Iowa, a state in the Midwestern region of the United States, is known for its beautiful landscapes, agriculture, and friendly people. But what many may not know is that Iowa is also home to some of the most lively and exciting street festivals in the country. These festivals bring together local communities and visitors from all over to celebrate everything from music and food to culture and history. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of Iowa’s best street festivals and what makes them so special.
Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival
The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival is a month-long celebration of our nation’s independence. The festival includes a variety of events, including parades, balloon races, live music performances, and fireworks displays. The festival draws tens of thousands of visitors every year and is a great way to experience the community spirit of Cedar Rapids.
Pella Tulip Time Festival
The Pella Tulip Time Festival is a celebration of Dutch culture and heritage that takes place every year in Pella, Iowa. The festival includes traditional Dutch costumes, parades, and, of course, tulips. Pella is known for its beautiful tulip gardens, which bloom during the festival. The festival also features traditional Dutch food, including Dutch letters and Dutch sausage.
Des Moines Arts Festival
The Des Moines Arts Festival is a three-day event held every year in downtown Des Moines. The festival features artists from around the country who showcase their work in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography. The festival also includes live music performances, food vendors, and interactive art installations.
Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and most well-known state fairs in the country. The fair takes place in August and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The fair includes a variety of events and attractions, including livestock shows, concerts, carnival rides, and food vendors. The fair is also known for its famous butter cow sculpture, which is made entirely out of butter.
North Liberty Blues and BBQ Festival
The North Liberty Blues and BBQ Festival is a two-day event held every year in North Liberty, Iowa. The festival features live blues music performances and delicious BBQ from local vendors. The festival also includes a car show, beer garden, and kids’ activities.
Orange City Tulip Festival
The Orange City Tulip Festival is another celebration of Dutch culture and heritage that takes place in Orange City, Iowa. The festival includes traditional Dutch costumes, parades, and, of course, tulips. The festival also features a Dutch street organ, Dutch food, and a carnival.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many street festivals that take place in Iowa every year. Each festival is unique and offers visitors a chance to experience the community spirit and culture that make Iowa such a special place. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the street festivals of Iowa are not to be missed.