The Most Epic Annual Events in Iowa: Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals (Currently Open)
Iowa may sometimes fly under the radar when people think about major festivals, but the truth is that the Hawkeye State pulses with unforgettable annual events. From hot-air balloons rising over cornfields to Scandinavian heritage celebrations, and major music festivals that draw fans from across the Midwest—these are the kinds of experiences you’ll remember long after you’ve packed up the car. If you’re searching for the best festivals in Iowa to attend, this guide walks you through 10 outstanding annual events (all currently operating) that truly deliver.
Whether you’re a curious tourist, a local looking for something new, a family planning a getaway, or a festival enthusiast hunting for your next big experience—read on, because Iowa’s festival calendar is richer than you might think.
Introduction
When you plan travel around festivals in Iowa, you’re not just booking a date on the calendar—you’re connecting with local culture, seasonal rhythms, food, art, music, and community. From humble rural towns to the heart of Des Moines, Iowa’s festival scene is both diverse and deeply rooted. In this article you’ll find:
A geographically balanced mix of festivals (east, west, central Iowa; big & small towns).
Festivals that are currently open/operating, meaning you can plan ahead without worrying about obsolete events.
Rich detail on each festival’s signature experiences, history, why it’s special, and who it’s best for.
Practical tips for making the most of each event—from families to solo adventurers.
So grab your calendar and maybe a notebook—let’s dive into Iowa’s top annual events you’ll want to experience.
1. Iowa State Fair – Des Moines (Central Iowa)
The Iowa State Fair is often the first festival that comes to mind—and for good reason. Held in Des Moines each August, this fair has been around for over 160 years. Wikipedia+2iExplore+2
Why it’s epic
Massive scale: over a million visitors annually. Wikipedia+1
A mash-up of food, music, agriculture, carnival rides, livestock, and long-standing Iowa traditions (like the famous Butter Cow). Wikipedia
Family-friendly yet also draws young adults, foodies, and anyone looking for lively “fair experience”.
Signature experiences
Sampling “food on a stick” or deep-fried creative fair fare.
Exploring agricultural exhibits and 4-H and FFA competitions—rooted in Iowa heritage.
Headline concerts, midway rides and fireworks.
Pro tips
Visit during weekdays if you can to avoid heavier crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot of ground to cover on foot.
Stay hydrated (especially hot August days) and arrive early to grab good parking or shuttle service.
2. National Balloon Classic – Indianola (Central Iowa)
Picture nearly 100 hot-air balloons lifting off together over Iowa farmland—this is what you’ll get at the National Balloon Classic in Indianola. Wikipedia+1
Why it’s epic
Nine-day event dedicated entirely to hot-air ballooning (plus dawn patrols, night glows).
Unique even in festival landscapes—few states offer such a dedicated balloon festival.
Great for families, photographers, couples wanting a scenic escape.
Signature experiences
Sunrise balloon launches: picture dozens of colorful envelopes rising with the sun.
Evening glow events when balloons light up from within—magical.
Meet pilots, watch balloon crews in action, perhaps book a tethered ride.
Pro tips
Bring a camera/tripod if you’re a photo-enthusiast.
Check wind/weather early in the morning (balloon launches depend heavily on conditions).
Stay in Indianola or nearby Iowa City to enjoy local restaurants and lodging.
3. Des Moines Arts Festival – Des Moines (Central Iowa)
For art-lovers and culture-seekers, the Des Moines Arts Festival remains one of Iowa’s most prestigious events. Wikipedia+1
Why it’s epic
Draws over 200,000 visitors during its three-day run. Wikipedia
Features dozens of local, regional and national artists in a sprawling downtown setting.
Combines visual arts, live performances, food, interactive installations—besides the permanent landscape of Des Moines.
Signature experiences
Galleries of paintings, sculpture, jewelry, digital media and more.
Live art and performance zones where you can watch creation in progress.
Food trucks, local beer/wine, and an atmosphere of creative energy.
Pro tips
Arrive early on the first day for best parking and first pick at art exhibits.
Bring cash/credit for art purchases (many artists are walk-up).
Wear comfortable shoes; festival covers downtown + outdoor pathways.
4. Hinterland Music Festival – St. Charles (Southeast Iowa)
Music fans will especially appreciate the Hinterland Music Festival—perhaps the largest multi-day music festival in Iowa. Wikipedia+1
Why it’s epic
Features major headliners across pop, rock, indie and alt-country genres. New York Post+1
Set in the Iowa countryside, giving a festival-destination feel with camping, vendors and multiple days of fun.
Ideal for enthusiastic travelers who want more than just a single-day event.
Signature experiences
Multiple stages, big name acts, immersive festival atmosphere.
Camping, food vendors, craft beer, and social gatherings.
Late-night indie sets, art zones, and local community integration.
Pro tips
Book your tickets and lodging/camping well in advance—they sell out.
Bring layers: Iowa evenings can be cooler even in August.
Plan set schedules ahead so you don’t miss your favorite artists.
5. Nordic Fest – Decorah (Northeast Iowa)
If you’re seeking a festival with deep heritage roots—and a bit off the beaten path—Nordic Fest in Decorah is a standout. Wikipedia
Why it’s epic
Celebrates Scandinavian traditions (especially Norwegian) with historic flair—music, crafts, folk costuming, storytelling. Wikipedia
Set in Iowa’s rolling hills of northeast Iowa—makes it part culture celebration, part scenic getaway.
Ideal for families and heritage-lovers, as well as visitors wanting something distinctively Iowa.
Signature experiences
Parades with traditional folk costumes (bunads) and marching bands.
Art demonstrations (knife making, wood carving, rosemaling).
Vintage Scandinavian food, beer gardens, storytelling, river activities.
Pro tips
It usually occurs the last weekend in July—so plan travel/hotel ahead if staying overnight.
Bring a camera—Decorah’s landscapes plus festival costumes are photo-rich.
Mix in a side-visit to the local Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum.
6. Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival – Des Moines (Central Iowa)
For something fun, quirky and totally unforgettable, the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival delivers. Yes—bacon. Wikipedia
Why it’s epic
A serious celebration of bacon: sampling, cooking demos, contests, live entertainment.
Grown from a small event to thousands of attendees who love food festivals with personality.
Great for food-afficionados, groups of friends, families wanting a more playful festival.
Signature experiences
Bacon sample stations, bacon-themed contests, lectures about bacon cultures.
Live music, food trucks, craft beer and social atmosphere.
Comfortable festival feel—not massive like a state fair, but big enough to make a memory.
Pro tips
Tickets often sell out early—check official site ahead of time.
If going with kids, check age suitability and whether there are non-bacon options.
Arrive early for best selection of bacon-themed treats and seats.
7. World Food & Music Festival – Des Moines (Central Iowa)
Located downtown, this festival brings together global flavors and performances in one vibrant celebration. dsmpartnership.com
Why it’s epic
Highlights international cuisine and cultures in Iowa’s capital—an excellent way to broaden your festival exposure.
Family-friendly, accessible, and set in a walkable downtown environment.
Ideal for food-lovers, culture seekers, and visitors to Des Moines who want a festival tied to global experience.
Signature experiences
Food booths representing dozens of countries, music/dance from around the world.
Kids-zones, cultural showcases, local and international vendors.
Live performances and a festival atmosphere within city limits.
Pro tips
Visit early for best parking; evening tends to be most lively.
Bring comfortable walking shoes—festival spans multiple blocks and stages.
Split time between food and performances so you don’t miss headline acts.
8. Maifest – Amana Colonies (East-Central Iowa)
Nestled in the historic Amana Colonies region, Maifest celebrates spring German-heritage in a charming setting. Travel Iowa+1
Why it’s epic
Blend of cultural heritage, craft beer/food, family-friendly fun, and small-town charm.
Historic village setting makes it feel like stepping back in time while you celebrate.
Ideal for couples, families, heritage travelers and folks seeking a slower-paced festival experience.
Signature experiences
Maypole dancing, German folk music, local craft beer gardens.
Antique tractor parades, artisan markets, traditional food.
Shopping and strolling in one of Iowa’s most picturesque historic spots.
Pro tips
Visit early in the day for the full experience of parades and cultural events.
Stay overnight in the Amana Colonies for a full weekend immersion.
Research lodging early—historic inns fill up for festival weekends.
9. Capital City PrideFest – Des Moines (Central Iowa)
Celebrating diversity, community, and fun, PrideFest in Des Moines has become a meaningful and high-energy annual event. Fabulous Iowa
Why it’s epic
Three-day event with a broad celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, music, food, family & youth programming.
Located in the East Village of downtown Des Moines—great urban festival setting.
Perfect for inclusive travel, families with kids, groups of friends and festival-enthusiasts.
Signature experiences
Pride parades, drag shows, pet pageants, 5 K PrideStride races.
Food trucks, vendor markets, live music stages.
Zones dedicated to youth, families, health & wellness.
Pro tips
Check program schedules ahead of time for special events and youth-friendly zones.
Arrive early to secure good vantage points for parades or headliners.
Use public transportation or rideshare for ease; parking can fill fast.
10. Iowa Arts Festival – Iowa City (Southeast Iowa)
This is a fabulous pick for art lovers outside the metro areas—celebrating fine arts, crafts, live music and more in a town known for culture. Fabulous Iowa+1
Why it’s epic
Long-standing tradition (over 40 years) that melds art exhibition with festival energy.
A destination for artists, collectors, families and tourists alike.
Great for combining with lunch/dinner in downtown Iowa City and exploring other cultural landmarks.
Signature experiences
Art show featuring over 100 artists in diverse media (wood, jewelry, digital, mixed).
Live performances and educational youth-oriented art programming.
Friendly, walkable atmosphere—less hectic than major music festivals, but rich.
Pro tips
For serious art shopping, arrive when the show opens.
Bring a tote or backpack for your purchases.
Maybe combine with a weekend in Iowa City or nearby Coralville for full cultural immersion.
Planning Your Festival Road-Trip: Smart Pairings & Region Highlights
With these 10 mega-festivals, you can build a memorable Iowa festival itinerary. Here are ideas to make the most of them:
Region vs. travel to minimize driving:
Central Iowa cluster: Iowa State Fair, Des Moines Arts Festival, Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival, World Food & Music Festival, Capital City PrideFest.
Southeast Iowa / Iowa City region: Iowa Arts Festival, Hinterland Music Festival (just a bit further), Amana Colonies’ Maifest.
Northeast Iowa / small town heritage: Nordic Fest (Decorah), plus perhaps a scenic side trip in that region.
Central Iowa special event: National Balloon Classic (Indianola) – you could pair this with other central Iowa stops.
Travel-week strategy:
Families: Choose more relaxed festivals (Maifest, Iowa Arts Festival) with options for kids and light programming.
Music-enthusiasts / groups: Prioritize Hinterland Music Festival or Des Moines Arts Festival plus nights in Des Moines with downtown nightlife.
Heritage & culture lovers: Nordic Fest and Iowa Arts Festival bring depth; you can pair with museum visits, local craft tours.
Foodies & niche festival goers: Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival is fun and quirky; World Food & Music Festival touches global flavors.
Tip scheduling:
Check official dates early—some festivals move or expand.
Book lodging months in advance for major events (e.g., Iowa State Fair, Hinterland).
Plan for weather variability: Iowa summers can be hot, evenings sometimes cool; spring/fall festivals may require layers.
Festival Essentials: What to Bring and Know
Before you head to your chosen festival, keep these general tips in mind:
Comfort and mobility: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water bottle, hat. Many festival grounds are large and partly outdoors.
Tickets and wristbands: Buy early for big festivals; small ones may allow walk-up, but early ticketing is safer.
Parking or transit: Urban festivals (Des Moines, Iowa City) may have parking congestion; consider rideshare or early arrival.
Weather check: Iowa weather can surprise you with storms or heat spikes—bring a light rain jacket or umbrella if forecast looks iffy.
Research lineup/schedule: Many festivals publish full program in advance—pick your “must-see” acts or events so you manage your time.
Stay hydrated & snack smart: Especially for multi-day festivals, bring water and a small snack if permitted (check rules).
Respect local culture: Festivals tied to heritage (Nordic Fest, Maifest) deserve respectful participation—learn a bit about traditions ahead of time.