A Giant List of October 2024 Events in Eastern Iowa

Get ready for a busy fall month! We've put together a list of some of the big events happening in Eastern Iowa and beyond.

If you're specifically looking for a list of family-friendly Halloween activities around the Corridor, click HERE!

For a list of Iowa haunted houses open in October, click HERE!

Carrie the Musical

• Theatre Cedar Rapids
• Shows through October 13th
• "Based on Stephen King’s chilling thriller, this spine-tingling show is packed with suspense, unforgettable music, and a haunting story of high school revenge. The perfect addition to all of your 'spooky season!' activities!"
• Purchase tickets HERE

Ottumwa Oktoberfest

• Jimmy Jones Shelter at Greater Ottumwa Park, Ottumwa
• October 2nd through 5th
• "Participants can look forward to a variety of beloved activities such as live music, bingo, parades, drum line competitions, stein holding, and, of course, all the beer and brats you can handle."
• See a full schedule of events HERE

Beers in the Barnyard

• Old MacDonald's Farm, Cedar Rapids
• Thursday, October 3rd from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• "Enjoy an evening of live music, bonfires, silent auction, CRPF signature fun & games, a catered picnic meal, wine sampling and local craft beers."
• Ages 21+
• Purchase tickets HERE

Girl's Night Out

• Downtown Cedar Falls
• Thursday, October 3rd from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• "Grab your girls and head to our annual fall Girl's Night Out in the Downtown District! Join participating merchants for a fun night of shopping, dining and more!"

The Chocolate Walk & Shop

• Uptown Marion
• Friday, October 4th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• "Enjoy strolling historic Uptown Marion and the new north plaza at this sweet shopping event. Check out the new hours and make a night by dining out in Uptown! Visit your favorite stores, discover what's new just around the corner and savor a sweet treat from participating businesses."

RoughRiders Hockey

• ImOn Ice Arena, Cedar Rapids
• Dates/Times
  • October 4th & 5th at 7:05 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 19th at 7:05 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Waverly Oktoberfest

• Kohlmann Park, Waverly
• Dates/Times
  • Friday, October 4th from 4 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 5th from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
• Featuring a family fun zone, live music, fireworks, beer, a cornhole tournament, competitions, food, craft vendors, a pull train, and a tasting event
• Ticket Prices
  • $10 button (good for both days) for ages 18+
  • $5 button (good for both days) for ages 13 through 17
  • $5 for Wartburg students (with student ID)

Amana Oktoberfest

• Amana Colonies
• October 4th through 6th
• Featuring a keg-tapping party, beer, food, live entertainment, games, competitions, and a parade
• Check out a full schedule of events HERE
• Festhalle admission is $15 for one day and $20 for two days - Sunday admission is free

Anamosa Pumpkinfest & Ryan Norlin GIANT Pumpkin Weigh-Off

• Main Street, Anamosa
• Saturday, October 5th with events beginning at 8 a.m.
• Featuring a parade, a car show, a 5k, a car smash, a kids' zone, an equipment rodeo, games, competitions, and more

Fall Craft Fair

• Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 5th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Craft & Vendor Fair

• Solon Community Center
• Saturday, October 5th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

FilmScene in the Park: Jurassic Park

• FilmScene (at The Chauncey), Iowa City
• Saturday, October 5th at 7 p.m.

Tailgate in the Park

• Lowe Park, Marion
• Saturday, October 5th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Featuring tailgate games, inflatables, kids activities, tailgate-inspired food, and a spaghetti-eating contest

Especially for You Race Against Breast Cancer

• Hall-Perrine Cancer Center, Cedar Rapids
• Sunday, October 6th at 8 a.m.
• Get registered HERE

#IMOMSOHARD: Ladies’ Night

• Englert Theatre, Cedar Rapids
• Sunday, October 6th at 7:30 p.m.
• "From the creators of #IMOMSOHARD, Jen and Kristin are heading out on a Fall Tour, with a brand new show: LADIES NIGHT! Guaranteed to make you laugh, and maybe pee your pants, these two dive-in to all things womanhood, motherhood and friendship."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Move it! Dig it! Do it!

• Iowa Children's Museum, Coralville
• Sunday, October 6th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• "Grab your hard hat and take an up-close look at large construction equipment, big trucks, and emergency vehicles! Our biggest outdoor event of the year takes place just outside of the museum in the Coral Ridge Mall parking lot. Please join us for games, activities, and vehicles of all shapes and sizes."

Styx Concert

• Alliant Energy Powerhouse Arena, Cedar Rapids
• Wednesday, October 9th at 7 p.m.
• With special guest John Waite
• Purchase tickets HERE

Downtown Historic Haunted Tours

• Downtown Waterloo
• October 10th through 12th and 17th through 19th at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
• "Explore the dark side of Historic Downtown Waterloo and learn about haunted happenings, dark history, local folklore, and more as you walk with us into the realm of mystery and suspense."
• Purchase tickets HERE

NBA Preseason Game: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Philadelphia 76ers

• Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines
• Friday, October 11th at 6 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Cider Stroll

• Czech Village & New Bohemia Districts, Cedar Rapids
• Friday, October 11th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• "Enjoy a crisp fall evening sipping and shopping in the historic neighborhoods of Czech Village & New Bohemia. Samples will be a variety of Cider inspired drinks, mocktails & treats at retail locations in Czech Village and New Bohemia. Restaurants will be having Cider themed specials throughout the weekend."

Fall Fest in West Branch

• Main Street, West Branch
• October 11th & 12th
• Featuring sidewalk sales, a Pumpkin Patch Party, crafts, an outdoor movie screening, and more

Brad Williams Comedy Show

• Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids
• Friday, October 11th at 7 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Cedar Rapids Hot Cider Hustle

• NewBo City Market, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 12th at 8:30 a.m.
• Includes a 5k, a 10k, and a half-marathon
• Get registered HERE

Fall Makers Market

• North Liberty Community Center
• Saturday, October 12th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Center Point Harvest Festival

• Fross Park, Center Point
• Saturday, October 12th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• "Trunk or Treat with local businesses, face painting, pumpkin decorating, inflatables, vendors, and music! Opal & Hazels Wood Fired Pizza and Meader's Meats BBQ will have hot food for sale as well!"

Fall Wapsi Float

• Saturday, October 12th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Pinicon Ridge Park, Central City
• "Join a naturalist on a scenic float of the Wapsipinicon River. The float is scheduled near the peak of the leaf change to enjoy all the season has to offer us. Participants are responsible for bringing their own boats, gear and must wear their mandatory lifejackets."
• Register HERE

Iowa Renaissance Festival

• Middle Amana Community Park
• October 12th & 13th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• "Come experience live entertainment featuring comedy, swordplay, music, magic, and even horseback jousting. Explore a marketplace full of unique merchandise from around the land. Enjoy tasty treats and drinks in the royal food court (including adult libations like honey mead)."
• Admission is $15 for ages 14+ and $8 for ages 6 to 13

Theo Von Comedy Show

• Vibrant Arena, Moline
• Sunday, October 13th at 7 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Simply Made Market

• Bella Sala Event Center, Tiffin
• Sunday, October 13th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Featuring over 50 local makers, live music, food trucks, and giveaways

Iowa City Book Festival

• Iowa City (multiple venues)
• October 13th through 20th
• Check out a full schedule of events HERE

Dine With Zombies

• Lion Bridge Brewing Company, Cedar Rapids
• Wednesday, October 16th from 6 p.m.to 8 p.m.
• "In honor of our Zombie Awakening (Black Ale with Coffee) with Scream Acres at Bloomsbury Farm, this fun evening will include: Zombie themed Food specials with Beer Pairings. Order a la carte, no tickets required, just come and enjoy the scary fun. This event might be scary for kids so please be mindful of that!"

‘A Taste of Ireland―The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’

• Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids
• Wednesday, October 16th at 7:30 p.m.
• "Performed by former World Irish dance champions, and featuring dancers from the West End’s Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ transports the audience through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history delivered with a pint of Irish wit. Watch world-class performers blend melodic folk mash-ups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles and heartwarming story telling."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Crystal Gayle Concert

• Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, Riverside
• Friday, October 18th at 8 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Spooky Legends of Linn County

• The History Center, Cedar Rapids
• Friday, October 18th at 6:30 p.m.
• "Join us for authentic Linn County ghost stories told by storyteller Darrin Crow, including campfires, s'mores and hot cocoa, Almost Famous Popcorn and cash bar available. This is an outdoor event. Please bring a lawn chair."
• Admission is $5 per person

2024 Downtown Fall Shop Crawl

• Downtown Iowa City
• Friday, October 18th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• "Sip and shop your way through Iowa City with apple cider, spiked punches, fall sangria, and so much more. And because October wouldn’t be complete without a touch of spookiness, we’re bringing back the Halloween Costume Contest! Don your most creative costume for a chance to win a $100 Downtown District gift card!"
• Tickets are $15 - purchase one HERE

Falliday Market

• Lowe Park, Marion
• Saturday, October 19th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Theory of a Deadman Concert

• Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 19th at 7 p.m.
• With special guests Citizen Soldier and Adelitas Way
• Purchase tickets HERE

Alabama Concert

• Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines
• Saturday, October 19th at 7 p.m.
• With special guest Exile
• Purchase tickets HERE

Seether & Skillet Concert

• Vibrant Music Hall, Waukee
• Saturday, October 19th at 6 p.m.
• With special guests Tim Montana and Royale Lynn
• Purchase tickets HERE

Chili Cook Off Fundraiser

• Geonetric Building, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 19th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• "Dog Forever is hosting our 4th Annual Chili Cook Off Fundraiser with a Silent Auction and Bake Sale! $5 suggested entry donation to come on down and taste some of the best chili recipes in town."

Cars & Coffee Cedar Rapids

• Hawkeye Downs, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 19th from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• "All makes and models are welcome to join us on the track at the LAST Cars & Coffee Cedar Rapids of the year. We will have our kickass media team from EMS Photography and Licks Photography snapping pics of your ride. Food and beverage will be available onsite for purchase."

Cedar Rapids Halloween Parade

• NewBo & Czech Village District, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 19th at 6:30 p.m.
• Featuring a kid zone from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and a family costume contest at 5:30 p.m.

Mount Vernon Chili Cookoff

• 1st Street, Mount Vernon
• Saturday, October 19th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• "The public can buy a passport card for $20 for 25 tastings or $1/ea. Grilled cheese and beverages will also be available for purchase. And don’t forget, the Bags Tournament! Registration starts at 1PM with the tournament starting at 2PM."

Fall Arts & Crafts Show

• Hyatt Regency Conference Center, Coralville
• Dates/Times
  • Saturday, October 19th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Sunday, October 20th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Admission is $6 for ages 11 and up

Homecoming at Iowa

• University of Iowa, Iowa City
• October 20th through 26th
• Featuring a parade, a 5k, Iowa SHOUT!, a block party, and more
• See a full schedule of events HERE

UNI Homecoming

• University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls
• October 21st through 26th
• Featuring a 5k, the Homecoming Bash, sporting events, a parade, a fan zone, a dance party, and more
• See a full schedule of events HERE

Sesame Street Live! Say Hello

• Tuesday, October 22nd at 6 p.m.
• Xtream Arena, Coralville
• Purchase tickets HERE

Witch Walk Sip & Shop

• Thursday, October 24th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Downtown Swisher
• "Shopping, music, specials, food, drinks & more! Grab a punch card at your starting location - get a punch at each stop and be entered to win the Spooktacular Gift Basket full of goodies!"

Pink Concert

• Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines
• Thursday, October 24th at 7:30 p.m.
• With special guests The Script and KidCutUp
• Purchase tickets HERE

Rockwell Employee Craft Fair

• Kirkwood Linn Regional Center, Hiawatha
• Dates/Times
  • Thursday, October 24th from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Friday, October 25th from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 26th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Public is welcome - free parking and admission

Gabriel Iglesias Comedy Show

• Alliant Energy Powerhouse, Cedar Rapids
• Friday, October 25th at 8 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Rocky Horror Picture Show

• NewBo City Market, Cedar Rapids
• Dates/Times
  • Friday, October 25th at 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 26th at 8 p.m.
• "Local burlesque troupe Bawdy Bawdy Ha Ha will lead the pre-show activities, including the audience-judged costume contest! NewBo Beer and Wine will be open with drink specials for the evening. The standing room, movie only ticket without a prop bag is free, but please purchase a ticket to receive a prop bag and reserved seating if you want to play along!"
• Purchase tickets HERE

Find & Flourish Market

• Amana Colonies RV Park & Event Center
• Dates/Times
  • Friday, October 25th from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 26th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Admission is $5 for ages 13+

All Hall-loo's Eve Mini-con

• The Weis Mansion B&B, Waterloo
• October 25th through 27th
• "Hear from True Crime and Paranormal experts, take part in a Creepy Tea, become a character in a Murder Mystery Dinner set in a Historic Mansion, attend a book release party, and much more!"
• Purchase tickets HERE

Interactive Rocky Horror Picture Show

• Cedar Rapids Public Library
• Saturday, October 26th at 2 p.m.
• "Prop bags will be provided, and costumes are encouraged to enjoy this cult classic that was released almost 50 years ago."
• Tickets will be available one hour before the show on a first come, first-served basis - ages 18+ only

All Elite Wrestling: Collision

• Alliant Energy Powerhouse, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 26th at 6:30 p.m.
• "Fans can expect an action-packed evening, featuring AEW's incredible roster of male and female wrestlers. Witness the athleticism, massive personalities, and exciting storylines that have made AEW a sensation. This event includes the broadcast of AEW Collision on TNT." 
• Purchase tickets HERE

The Music of Harry Potter: Presented by Orchestra Iowa

• Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 26th at 7:30 p.m.
• "Take a magical tour into the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Experience the thrill of adventure, the warmth of friendship, and the triumph of good with John Williams’ spellbinding music. Enjoy the charm as Orchestra Iowa performs favorites from the iconic film series. The performance also features the Orchestra Iowa Discovery Youth Chorus."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Halloween Bar Crawl

• Downtown Cedar Rapids
• Saturday, October 26th from 4 p.m.to 12 a.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Rocky Horror Picture Show

• Englert Theatre, Iowa City
• Saturday, October 26th at 11:59 p.m.
• "The Englert Theatre and Comics In Action are proud to bring the Rocky Horror Picture Show to life once again at The Englert! Come out at midnight for the only film that, for 40 years and running, brings together costumes, screaming, laughs, and the occasional thrown object! We’ll provide the props (included with your ticket purchase), you bring your best voice and all your virgin friends."
• Purchase tickets HERE

Shrek the Musical

• Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids
• Tuesday, October 29th at 7:30 p.m.
• Purchase tickets HERE

Halloween Costume Bar Crawl

• Begins at Sag Wagon, Cedar Rapids
• Wednesday, October 30th at 6 p.m.
• Route details TBA

Pet Costume Contest

• Lion Bridge Brewing Company, Cedar Rapids
• Wednesday, October 30th from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• "Bring your pets in their spooky, silly, and adorable costumes and have some fun! Judging will happen at 5:30 PM. We will have treats for the pets, and the winner will receive a $50 gift card!"