has lost a spouse, parent, child, sibling, friend, or other family member is welcome. Participants can share their story and connect with others who understand, and speaking is encouraged but never required. The group is open to the public, whether or not St. Croix Hospice services were used. Attendance can be monthly or as schedules allow, and registration is not required.

Put your Wizarding World knowledge to the test with a Harry Potter trivia night. Phone reservations are recommended because spots tend to fill quickly. Expect plenty of prizes throughout the event.

Settle in for a toddler-focused storytime inside a planetarium, with two tales read by a museum educator beneath a sky of twinkling stars. Children are encouraged to wear pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed animal to cuddle. Admission is $3 per person.

Enjoy a craft and vendor show with free admission. The first 50 guests in line will receive swag bags filled with goodies from the vendors. Those interested in becoming a vendor can email Jenna at ForeverBeverlyLLC@gmail.com for application details.

An outdoor patio dance event from SACS serves as the final edition for 2026. It highlights an all-are-welcome spirit that brings everybody together to dance.

Guiding Star’s partner, Katie Schmitz, LISW, facilitates a fall support community for those grieving miscarriage or infant loss. Sessions take place in the downstairs community classroom at Guiding Star Cedar Valley and meet monthly for one hour across five consecutive months on the first Tuesday of each month. The conversation is largely shaped by participants, with topics that can include understanding what feels typical in grief, creating meaningful rituals, expressing needs to friends and family, and caring for other children while mourning. Anyone, at any point in the grieving journey, is welcome. Attendance at the initial meeting is required to continue with the series. There is no set fee, and freewill donations are appreciated, with a suggested contribution of $10 per session. For questions, contact Guiding Star at (319) 232-2695 or danielle@guidingstarcedarvalley.org.

A concert in The Legacy Room features Randy Aalderks and his family, a longtime local favorite from Aplington, Iowa. They bring years of singing together and a shared love of music. Randy often leads worship services in area churches and at venues, sharing messages from the Bible. Tickets are not required, and a love offering will be received for the artists.

Test your music memory with a trivia night celebrating one hit wonders from the 80s, 90s, and 00s. Spots often fill quickly, so reservations are recommended by calling +1 (319) 260-2045. There will be plenty of prizes.

Enjoy a lunchtime visit from Sonny's Place for Food Truck Fridays, set up outside Village Terrace. Pick up lunch and take a relaxed break during the day.

The University of Northern Iowa will spotlight its annual Homecoming Bash during Homecoming Week. This year’s celebration caps the university’s Sesquicentennial and recognizes the completion of Our Tomorrow: The Campaign for UNI, the largest fundraising effort in the university’s history. The theme and full schedule will be announced closer to the event.

This Halloween party features a tribute to Motley Crue by Red Hott. A special guest will be announced.

Before the competition starts, there is time set aside for setup. The match begins afterward once preparations are finished.

Part of the We Ride Bike Series, this ride welcomes beginners and casual cyclists with an inviting, inclusive vibe. Expect a themed route that shines a light on Waterloo and nearby communities while helping riders feel comfortable in an organized setting. Season registration is available, and updates will be shared with registered participants as well as on the We Arose and Waterloo Bicycle Works Facebook and Instagram pages. A We Ride Bike Community group on Facebook is also available for participants to connect and stay informed.

Celebrate the work of Carrsan T. Morrisey with a showcase of four films, presented through screenings alongside a conversation with the director. The lineup includes Lilian, Rot, The Conquor Worm, and Bleeders, offering a focused look at this body of work.

Austin Frerick, author of Barons, a book on money, power, and corruption in the American food industry, presents a talk on how corporate consolidation has reshaped agriculture and the wider food system. Drawing on the rise of seven major food industry players, he discusses impacts on workers, consumers, and democracy, from global coffee conglomerates to large scale dairy operations, and explores ways to shift power back. After the presentation, a tour of the SPROUT donation garden at the Center for Energy & Environmental Education will follow. Light refreshments will be available. Attendance is limited to 115 people, and advance registration is encouraged. This program is part of a three part speaker series from the Center for Energy & Environmental Education celebrating UNI’s 150th anniversary, offered free and open to UNI staff, faculty, students, and the broader community.

Grab a flavorful lunch from the Dragon Express food truck in the UNITE Credit Union parking lot. It is a convenient stop during a work break, while running errands, or anytime you want to try something different. Support local vendors throughout the season, with chances to win prizes along the way. Bring friends or coworkers and arrive hungry, then place your order at the truck.

At Waterloo Center for the Arts, teams of four compete in a race that blends pizza, pints, and a puzzle. The goal is straightforward... be the first to finish a large pizza, drink eight pints of beer or soda, and complete a 300 piece puzzle. A pumpkin-themed twist is part of this year’s fun. Participation supports youth in the Cedar Valley foster care community. Many children in foster care have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences, including abuse, neglect, parental mental illness, divorce, homelessness, maternal depression, a family member’s incarceration, or domestic violence. The event underscores how a caring, connected community of mentors, volunteers, neighbors, and friends can help keep foster homes open and shift the path toward education, healing, safety, and stability.

This campus visit day features campus tours, chances to meet with instructors, and opportunities to explore program areas. Attendees can get information on financial aid and scholarships along with practical guidance on paying for college. The event also offers a look at college life and how Hawkeye’s programs can help participants reach their goals, making it easier to decide if this campus is the right fit.

This harvest-themed edition of a monthly night-sky gathering is timed for the Friday closest to the new moon to enhance stargazing. Activities begin at sunset and focus on enjoying the night sky. Attendees are encouraged to bring telescopes, binoculars, star charts, blankets, and folding chairs for comfort. Highlights include the Orionid meteor shower, ghost stories told under the stars, costumes encouraged, and cozy bonfires with s’mores. No registration is required.

Ramblin’ Ryne, the stage name of songwriter and musician Ryne Owen from New Hampton, Iowa, brings his live show to Bootleggers Kitchen & Bar in Waterloo. He grew up in Ralston and has played in several bands, most recently reviving the Wapsi River Ramblers with musicians and songwriters from northeast Iowa. The Ramblers have two albums streaming online almost everywhere, Lie to Me and A Working Title, with more music planned for 2026. His solo catalog includes Face Your Fears, his first solo release in six years, available on major platforms, and he is working on additional solo music for 2026. Over the past six years he has logged about 900 performances across 11 states, including a recent trip to North Carolina with stops in Kansas, Missouri, Tennessee, and South Carolina, plus shows in Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Colorado, and his home state of Iowa. Expect storytelling at the heart of the set, with songs that span slow and reflective to lively and uplifting.

Iowa Region SCCA is hosting the tenth AutoX points event of the season at the Hawkeye Community College Regional Transportation Training Center. Drivers of all experience levels can test their skills and their cars in timed runs on the course. Pre-registration is required. The day includes tech inspection and registration check-in, followed by a required drivers meeting and a novice course walk before runs begin. Permanent numbers are being used for the season, and if the number you select is already taken you will receive an email. Sound limits will be enforced at no greater than 100 dB at 50 feet.

Metropolis, Fritz Lang's 1927 silent science fiction landmark, unfolds in a futuristic city set in 2026, where gleaming towers rise above a vast underworld. The narrative highlights the gulf between the ruling class who govern from soaring heights and the laborers working in dark subterranean mines that keep the city running. This trailblazing film explores a stark class divide through the vivid contrast of life above and below.

A free Halloween safety event at Angels Memorial Park in Evansdale, Iowa offers seasonal fun with a focus on learning from firefighters, police officers, and other participants. Families can enjoy trunk-or-treating, pumpkin and face painting, and a dedicated play area for kids. Complimentary food will be available, and child fingerprinting and DNA identification kits will be offered. Parking at the fire station is free, and transportation to the park is provided.

Enjoy an open board game evening at Trinity Bible Church. Play begins when the event starts, and guests may stay for a short while or for the full duration. If you arrive partway through, another game will likely be starting soon. Children, suggested 8 years and older, are welcome if they can stay engaged in seated board games that last about 30 to 60 minutes. Those who are not able to do so may be asked to leave out of respect for other participants and the host facility. A water fountain is available, and attendees may bring snacks or treats to share. Please use the northeast doors under the awning to enter. Activities take place in the main area with smaller tables and in the Clubhouse with larger tables.

Dry Run Creek brings a high-spirited blend of bluegrass with traditional and outlaw country, grounded in Midwestern roots. The set leans into small-town storytelling with sincere lyrics, close harmonies, and standout instrumental leads. A longtime local favorite that salutes life’s simple pleasures, the band delivers a genuine spark that gets people clapping, moving, and singing along. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for attendees under 18.

Stories rooted in neighborhoods, gravel roads, river towns, family farms, and busy city blocks take center stage at the Cedar River Film Festival. Hosted in Cedar Falls, Iowa, this annual celebration showcases independent features, documentaries, and short films from Iowa and the neighboring states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Over three days, the lineup is thoughtfully curated to reflect the range, creativity, and imagination of the Midwest, with opportunities to engage with filmmakers and discover work that lingers long after the credits. Based at the Historic Oster Regent Theatre, the festival unfolds a short walk from Cedar Falls’ historic downtown, where local shops, restaurants, and coffee spots make it easy to shape a full weekend around the screenings and conversations. A hallmark tradition highlights Halloween with a program dedicated to the silly, the strange, the thrilling, and the uncanny sides of independent cinema. The evening program is intended for audiences 17 and older. Presented annually by the Cedar Falls Community Theatre at the Historic Oster Regent Theatre in Cedar Falls, Iowa, this event shines a light on Midwestern storytelling that can make you think, laugh, feel, and see the region in a new way.

Guiding Star Cedar Valley is hosting a miscarriage and infant loss support community facilitated by Guiding Star partner Katie Schmitz, LISW. This fall session consists of monthly, one-hour meetings held over five consecutive months and welcomes anyone, no matter where they are in their grieving process. Conversations are guided by participants and may cover what feels typical in grief, the importance of rituals, ways to communicate needs to people outside the grief experience, and how to support other children while grieving. There is no set fee to participate, and freewill donations are accepted with a suggested contribution of $10 per session. Attendance at the first meeting is required to continue through the series. Sessions take place in the downstairs community classroom at Guiding Star Cedar Valley, and a sign-up form is available for those who wish to attend.

Now in its eighth year and still growing, the Scott Sterrett Memorial Races feature several updates for 2026. Participants can look forward to updated event gear, buffs for Half and Relay entrants, and well stocked aid stations. There will be increased race photo coverage, enhanced post race vendor offerings, and custom medals for finishers. Relay teams can also vie for a traveling corporate trophy. Registration is available through RunSignUp.

At The Mall at College Square, this free event features handmade creations by Iowa artists alongside offerings from local veteran-owned businesses. The first 50 people in line will receive a swag bag filled with goodies from participating vendors. Vendors interested in applying can email Jenna at ForeverBeverlyLLC@gmail.com.

Reserve a spot by calling +1 (319) 260-2045, since spots tend to fill quickly. There will be lots of prizes.

Enjoy a festive holiday market that shines a spotlight on creators from the local community. Explore what area artisans have to offer in a warm, cheerful shopping atmosphere, with multiple chances to stop by.

This festive market at College Square brings together handmade creations, boutique treasures, thoughtful gifts, sweet treats, and seasonal favorites in one place. It highlights small businesses and offers a warm, family friendly shopping experience, creating a cheerful start to the Christmas season for friends and families.

Six Pack Jack returns to the Fraternal Order of Eagles - Eagles Club in Cedar Falls with a high energy mix of classic rock, current hits, and a touch of country. The SPJ Crew delivers favorites from artists like Journey, Van Halen, Big & Rich, Poison, Bon Jovi, Lady Gaga, Metallica, Shania Twain, Abba, Joan Jett, Steve Earl, Black Crows, Ozzy Osborne, Guns N’ Roses, B-52s, Night Ranger, Billy Joel, Kelly Clarkson, 3 Doors Down, Skid Row, AC/DC, ZZ Top, KISS, The Cranberrys, The Killers, The Romantics, Great White, Bryan Adams, BLINK 182, Blonde, Prince, Jimmy Eats World, Chappel Roan, 4 Non-Blondes, Luke Bryan, Luke Combs, and more.

Each person who wants to participate should bring a full or king-size candy bar. Winners can select the treat they like best. Please use the entrance at the back near the cafeteria.

Show Me Reptile Shows brings its Waterloo Reptile Expo to the Waterloo Convention Center, billed as the country’s largest and most varied reptile expo. It blends learning, excitement, and discovery for all ages, welcoming dedicated keepers, newcomers, and the simply curious to explore exotic animals up close. Leading breeders and reliable vendors present a broad selection of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, small exotic mammals, and aquatics. You will also find plants and supplies for bioactive habitats, along with feeders, enclosures, decor, equipment, and other care essentials. Browsing is encouraged if you are not ready to bring home a new companion. Many visitors come to see the animals, take photos, ask questions, and connect with the community behind the hobby. Admission options include general admission and a VIP pass. Advance general admission is $12 for adults and $5 for kids ages 7 to 12, with free entry for children 6 and under. At the door, adults are $15 and kids 7 to 12 are $5, with children 6 and under free. The VIP pass is $17 when purchased in advance and $20 at the door, and it includes early entry and free admission for day two at two-day shows.

At Bien VenU, the 2nd annual BonFIRE Benefit centers on inclusion and marks ten years of impact. This signature gathering advances the mission of the FIRE Foundation of Northeast Iowa to expand inclusive Catholic education so students with disabilities can learn, grow, and belong in Catholic schools. The event supports that mission through educational resources, fundraising, and fostering a culture of belonging.

Fred Love & The Bakersfield Brawl team up with The Nervous Breakdown for a show buzzing with energy. A small stage with a big feel sets the scene for a lively, hard-hitting performance from start to finish.

At Waterloo Center for the Arts, the Cedar Valley Plant-Based Holiday Market offers a cozy seasonal marketplace centered on vegan-friendly living. Local and regional vendors feature plant-based foods and baked treats alongside thoughtful gifts, art, candles, apparel, self-care items, home goods, and other holiday finds. Workshops and festive activities provide hands-on fun and seasonal experiences for attendees of all ages. The atmosphere is welcoming whether you have followed a plant-based lifestyle for years or are simply curious about exploring more vegan options. More than a shopping trip, it aims to build a meaningful tradition rooted in kindness, creativity, and community. Families and friends, longtime vegans and vegetarians, and plant-curious guests will find creative experiences, flavorful offerings, and plenty of holiday spirit in Cedar Valley.

The 18th annual Different Drummers Wake, Jam, and Food Bank Benefit features live music, raffle drawings, a silent auction, and a bake sale. The festivities culminate in a grand prize drawing worth $1,000.

Unexpected circumstances have shifted the show at Screaming Eagle to a new date. The venue’s management has already coordinated the change, so the event is still happening, just moved on the calendar.

This store brings together more than 65 local vendors, showcasing vintage treasures, new home decor, boutique selections, handcrafted goods, repurposed pieces, and live plants. Every purchase supports small businesses and local makers, and that support is appreciated. It is a welcoming place to explore, discover one of a kind finds, and connect with a vibrant community of small businesses all under one roof.

A casual, intimate evening for mothers connected to NFTS to share stories of their angels, with space for laughter, tears, and healing. This peer-led conversation is facilitated by Allison Maahs, an NFTS mom and Director of Family Support, along with Katie Stedman and Abby Luehmann, both NFTS moms and Angel Ambassadors. The gathering takes place at the new location, SingleSpeed Brewing Co. in Waterloo. Complimentary food and beverages are provided. An RSVP is requested to help with ordering. Those new to NFTS are welcome.

Guiding Star’s partner, Katie Schmitz, LISW, leads a compassionate support community for those navigating miscarriage or infant loss. Meetings take place in the downstairs community classroom at Guiding Star Cedar Valley and occur monthly for one hour across five consecutive months, with conversation shaped by participants on themes such as what can feel normal in grief, the role of rituals, communicating needs to others, and ways to support grieving children. The group welcomes anyone, no matter where they are in their healing journey. There is no set fee. Freewill donations are accepted, with a suggested contribution of $10 per session. Because of the group’s structure, attendance at the first meeting is required to participate in the remaining sessions. For questions, contact Guiding Star Cedar Valley.

Discover a sports and collectibles show in the Cedar Valley.

Calico & Co. offers extended holiday shopping hours, giving you extra time to browse for unique gifts and festive décor. More than 65 vendors present a mix of vintage and new finds, including home decor, boutique pieces, handcrafted and repurposed goods, live plants, and thoughtful presents to suit any taste and occasion. It is a helpful stop for last-minute gifting and an easy way to shop local while checking names off your list.