Free events in Waterloo, IA

Free and open to the public in Bartlett Hall 1017, this event highlights Ray Young Bear, an author of many books of poetry, fiction, and essays whose recent collection is Manifestation Wolverine: The Collected Poetry of Ray Young Bear. In March 2025, his Meskwaki word-songs for “Fireflies” and “Milkweeds” appeared in A Century of Poetry in The New Yorker, 1925 to 2025, and his work has been published in the North American Review and The New Yorker. His recognitions include a 2016 American Book Award, a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship, an honorary doctorate in letters from Luther College in Decorah, and the 2026 James A. Autry Award for Poetry and Leadership from the Iowa Poetry Association. He has taught creative writing and Native American literature at the Institute of American Indian Art, Eastern Washington University, Meskwaki Elementary School, the University of Iowa, and Iowa State University. With his wife, Stella, he co-founded the Woodland Singers and Dancers. He also values speaking and writing in his first language and lives on tribally owned land established by his maternal grandfather, a hereditary chief, in 1856.

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.

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.