10 Events this Summer You Don’t Want to Miss
A look at summer events #WhereIowaStarted.
Mark your calendars for these 10 events taking place in Dubuque.
Dubuque Farmers' Market
Nothing says summer’s here like the sights, sounds, and tastes of a fresh market. Stroll along and discover locally grown produce, hand crafted goods, live music, and more at Iowa's longest running Farmers’ Market. Find the Dubuque Farmers' Market every Saturday from 7 AM to Noon on Iowa St.
Food Truck Season
Find food truck scattered throughout Dubuque's downtown daily! Check out ‘Food Festival Fridays’ in Washington Park on June 9, July 14, August 11, & September 8 from 11 AM - 1:30 PM for them all in one place with live music.
Millwork Night Market
Grab a brew and enjoy the vibes. Millwork Night Market is an independent farmers' market featuring local food, art, and other unique goods. Find it the second Thursday of the month from 5 to 8 PM in Dubuque's Historic Millwork District. 2023 date are May 11, June 8, July 13, August 10, September 14, & October 12.
Fourth of July
The national holiday is always highly anticipated with an abundance of area events. From the Fireworks & Airshow Spectacular held on the banks on the Mississippi River at A.Y. McDonald Park July 3rd to the area celebrations like Bellevue Heritage Days July 1 - 2 just 25 miles south of Dubuque.
Live Music
Dubuque’s live music scene is always overflowing with options. From national acts at Five Flags Arena and Q Casino's Back Waters Stage, to patio performances at Stone Cliff Winery and others there are so many things happening in between.
Ghost Player Show
Experience the magic at the Field of Dreams Movie Site, For more than 30 years, the Ghost Players have entertained folks from around the world with their hilarious diamond hi-jinks and family friendly message. The self-proclaimed “Greatest Show on Dirt" takes place July 1, July 22, August 5, August 26 (Night Show), & Sept 30 in Dyersville, Iowa. Admission is free but remember to bring lawn chairs, bleachers fill up quick!
Taste of Summer
Experience food vendors and musicians from around Dubuque afterhours at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. Guests are invited to relax in the boatyard and plaza for an experience like no other. 2023 dates are June 1, July 6, & August 3. Don't forget a lawn chairs or blankets to sit and enjoy.
Exhibits at Smithsonian Affiliated Museums
Did you know Dubuque is home to two Smithsonian affiliated museums? First up is the Dubuque Museum of Art featuring high caliber artists. Traveling with kids? Check out the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (and who are we kidding…us big kids like it too!) This summer they’ve got the ‘Popnology’ a fusion of science fiction and science fact celebrating the greatest works of innovation and imagination in history.
70th Annual Dubuque County Fair
Summer isn’t summer without at least one trip to a county fair. From the tasty treats and mainstage entertainment to a carnival and fair competitions. This year the Dubuque County Fair celebrates it 70th anniversary July 25 through July 30.
Music in the Gardens
The Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is always a magical place to visit but throw in live music radiating from the Packard Pavilion and you’ve got a recipe for a one-of-a-kind experience. Held every Sunday evening from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM June 4 - August 27 experience the wide array of musical entertainment beneath the stars and among the gardens.