Events in Waterloo today

The Support Local Cash Mob is visiting the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum, showing that backing local businesses also means exploring the museums, attractions, organizations, and destinations that draw people downtown and celebrate Waterloo’s story. Whether a devoted wrestling enthusiast or new to the sport, visitors can experience its rich past through Hall of Fame displays, see the gym and practice space, and learn about the individuals and moments that shaped wrestling. Recognized across the country and located in Downtown Waterloo, the museum offers a simple way to explore and support local. Friends, coworkers, and families can come together to fill the Dan Gable Museum with Downtown Waterloo pride. It is also a chance to discover a new downtown favorite just by stepping through the door.

This three-part, in person class offers expecting parents practical guidance in three key areas: physical recovery and emotional support after birth, evidence-based newborn care, and starting breastfeeding with confidence. Each session blends clear instruction, hands-on activities, and open conversation about expectations and real-life experiences. Parents finish the series feeling informed, supported, and ready for the first weeks at home with their new baby.

The Wellness Center Keto Support Group offers a welcoming space to explore ketogenic living and stay motivated. Each gathering includes practical conversations, helpful handouts, snacks, stress management guidance, and recipe ideas to support your goals. Participation is flexible, so attend occasionally or regularly, with a cost of $15 per session. The group meets twice each month.

Learn the basics of hooping in a beginner-friendly class led by Brandi at the Cedar Valley Sportsplex fitness studio. This upbeat session blends movement and foundational skills for a playful, full-body workout that can spark a long-term hobby. No prior experience is needed, and hoops plus instruction are provided. Participation is included with a Sportsplex membership, and non-members can attend with a $10 day pass.

An open mic takes place every Tuesday, hosted by a rotating lineup of some of the Cedar Valley's best musicians. Performers can take the stage to share their talents, or attendees can simply relax and listen. The rotating hosts keep each week fresh and welcoming.

This conversation explores dystopian futures where human misery, oppression, disease, and corrupt governments take center stage. It examines films alongside the books and authors that inspired them, including Anthony Burgess's A Clockwork Orange, George Orwell's 1984, Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451, and Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep, with Blade Runner as a notable screen adaptation. The discussion considers how these works envision worlds gone awry and the lasting themes that keep them relevant.

Most judging at the NCC Fair contests is open for public viewing, with different arrangements for baked goods and other food competitions as described in the Premium Book. For more information, please refer to the official contest website.

Orrell Musical & Dramatic Society presents We Will Rock You at Winstanley College, a high energy musical packed with more than 20 Queen hits. Hear favorites including Bohemian Rhapsody, Somebody to Love, Don’t Stop Me Now, We Are The Champions, and the iconic title song, with plenty more in the mix. Tickets are available, and an early bird discount can be applied using code EARLY25 during purchase.

Wrap up the year with the final car, truck, and bike show, where any vehicle with wheels is welcome.

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.

This newly launched support group offers veterans a chance to connect with peers and provide mutual support focused on mental health. Participants can share experiences and encourage one another in a supportive setting. No advance registration is required.

Celebrate fresh sounds at a showcase for new bands and emerging artists. Two 30-minute performance slots are available, and musicians can sign up by emailing octpuscollegehill@gmail.com.

A century-strong celebration returns with the 116th National Cattle Congress Fair, honoring deep roots while moving forward with fresh attractions. Adult admission is $15 and children attend at no cost. Discounted tickets are offered through the Cedar Bend Humane Society with a donation, and veterans and seniors can purchase discounted admission at the gate. A Superpass provides four days of entry plus a $5 food voucher for $30, though it does not cover carnival rides or the bull riding event. The entertainment schedule features a live set from Adam Calvert that is included with admission, the NCC Fair Ranch Broncs and Bull Riding Challenge inside the Hippodrome, and complimentary shows in Estel Hall alongside roaming performers across the grounds. Visitors can take part in more than 50 contests, enjoy carnival rides and fair food including Tom Thumb Donuts, explore over 100 exhibitor booths in Estel Hall, and watch dairy and llama showcases, with even more to discover throughout the fair.

The Little Miss National Cattle Congress coronation at the National Cattle Congress Pavilion celebrates youth participants in a fair program that encourages involvement, builds confidence and citizenship, and spotlights future opportunities such as the Queen Contest. The titleholder serves as a young ambassador for the National Cattle Congress Fair. During the ceremony, each participant is introduced on stage with a parent or guardian escort, followed by the announcement of the new Little Miss and photographs. Eligibility for the program includes Iowa residency, ages 5 to 8, amateur status, and no previous Little Miss title. Proof of age may be requested, and attendance at the coronation is required for all participants.

Thursdays at King Bucks bring music, delicious food, chilled drinks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

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.