a boy smelling a lavender

Things to do in May in Iowa City area



The flowers are blooming and events full of music and dancing are flowing through the air.

Check out these events going on throughout the month of May.

Find more things to do by visiting our events calendar or to submit your own event here. Sign up for our free events e-newsletter #ICtheWeekend.

Beyond Fashion Fest

Iowa City Farmers Market

Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. – noon.

May 3, 2025-October 25, 2025.

The Iowa City Farmers Market kicks off for its first time of the season on Saturday May 3. Stop by Chauncey Swan Park on Saturdays through October to get fresh vegetables, baked goods, hand crafted jewelry, listen to live music, play yard games and enjoy hot food from local vendors.

Riverdance

Johnson County Cruise

Calyx Creek Lavender & Lodging will be one of the featured stops on the Johnson County Cruise on May 11.  Joseph Cress/Think Iowa City

May 11

Make your Mother’s Day memorable and take her on the next Johnson County Cruise!

We’re excited to invite you to a unforgettable county cruise featuring four fantastic stops that showcase the best of local farms, educational experiences, and seasonal fun. Whether you’re a fan of fresh produce, lavender fields, or orchards, this tour has something special for everyone. 

Bike to Work week

Cyclists fill the breezeway while gathering for the Unpark Yourself: Bike to Work Week breakfast sponsored by Engineering Staff Advisory Council (ESAC) and the College of Education SoWell Committee, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, outside the Seamans Center on the University of Iowa campus in Iowa City, Iowa. MANDATORY CREDIT: Joseph Cress/Think Iowa City

May 12-18 is Bike to Work Week in #BikeIowaCity.

Join us for bicycle commuter breakfasts from 7–9am (times vary slightly) at rotating locations across the Iowa City area. Whether you’re a daily commuter or just trying it out, stop by for a morning boost and connect with fellow riders!

🌯 May 12: Big Grove (Iowa City)
🥐 May 13: Johnson County
☕ May 14: City of Iowa City
🥣 May 15: Neumann Monson
🍌 May 20: University of Iowa (7:30–9:00am)
🍽️ May 22: University Heights

Bring a friend, grab a bite, and start your day the bikin’ way!

Coralville Asian Festival

May 17

Drive In Movies – Moana 2

May 17

Rhythms at Riverfront Crossings

May 24

Field of Dreams | FilmScene in the Park

May 24

8:30 p.m.

Puttin’ Around Downtown

May 31 at 2 p.m.

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