Looking for things to do during September in Iowa City?
Music festivals, yoga in fields of lavender, a movie premiere and more are coming up.
Check out these events going on throughout the month in our collection of curious communities.
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. For information about weekly farmers markets in the Iowa City area click here.
Joy Oladokun headlines Iowa City Songwriters Festival
Joy Oladokun with Courtney Marie Andrews
Sept. 6
Englert Theatre
Iowa City
Headlining Saturday of Iowa City Songwriters Festival. Courtney Marie Andrews will perform at 7:30 with Joy Oladokun following at 8:45
A new, intimate 3-day music festival and conference centered around the craft of songwriting, presented by The Englert Theatre across downtown Iowa City.
Check out the official lineup for the 2025 festival! Weekend and All Access Passes are now on sale. Only a limited quantity available, so get yours today!
Grandparents Day
Grandparents Day at the Iowa Children’s Museum
Sept. 7, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Iowa Children’s Museum
Coralville
Calling all papas, mimaws, and nonnos! To celebrate National Grandparents Day, The Iowa Children’s Museum is offering FREE admission to all grandparents with the purchase of a child admission. This special day is made possible thanks to our friends at United Iowa Financial.
Fall Yoga & Lavender Fields
Yoga and Lavender
Sept. 13, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Calyx Creek Lavender & Lodging
Oxford
Join us for a peaceful outdoor yoga class at Calyx Creek in the lavender fields! Includes yoga with lavender aromatherapy, a cool lavender towel after class and a specialty drink of your choice!
Track Guy Movie Premiere
Track Guy Movie Premiere
Sept. 14, 2 p.m.
Englert Theatre
Iowa City
A powerful and uplifting documentary that celebrates the inspiring work of the Track Guy Foundation and the legendary announcing career of Mike Jay.
For over 30 years, Mike Jay’s voice has echoed through track and field stadiums across Iowa and the United States, from the Iowa High School State Meet to the Drake Relays and beyond. But his impact goes far beyond the mic. Through the Track Guy Foundation, Mike, his family, and foundation supporters have helped advance the sports of track and field and cross country by supporting athletes and building community across the state.
Follow the high school track season through Mike’s eyes and witness the profound influence he and the foundation have had on generations of athletes.
Don’t miss this inspiring story of passion, purpose, and the power of sport.
Infinite Dream festival
Infinite Dream festival
September 17-20
Hancher Auditorium
Iowa City
Through the lens of the arts, Infinite Dream explores the complex fabric of the American Story—our grand accomplishments, disruptive failures, and remarkable potential for excellence.
Events will feature performances, presentations, and discussions from artists and thinkers from around the world as well as students, faculty, and staff from the University of Iowa. The festival’s theme serves as a reference point for the performances and conversations—a loose frame for artists and patrons to consider as they share and experience transformative work.
The festival also celebrates the vast creativity found on the University of Iowa’s campus—evident in the work of its students, faculty, and staff and embedded in its remarkable cultural venues. In addition, Infinite Dream positions the university’s artistic efforts within the scope of robust creative activity happening in the larger Iowa City community.
Farm Cycle 4 Youth
Farm Cycle 4 Youth with the Iowa City Bike Library and United Action for Youth
September 21
Iowa City Bike Library
Iowa City
This year, the Bike Library and United Action for Youth merge their fund-rides. Farm Cycle and Ride 4 Youth become Farm Cycle 4 Youth!
Join 550 riders for a multi-course culinary adventure on two wheels. You’ll meet local farmers, explore Iowa acreages, and enjoy delicious local food and craft beverages al fresco. With multiple route options for families, casual riders, and cycling enthusiasts, Farm Cycle 4 Youth offers something for every rider. Stops include Colony Acres, Two Horse Farm and Frerich’s Alpaca Farm.
One ticket is applicable to any route: 16, 30, or 42 miles. Chef + Site pairings will be announced in the coming weeks. Riders under 18 ride for free and must register with an adult. Discounted student tickets are available.
Jefferson Starship
Jefferson Starship performs at The Englert Theatre
September 21, 7:30 p.m.
The Englert Theatre
Iowa City
Jefferson Starship is one of the most successful arena rock groups of the 1970s and 80s, earning 3 platinum and 8 gold records, as well as numerous Top 40 singles. While Jefferson Starship continues to tour today, the band has experienced numerous lineup and personnel changes, and each of those members have contributed to the magic and alchemy that make Jefferson Starship iconic.
Shelter House BBQ Bash
Shelter House BBQ Bash
September 26, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Johnson County Fairgrounds
Iowa City
Delicious, smoked meats have been a staple of BBQ Bash each year. This fall, we are hosting this annual fundraiser at the Johnson County Fairgrounds on Friday, September 26 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. There will be live music, activities for all ages, and delicious, mouth-watering barbeque.
University of Iowa Homecoming Parade
University of Iowa Homecoming Parade
September 26, 5:45 p.m.
Downtown
Iowa City
The Homecoming Parade is an annual tradition that brings Hawkeyes together from both near and far. Parade participants include students, staff, faculty, and members of the Iowa City and surrounding communities.
Each year, we welcome Hawkeye Alumni back home to Iowa City to celebrate alongside more than 20,000 spectators that come from around the world to watch the parade.
Northside Saturday Nights
Silt Creek performs during Northside Saturday Nights
September 27, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Northside
Iowa City
Silt is highly fertile soil formed by the repeated collision of rocks and sediment found in flowing water or beneath glaciers. It is a great place to grow things. Silt Creek is a trio comprised of three diverse musicians who share a love of song, and have been crossing paths for the last 25 years. Ryan Bernemann, Chris Dimond, and Ben Schmidt have been performing in various local and regional bands, and join forces to bring a unique and refined sound rich with vocal harmony, playful improvisation, and stunning songcraft. Their sound comes from a broad palette of training and influences from Singer/Songwriter, to Alt – Country to Blues, Jazz and Soul music. Live shows include a mix of original compositions, collaborations, and re-envisioned covers.
Submit your Event
We’re the go-to source for what’s happening in the Iowa City area, and your event should be part of it. It’s easy, free, and a great way to get in front of locals and visitors who are looking for things to do.
