Tri-State Events
August 2024
Friday, August 30
Underground Sound Blues Trio
Friday, August 30 @ 6:30–9:30 PM
Stone Cliff Winery Star Event Room
Join Cameron Webb, Kyle Deschner, and Dylan Dickman for an evening of blues music. There will be a drawing for a 5-day mountain retreat vacation in Smith’s vacation home in Silverthorne, CO. Proceeds support Opening Doors. Limited seating. $18. 600 Star Brewery Dr. 563-583-6100 x203. stonecliffwinery.com.
Johnnie Walker
Friday, August 30 @ 7 PM
Off Shore Resort (Bellevue, IA)
Johnnie Walker has been entertaining audiences for decades. Johnnie provides more than just music; he brings his audience in and connects in a way that makes sure they’re having fun. His song catalog is extensive and covers many different genres to make sure every audience member hears something that they’ll love. Free. 4115 N Riverview St, Bellevue, IA. OffShoreResort.net.
Saturday, August 31
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays through September: August 31 @ 7 AM–Noon
Saturdays in October: October 5 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: August 31 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: August 31 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Dyersville Downtown Market
Last Saturday through September: August 31 @ 8 AM–Noon
3rd Ave SW and 3rd St, Dyersville, IA
Head to the grassy square between Xavier School and the north fork of the Maquoketa River to find a variety of local vendors, food trucks, live music, and activities. DyersvilleDowntownMarket.com.
Teddy Bear Hunt
Saturday, August 31 @ 10 AM–1:30 PM
Southwestern Wisconsin Chapter of the Izaak Walton League (Cuba City, WI)
A family “hunting license” includes a hot dog lunch for the entire family and a teddy bear, plus each child also wins a special prize. Enjoy a K9 demonstration with K9 Thor and officer Zach Lovell from the Cuba City Police Department, OHEC Touch of The Wild Trailers, mentored/supervised archery and air rifle target shooting, and additional kids games. Member: $10/family; Non-member: $15/family. 6550 County Rd I, Cuba City, WI. facebook.com/southwestikes.
Riverview Rally
Saturday, August 31 @ 10 AM
251 S. 4th St, Savanna, IL
Any 2 or 3-wheel road vehicles may participate. Registration begins at 10 a.m. at the old Shopko parking lot, and kick stands are up at 11 a.m. The route will include multiple stops and will end back at the old Shopko parking lot. An after-event celebration will be held at Manny’s at 6 p.m. with an all-you-can-eat buffet for $15. Manny’s is donating a portion of proceeds to Riverview Center. The celebration will include silent auction items from local businesses, a 50/50 raffle, entertainment, and awareness and education materials about Riverview Center’s services. For 32 years, Riverview Center has proudly provided the healing and justice survivors of sexual violence deserve, free of charge. They are a nonprofit agency committed to providing free, compassionate, client-centered care for individuals affected by sexual violence in 14 counties in Iowa and for individuals affected by sexual and domestic violence in Carroll and Jo Daviess Counties in Illinois. Suggested donation: $30. 563-557-0310. riverviewcenter.org.
Day at the Farm: Picnic & Play
Saturday, August 31 @ 11 AM–1 PM
Berning Acres (East Dubuque, IL)
Begin with a beautiful picnic in the lawn overlooking the fields and horses playing. Feel free to pack your own picnic or enjoy a complimentary picnic basket including a family-style charcuterie board that features a variety of locally sourced cheeses. Then, head out and about to tour the farm and interact with the animals. So many new opportunities or experiences to be had—milk a cow, give a calf her bottle, help with farm chores, or get cuddly with one of the farm friends (goat, sheep, pig, pony or, maybe a duck). Lots of opportunities for photo ops along the way, and playtime with the goats and other animals if you’d like. Plus, Gunner will be saddled up for pony rides (up to 100 lbs.)! Finally, wrap it up back in the shop with ice cream. Choose to enjoy some good conversation in the shop or maybe a little more playtime with the animals. The Berning kids will be happy to lead your little ones back to Little Kingdom for some more interactions with the farm friends. A very family-friendly event to kick-off your weekend or a fun day-date. Includes complimentary sparkling canned waters, wines or seltzers, chocolate, white or strawberry milk, soda and bottled water. $65. 8850 N Menominee Rd, East Dubuque, IL. 563-543-8936. berningacres.com/visit.
1st Annual Honey Harvest—Bottle Your Own Event
Saturday, August 31 @ 2:30–3:45 PM or 5:30–6:45 PM
Dry Creek Beekeeping (Elizabeth, IL)
Join for a hands-on (bee-free) adventure where you’ll learn the intricate process of harvesting fresh honey direct from the comb and bottling your own delectable bottle of honey. You’ll be guided by an experienced beekeeper through the stages of honey harvesting, from start to finish. Use an electric hot knife to uncap a frame of honeycomb, place that frame into the extractor, and turn the hand crank until the honey is removed from the comb, then strain the honey and voila—you will bottle your own one-pound jar to take home to enjoy. Ages 10+. $65. 489 South Clark Ln, Elizabeth, IL. 815-297-3366. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
Premiere Screening of Rally Caps film, Book Signing, Historic Game of Catch
Saturday, August 31 @ 3 PM
Field of Dreams Movie Site (Dyersville, IA)
The Field of Dreams Movie Site hosts the premiere screening of Rally Caps, autographs with former Major Leaguer Curtis Pride, a book signing with Ethan Bryan, a baseball clinic, and the largest game of catch ever played at the movie site. Rally Caps, starring Judd Hirsch, Amy Smart, and Carson Minniear, tells the story of a youth baseball player who has his dreams of pitching for a little league travel team derailed by a devastating injury on the field. After a long recovery, he goes off to away camp with his older brother where he befriends a deaf catcher and his sister. Based on their own experiences living with a disability, they help him overcome his anxiety and fear of returning to the mound. The film will be screened at 8 p.m. on the baseball diamond following a question-and-answer session with writer and director Lee Cipolla and the film’s producers at 7:30 p.m. Also participating will be actors Minniear, James “Coach Ballgame” Lowe, Colten Pride, and Noelle Pride. The event will kick off with an autograph session featuring Curtis Pride, the first full-season deaf player in Major League Baseball’s modern era. With a cameo performance, Pride plays himself in Rally Caps. He will be available to take photos and sign autographs at 3 p.m. That will be followed by a book signing by Ethan Bryan, author of A Year of Playing Catch: What a Simple Daily Experiment Taught Me about Life. At 4 p.m., Bryan will introduce his book and talk about his experiences traveling across the country to play catch every day for a year. A sandlot clinic will be led on the baseball diamond by Coach Ballgame at 5 p.m. The Youth Ambassador for Major League Baseball’s Play Ball Program, Coach Ballgame will stress the fun of the game during the 90-minute session. At 6:30 p.m., all guests will be invited onto the field to take part in the largest game of catch ever played at the Field of Dreams Movie Site. Concessions are available on-site. Rally Caps will be released for streaming on Sept. 10. Free. 28995 Lansing Rd, Dyersville, IA. FieldOfDreamsMovieSite.com.
Six-Oh-Ate Food Truck Festival
Saturday, August 31 @ 5–8 PM
Water St, Shullsburg, WI
The ultimate food lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie, a music enthusiast, a family looking for a day of fun, or simply someone who loves good food and great company, this festival is for you. The historic downtown of Shullsburg closes down to welcome well loved food trucks of the area, local food vendors, and so much more. ExperienceShullsburg.com.
September 2024
Sunday, September 1
Galena Territory Farmers Market
Sundays through October 13: September 1 @ 8 AM–Noon
Galena Territory Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Fresh produce, baked goods, meat, crafts, and more. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. 815-777-2000. TheGalenaTerritory.com.
Buenie Family Picnic
Sunday, September 1 @ 9 AM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (North Buena Vista, IA)
Inflatables, kids games, silent auction, handmade quilt auction, meat and candy wheel, and chicken and ham dinner. Country store opens at 9 a.m. All other activities start at 11 a.m. 218 Main St, North Buena Vista, IA. maryicjoseph.org.
The Rooted Table (SOLD OUT)
Sunday, September 1 @ 6 PM
Behind Convivium Urban Farmstead
Join for an evening of community conversations and local foods around The Rooted Table, a free, community farm to street dinner supporting Project Rooted’s mission of Connecting Kids to Real Food, from the Ground Up. The Rooted Table has always been about bringing our community together, and this year is no different. Each year, they pick a neighborhood to celebrate with amazing food, and what better place than near the beautiful community gardens of Convivium? Join for a cultural feast that will transport you to a new world of flavors. RSVP required. Free. 28th–29th and White St. 563-880-8216. projectrooted.com.
Monday, September 2
Dubuque Labor Day Parade
Monday, September 2 @ 9:30 AM
Downtown Dubuque
The parade starts at 8th and Locust Street and end at 15th and Locust Street. Larger vehicles continue up Locust at the end of the parade route. After the parade, head to Swiss Valley Park for a picnic in the Green Ash Pavilion. Sponsored by Dubuque Federation of Labor. 563-582-5947. dubuquefed.org.
16th Annual BeatleFest
Monday, September 2 @ 11 AM
Spring Green General Store (Spring Green, WI)
Fourteen regional music acts will play a huge portion of The Beatles catalog from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. There will be loads of opportunities to dance and sing along. On Labor Day in 2009, a group of local bands performed in the backyard of the general store to celebrate Todd Miller’s 50th birthday. It was so much fun that it became an annual event called BeatleFest. Todd will be performing this year with his band Sugar Mama and the Rent Check at 3:05 p.m. All ages and well behaved dogs are welcome. Free. 137 S Albany St, Spring Green, WI. springgreengeneralstore.com.
10th Annual Blueberry Jam Music Festival
Monday, September 2 @ 2 PM
Sandy Hook Tavern (Hazel Green, WI)
A bunch of mildly disheveled misanthropic-looking musicians with a twinkle of mischief in their eyes converge to back up two fedora-wearing, hard-charging, black suit and shades-wearing bluesmen known throughout the land as the Brews Brothers. This tribute show is rollicking fun and full of great guitar work, a powerful horn section, and one harmonica-wielding briefcase. Bring the family, just don’t bring the Illinois Nazis. I hate Illinois Nazis. It’s going to be a party. We know this because it always is! The annual Sandy Hook party welcomes The Brews Brothers and the Tiger Kings for a fundraiser for the Garrett Wade Stephens Memorial Fund and other local charities. $10. 3836 Sandy Hook Rd, Hazel Green, WI. facebook.com/SandyHookTavern.
Tuesday, September 3
Early Explorers: H is for Hands
1st Tuesday: September 3 @ 10–11 AM
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Programs include a variety of hands-on and active activities, including a craft and a game. Ages 2–5 with parent/caregiver. RSVP suggested. $10/toddler Non-members; $8/toddler members; adults free. 350 E 3rd St. 563-557-9545 x222. RiverMuseum.org/early-explorers.
Oil Painting Workshop
Tuesdays: September 3–24 @ 10 AM–Noon
Galena ARC (Galena, IL)
This 4-week workshop by local artist Pam Hiatt is designed for all levels of painters. If you are a beginner, this workshop will cover the basic skills and techniques you need to begin. Pam will help you to put aside your fears and experience the joy of creating. $85. 11084 W US HWY 20, Galena, IL. 815-777-2248. galenaarc.org/painting-workshop.
Hunter Education Field Day
Tuesday, September 3 @ 5 PM
Swiss Valley Nature Center (Peosta, IA)
Hunter education is a mandatory program that is designed to introduce students to several lifelong skills that are important to many different types of outdoor recreational opportunities. The course teaches students basic survival and first aid skills, water safety, wildlife identification, the basics of wildlife management, hunting laws and firearm/archery safety. Hunter education also stresses the importance of individual responsibility and outdoor ethics. Iowa law requires that anyone born after January 1, 1972 must be certified in hunter education before they are eligible to purchase an Iowa hunting license. This class will include a laws talk, gun handling, and other conservation and hunting-related education. There will not be live firing at this class. This class is structured through the Iowa DNR. RSVP required. 13606 Swiss Valley Rd, Peosta, IA. 563-556-6745. license.gooutdoorsiowa.com.
Wednesday, September 4
Mid-Week Market
Wednesdays through September: September 4 @ 5–8 PM
11th and Iowa St
Spend your Wednesdays where Dubuque Farmers’ Market first started with fresh local produce, a beer garden and pizza from Jubeck New World Brewing, and live music. facebook.com/midweekmarketmusic.
Thursday, September 5
AccessDubuqueJobs.com Hiring Fair
Thursday, September 5 @ 2–5 PM
Steeple Square
In response to the recent layoffs at John Deere Dubuque Works and Duluth Trading, the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, in partnership with IowaWORKS, is hosting a hiring fair. The fair is a critical component of regional rapid response efforts to assist workers impacted by recent layoffs. John Deere Dubuque Works announced layoffs in July and August, impacting 133 workers, including 34 salaried employees and 99 production workers. Additionally, Duluth Trading in Dubuque announced on Aug. 22, 2024, that 74 workers will be impacted, with terminations beginning on Oct. 27, 2024. Up to 50 regional employers will be in attendance, representing a wide array of industries including manufacturing, financial and insurance services, warehouse logistics, administrative, IT, and more. These employers are offering opportunities that range from entry-level to professional careers, providing something for job seekers at every stage of their career journey. “Supporting our community through these challenging times is our top priority,” said Rick Dickinson, President & CEO at Greater Dubuque Development Corporation. “The goal of the AccessDubuqueJobs.com hiring fair is to connect displaced workers with new employment opportunities as quickly as possible, helping our friends and neighbors transition smoothly to their next opportunity in the Greater Dubuque region.” In addition to the opportunity to meet with potential employers, attendees will have access to organizations offering services and information for job seekers. Attendees can connect with Northeast Iowa Community College for training and upskilling opportunities, Crescent Community Health Center for health insurance information and healthcare resources, and various resources from IowaWORKS, including veterans career planning and reemployment services. 101 E 15th St. 563-557-9049. AccessDubuqueJobs.com/career-fairs.
Dyersville Farmers Market
Thursdays through October 3: September 5 @ 3–5 PM
Commercial Club Park (Dyersville, IA)
A variety of local and regional offerings. 225 11th St SE, Dyersville, IA. dyersville.org/events.
Gary’s Graffiti Nights
Thursdays through September 12: September 5 @ 5–9:30 PM
Kennedy Mall
Celebrating their 42nd year, cars 1979 and older gather for a 1950s–1960s car show based on American Graffiti with music and door prizes. 555 JFK Rd. 563-588-1406. facebook.com/GarysGraffitiNights.
East Dubuque Cruisin’ Thursdays
Thursdays through September 26: September 5 @ 5–9 PM
Sinsinawa Ave, East Dubuque, IL
Open to all years of classic, muscle, and unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Great food, closed street, open containers, and live music. Free. facebook.com/eastdubuquecarshow.
Movie Screening: Robot Dreams
Thursday, September 5 @ 6 PM
Carnegie-Stout Public Library Aigler Auditorium
Based on the graphic novel by Sara Varon, and directed by Pablo Berger, Robot Dreams (2023) is an Oscar-nominated animated comedy/drama about an unusual friendship between a dog and a robot. This 1 hour 43 minute movie is not rated, and it has no dialogue. All ages. Free. 360 W 11th St. 563-589-4225. carnegiestout.org.
Friday, September 6
36th Annual Dubuque Dragon Boat Festival
September 6–8 @ 8 AM–5 PM
Miller Riverview Park
Drawing teams from multiple states and even up to Ontario, Canada, 40 foot long boats, shaped like dragons and holding 21 people, race on the mighty Mississippi. These teams return time and time again because of the competition, the area, and the hospitality of Dubuque. Racing will occur all day on Saturday and Sunday with an additional breast cancer ceremony on Sunday. This year’s theme is Miniature Golf Course. Each team is encouraged to create a putting green at their campsite. Hosted by the Dubuque Dragon Boat Association. 1851 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueDragonBoat.org.
Food Festival Fridays
1st Friday through September: September 6 @ 11 AM–2 PM
Washington Park
Join area food vendors in Washington Park for a lunchtime food fest. 365ink Magazine brings the perfect side dish to your chicken sandwich, pizza, or coffee: local, live music! The festival closes out on Sept. 6 with Birds., Hibachi Time, Dinger’s D’Lite’s, Magoo’s Pizza, and Bob & Lou’s and music by Sarah Day. Hosted by Dubuque Main Street and sponsored by MidWestOne Bank. Free. 700 Locust St. dubuquemainstreet.com.
First Fridays: Stoned Art Studio & Gallery
Friday, September 6 @ Noon–7 PM
Stoned Art Studio & Gallery
Stoned Art Studio and Gallery showcases the art and Driftless Region photography of Henry Matthiessen III and will also be featuring the artwork of Dubuque artist and our friend Bibi Burke. First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly art series, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit all of the locations and celebrate our creative community. Free. 1800 Central Ave. StonedArtStudio.com.
First Fridays: Widdershins Artisan Gallery
Friday, September 6 @ Noon–8 PM
Widdershins Artisan Gallery
Widdershins Artisan Gallery features artworks by local, regional, and national artists including Mark Dierker, John Potter, Debra Sullivan, Sara Mess, Dan Aldeman, Peggy Jo Brekke, K.A. Kriesel, Katherine Funke, Heather Houzenga, Jay Pauley, Autumn Rose, Bill Potter, Deb Lutz, Robin Griswold-Ott, Moon Yokum, Vicki Copeland, Shirley Dale, and Ben Curtis. Enjoy the comfy vintage furniture while listening to classic rock tunes. Refreshments will also be available. Located next to Dubuque Bike Coop. First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly art series, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit all of the locations and celebrate our creative community. Free. 2204 Central Ave. WiddershinsGallery.com.
Honey Tasting & Mixology Class
Friday, September 6 @ 2:30–4:30 PM
Champagne on Main (Galena, IL)
Learn from Dry Creek Beekeeping about how bees make honey and get to sample unique honeys with a variety of colors, flavors, aromas, and textures. Then learn from the mixology experts at Champagne on Main how to craft three custom cocktails /mocktails using the honeys from the tasting. Samples will be provided of each drink. Ages 21+. $50. 116 S Main St, Galena, IL 815-297-3366. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
First Fridays: John McGee
Friday, September 6 @ 4:30–7:30 PM
Outside the Lines Art Gallery
Outside the Lines features Sun Prairie, WI artist John McGee who will be demonstrating his oil painting technique throughout the evening and again the following morning from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Light refreshments will be offered. This is a relaxed, family-friendly opportunity to visit with the artists of our community and learn a little about how they make their art. First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly art series, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit all of the locations and celebrate our creative community. Free. 1101 Main St. ShopOTLAG.com.
The Avery Foundation 7th Annual Founders Gala
Friday, September 6 @ 5–9 PM
Grand River Center
This signature event promises an unforgettable evening filled with meaningful moments, heartfelt connections, and opportunities to support our mission of assisting those affected by cancer. Enjoy a keynote speech by Jeffrey Johnston, a silent and live auction, and a delightful dinner. From luxury getaways to one-of-a-kind memorabilia, there’s something for everyone to covet. Drinks during cocktail hour and sit-down dinner are included with the purchase of your ticket. A cash bar will be available during dinner. All proceeds from ticket sales directly benefit The Avery Foundation and its mission to support individuals and families affected by cancer. $100. 500 Bell St. 563-513-9801. averyfndtn.org.
First Fridays: Nico
Friday, September 6 @ 5–8 PM
The Stu
The Stu features the artwork of Nico, a student and mentee of Mario “Zore” Gonzalez. To kick off the project, they are accepting donations, big and small, to help support the artists. First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly art series, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit all of the locations and celebrate our creative community. Free. 1533 Central Ave. facebook.com/TriPhoenixGroup.
First Fridays: Denny Garcia and Dave Hummel
Friday, September 6 @ 6–7 PM
Carnegie-Stout Public Library
Carnegie-Stout Public Library welcomes long-time area musicians Denny Garcia and Dave Hummel to the Music @ your library stage for a set of their original music. Garcia and Hummel have both been a part of the local music scene for over 40 years performing separately and together, most notably with The Mississippi Band, of which Hummel is a founding member. The duo will be performing songs they wrote throughout their career which pull from various genres including rock, country, folk, and blues. First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly art series, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit all of the locations and celebrate our creative community. Free. 360 W 11th St. CarnegieStout.org.
First Fridays: Passionately Amalgamated
Friday, September 6 @ 6–8 PM
Planted.
Planted.’s gallery hosts Passionately Amalgamated, a collection of new works by Stephanie Funke. Stephanie is an Eastern Iowa artist who originally worked primarily in photography but more recently devotes much time to drawing and teaching repetitive, structured patterns associated with the Zentangle art method. She also uses many of her photos in original graphic designs. For Passionately Amalgamated, Funke has created more than 20 original pieces that combine her love of bold and repetitive patterns, photography, inspirational verses, and graphic design. Through this variety of mediums, she explores the overwhelming power, beauty, intense extremes, and profound lessons of nature. This show is a labor of love and speaks to her passion for these mediums and the world around her. The show will be on display Sept. 6–30. First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly art series, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit all of the locations and celebrate our creative community. Free. 245 W 1st St. PlantedDBQ.com.
Night at the Farm: Cows, Beers and Cheese Curds
Saturday, September 6 @ 6–8 PM
Berning Acres (East Dubuque, IL)
A VIP event hosted by Matt and Natalie Berning along with their amazing crew. Begin in the farm shop with beverages and farm intro. Then, head out and about to tour the farm and interact with the animals. So many new opportunities or experiences to be had—milk a cow, give a calf her bottle, help with farm chores by feeding a farm friend (goat, sheep, pig, or pony). Lots of opportunities for photo ops along the way, and playtime with the goats and other animals if you’d like. Finally, wrap it up back in the shop for a view of the sunset over the farm with your own complimentary basket of a variety of locally sourced cheese curds and a beverage. $55. 8850 N Menominee Rd, East Dubuque, IL. 563-543-8936. berningacres.com/visit.
First Fridays: Dubuque Camera Club
Friday, September 6 @ 7–11 PM
Smokestack
The Dubuque Area Arts Collective is proud to partner with the Dubuque Camera Club to bring you a member’s exhibition of window into the inspirations of the community’s photographers, showcasing what they consider their most compelling works. The works features micro photography that reveal the hidden beauty in small details, compositions that tell compelling stories, beauty in architecture, vivid textures and patterns found in the natural world, as well as breathtaking landscapes that showcase the grandeur of our local scenery. On display now through Sept. 20. First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly art series, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Visit all of the locations and celebrate our creative community. Free. 62 E 7th St. DubuqueArts.com.
Muster on the Maquoketa: An Evening with General Grant
Friday, September 6 @ 7 PM
Jackson County Fairgrounds (Maquoketa, lA)
“Unconditional Surrender: a visit from Ulysses S. Grant” is a one-man show by historian Pete Grady. It is a humorous and touching portrayal of the life and times of the general who won the Civil War for the Union. Muster on the Maquoketa is the first annual county-wide Civil War Reenactment sponsored by the Jackson County Historical Society. Jackson County contributed mightily to the efforts of the Union in the Civil War. In the presidential election in 1860, Jackson County cast 3,021 votes for president. During the following two years according to the adjutant general’s report, the county furnished 1,288 men to put down the rebellion, or upward of 40% of the population of the county. $10. 563-652-5020. musteronthemaquoketa.com.
Willie and The Buzzhounds
Friday, September 6 @ 8 PM
Diamond Jo Casino Mississippi Moon Bar
Fronted by guitarist Willie Hamel and joined by Mark Page and Chris Bandy on guitar, Todd Lock on bass, and Roger Brimmer on drums. Expect high energy classic rock you can have a good time to! Ages 21+. 301 Bell St. 563-690-4800. DiamondJoDubuque.com.
Driftmore Music & Arts Festival
September 6–7
Driftmore Grounds (Platteville, WI)
Two days, three stages, and on-site camping make up this music and arts festival in Platteville, WI. The lineup features Green Lion Crew, Medicine Plalce, Mesck, Woven Thorns, and a slew of other artists. Drift more and discover the freedom of open fields, real people, and the sounds of tomorrow. driftmoremusicfest.com.
Platteville Historic Re-enactment
September 6–8
Mound View Park (Platteville, WI)
Held since 1998, the 3-day Platteville Historic Re-enactment showcases the history of America’s Upper Mississippi Valley from the mid-1700s to 1840, featuring educators, artisans, and re-enactors all taking part in the celebration. The Historic Re-enactment presents a hands-on living history experience for the general public, as well as thousands of students whose visit enhances their educational curriculum. Scores of dedicated re-enactors bring the area’s early 1800s heritage to life. Featuring the Voyageur Camp, military demonstrations, Native American storytelling, blacksmithing, and a silent auction. All ages. Free. 950 E Madison St. Platteville, WI. mining.jamison.museum/hr.
77th Annual Platteville Dairy Days
September 6–8
Legion Park (Platteville, WI)
Platteville Dairy Days 2024 will be LegenDairy Cheeseheads! Daily events include carnival rides, fair food and beverages. The weekend starts Friday with a Tri-County Mini Rods and fantasy Truck Pull and Dairy-Oke contest. Saturday brings the junior and open exhibits, parade down Main Street, dairy cattle show, Moo Mania Comedy Show, Hypnotist Brian Imbus, Elvis tribute artist Tony Rocker & The Comeback Special, and Sarah Day. Close things out on Sunday with United Methodist Church service featuring Alive Band, Goats in place, The Wundos, Dairy & Meat Goat Show, Raffle Drawing, and Dairy Days Pedal Tractor Pull. Platteville Dairy Days supports and promotes the agriculture community of the City of Platteville and surrounding area. They provide agriculture education to the public and promote public awareness of the community. 1155 N 2nd St, Platteville, WI. PlattevilleDairyDays.com.
Saturday, September 7
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays through September: September 7 @ 7 AM–Noon
Saturdays in October: October 5 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: September 7 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
36th Annual Dubuque Dragon Boat Festival
September 7–8 @ 8 AM–5 PM
Miller Riverview Park
Drawing teams from multiple states and even up to Ontario, Canada, 40 foot long boats, shaped like dragons and holding 21 people, race on the mighty Mississippi. These teams return time and time again because of the competition, the area, and the hospitality of Dubuque. Racing will occur all day on Saturday and Sunday with an additional breast cancer ceremony on Sunday. This year’s theme is Miniature Golf Course. Each team is encouraged to create a putting green at their campsite. Hosted by the Dubuque Dragon Boat Association. 1851 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueDragonBoat.org.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: September 7 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Muster on the Maquoketa: Reenactment
September 7 @ 9 AM–4 PM
September 8 @ 9 AM–2:30 PM
Jackson County Fairgrounds (Maquoketa, lA)
Muster on the Maquoketa is the first annual county-wide Civil War Reenactment sponsored by the Jackson County Historical Society. Jackson County contributed mightily to the efforts of the Union in the Civil War. In the presidential election in 1860, Jackson County cast 3,021 votes for president. During the following two years according to the adjutant general’s report, the county furnished 1,288 men to put down the rebellion, or upward of 40% of the population of the county. $5. 563-652-5020. musteronthemaquoketa.com.
3rd Annual Romantic Galena Reads
Saturday, September 7 @ 10 AM–3 PM
DeSoto House Hotel (Galena, IL)
In attendance will be around 30 romance authors from all over the country, including best-selling and award-winning authors of every romance genre—contemporary, historical, suspense, Western, paranormal, and more—everything from sweet to steamy. There will be something for everyone to enjoy. Attending authors include best selling authors Aleatha Romig, Ashley Jade, Tia Louise, Jade Lee, Greta Rose West, Tracy Solheim, Melissa Haag, Skye Malone, Diane Wiggs, Sara, Whitney, and many more. Author Nancy Naigle, who has had many of her books made into Hallmark movies, will be there. Cover models Robert Kelly and Katie Marie will also be in attendance. Free. 230 S Main St, Galena, IL. 715-651-4765. wilddeadwoodreads.com/galena.
Day at the Farm: Cows, Kids & Curds
Saturday, September 7 @ 2–4 PM
Berning Acres (East Dubuque, IL)
Begin in the farm shop with beverages and cheese curds while learning about the farm history and background. Then, head out and about to tour the farm and interact with the animals. So many new opportunities or experiences to be had—milk a cow, give a calf her bottle, help with farm chores, or get cuddly with one of the farm friends (goat, sheep, pig, pony or, maybe a duck). Lots of opportunities for photo ops along the way, and playtime with the goats and other animals if you’d like. Finally, wrap it up back in the shop if you choose, sampling a variety of locally sourced cheeses curds and ice cream. Choose to enjoy some good conversation and curds in the shop or maybe a little more playtime with the animals. The Berning kids will be happy to lead your little ones back to Little Kingdom for some more interactions with the farm friends. Or, maybe they want to saddle up on Gunner for a pony ride! A very family-friendly event to kick off your weekend or night. All ages. $55. 8850 N Menominee Rd, East Dubuque, IL. 563-543-8936. berningacres.com/visit.
Potosi Tennyson Driftless Gate Night Market
Every Other Saturday through September 21: September 7 @ 4–8 PM
Hickory Hill Park (Potosi, WI)
Market moves to Hickory Hill Park this week for the night market. The Potosi-Tennyson Market has become a hub for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique shopping experience and an opportunity to meet the people behind the products. The vendors include small farms, artists, hobbyists, crafters, service providers, and more who are all committed to community involvement and help promote local growth. 605 Park St, Potosi WI. PotosiTennysonMarket.com.
Wild Harvest Dinner
Saturday, September 7 @ 5:30 PM
Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area (Bernard, IA)
The Wild Harvest Dinner is a curated experience that invites you to connect with the natural world, the land and food around you, in a fun and communal way. Staff from DCC will guide you around the trails and caves of the breathtaking Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area, one of only three true canyons in the State of Iowa, as they point out the geological formations that date back 450 million years ago. Even if you have explored Whitewater Canyon before, you are sure to learn something new about this beautiful landscape. Wander through caves, forests, and prairies on a 1.5 mile loop, stopping along the way to enjoy a variety of small dishes and drinks that were inspired by and made with plants, fruits, mushrooms, herbs, and nuts that were all sustainably collected from the Dubuque area throughout the winter, spring, and summer months. This event is a true sensory experience that will allow you to connect with nature in a fun and unique way, enjoying the sights and tastes of the landscape. So grab a friend and get your appetite ready for this one-of-a-kind culinary excursion. The event is hosted in partnership between Dubuque County Conservation, City Girl Farming, and Taproot Apothecary. $75. 29912 9th Ave, Bernard, IA. 563-556-6745. dubuquecountyiowa.gov/conservation.
GRID:100 Mini Paintings
Saturday, September 7 @ 6–9 PM
Andonia Giannakouros Studio
GRID by Andonia Giannakouros is a live and developing exhibition of 100 mini paintings that started on June 1, 2023. It is presented in a grid format evoking the interface of a social media grid and other grid format albums with chronological hierarchy such as Google and Apple photos. The project explores technical questions for the artist such as exploration of composition (small format paintings in high multiples provide an opportunity for intensive study and experimentation) and her personal biographical experience. Andonia Giannakouros, is a Dubuque-based figurative painter and printmaker. The converted studio space in the Fisher Building features this one-night pop-up show. 219 W 9th St. Giannaka.com.
Night at the Farm: Cows, Wine & Charcuterie
Saturday, September 7 @ 6–8 PM
Berning Acres (East Dubuque, IL)
A VIP event hosted by Matt and Natalie Berning along with their amazing crew. Begin in the farm shop with beverages and farm intro. Then, head out and about to tour the farm and interact with the animals. So many new opportunities or experiences to be had—milk a cow, give a calf her bottle, help with farm chores by feeding a farm friend (goat, sheep, pig, or pony). Lots of opportunities for photo ops along the way, and playtime with the goats and other animals if you’d like. Finally, wrap it up back in the shop for a view of the sunset over the farm with your own complimentary charcuterie boat featuring a variety of locally sourced cheeses while sipping on a beverage. $65. 8850 N Menominee Rd, East Dubuque, IL. 563-543-8936. berningacres.com/visit.
Muster on the Maquoketa: Supper and Ball
Saturday, September 7 @ 6 PM
Jackson County Fairgrounds Janssen Hall (Maquoketa, lA)
“Stephen Foster” will take the stage playing some of his well-known songs. The Swedish Nightingale, “Jenny Lind,” follows with several numbers. Local favorites the Black Velvet Band will then finish off the evening playing music from the Civil War Era. Food by Brian Bramer includes baked chicken or pork loin, potato, green beans, roll, and apple crisp or peach cobbler. Muster on the Maquoketa is the first annual county-wide Civil War Reenactment sponsored by the Jackson County Historical Society. Jackson County contributed mightily to the efforts of the Union in the Civil War. In the presidential election in 1860, Jackson County cast 3,021 votes for president. During the following two years according to the adjutant general’s report, the county furnished 1,288 men to put down the rebellion, or upward of 40% of the population of the county. RSVP by Aug. 24. $25. 563-652-5020. musteronthemaquoketa.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Cedar Rapids RoughRiders Preseason Game
Saturday, September 7 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Stargazing in The Galena Territory
September 7 @ 7:30–9:30 PM
October 26 @ 6–8 PM
The Galena Territory Association Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars at this stargazing event. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a curious beginner, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the constellations, stars, and fascinating stories behind them from experienced professional and amateur astronomers. Bring your telescope or observe through those provided and explore the wonders of the night sky. Don’t forget to pack a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable seating; remember that the event is weather-dependent. Come and be amazed by the beauty and mysteries of the universe. Free. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. thegalenaterritory.com.
The Resistors
Saturday, September 7 @ 8 PM
Diamond Jo Casino Mississippi Moon Bar
The Resistors are a rock and roll band that covers music from across the ’70s and into the present. This well-seasoned, versatile, Tri-State band brings a wide variety of fun and talent to the stage for all your dancing, listening, and entertainment needs. Ages 21+. 301 Bell St. 563-690-4800. DiamondJoDubuque.com.
Driftmore Music & Arts Festival
September 7
Driftmore Grounds (Platteville, WI)
Two days, three stages, and on-site camping make up this music and arts festival in Platteville, WI. The lineup features Green Lion Crew, Medicine Plalce, Mesck, Woven Thorns, and a slew of other artists. Drift more and discover the freedom of open fields, real people, and the sounds of tomorrow. driftmoremusicfest.com.
Platteville Historic Re-enactment
September 7–8
Mound View Park (Platteville, WI)
Held since 1998, the 3-day Platteville Historic Re-enactment showcases the history of America’s Upper Mississippi Valley from the mid-1700s to 1840, featuring educators, artisans, and re-enactors all taking part in the celebration. The Historic Re-enactment presents a hands-on living history experience for the general public, as well as thousands of students whose visit enhances their educational curriculum. Scores of dedicated re-enactors bring the area’s early 1800s heritage to life. Featuring the Voyageur Camp, military demonstrations, Native American storytelling, blacksmithing, and a silent auction. All ages. Free. 950 E Madison St. Platteville, WI. mining.jamison.museum/hr.
77th Annual Platteville Dairy Days
September 7–8
Legion Park (Platteville, WI)
Platteville Dairy Days 2024 will be LegenDairy Cheeseheads! Daily events include carnival rides, fair food and beverages. The weekend starts Friday with a Tri-County Mini Rods and fantasy Truck Pull and Dairy-Oke contest. Saturday brings the junior and open exhibits, parade down Main Street, dairy cattle show, Moo Mania Comedy Show, Hypnotist Brian Imbus, Elvis tribute artist Tony Rocker & The Comeback Special, and Sarah Day. Close things out on Sunday with United Methodist Church service featuring Alive Band, Goats in place, The Wundos, Dairy & Meat Goat Show, Raffle Drawing, and Dairy Days Pedal Tractor Pull. Platteville Dairy Days supports and promotes the agriculture community of the City of Platteville and surrounding area. They provide agriculture education to the public and promote public awareness of the community. 1155 N 2nd St, Platteville, WI. PlattevilleDairyDays.com.
Sunday, September 8
36th Annual Dubuque Dragon Boat Festival
September 8 @ 8 AM–5 PM
Miller Riverview Park
Drawing teams from multiple states and even up to Ontario, Canada, 40 foot long boats, shaped like dragons and holding 21 people, race on the mighty Mississippi. These teams return time and time again because of the competition, the area, and the hospitality of Dubuque. Racing will occur all day on Saturday and Sunday with an additional breast cancer ceremony on Sunday. This year’s theme is Miniature Golf Course. Each team is encouraged to create a putting green at their campsite. Hosted by the Dubuque Dragon Boat Association. 1851 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueDragonBoat.org.
Galena Territory Farmers Market
Sundays through October 13: September 8 @ 8 AM–Noon
Galena Territory Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Fresh produce, baked goods, meat, crafts, and more. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. 815-777-2000. TheGalenaTerritory.com.
Muster on the Maquoketa: Reenactment
September 8 @ 9 AM–2:30 PM
Jackson County Fairgrounds (Maquoketa, lA)
Muster on the Maquoketa is the first annual county-wide Civil War Reenactment sponsored by the Jackson County Historical Society. Jackson County contributed mightily to the efforts of the Union in the Civil War. In the presidential election in 1860, Jackson County cast 3,021 votes for president. During the following two years according to the adjutant general’s report, the county furnished 1,288 men to put down the rebellion, or upward of 40% of the population of the county. $5. 563-652-5020. musteronthemaquoketa.com.
QuadCon
Sunday, September 8 @ 10 AM–2 PM
Five Flags Arena
The Honky Tonk Man is coming to Dubuque for QuadCon. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell vintage video games, posters, comics, toys, Funko Pops, or other pop culture-related items, Dubuque is the place to be. The cosplay showcase will feature $250 in prizes, and Video Games Etc. will sponsor some video game tournaments—details announced the week of the event. Honky Tonk Man is scheduled to be the special guest at Dubuque Comic and Toy Show. He has been an Icon in the wrestling industry for over 40 years. His WWE career saw him hold the Intercontinental Championship for a record 64 weeks! Over the years, HTM has been in the ring with fellow legends such as Hulk Hogan, Macho Man Randy Savage, and Stone Cold Steve Austin. It is not hard to find Hall of Famer Honky Tonk Man in other pop culture references as well, like action figures and video games. Join your fellow geeky cohort for a pop culture celebration on Sunday, Sept. 8 at the Five Flags Arena. Honky Tonk Man autograph and photo opportunity rates will be announced soon. $5. 405 Main St. QuadCityCon.com.
She Unites Recess: Rise And Ride
Sunday, September 8 @ 11 AM–Noon
Wahlert Catholic High School
Rise And Rise is a one-hour fitness class including 30 minutes of cycling and 30 minutes of strength training. This class is designed for intermediate levels of fitness and sport. However, all are welcome to register, and modifications will be offered. Cate Mau of Coached By Cate will be teaching the strength training portion and Logan Lynch of Life in Motion Physical Therapy will be teaching the cycling portion. Includes one hour of instruction and light snacks to follow. Space is limited. RSVP required. $30. 2005 Kane St. sheunitesiowa.com.
Transform Your Garden: Native Seed Conservation Workshop
Sunday, September 8 @ 3 PM
Carnegie-Stout Public Library
This workshop by Dubuque County Conservation is perfect for anyone looking to support local biodiversity, enhance their gardening skills, and contribute to the conservation of native plant species. Attendees will learn about native plants for urban environments, seed collection basics, and how to begin their own seed-starting process this winter—the first step toward having a thriving native plants garden in the spring. Families are welcome to attend. Ages 18+. RSVP required. 360 W 11th St. 563-589-4225 x2224. carnegiestout.org/events.
2nd Annual Sunset Community Walk
Sunday, September 8 @ 6–8 PM
University of Dubuque Track & Field
Join NAMI Dubuque for their second annual suicide awareness community walk. Get a team together and take a mile lap around the track. In 2023, 508 lives were lost to suicide in the state of Iowa. This year, NAMI Dubuque is looking for 508 walkers to raise awareness for each life lost year. Opening remarks at 6:30 p.m. Sunset walk at 6:45 p.m. The event is a non-competitive walk to raise awareness and share space. $25. 2000 University Ave. namidubuque.org/events.
Platteville Historic Re-enactment
September 8
Mound View Park (Platteville, WI)
Held since 1998, the 3-day Platteville Historic Re-enactment showcases the history of America’s Upper Mississippi Valley from the mid-1700s to 1840, featuring educators, artisans, and re-enactors all taking part in the celebration. The Historic Re-enactment presents a hands-on living history experience for the general public, as well as thousands of students whose visit enhances their educational curriculum. Scores of dedicated re-enactors bring the area’s early 1800s heritage to life. Featuring the Voyageur Camp, military demonstrations, Native American storytelling, blacksmithing, and a silent auction. All ages. Free. 950 E Madison St. Platteville, WI. mining.jamison.museum/hr.
77th Annual Platteville Dairy Days
September 8
Legion Park (Platteville, WI)
Platteville Dairy Days 2024 will be LegenDairy Cheeseheads! Daily events include carnival rides, fair food and beverages. The weekend starts Friday with a Tri-County Mini Rods and fantasy Truck Pull and Dairy-Oke contest. Saturday brings the junior and open exhibits, parade down Main Street, dairy cattle show, Moo Mania Comedy Show, Hypnotist Brian Imbus, Elvis tribute artist Tony Rocker & The Comeback Special, and Sarah Day. Close things out on Sunday with United Methodist Church service featuring Alive Band, Goats in place, The Wundos, Dairy & Meat Goat Show, Raffle Drawing, and Dairy Days Pedal Tractor Pull. Platteville Dairy Days supports and promotes the agriculture community of the City of Platteville and surrounding area. They provide agriculture education to the public and promote public awareness of the community. 1155 N 2nd St, Platteville, WI. PlattevilleDairyDays.com.
Monday, September 9
JA Golf Classic
Monday, September 9 @ Noon
Meadows Golf Club (Asbury, IA)
Junior Achievement (JA) is dedicated to teaching young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for the future, and make smart fiscal choices. Proceeds from the JA Golf Classic—Dubuque will help fund JA’s financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship learning experiences benefiting more than 6,000 students locally. Check in at 11 a.m. Foursome: $500; Golfer: $125. 6525 Clover Ln, Asbury, IA. 309-277-3917. heartland.ja.org/events.
Tuesday, September 10
Mid-Century Modern Architecture in Dubuque County
Tuesday, September 10 @ 6 PM
Dubuque County Library Peosta/NICC Branch (Peosta, IA)
The mid-20th century was a time of technological innovation and unprecedented growth in the American economy and population. The distinctive architecture of the 1940s–60s reflects these changes and the era’s emerging values, including new ideas of what it meant to live the American Dream. Today, these buildings serve as a physical connection to an important period in our history. This presentation gives an overview of the types of mid-century buildings that can be found in Dubuque County, and the characteristics to look for in identifying them. Presenter Tricia Baum is a commissioner of the Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission (DCHPC). She is a native Dubuquer who moved back in 2019 and now works as an architectural historian and preservation consultant. Tricia has a Master of Science in Historic Preservation from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. DCHPC was created by resolution of the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors in November 1987. The mission of DCHPC is to preserve historically important buildings, structures, and other objects that contribute to Dubuque County’s character. 612-501-9747. stew0220@umn.edu.
Artist Call: Latinx Exhibition Deadline
Tuesday, September 10
Dubuque Area Arts Collective (DAAC) invites artists of Latinx and/or Hispanic descent to submit their work, regardless of whether they were born inside or outside the USA. All art mediums and subjects accepted including 2D, 3D, installation, crafts, photography, digital art, video, and more. The exhibit will open on the first and second floor galleries of the Smokestack in conjunction with Latinx Fiesta (Dubuque’s Latin American Festival) on Sept. 28, and it will stay open through Oct. 25. The Dubuque Latinx Fiesta will feature the art exhibit, Latin American live music, performances, food and vendors. Last year, the Latinx fiesta brought close to 2000 patrons. dubuquearts.com.
Wednesday, September 11
Mid-Week Market
Wednesdays through September: September 11 @ 5–8 PM
11th and Iowa St
Spend your Wednesdays where Dubuque Farmers’ Market first started with fresh local produce, a beer garden and pizza from Jubeck New World Brewing, and live music. facebook.com/midweekmarketmusic.
Adult Beginning Pottery Class
Wednesdays: September 11 and 18 @ 6–8 PM
Mississippi Mud Studios (Maquoketa, IA)
Join for a beginning pottery course taught by local artist, Gary Carstens, owner of Mississippi Mud Studios in Maquoketa, IA. $40. 403 Pershing Rd, Maquoketa, IA. maquoketa-art.org.
Thursday, September 12
Dyersville Farmers Market
Thursdays through October 3: September 12 @ 3–5 PM
Commercial Club Park (Dyersville, IA)
A variety of local and regional offerings. 225 11th St SE, Dyersville, IA. dyersville.org/events.
Gary’s Graffiti Nights
Thursdays through September 12: September 12 @ 5–9:30 PM
Kennedy Mall
Celebrating their 42nd year, cars 1979 and older gather for a 1950s–1960s car show based on American Graffiti with music and door prizes. 555 JFK Rd. 563-588-1406. facebook.com/GarysGraffitiNights.
Millwork Night Market
2nd Thursday through October: September 12 @ 5–8 PM
7th–9th and Jackson St
This independent farmers’ market features local food, foods, original artists, live entertainment, and craft beer. Their goal is to connect shoppers with the amazing farmers, producers, artists, and artisans that we have in the Tri-State area, while also providing a unique nightlife experience. Smoke-free and pet-free. BYO water bottle, reusable grocery bags, and lawn chairs. MillworkNightMarket.com.
East Dubuque Cruisin’ Thursdays
Thursdays through September 26: September 12 @ 5–9 PM
Sinsinawa Ave, East Dubuque, IL
Open to all years of classic, muscle, and unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Great food, closed street, open containers, and live music. Free. facebook.com/eastdubuquecarshow.
Sketching on the Trail
Thursday, September 12 @ 6 PM
Mines of Spain Horseshoe Bluff
Grab your sketchbook and enjoy a mellow evening of sketching the unique flora, fauna, and geology along the trails at Mines of Spain. This event is geared towards adults of all experience levels in art, expect to hike and sit for short periods of time. Bring your own sketchbook and drawing tools. RSVP required. Free. 563-556-6745. dubuquecountyiowa.gov/conservation.
Friday, September 13
Over the Edge
Friday, September 13 @ 11 AM
MidWestOne Bank
Over the Edge is a community-wide event that helps fundraise to impact thousands of lives across the Tri-States, benefitting United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States. Community members edge or rappel off the 13-story MidWestOne Bank building in downtown Dubuque. Enjoy the party on the ground outside the bank which includes music, yard games, awards, food trucks, and a beverage tent. 895 Main St. dbqunitedway.org/over-the-edge.
3rd Annual JDIFF Bushwood Classic
Friday, September 13 @ 12:30 PM
Bunker Hill Golf Course
The third annual Caddyshack-themed JDIFF Bushwood Classic is an 18-hole scramble featuring a raffle, silent auction, and dinner plus fun surprises throughout the course. Best of all, it supports the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival. Dress in your Caddyshack best, as prizes will be given for best attire. Includes golf fees, cart, and dinner. Grab ‘n go lunch options available for purchase. $150/person, $500/foursome. 2200 Bunker Hill Rd. julienfilmfest.com.
Friday Lights Poetry Night
2nd Friday: September 13 @ 6–7 PM
River Lights Bookstore
Bring your work to share and read a favorite poem. Listen, laugh, and learn in a quiet space of time. Participate in the poetry book swap—bring one, swap one. Facilitated by Valorie Woerdehoff and Q Hommen-Quario. 1098 Main St. 563-556-4391. RiverLights.com.
Italian Stromboli Coking Class
September 13 @ 6–7:30 PM
Galena ARC (Galena, IL)
Instructor Lynn Kaufman from Lynnies’ Kitchen will guide you in learning how to create this delicious recipe: homemade dough stuffed with sauce and your choice of Italian meats and cheeses, and fresh herbs. Ready to take home and bake for your family dinner or gathering. Please indicate on registration form if you want regular or gluten-free stromboli. Bring your favorite wine, beer, or beverage to enjoy during class. Sign up as a team of two or as a single student and make the dish on your own. $45. 11084 W US HWY 20, Galena, IL. 815-777-2248. galenaarc.org.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Chicago Steel Preseason Game
Friday, September 13 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Anthony Worden
Friday, September 13 @ 9 PM
The Lift
For Anthony Worden, the process of moving past an onslaught of sudden grief crystalized in an Iowa City basement, and—over the course of half a year of writing and rehearsing with his band, the Illiterati—took on the form of his fifth studio album, Plain Angels. It create a picture of bittersweet acceptance, uplifted by Worden’s candid lyricism and the Illiterati’s refreshing approach to contemporary rock—which feels as indebted to ’70s new wave as it does in early 2000s power pop. Taken all at once, Angels presents a portrait of taking change in stride, a reminder that the only way out is through, and the importance of turning to others in times of trouble. Free. 180 Main St, Lower Level. facebook.com/theliftdubuque.
Saturday, September 14
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays through September: September 14 @ 7 AM–Noon
Saturdays in October: October 5 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: September 14 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
The Great Draw Street Art Competition
Saturday, September 14 @ 8 AM–4 PM
Outside the Lines Art Gallery
You are invited to be a part of this year’s Great Draw Street Art Competition, a fundraiser for the Great Draw Visual Art Scholarship on the street adjacent to Outside the Lines Art Gallery in Dubuque. The event is a street chalk art drawing contest with two competition categories: students 18 and under ($12) and adults ($16) with winners in multiple levels. Entry fee includes a 4-by-6-foot section of street (5-by-7 foot for teams), a set of Koss pastels, bottled water, and a chance to win over $3,000 in cash and prizes! Categories include 7 and under, 8–12, 13–18, amateur over 18, and artists. There will also be a people’s choice winner. Entry forms are available at TheGreatDraw.com. Return completed forms to otlag@aol.com or to one of the gallery locations by Friday, Sept. 13. There are a limited number of spaces, so submit early! Any unsold spaces will be sold the day of the event on a first come, first serve basis, and fees will increase to $15 for 18 and under and $20 for adults. Scholarships are available for this event. Check-in after 7:30 a.m. at the white tent at Main and 11th Street. You will pick your space after checking in. The container to collect your people’s choice tickets will be provided. An award presentation will be held in front of the gallery at approximately 5:15 p.m. Artists and their families are invited to join for complimentary pizza and beverages generously provided by L.May Eatery and Van’s Liquor Store. Come on downtown throughout the day and watch the artists at work if you are not participating. You can safely view 11th Street until noon on Sunday as it will be closed. 1101 Main St. TheGreatDraw.com.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: September 14 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Bear Power Woodcarving and Wood Burning
Saturday, September 14 @ 9 AM–4:30 PM
Galena ARC (Galena, IL)
Beginners power woodcarving and wood burning class with local artist Marie McDonough. A simple and fun class for anyone wanting to learn carving and burning, yet challenging enough for anyone who has attended a previous class. This will be a 3 ½ inch tall carving. Marie will rough out of the bear, and you will need to complete some details. Add glass eyes, texturize the fur with a special bit, and detail with a wood burner. All supplies and tool use included. $95. 11084 W US HWY 20, Galena, IL. 815-777-2248. galenaarc.org.
23rd Annual Fishtival 2024
Saturday, September 14 @ 9 AM–3 PM
Riverwalk in Bellevue, IA
Many forms of art will be on display and for sale, including paintings, drawings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and woodworking. There will be chalk art on the street and dance teams for entertainment. Inside the Great River Gallery on the Plaza, find “pop-up” artwork available at prices $100 and under. Also on the Plaza will be a cut-out mermaid available for photo opportunities. Two local food trucks will be on site as well. Support our local artists for this day of celebration. BellevueArtsCouncilIowa.org.
Benefit the Vets
September 14 @ 9:15 AM–4 PM
Camp Courageous Durgin Pavilion (Monticello, IA)
Veterans and their families are invited to participate in camp activities and enjoy a meal together. Activities include zip-line, bowling, miniature golf, fishing, canoeing, paddle boating, animal visits, color guard ceremony, and more. Lunch and refreshments provided. RSVP. 12101 190th St, Monticello, IA. campcourageous.org/benefit-the-vets.
Dubuque’s Oktoberfest
Saturday, September 14 @ 11 AM–6 PM
Back Waters Stage
Dubuque Oktoberfest, a vibrant celebration of German and Slavic heritage, marks its 15th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 14. This much-anticipated annual festival promises a day of music, food, drinks, entertainment, and games for the whole family. Two large tents will be set up to ensure that the event can proceed rain or shine. The event is free to attend, with donations accepted at the gate for Camp Albrecht Acres, which benefits entirely from the festival’s proceeds. The festivities begin with a performance by the Loras Jazz Ensemble, from 11 a.m. to noon. From noon to 1:15 p.m., the Americana Band will take the stage. At 12:30 p.m., the ceremonial keg march will be a highlight, featuring Mayor Brad Cavanagh. Following this, from 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m., the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Illuminate Dance Troupe will perform and teach traditional polka dancing. One of the festival’s most entertaining features, the wiener dog parade and races, will take place from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by Simmons Pet Food, this event invites dachshund enthusiasts to showcase their pets in a delightful parade and competitive race. Register in advance at DBQoktoberfest.org. The Guttenberg German Band will then take the stage from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Following this, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., attendees can test their strength and endurance in the Stein Holding Contest, a favorite challenge among festival-goers. Throughout the day, attendees can indulge in food stands and German cuisine from the Chew on This food truck, alongside ice cream treats from Delaney’s Ice Cream. Beverages, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, will be available to complement the hearty fare. Rain or shine. Free. 1855 Greyhound Park Rd. 563-451-7382. DBQOktoberfest.org.
Bloktoberfest
Saturday, September 14 @ Noon–5 PM
Millwork District
Dubuque’s vibrant cultural scene is set to become even livelier with the highly anticipated return of Bloktoberfest. The festival promises a celebration of community, creativity, lifestyle, and recreation, featuring an exhilarating lineup of BMX, skateboarding, scootering, kids’ events, art, yoga, and a delightful array of food and beverages. Attendees can look forward to awe-inspiring BMX, pro scootering, and skateboarding contests that will headline the event. The OAS crew will be constructing a skatepark on Washington Street, where the region’s top talents will showcase gravity-defying tricks. A new addition for 2024 is the Women’s Skate Contest. Families will discover a wealth of entertainment options designed for children, including kids yoga with Challenge to Change, a kids mural project, face painting with the UBFM, punk rock hairstyles with Capri, inflatable play structures, and much more. These activities promise endless fun and excitement for young festival-goers. For those with a competitive edge, tug-of-war and stein races will return. Thrill-seekers can enjoy a dunk tank with all proceeds going to the Crocus Foundation, and a mechanical bull with all proceeds benefiting Inspiration Stables. Those seeking relaxation will find solace in the beer yoga sessions, facilitated in partnership with B-1 Yoga. Participants can enjoy an invigorating yoga class with a cold beer or other beverage from RiverBluff Collective or Kava Kava in hand, allowing them to unwind and recharge amid the bustling festival atmosphere. Complementing the array of activities, a curated selection of local craft breweries will offer refreshing beers, while local food vendors will serve delectable treats ranging from savory street food to indulgent desserts, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for all attendees. Jason Henkel, one of the festival’s organizers, expressed excitement about Bloktoberfest 2024, highlighting its significance to the community. “We’re incredibly excited for Bloktoberfest 2024 and so grateful that it has found its home in our beautiful Millwork District,” Henkel remarked. “This event holds a special place in the hearts of everyone involved, and we’re committed to bringing the communities together to deliver an unforgettable experience that showcases the recreation lifestyle aspect of Dubuque.” 1085 Washington St. BloktoberfestDubuque.com.
2nd Annual Septemberfest Curds & Brats Festival
Saturday, September 14 @ 1 PM
Splinter Park (Cuba City, WI)
Car show, live music, excellent food, kids games and inflatables/bounce house, beer, and fireworks! 315 S Clinton St, Cuba City, WI. 608-744‑2152. cubacity.org.
30th Annual Cemetery Walk
September 14 and 15 @ 1–4:30 PM
Old City Cemetery (Galena, IL)
September 20 @ 7 PM
Galena Center for the Arts (Galena, IL)
Performers of the Cemetery Walk will be exploring the rugged lives of early settlers, sharing stories of prosperity and the challenges of intersecting cultures, politics, war, and slavery. The Cemetery Walk is one of the Galena-Jo Daviess County Historical Society’s major fundraising events. A team of researchers, actors and supporters put countless hours of preparation into each year’s walk to create a remarkable experience. The Old City Cemetery performances are outside. The indoor performance at Galena Center for the Arts opens at 6:30 p.m. $20. 815-777-9129. galenahistorymuseum.org.
Tails at Twilight Gala
Saturday, September 14 @ 5:30 PM
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
The Tails at Twilight Gala is an exciting evening that brings together old friends and new to revel in the life-saving mission of the Dubuque Regional Humane Society (DRHS), share stories of compassion and transformation, and celebrate our extraordinary community. All this, and more, while raising critical funds to ensure that lost, abandoned, and unwanted animals have brighter futures. The night begins with a silent auction, followed by delicious cuisines from a variety of food stations, a dynamic live auction and concludes with the renowned Paws Up. This evening out is sure to be filled with joy as we also celebrate the DRHS and its achievements throughout the year. 350 E 3rd St. 563-582-6766. DBQhumane.org.
The Price is Right Live
Saturday, September 14 @ 7 PM
Five Flags Arena
Get ready to “Come on Down” and join the excitement as the legendary television game show The Price Is Right, comes to life in an unforgettable live event. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the show, this is your chance to be a part of the action and win incredible prizes. Alongside the celebrity host, randomly-selected contestants play everyone’s favorite games like Plinko, Cliffhangers, The Big Wheel, and even the fabulous Showcase. The show features an array of fantastic prizes, from appliances and electronics to dream vacations and even a brand new car. Lucky audience members can even win prizes right from their seat. Playing to near sold-out audiences for more than 20 years, generations of fans all across America have made The Price is Right Live the perfect family entertainment experience. And the next contestant might be you! If you’ve ever dreamt of spinning the Big Wheel, now is your chance! 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Dolly, Reba, and Friends
Saturday, September 14 @ 7 PM
Ohnward Fine Arts Center (Maquoketa, IA)
Prepare yourself for a hilarious country revue show filled with classic hits and surprise guests. From Reba to Dolly and countless friends in between, this comedic extravaganza is guaranteed to make you laugh, reminisce, and fall in love with the timeless songs of our past. Don’t miss Brooke Byam, Dustin Weiss, and Eli Traum as they bring these beloved tunes to life, backed by an incredible live band. $25 ADV/$28 door adults, $15 ADV/$18 door students. 1215 E Platt St, Maquoketa, IA. 563-652-9815. OhnwardFineArtsCenter.com.
Dr. Scott Bonn: Serial Killers
Saturday, September 14 @ 7:30 PM
Five Flags Theater
Spend a chilling evening with renowned criminologist and serial killer expert, Dr. Scott Bonn, as he takes you inside the minds of the world’s most savage and prolific murderers. In this thrilling 90-minute show, Dr. Bonn reveals the insatiable, psychological hungers that drive the likes of Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer to kill repeatedly with impunity and no remorse. He explains why the majority of serial killers are either psychopaths or sociopaths, how the two differ, and the powerful influences of nature and nurture on the development of fledgling serial killers. Dr. Bonn reveals that every serial killer is compelled by a unique fantasy need and he also explains how/why serial killers are able to successfully avoid apprehension, blend into a crowd and become invisible. Dr. Bonn is a best selling author, professor, public speaker, and he has interacted with such notorious serial killers as Dennis Rader (“Bind, Torture, Kill”) and David Berkowitz (“Son of Sam”). He shares shocking tales from his actual experiences with these killers. Dr. Bonn also developed a profile of the unknown “Long Island Serial Killer” in 2011 that matches the alleged perpetrator, Rex Heuermann, perfectly. He shares the secrets of how he was able to predict the psychological and behavioral makeup of the Long Island Serial Killer with such incredible precision. Due to the nature of the topic and material, this show might not be appropriate for children. Adults only recommended. $35–$55. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Satisfaction
Saturday, September 14 @ 8 PM
Diamond Jo Casino Mississippi Moon Bar
Satisfaction/The International Rolling Stones Tribute Show is the touring tribute show to the World’s Greatest Rock & Roll Band. This Billboard and Pollstar highly rated show is now entering its 22nd year in production with more than 4,000 performances listed to their credit. The likes of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and cast bring a colorful performance to over 50 years of classic hits. Ages 21+. 301 Bell St. 563-690-4800. DiamondJoDubuque.com.
Dirty Honey, The Band Feel
Saturday, September 14 @ 8 PM
Q Showroom
Dirty Honey is bringing their Can’t Find the Brakes Tour to Q Casino along with special guest The Band Feel. In October 2019, Los Angeles-based quartet Dirty Honey made history as the only unsigned artist in Billboard’s near four-decades to hit No. 1 on the magazine’s Mainstream and Hard Rock Charts with its debut single, “When I’m Gone.” Their self-titled album debuted at No. 2 on the Current Hard Rock Chart, Rolling Stone featured them as “An Artist You Need To Know.” In May 2022 the band released its international EP/LP debut and headed to tour the UK and Europe. Since their weighty debut, Dirty Honey has opened for The Who, Guns N’ Roses, Slash with Alter Bridge, and The Black Crowes. $29. 1855 Greyhound Park Rd. QCasinoAndResort.com.
Sunday, September 15
EAA Chapter 327 Free Airplane Rides
Sunday, September 15 @ 6 AM–12:30 PM
Dubuque Regional Airport
The EAA Chapter 327 Young Eagles are offering free airplane rides for kids ages 8 to 17. 10965 Aviation Dr. 563-589-4128. Free. visityoungeaglesday.org.
Galena Territory Farmers Market
Sundays through October 13: September 15 @ 8 AM–Noon
Galena Territory Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Fresh produce, baked goods, meat, crafts, and more. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. 815-777-2000. TheGalenaTerritory.com.
Dubuque Cars and Coffee
3rd Sunday through October 20: September 15 @ 9 AM–Noon
Veterans Memorial Plaza
Casual meet up for cars of all makes, models, and years. Coffee, donuts, and drinks will be for sale. Proceeds go to Veteran’s Freedom Center. 1795 Admiral Sheehy Dr. facebook.com/dubuquecarsandcoffee.
Tortellini and Agnolotti Cooking Class
Sunday, September 15 @ 11 AM–1:30 PM
Goldmoor Inn (Galena, IL)
Learn how to make pasta dough and how to shape tortellini and agnolotti. Participants will be able to take pasta dough home to make pasta with family and friends and also take home pasta made in class to enjoy with friends and family. Ticket includes 1 glass of wine/champagne, 1 charcuterie board (per 3 people), main course of morel agnolotti, and a mini strawberry trifle dessert. $90. 9001 W Sand Hill Rd, Galena, IL. 815-777-3925. goldmoor.com.
30th Annual Cemetery Walk
September 15 @ 1–4:30 PM
Old City Cemetery (Galena, IL)
September 20 @ 7 PM
Galena Center for the Arts (Galena, IL)
Performers of the Cemetery Walk will be exploring the rugged lives of early settlers, sharing stories of prosperity and the challenges of intersecting cultures, politics, war, and slavery. The Cemetery Walk is one of the Galena-Jo Daviess County Historical Society’s major fundraising events. A team of researchers, actors and supporters put countless hours of preparation into each year’s walk to create a remarkable experience. The Old City Cemetery performances are outside. The indoor performance at Galena Center for the Arts opens at 6:30 p.m. $20. 815-777-9129. galenahistorymuseum.org.
What Style Is It?
Sunday, September 15 @ 1 PM
James Kennedy Library (Dyersville, IA)
Our homes, downtowns, churches, and schools boast a wide range of historic and modern architectural styles. Learn how and why specific styles are used and where they can be found throughout Dubuque County. Get some tips for identifying the style of your own home or building. Presented by Jason Neises, vice chair of the Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission (DCHPC). Neises is also the Community Development Coordinator at the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque (CFGD). Aside from his work at the CFGD and DCHPC, he also volunteers for Cub Scouts, Heritage Works, Dubuque Museum of Art, the Dubuque Winter Farmers’ Market, and the Thomas Determan Global Perspectives Endowment. Neises has an education degree from the University of Northern Iowa. DCHPC was created by resolution of the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors in November 1987. The mission of DCHPC is to preserve historically important buildings, structures, and other objects that contribute to Dubuque County’s character. 612-501-9747. stew0220@umn.edu.
River Glen
Sunday, September 15 @ 3:30 PM
Bee Branch Amphitheater
We love River Glen Breitbach and his amazing blending of bluegrass, folk, and an urban hip-hop feel that is new and modern while comfortable and engaging to a big audience. This special performance will be recorded on his home turf in Dubuque. Arrive at 3 p.m. for the 3:30 p.m. show. All ages. Free. 533 Lincoln Ave. RiverGlenMusic.com.
Brew Ha Ha Players Present: Murder at the Fish Fry Club
Sunday, September 15 @ 5–7 PM
Stone Cliff Winery
A night of mystery and intrigue in the wild and romantic era of the roaring ’20s! Buzz Nessman, the owner of Dubuque’s most popular speakeasy—the Fish Fly Club—has just been murdered. Was it the prohibitionist NA O’Doul or Buzz’s jealous business partner Bootleg Willie? Maybe it was the jazz singer Bea Sharpe or perhaps Betty Jane—Buzz’s sweet-but-not-so-innocent mistress. Join the bumbling detective, Jack Slickman, as the murder unfolds before your very eyes. Includes a four “corpse” meal and a show. $85. RSVP by Aug. 7. 600 Star Brewery Dr. 563-583-6100. stonecliffwinery.com.
Monday, September 16
Self-Defense Class
Monday, September 16 @ 5:30–7 PM
Carnegie-Stout Public Library
New graduates and young adults age 17+ are invited to attend a free self-defense class with instructor Eryka Cook. This class is perfect for college students, high school seniors, or anyone just getting started on their own. Instructor Eryka Cook is a black belt in Karate and has been teaching self-defense for more than 20 years. She will guide participants through various exercises to boost confidence and build physical self-defense skills. All ability levels are welcome. Ages 17+. RSVP required. Free. 360 W 11th St. 563-589-4225 x2224. carnegiestout.org.
Tuesday, September 17
Shalom Fall Breakfast
Tuesday, September 17 @ 7:30–8:30 AM
Shalom Spirituality Center
Begin celebrating fall by joining friends, old and new, for Shalom’s seasonal breakfast. The food will be wonderful and the spirit refreshing. Join guest presenter, local activist Eric Anglada for a short reflection called, “Connecting Soil and Soul.” Eric will delve into the spirituality and practical care for the living world that is in desperate need of attention. Healing the land heals ourselves. Healing ourselves is healing the land. Drawing upon his 15 years of experience living on Catholic Worker farms, Eric will present several practices for being a beneficial presence within the living world and invite us to deepen your relationship with creation. RSVP by Sept. 13. $15. 1001 Davis St. 563-582-3592. ShalomRetreats.org.
Chakradance Introductory Session
Tuesday, September 17 @ 6–7 PM
Shalom Spirituality Center
Chakradance is a movement practice, which uses spontaneous dance for the purpose of healing and retuning your whole mind-body-spirit energy system. Join Lindsay Bodenhofer, licensed Chakradance Facilitator, on this inward-focused journey to cultivate a deep sense of balance and well-being. No chakra knowledge or dance experience is necessary. Please note that this is an introductory session, intended to whet your appetite for a 9-week Chakradance Series with Lindsay which will take place on Tuesday evenings at Shalom during the entire months of October and November. RSVP by Sept. 16. $15. 1001 Davis St. 563-582-3592. ShalomRetreats.org.
City Life for Marshallese Residents
Tuesday, September 17
Various Locations in Dubuque
City Life is the City of Dubuque’s fun, free, and interactive course on local government. By participating in City Life, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about City operations and services that make Dubuque a great place to live. Through presentations, tours, and conversations with neighbors you’ll see taxpayer investments at work and be able to share your thoughts. This edition will be in Marshallese for our Marshallese residents. RSVP required. Free. 563-589-4180. cityofdubuque.org/citylife.
Wednesday, September 18
Cuba City Community Market
3rd Wednesday through September: September 18 @ 4–7 PM
Veteran’s Memorial Park (Cuba City, WI)
Featuring a variety of market-related goods. 100 S Washington St, Cuba City, WI. 608-744-2152. facebook.com/CubaCityMarket.
Women’s Giving Circle Annual Meeting
Wednesday, September 18 @ 5–7 PM
Voices Studios
Reflect on an impactful year that saw record grantmaking, significant membership growth, and many joyous gatherings. All are welcome. Enjoy nachos, soda, and wine; time to socialize; and 2025 leadership committee announcements. $20. 1585 Central Ave. 563-588-2700. dbqfoundation.org.
Mid-Week Market
Wednesdays through September: September 18 @ 5–8 PM
11th and Iowa St
Spend your Wednesdays where Dubuque Farmers’ Market first started with fresh local produce, a beer garden and pizza from Jubeck New World Brewing, and live music. facebook.com/midweekmarketmusic.
Museum X: William M. Black – Behind the Scenes Tour
Wednesday, September 18 @ 5:30–7:30 PM
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Spend an evening aboard the William M. Black, a National Historic Landmark! Explore and discover the rich history of this remarkable vessel. This tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into its significance in maritime history. Program begins at 5:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be offered. Due to the nature of the vessel, this event is not ADA accessible. Members: Free; Non-members: $10. 350 E 3rd St. 563–557–9545 x220. rivermuseum.com/events.
She Unites
3rd Wednesday: September 18 @ 6:30–7:30 PM
The Innovation Lab
Come together for an evening of socialization and education. She Unites features rotating speakers, talking about anything and everything pertaining to women in a chill environment. Make a new friend, have authentic conversations, and leave with inspiration to power you through. All are welcome. All are worthy. All belong. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Free. 210 Jones St. SheUnitesIowa.com/events.
Student Oceans Conference
September 18–19
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
The Student Oceans Conference is an intensive two-day watershed workshop held at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (NMRMA), throughout Dubuque County, and on the Mississippi River. This workshop is designed to inspire a watershed stewardship ethic in students and build upon their confidence and individual environmental literacies. The conference will include field trips to see soil and water conservation “Best Management Practices” on area farms and watersheds. Students and teachers will stay overnight at the National Mississippi River & Aquarium in Dubuque and sleep amongst the fish. Meals will be provided. Free. 350 E 3rd St. rivermuseum.org.
Thursday, September 19
Dyersville Farmers Market
Thursdays through October 3: September 19 @ 3–5 PM
Commercial Club Park (Dyersville, IA)
A variety of local and regional offerings. 225 11th St SE, Dyersville, IA. dyersville.org/events.
East Dubuque Cruisin’ Thursdays
Thursdays through September 26: September 19 @ 5–9 PM
Sinsinawa Ave, East Dubuque, IL
Open to all years of classic, muscle, and unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Great food, closed street, open containers, and live music. Free. facebook.com/eastdubuquecarshow.
Bee Creative: A Taste and Paint Experience
Thursday, September 19 @ 6–9 PM
The Story Space
September is Honey Month! Come celebrate and join Dry Creek Beekeeping for a special honey tasting experience as you channel your inner honey sommelier and learn all about the flavors, aromas, textures, colors, and tastes of honey. Experience six unique tastes (light, medium, dark colors as well as creamed, crystallized, and honey direct from the comb) of honey varieties from throughout the Unites States. Next, you will be guided step-by-step by local artist Sarah Barnes, owner of Create It, to paint a beautiful sunflower in a gorgeous blue jar with a bee buzzing by on a 9×12 canvas. Sarah will provide all the materials for painting. RSVP required. $50. 345 Bluff St. 563-590-8404. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
Dubuque United Nations International Day of Peace
Thursday, September 19 @ 7 PM
Loras College Alumni Campus Center
A panel discussion will be held for the Dubuque United Nations International Day of Peace. Panel members include Gina Bell (City of Dubuque Sustainability Coordinator), Eric Anglada (Environmental Justice), Dr. Andrea Bixler (Clarke University), and Catholic Ethical Purchasing Alliance staff. Since its 1981 inception, the United Nations International Day of Peace has marked humanity’s personal and planetary progress toward peace. The theme of this year’s 33rd anniversary in Dubuque is “Environmental Justice: Ways To Navigate This Changing World.” Free. 1450 Alta Vista St. facebook.com/dbqdayofpeace.
Cooper Alan
Thursday, September 19 @ 8 PM
Five Flags Arena
A rising star with the spirit of a true entertainer, a penchant for outside-the-box thinking and a growing, self-built audience, Cooper Alan is an artist willing to take country music where others have never dreamed—and fans love him for it. Whether it’s a deeply personal, step-by-step romantic saga, or an off-the-wall party anthem, Alan’s music is already some of country’s most fearless work, and he’s just getting started. A native of Winston-Salem, NC, the independent artist has racked up more than 225 million streams, a massive digital presence with more than 14 million followers across all social media platforms, and a touring footprint that sold over 85,000 tickets to date. $50.75. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Brett Westgrove
Thursday, September 19 @ 8 PM
Heritage Center John and Alice Butler Hall
Rising country artist Brett Westgrove will perform a special event concert with a fresh Nashville style all his own. Westgrove has toured across the country and shared stages with country music’s biggest acts including Luke Bryan, Jon Pardi, Travis Tritt, Tyler Hubbard, Walker Hayes, Neal McCoy, Eli Young Band, and more. His first album, Somewhere Town, was released in 2019 and gained regional radio success with “Somewhere Town” and “Sugar Honey Iced Tea,” followed by continued success with single releases “Truck Bed’s Good For” and “Beautiful Crazy.” His newest single, “Memory Burns Like Whiskey,” hit country and Top 40 radio earlier this year. The Nashville artist from rural Wisconsin spent his youth writing and playing music while also teaching himself the art of audio engineering. Westgrove moved to California shortly after high school and became a chief engineer and record producer. He then made the trek to Colorado where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder and began to command NASA spacecraft. But music kept calling him, so Westgrove sold most of his belongings and headed toward Nashville to begin paving his way through the country music industry. With only a few dollars to his name, Westgrove began his life in the Music City living in his car with no heat in sub-freezing conditions. He showered at local gyms and spent his days writing, playing shows, and networking. It didn’t take long for Westgrove to become an in-demand artist at Nashville’s top honky tonks and to start touring the country with his new band. $10. 2255 Bennett St. 563-585-7469. www.DBQ.edu/heritagecenter.
Friday, September 20
32nd Annual Guttenberg Germanfest
Friday, September 20 @ 3 PM
Saturday, September 21 @ @ 8:30 AM
600 S River Park Dr, Guttenberg, IA
Yeah, it’s a bit out of town, but it’s well worth the drive. Open-air festival market, festival tent, and biergarten, dinners, dances, stein contests, German Music, wiener dog races, and more. GuttenbergIowa.net/Germanfest.
Horsemen’s Gathering
Friday, September 20 @ 6–9 PM
Saturday, September 21 @ 8 AM–3 PM
Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Jodi & KT Invite You to shop numerous vendors with equine tack and supplies, riding gear, equine and farm services, western fashions, country home décor, and more. The bar and food stand will also be open so you can get some refreshments and snacks while you shop. $2. 14569 Old Highway Rd. 563-588-1406. facebook.com/JodiandKT.
Haiku with Francine Banwarth
Friday, September 20 @ 6–7 PM
River Lights Bookstore
Come meet Haiku artist Francine Banwarth and celebrate the release of Bare Necessities: Selected Haiku of Francine Banwarth, published by Brooks Books and released on Aug. 1 of this year. “Brooks Books is pleased to publish Bare Necessities: Selected Haiku of Francine Banwarth in our series of clothbound editions by American exemplars of this literary art. As a selected collection, this book includes many of the very best haiku written by Francine Banwarth since she started writing in 1988.” 1098 Main St. 563-556-4391. riverlights.com.
30th Annual Cemetery Walk
Friday, September 20 @ 7 PM
Galena Center for the Arts (Galena, IL)
Performers of the Cemetery Walk will be exploring the rugged lives of early settlers, sharing stories of prosperity and the challenges of intersecting cultures, politics, war, and slavery. The Cemetery Walk is one of the Galena-Jo Daviess County Historical Society’s major fundraising events. A team of researchers, actors and supporters put countless hours of preparation into each year’s walk to create a remarkable experience. The Old City Cemetery performances are outside. The indoor performance at Galena Center for the Arts opens at 6:30 p.m. $20. 815-777-9129. galenahistorymuseum.org.
Fly-By-Night Productions Presents American Son
September 20–21 and 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
September 22 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Bijou Room
Fly-By-Night Productions kicks off their 42nd season with American Son by Christopher Demos-Brown, a powerful and relevant modern drama. An estranged married biracial (black and white) couple confront their feelings about race and bias. Desperate to locate their son, they come to the police station and learn he was detained by local police in a traffic stop incident. Demanding answers, the couple contend with a rookie inexperienced white desk police officer and the more experienced black career police officer. Tension builds to the end, when what occurred with their son finally comes to light. Recommended for ages 17 and older. 405 Main St. 563-599-9486. flybynightdubuque.com.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing
September 20–21 and 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
September 22 and 29 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Be transported by the wit, charm, and melodies that put Rodgers & Hammerstein in a class of their own. Many of the most uplifting, and romantic songs in musical theatre history have one thing in common: the incomparable writing team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Their partnership both dominated and became synonymous with the Golden Age of Broadway. A Grand Night For Singing celebrates over 30 hit songs from all their musical treasures like Oklahoma!, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Carousel, The King and I, Cinderella, and more. You’ll be tapping your toes and humming along in a joyful evening filled with fresh takes on the music you love. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Cowboy: The Kid Rock Tribute Band
Friday, September 20 @ 8 PM
Diamond Jo Casino Mississippi Moon Bar
This tribute to Kid Rock has been rocking huge stages across America for years from the House of Blues to massive bike event stages in Daytona, Texas, Laconia, Sturgis, to venues in Texas and beyond. Cowboy will blow you away with the energy, sound, and look of a real Kid Rock show. Every hit from “Bawitdaba,” “Cowboy,” “Only God Knows Why,” “Lowlife,” “Feel Like Makin Love,” “Jackson Mississippi,” “American Bad Ass,” “All Summer Long,” and more are covered. Ages 21+. 301 Bell St. 563-690-4800. DiamondJoDubuque.com.
Regional Junior and High School Rodeo
September 20–22
Dubuque County Fairgrounds
The Wisconsin High School Rodeo association holds rodeo events throughout the weekend. Rodeo performances will be held Sept. 21 and 22. RSVP to compete by Sept. 12. 14569 Old Highway Rd. 563-588-1406. WHSRa.org.
Saturday, September 21
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays through September: September 21 @ 7 AM–Noon
Saturdays in October: October 5 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: September 21 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
Horsemen’s Gathering
Saturday, September 21 @ 8 AM–3 PM
Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Jodi & KT Invite You to shop numerous vendors with equine tack and supplies, riding gear, equine and farm services, western fashions, country home décor, and more. The bar and food stand will also be open so you can get some refreshments and snacks while you shop. $2. 14569 Old Highway Rd. 563-588-1406. facebook.com/JodiandKT.
Potosi Tennyson Driftless Gate Market
Every Other Saturday through September 21: September 21 @ 8 AM–Noon
St. Andrew & Thomas School (Potosi, WI)
The Potosi-Tennyson Market has become a hub for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique shopping experience and an opportunity to meet the people behind the products. The vendors include small farms, artists, hobbyists, crafters, service providers, and more who are all committed to community involvement and help promote local growth. 100 HWY 61, Potosi WI. PotosiTennysonMarket.com.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: September 21 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
32nd Annual Guttenberg Germanfest
Saturday, September 21 @ @ 8:30 AM
600 S River Park Dr, Guttenberg, IA
Yeah, it’s a bit out of town, but it’s well worth the drive. Open-air festival market, festival tent, and biergarten, dinners, dances, stein contests, German Music, wiener dog races, and more. GuttenbergIowa.net/Germanfest.
Becoming an Outdoor Woman
Saturday, September 21 @ 9 AM–1 PM
EB Lyons Interpretive Center
Connect with like-minded women and discover the opportunities that are available in the outdoors. Learn outdoor skills from knowledgeable women instructors during this day of fun-filled sessions provided by Dubuque County Conservation. Be ready to learn, have fun, and make new connections with other women. Educational sessions on various activities include natural pigments, eco-printing, and fungi foray. Following sessions, lunch will be provided. BYO reusable dinnerware. Space is limited. RSVP. Suggested donation: $5. 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd. 563-556-6745. dubuquecountyiowa.gov/conservation.
10th Annual West Dubuque Wingfest
Saturday, September 21 @ 10 AM–4 PM
Farley City Park (Farley, IA)
Competitors cook up approximately 10,000 wings with live entertainment, volleyball, baggo, human foosball, and a wing eating contest. Plus, kids’ entertainment, a dunk tank, and more, all to support West Dubuque High School. facebook.com/Western.Dubuque.
Burnt Sienna Gallery & Studios Opening
September 21 and 22 @ 10 AM–7 PM
Burnt Sienna Gallery & Studios (Galena, IL)
Celebrate the grand opening of Burnt Sienna Gallery & Studios. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks, while immersing yourself in artistic expression. Witness captivating artist demonstrations, engage with talented creatives at the artist reception, and enter to win exciting giveaways. 9327 Powderhouse Hill Rd, Galena, IL. 815-402-3541. burntsiennagallery.com.
Honey & Mead Education and Tasting Experience
September 21 @ 10:30–11:45 AM
October 11 @ 4–5:15 PM
November 15 @ 4–5:15 PM
December 13 @ 4–5:15 PM
Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, IL)
Enjoy a full sensory honey tasting experience as you taste light, medium, and dark colored honeys as well as creamed, crystallized, and direct from the comb honey. Engage all of your senses as you use a flavor wheel to identify the aromas and flavors you experience as you taste each honey. Each attendee will make honey tasting notes and we will compare as they go along. At the end of the tasting, each attendee will receive a glass of honey mead wine to further enjoy honey in another delightful way. Tasting led by local apiary Dry Creek Beekeeping. $35. 444 Eagle Ridge Dr, Galena, IL. 815-297-3366. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
Maqtoberfest
Saturday, September 21 @ 11 AM–8 PM
Downtown Maquoketa, IA
Maqtoberfest is back with music, food, shopping and fun. Join the local showcase from 11 a.m. 2 p.m. before the bonus end-of-season bah with Music on The Green featuring the Surf Zombies and The Muzik Krauts. Activities and info booths along with Chalk the Walk take place downtown and around The Green. Presented by Maquoketa Betterment Corp/Hometown Pride. Free. 563-748-2686. facebook.com/Maqtoberfest.
Apple Fest
Saturday, September 21 @ 2–9 PM
Mid-Town Marina (East Dubuque, IL)
Mid-Town Marina is partnering with Czipar’s Orchard to bring you all things apples! Join for live music and an apple menu including boozy caramel apple shakes, apple margaritas, apple martinis, apple cider mimosas, hot apple pie ala mode, apple donut sundaes, kids caramel apple sundae station, and food themed apple specials. 285 5th St, East Dubuque, IL. 815-747-3310. midtownmarina.com.
Hempstead Class of 1979 – 45 Year Reunion
Saturday, September 21 @ 3–10 PM
Derby Grange Golf & Recreation Center Barn
Start the reunion with the football game at Dalzell Field on Friday, Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. On Sept. 21, join for a casual gathering at Derby Grange. Happi Hibachi will have food available to purchase, Derby Grange will sell non-alcoholic beverages, and BYO alcoholic beverages. 13079 Derby Grange Rd. hhsclof79@gmail.com.
Beekeeping Experience
Saturday, September 21 @ 4–5:15 PM
Dry Creek Beekeeping (Elizabeth, IL)
Get up close and personal (safely) by wearing a beekeeping suit, hood and gloves, and visiting a working hive to see the bees at work. Learn all about honeybees, their activities inside the hive, and how they make honey. Then, get to taste their liquid gold with a mini-honey tasting. Ages 10+. $39. 489 South Clark Ln, Elizabeth, IL. 815-599-3403. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
Fly-By-Night Productions Presents American Son
September 21 and 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
September 22 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Bijou Room
Fly-By-Night Productions kicks off their 42nd season with American Son by Christopher Demos-Brown, a powerful and relevant modern drama. An estranged married biracial (black and white) couple confront their feelings about race and bias. Desperate to locate their son, they come to the police station and learn he was detained by local police in a traffic stop incident. Demanding answers, the couple contend with a rookie inexperienced white desk police officer and the more experienced black career police officer. Tension builds to the end, when what occurred with their son finally comes to light. Recommended for ages 17 and older. 405 Main St. 563-599-9486. flybynightdubuque.com.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing
September 21 and 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
September 22 and 29 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Be transported by the wit, charm, and melodies that put Rodgers & Hammerstein in a class of their own. Many of the most uplifting, and romantic songs in musical theatre history have one thing in common: the incomparable writing team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Their partnership both dominated and became synonymous with the Golden Age of Broadway. A Grand Night For Singing celebrates over 30 hit songs from all their musical treasures like Oklahoma!, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Carousel, The King and I, Cinderella, and more. You’ll be tapping your toes and humming along in a joyful evening filled with fresh takes on the music you love. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Trilogy: The Ultimate Tribute Show
Saturday, September 21 @ 8 PM
Five Flags Theater
Experience the sights and sounds of three epic bands all in one memorable night! Each member of each band looks and sounds like the person they are portraying. Trilogy is made up of professional musicians from all over the nation. Each musician was handpicked specifically for each role. The show begins with The Doors Tribute. Witness with your own eyes as they bring Jim Morrison and the whole band back to life. You will be questioning all of your senses. The show continues with The Led Zeppelin Tribute. See their Jimmy Page play your favorite solos note for note in the infamous Dragon suit. And their Robert Plant with the voice of a God, and those Angelic moves. They will truly make you wonder if it’s 1970 again. Finishing the night in epic fashion is The Pink Floyd Tribute. Experience the sights and sounds of Pink Floyd like never before. Including an extra ordinary saxophonist and female backup singer that will make the hair raise on the back of your neck. Watch as their Roger Waters and David Gilmour deliver all of soulful vocals and timeless guitar solos that will leave you breathless. Follow them back in time, and relive the past. $43–$18. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Regional Junior and High School Rodeo
September 21–22
Dubuque County Fairgrounds
The Wisconsin High School Rodeo association holds rodeo events throughout the weekend. Rodeo performances will be held Sept. 21 and 22. RSVP to compete by Sept. 12. 14569 Old Highway Rd. 563-588-1406. WHSRa.org.
Sunday, September 22
Galena Territory Farmers Market
Sundays through October 13: September 22 @ 8 AM–Noon
Galena Territory Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Fresh produce, baked goods, meat, crafts, and more. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. 815-777-2000. TheGalenaTerritory.com.
Pumpkin + Gourd Wagon
Sunday, September 22 @ 10 AM–3 PM
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Growing the most unique varieties of pumpkins and gourds, come get your fall decorations! Pumpkins, gourds, ornamental corn, squash, and broom corn bunches. 3800 Arboretum Dr. 563-556-2100. DubuqueArboretum.net.
Crafty Crawl
Sunday, September 22 @ 10 AM–3 PM
Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Jodi & KT Invite You to shop one-of-a-kind items from local makers, artists, crafters, bakers, and more. Admission gets you into all three buildings and outdoor market that are filled with more than 100 vendors. $5. 14569 Old Highway Rd. 563-588-1406. facebook.com/JodiandKT.
Garden Tea Blending Lab
Sunday, September 22 @ 1–3 PM
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Heinemann Visitor Center
Rose and lavender tea-blending lab with Grace Deane, Master Herbalist and Tea Blender. 3800 Arboretum Dr. 563-556-2100. DubuqueArboretum.net.
Fall 2024 Dubuque Wedding & Bridal Expo
Sunday, September 22 @ 1–3 PM
Steeple Square
The Dubuque Bridal Expo, in partnership with Zazous Bridal Boutique and Tuxedos, Steeple Square, Absolute Music, Posh Salon & Spa, Willow & Ivy Design, Complete Weddings & Events, and Basket Case Galena will host 50-plus exhibitors ranging from attire (men’s and women’s formal wear and casual wear, including shoes and accessories), jewelry, salon and spas, planning and coordination, venues, catering, bakery and desserts, florists, decor, photography, videography, photo booths, DJs, hotels, favors and gifts, wineries and breweries, officiants, entertainment, and more. Zazou’s runway show begins at 1:30 p.m. with prize drawings and giveaways at 3 p.m. Experience the ultimate experience with the VIP Wed We Will Be package, offering an exclusive, high-value experience. GA: Free, VIP: $30. 101 E 15th St. DBQBridalExpos.com.
Fly-By-Night Productions Presents American Son
September 22 @ 2 PM
September 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
Five Flags Bijou Room
Fly-By-Night Productions kicks off their 42nd season with American Son by Christopher Demos-Brown, a powerful and relevant modern drama. An estranged married biracial (black and white) couple confront their feelings about race and bias. Desperate to locate their son, they come to the police station and learn he was detained by local police in a traffic stop incident. Demanding answers, the couple contend with a rookie inexperienced white desk police officer and the more experienced black career police officer. Tension builds to the end, when what occurred with their son finally comes to light. Recommended for ages 17 and older. 405 Main St. 563-599-9486. flybynightdubuque.com.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing
September 22 and 29 @ 2 PM
September 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
Be transported by the wit, charm, and melodies that put Rodgers & Hammerstein in a class of their own. Many of the most uplifting, and romantic songs in musical theatre history have one thing in common: the incomparable writing team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Their partnership both dominated and became synonymous with the Golden Age of Broadway. A Grand Night For Singing celebrates over 30 hit songs from all their musical treasures like Oklahoma!, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Carousel, The King and I, Cinderella, and more. You’ll be tapping your toes and humming along in a joyful evening filled with fresh takes on the music you love. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Regional Junior and High School Rodeo
September 22
Dubuque County Fairgrounds
The Wisconsin High School Rodeo association holds rodeo events throughout the weekend. Rodeo performances will be held Sept. 21 and 22. RSVP to compete by Sept. 12. 14569 Old Highway Rd. 563-588-1406. WHSRa.org.
Monday, September 23
Zentangle Workshop
Monday, September 23 @ 9 AM–3 PM
Shalom Spirituality Center
The Zentangle Art Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Regardless of artistic skills, participants are invited to use repetitive, elemental strokes to draw delightful pieces of art. Attendees will be in a supportive environment as they learn a few basic terms and information about the Zentangle Method and spend the day drawing a variety of patterns while the instructor provides simple, step-by-step instructions. This experience has also been associated with stress reduction, increased confidence, creativity, focus, and a sense of personal well-being. People of all ages, skills, and interests enjoy the Zentangle Method all over the world because it is independent of language, age, political views, religious beliefs, or any other category that separates one from another. Only a few basic supplies are needed and these will be provided to participants. Instructor Stephanie Funke is a Certified Zentangle Teacher with several years of in-person and virtual teaching experience. Includes lunch and art materials. RSVP by Sept. 19. $75. 1001 Davis St. 563-582-3592. ShalomRetreats.org.
Tuesday, September 24
Fall Drum Circle
Tuesday, September 24 @ 6–7 PM
Shalom Spirituality Center Back Patio
Celebrate the coming of fall with a drum circle. Some drums will be provided, but if you have your own, feel free to bring it. All ages are welcome; an adult should accompany children. Led by Natalie Heck. RSVP by Sept. 23. Freewill donation. 1001 Davis St. 563-582-3592. ShalomRetreats.org.
Wednesday, September 25
Artist at Work, Oil Painter Pamela Hiatt Demo
Wednesday, September 25 @ 10 AM–1 PM
Galena ARC (Galena, IL)
Join for this free artist demo event where Pamela Hiatt will bring a Bob Ross-type experience to life. Watch Pamela paint a still life in oil paint from start to finish. Ask her questions about her process, her supplies, or her inspiration. You’ll gather much more information than watching a “how to” video. Refreshments will be available. Free. 11084 W US HWY 20, Galena, IL. 815-777-2248. galenaarc.org.
2nd Annual Die-In
Wednesday, September 25 @ 4–5:30 PM
Washington Park
This die-in commemorates the 117 people who die from gunfire every day in America. It’s a physical display and demonstration to inform the public about the public health crisis of gun violence. Actors depicting fatal victims of gun violence and 117 cardboard tombstones will be placed throughout Washington Park. CNV acts to address the crisis of weapons of violence in order to create a more peaceful and nonviolent community. 700 Locust St. 563-581-7690. facebook.com/DBQCNV.
Mid-Week Market
Wednesdays through September: September 25 @ 5–8 PM
11th and Iowa St
Spend your Wednesdays where Dubuque Farmers’ Market first started with fresh local produce, a beer garden and pizza from Jubeck New World Brewing, and live music. facebook.com/midweekmarketmusic.
Sunset Hike
Wednesday, September 25 @ 6–7:30 PM
Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area (Worthington, IA)
Walk along the 1.5 mile trail, learn about the prairie, and enjoy the colors of the sunset along the landscape. Dubuque County Conservation staff will guide the hike and teach about the area. Ages younger than16 need an adult companion. RSVP by Sept. 24. 5361 IA-136, Worthington, IA. 563-556-6745. dubuquecountyiowa.gov/conservation.
Thursday, September 26
Dyersville Farmers Market
Thursdays through October 3: September 26 @ 3–5 PM
Commercial Club Park (Dyersville, IA)
A variety of local and regional offerings. 225 11th St SE, Dyersville, IA. dyersville.org/events.
East Dubuque Cruisin’ Thursdays
Thursdays through September 26: September 26 @ 5–9 PM
Sinsinawa Ave, East Dubuque, IL
Open to all years of classic, muscle, and unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Great food, closed street, open containers, and live music. Free. facebook.com/eastdubuquecarshow.
Mac & Cheese Fest
Thursday, September 26 @ 6–8 PM (VIP @ 5 PM)
Five Flags Center
Mac & Cheese Fest draws the area’s top chefs and breweries to serve up their own unique spin on mac and cheese. Foodies and craft beer lovers unite to taste more than 20 varieties of mac and cheese paired with over 50 craft beers all while raising funds for the University of Iowa Hospitals NICU and Rauen Family Foundation. Boogie Monster brings the funk to the stage while you make your way through all of the mac and cheese. VIP grants tasters early access at 5 p.m., a festival koozie, drawstring swag bag, and official festival T-shirt. $39 GA, $59 pre-sale only VIP. 405 Main St. macandcheesefestdbq.com.
Friday, September 27
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Tri-City Storm
Friday, September 27 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Fly-By-Night Productions Presents American Son
September 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
Five Flags Bijou Room
Fly-By-Night Productions kicks off their 42nd season with American Son by Christopher Demos-Brown, a powerful and relevant modern drama. An estranged married biracial (black and white) couple confront their feelings about race and bias. Desperate to locate their son, they come to the police station and learn he was detained by local police in a traffic stop incident. Demanding answers, the couple contend with a rookie inexperienced white desk police officer and the more experienced black career police officer. Tension builds to the end, when what occurred with their son finally comes to light. Recommended for ages 17 and older. 405 Main St. 563-599-9486. flybynightdubuque.com.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing
September 27–28 @ 7:30 PM
September 29 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Be transported by the wit, charm, and melodies that put Rodgers & Hammerstein in a class of their own. Many of the most uplifting, and romantic songs in musical theatre history have one thing in common: the incomparable writing team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Their partnership both dominated and became synonymous with the Golden Age of Broadway. A Grand Night For Singing celebrates over 30 hit songs from all their musical treasures like Oklahoma!, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Carousel, The King and I, Cinderella, and more. You’ll be tapping your toes and humming along in a joyful evening filled with fresh takes on the music you love. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Saturday, September 28
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays through September: September 28 @ 7 AM–Noon
Saturdays in October: October 5 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: September 28 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
Master Gardener Fall Workshop
Saturday, September 28 @ 7:15 AM–Noon
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Topics include sustainable lawns, concrete leaf art, feeding backyard birds, sharpening garden tools, root veggies, and gardening with changing climates. The event concludes with a keynote speaker from Iowa State University discussing recent research in pollinator insects. Hosted by the Dubuque County Master Gardeners. $20. 3800 Arboretum Dr. 563-583-6496. bit.ly/dbqfallgarden.
Dubuque Largest Flea Market And Garage Sale
Saturday, September 28 @ 8 AM–3 PM
Tri-State Independent Blind Society
Browse more than 100 tables full of great items at the garage sale/flea market plus baked goods, direct sales, crafts, and more. $5 Early bird entry (8–10 a.m.), $2 regular entry (10 a.m.–3 p.m.). 1068 Cedar Cross Rd. 515-298-3968. dsdelights-101810.square.site.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: September 28 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Dyersville Downtown Market
Last Saturday through September: September 28 @ 8 AM–Noon
3rd Ave SW and 3rd St, Dyersville, IA
Head to the grassy square between Xavier School and the north fork of the Maquoketa River to find a variety of local vendors, food trucks, live music, and activities. DyersvilleDowntownMarket.com.
Galena Cellars 14th Annual Fall Harvest & Art Festival
Saturday, September 28 @ 11 AM–8 PM
Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery (Galena, IL)
Join Galena Cellars as they celebrate the 2024 harvest. The day will be filled with family-friendly activities, the beloved grape stomp, live music, pumpkin painting for kids, horse-drawn wagon rides, local artists wares, and more. Local artists will be selling their wares throughout the day. Live entertainment all afternoon. There will be food trucks, so you will be able to enjoy delicious eats during your visit. All wines will be available for purchase. Admission: Free; Adult Stomp: $10; Kid Stomp: Free. 4746 N. Ford Rd, Galena, IL. 815-777-3330. galenacellars.com.
Dubuque Latinx Fiesta
Saturday, September 28 @ 1–7 PM
Smokestack
Everyone is invited to celebrate the diverse cultures, art, music and cuisine of Latin America for free. Shop diverse vendors and resources and enjoy performances. Dubuque Area Arts Collective (DAAC) showcases work by Latinx and/or Hispanic artists on the first and second floor galleries of the Smokestack. 62 E 7th St. DubuqueUnidos.com.
Fall National Vibrator Races
Saturday, September 28 @ 3 PM
Sandy Hook Tavern (Hazel Green, WI)
Barflies Helping Barflies will having you buzzin. Open class hot laps start at 2:45 p.m. with races beginning at 3 p.m. Everyone pays $5 to race in the heats, $5 to advance each race tournament style single elimination with $50 to the champion. At the end, the final race is a winner take all with $10 entry and $50 to win. Enjoy meatball/sausage and pepper grinders for a $10 donation per person starting at 3 p.m. All proceeds go to the Vern Ehrler Scholarship Program. 3510 Sandy Hook Rd, Hazel Green, WI. 608-748-4728. facebook.com/sandyhooktavern.
Fly-By-Night Productions Presents American Son
September 28 @ 7:30 PM
Five Flags Bijou Room
Fly-By-Night Productions kicks off their 42nd season with American Son by Christopher Demos-Brown, a powerful and relevant modern drama. An estranged married biracial (black and white) couple confront their feelings about race and bias. Desperate to locate their son, they come to the police station and learn he was detained by local police in a traffic stop incident. Demanding answers, the couple contend with a rookie inexperienced white desk police officer and the more experienced black career police officer. Tension builds to the end, when what occurred with their son finally comes to light. Recommended for ages 17 and older. 405 Main St. 563-599-9486. flybynightdubuque.com.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing
September 28 @ 7:30 PM
September 29 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Be transported by the wit, charm, and melodies that put Rodgers & Hammerstein in a class of their own. Many of the most uplifting, and romantic songs in musical theatre history have one thing in common: the incomparable writing team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Their partnership both dominated and became synonymous with the Golden Age of Broadway. A Grand Night For Singing celebrates over 30 hit songs from all their musical treasures like Oklahoma!, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Carousel, The King and I, Cinderella, and more. You’ll be tapping your toes and humming along in a joyful evening filled with fresh takes on the music you love. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Sunday, September 29
Galena Territory Farmers Market
Sundays through October 13: September 29 @ 8 AM–Noon
Galena Territory Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Fresh produce, baked goods, meat, crafts, and more. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. 815-777-2000. TheGalenaTerritory.com.
Cox Springs “A Day in the Life” Farm Festival
Sunday, September 29 @ 11 AM–7 PM
Cox Springs Farm (Peosta, IA)
Enjoy a goat trek, goat yoga, wine tasting, food trucks, live music, and more. Adults: $10 Adults; Kids: $5. 11114 Cox Springs Rd, Peosta, IA. 563-580-6607. coxspringsfarm.com.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A Grand Night for Singing
September 29 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Be transported by the wit, charm, and melodies that put Rodgers & Hammerstein in a class of their own. Many of the most uplifting, and romantic songs in musical theatre history have one thing in common: the incomparable writing team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Their partnership both dominated and became synonymous with the Golden Age of Broadway. A Grand Night For Singing celebrates over 30 hit songs from all their musical treasures like Oklahoma!, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Carousel, The King and I, Cinderella, and more. You’ll be tapping your toes and humming along in a joyful evening filled with fresh takes on the music you love. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Taste of Platteville
Sunday, September 29 @ 2–5 PM
Broske Center (Platteville, WI)
Taste different food from vendors in the Platteville area. 400 Pitt St, Platteville, WI. 608-348-8888. platteville.com.
Monday, September 30
Mindful Musicians
September 30–November 23
Centrally Rooted
The 8-week class focus on development of musical competence, confidence and self worth through song, rhythm, movement, and instrumental exploration. Centrally Rooted is a Dubuque-based nonprofit organization that focuses on brain health through creative expression. Ages 0–6 with a parent/caregiver. Limited to 12 students. Multiple sessions available. 2230 Central Ave. 563-500-7641. centrallyrooted.com/classes.
October 2024
Tuesday, October 1
Early Explorers: I is for Ice
1st Tuesday: October 1 @ 10–11 AM
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Programs include a variety of hands-on and active activities, including a craft and a game. Ages 2–5 with parent/caregiver. RSVP suggested. $10/toddler Non-members; $8/toddler members; adults free. 350 E 3rd St. 563-557-9545 x222. RiverMuseum.org/early-explorers.
Wednesday, October 2
Distinctively Dubuque
Session 4: Wednesdays: October 2–October 30 @ 5:30–8:30 PM
Various Locations in Downtown Dubuque
Distinctively Dubuque is a five-night course hosted by high-energy presenters with in-depth knowledge of the Greater Dubuque region and is designed for individuals who are new to the area within the last five years. Each night explores a different topic at a different venue and includes dinner, highlighting quintessential Dubuque dining experiences. Free. 563-557-9049. mandid@greaterdubuque.org. greaterdubuque.org.
Thursday, October 3
Dyersville Farmers Market
Thursdays through October 3: October 3 @ 3–5 PM
Commercial Club Park (Dyersville, IA)
A variety of local and regional offerings. 225 11th St SE, Dyersville, IA. dyersville.org/events.
Friday, October 4
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra: Sound Bites Luncheon
Friday, October 4 @ Noon
Dubuque Golf & Country Club
Enjoy a lunch buffet followed by insightful commentary by Maestro William Intriligator and cellist Zuill Bailey. The Friday before each classics concert the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra League hosts a pre-concert luncheon. Guest soloists also attend and share information about their education, careers, concert experiences and thoughts about the music. Guest artists often perform short excerpts from the featured concert. RSVP by Oct. 2. $20. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen
Friday, October 4 @ 7 PM
Five Flags Arena
Straight from England, the most amazing Queen tribute scored a No. 1 hit when they were asked to recreate Queen’s harmonies for “The Real Life” with Fatboy Slim. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Chicago Steel
Friday, October 4 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
First Fridays
1st Friday: October 4
Various Locations in Dubuque
First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly visual art series, hosted by galleries, museums, and venues, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Free.
Saturday, October 5
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: October 5 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays in October: October 5 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: October 5 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
27th Annual Shullsburg Cheesefest
Saturday, October 5 @ 9 AM–4 PM
Water St, Shullsburg, WI
A full day of cheese love, from the fireman’s breakfast to vendors, foods, crafts, and cheese tasting. Live music plus kids’ activities like a milking contest, pedal tractor pull, and more. facebook.com/ShullsburgCheesefest.
Galena Oktoberfest
Saturday, October 5 @ Noon–10 PM
Depot Park (Galena, IL)
Nonstop live music, wiener dog races, polka dancing and lessons, German-style food and beverages, bounce-house and games for the kids, and more. 91 Bouthillier St, Galena, IL. GalenaLions.org.
Harvest Hoedown
Saturday, October 5 @ 5–10 PM
Shenandoah Riding Center (Galena, IL)
Grab your boots and hat and bring the whole family for a night full of wagon rides, bounce houses, lawn games, a mechanical bull, s’mores and a barn dance! Each ticket purchase includes one free non-alcoholic drink. Food and drink (alcohol and non-alcoholic) will be available for purchase, including hot dogs, brats and more. $20/Adult, $10/child. 200 N Brodrecht Rd, Galena, IL. 815-777-9550. shenandoahridingcenter.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Waterloo Black Hawks
Saturday, October 5 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Classics 1: Pines of Rome
Saturday, October 5 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, October 6 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Theater
Music Director and Conductor William Intriligator’s 25th season with the DSO kicks off with a blockbuster program of some of the maestro’s favorite orchestral showpieces. From the grandeur of the Roman pines to the mystical atmosphere of the catacombs, take an unforgettable musical journey through the Eternal City with Respighi’s Pines of Rome. John Adams’ Short Ride in a Fast Machine takes us on an exhilarating adventure through sound and rhythm, evoking the adrenaline rush of riding in a sports car. Grammy Award winning and internationally renowned cellist Zuill Bailey returns to perform the Dvorák Cello Concerto. From the tender embrace of the Adagio to the fiery passion of the Finale, experience the virtuosity and poetry of one of the most beloved works in the cello repertoire. Saturday evening concert attendance includes entry to post-concert Encore Reception. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and visit with DSO musicians. On Oct. 4, enjoy a lunch buffet at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club followed by insightful commentary by Maestro William Intriligator and cellist Zuill Bailey. At 1 p.m. prior to each Sunday Classics Concert, Intriligator gives a pre-concert lecture in the theater. $20+. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Sunday, October 6
Galena Territory Farmers Market
Sundays through October 13: October 6 @ 8 AM–Noon
Galena Territory Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Fresh produce, baked goods, meat, crafts, and more. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. 815-777-2000. TheGalenaTerritory.com.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra: Musical Musings
Sunday, October 6 @ 1 PM
Five Flags Theater
Prior to each Sunday Classics Concert, Maestro Intriligator gives a pre-concert lecture. Free. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Classics 1: Pines of Rome
Sunday, October 6 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Theater
Music Director and Conductor William Intriligator’s 25th season with the DSO kicks off with a blockbuster program of some of the maestro’s favorite orchestral showpieces. From the grandeur of the Roman pines to the mystical atmosphere of the catacombs, take an unforgettable musical journey through the Eternal City with Respighi’s Pines of Rome. John Adams’ Short Ride in a Fast Machine takes us on an exhilarating adventure through sound and rhythm, evoking the adrenaline rush of riding in a sports car. Grammy Award winning and internationally renowned cellist Zuill Bailey returns to perform the Dvorák Cello Concerto. From the tender embrace of the Adagio to the fiery passion of the Finale, experience the virtuosity and poetry of one of the most beloved works in the cello repertoire. Saturday evening concert attendance includes entry to post-concert Encore Reception. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and visit with DSO musicians. On Oct. 4, enjoy a lunch buffet at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club followed by insightful commentary by Maestro William Intriligator and cellist Zuill Bailey. At 1 p.m. prior to each Sunday Classics Concert, Intriligator gives a pre-concert lecture in the theater. $20+. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Tuesday, October 8
Make Your Own Fall Swag Workshop
Tuesday, October 8 @ 6–8 PM
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Heinemann Visitor Center
Create a fall swag with broom corn, Amaranth, Indian corn, and dried flowers. 3800 Arboretum Dr. 563-556-2100. DubuqueArboretum.net.
Thursday, October 10
Millwork Night Market
2nd Thursday through October: October 10 @ 5–8 PM
7th–9th and Jackson St
This independent farmers’ market features local food, foods, original artists, live entertainment, and craft beer. Their goal is to connect shoppers with the amazing farmers, producers, artists, and artisans that we have in the Tri-State area, while also providing a unique nightlife experience. Smoke-free and pet-free. BYO water bottle, reusable grocery bags, and lawn chairs. MillworkNightMarket.com.
Friday, October 11
Honey & Mead Education and Tasting Experience
October 11 @ 4–5:15 PM
November 15 @ 4–5:15 PM
December 13 @ 4–5:15 PM
Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, IL)
Enjoy a full sensory honey tasting experience as you taste light, medium, and dark colored honeys as well as creamed, crystallized, and direct from the comb honey. Engage all of your senses as you use a flavor wheel to identify the aromas and flavors you experience as you taste each honey. Each attendee will make honey tasting notes and we will compare as they go along. At the end of the tasting, each attendee will receive a glass of honey mead wine to further enjoy honey in another delightful way. Tasting led by local apiary Dry Creek Beekeeping. $35. 444 Eagle Ridge Dr, Galena, IL. 815-297-3366. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
Friday Lights Poetry Night
2nd Friday: October 11 @ 6–7 PM
River Lights Bookstore
Bring your work to share and read a favorite poem. Listen, laugh, and learn in a quiet space of time. Participate in the poetry book swap—bring one, swap one. Facilitated by Valorie Woerdehoff and Q Hommen-Quario. 1098 Main St. 563-556-4391. RiverLights.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 11–12, 17–19, and 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
October 13, 20, and 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Saturday, October 12
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: October 12 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays in October: October 12 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: October 12 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Lollipops & Music for Our Preschoolers
2nd Saturday through April: October 12 @ 10–10:30 AM
Carnegie-Stout Public Library
Northeast Iowa School of Music is pleased to present Lollipops and Music for Our Preschoolers (L&MOP) preschool concert series. L&MOP is a monthly concert series that introduces children and their families to a variety of musical styles and instruments. Audience members should come prepared to sing, play instruments, and dance a bit with their family. Children leave with a greater appreciation of music and a lollipop. All ages. Free. 360 W 11th St. 563-690-0151. nisom.com.
Girls’ Night Out
Saturday, October 12 @ 4–6 PM
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Heinemann Visitor Center
Create a custom-pressed flower ornament frame from your own choice of many pre-pressed flowers provided. Enjoy charcuterie boards and more. 3800 Arboretum Dr. 563-556-2100. DubuqueArboretum.net.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 12, 17–19, and 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
October 13, 20, and 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Sunday, October 13
Galena Territory Farmers Market
Sundays through October 13: October 13 @ 8 AM–Noon
Galena Territory Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Fresh produce, baked goods, meat, crafts, and more. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. 815-777-2000. TheGalenaTerritory.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 13, 20, and 26–27 @ 2 PM
October 17–19 and 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Wednesday, October 16
She Unites
3rd Wednesday: October 16 @ 6:30–7:30 PM
The Innovation Lab
Come together for an evening of socialization and education. She Unites features rotating speakers, talking about anything and everything pertaining to women in a chill environment. Make a new friend, have authentic conversations, and leave with inspiration to power you through. All are welcome. All are worthy. All belong. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Free. 210 Jones St. SheUnitesIowa.com/events.
Thursday, October 17
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 17–19 and 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
October 20 and 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Friday, October 18
Twenty Dirty Hands Self-Guided Pottery Tour
Friday, October 18 @ 10 AM–6 PM
Saturday, October 19 @ 10 AM–6 PM
Sunday, October 20 @ 10 AM–4 PM
Lacy Mansion (1640 Main St)
Cricket Hill Pottery (2910 Brick Mason Ln, Asbury IA)
Galena Clay Works (704 Dewey Ave, Galena IL)
The Pottery (202 S West St, Galena IL)
3573 Hwy 11, Hazel Green, WI
Eshelman Pottery (238 N Main St, Elizabeth IL)
Mississippi Mud Studios (403 Pershing Rd, Maquoketa IA)
Immerse yourself in creativity and meet talented clay artists on the annual 3-day Twenty Dirty Hands Self-Guided Pottery Tour. Visit seven pottery studios where 25 artists will showcase their creations while enjoying the fall colors at the convergence of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. This event offers a unique opportunity for behind-the-scenes views of private studios as you support local artists. Each stop offers functional pottery and sculpture by multiple artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with local artists and add a touch of artistry to your life. Free. 563-341-7213. twentydirtyhands.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Omaha Lancers
Friday, October 18 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 18–19 and 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
October 20 and 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show
October 18–19 and 24–26 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
The original kitschy rock ’n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical is more fun than ever! In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler. Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Ages 16+ recommended. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Saturday, October 19
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: October 19 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays in October: October 19 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: October 19 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Twenty Dirty Hands Self-Guided Pottery Tour
Saturday, October 19 @ 10 AM–6 PM
Sunday, October 20 @ 10 AM–4 PM
Lacy Mansion (1640 Main St)
Cricket Hill Pottery (2910 Brick Mason Ln, Asbury IA)
Galena Clay Works (704 Dewey Ave, Galena IL)
The Pottery (202 S West St, Galena IL)
3573 Hwy 11, Hazel Green, WI
Eshelman Pottery (238 N Main St, Elizabeth IL)
Mississippi Mud Studios (403 Pershing Rd, Maquoketa IA)
Immerse yourself in creativity and meet talented clay artists on the annual 3-day Twenty Dirty Hands Self-Guided Pottery Tour. Visit seven pottery studios where 25 artists will showcase their creations while enjoying the fall colors at the convergence of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. This event offers a unique opportunity for behind-the-scenes views of private studios as you support local artists. Each stop offers functional pottery and sculpture by multiple artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with local artists and add a touch of artistry to your life. Free. 563-341-7213. twentydirtyhands.com.
Elvis Meets The Beatles
Saturday, October 19 @ 7 PM
Ohnward Fine Arts Center (Maquoketa, IA)
See the concert that never happened but everyone wishes it did! This show will be a tribute to Elvis and the Beatles when they rocked the world. Feel the excitement and energy as these two great tribute acts portray these artists. Everett Dean will be covering two eras of Elvis Presley’s career. The Fab Lads will be covering the concert and recording studio eras of The Beatles. All this will be in one jam packed night of entertainment. $25 ADV/$28 door adults, $15 ADV/$18 door students. 1215 E Platt St, Maquoketa, IA. 563-652-9815. OhnwardFineArtsCenter.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 19 and 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
October 20 and 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show
October 19 and 24–26 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
The original kitschy rock ’n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical is more fun than ever! In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler. Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Ages 16+ recommended. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Sunday, October 20
Dubuque Cars and Coffee
3rd Sunday through October 20: October 20 @ 9 AM–Noon
Veterans Memorial Plaza
Casual meet up for cars of all makes, models, and years. Coffee, donuts, and drinks will be for sale. Proceeds go to Veteran’s Freedom Center. 1795 Admiral Sheehy Dr. facebook.com/dubuquecarsandcoffee.
Twenty Dirty Hands Self-Guided Pottery Tour
Sunday, October 20 @ 10 AM–4 PM
Lacy Mansion (1640 Main St)
Cricket Hill Pottery (2910 Brick Mason Ln, Asbury IA)
Galena Clay Works (704 Dewey Ave, Galena IL)
The Pottery (202 S West St, Galena IL)
3573 Hwy 11, Hazel Green, WI
Eshelman Pottery (238 N Main St, Elizabeth IL)
Mississippi Mud Studios (403 Pershing Rd, Maquoketa IA)
Immerse yourself in creativity and meet talented clay artists on the annual 3-day Twenty Dirty Hands Self-Guided Pottery Tour. Visit seven pottery studios where 25 artists will showcase their creations while enjoying the fall colors at the convergence of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. This event offers a unique opportunity for behind-the-scenes views of private studios as you support local artists. Each stop offers functional pottery and sculpture by multiple artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with local artists and add a touch of artistry to your life. Free. 563-341-7213. twentydirtyhands.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 20 and 26–27 @ 2 PM
October 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Thursday, October 24
Walking with Ghosts: Real Life Hauntings with Amy Bruni
Thursday, October 24 @ 7 PM
Five Flags Theater
Amy Bruni started her professional ghost hunting career just over a decade ago, but her experience with ghosts started when she was very young. She began as a paranormal investigator in 2007 when she began appearing on Ghost Hunters, in which she starred in 116 episodes. Now, she’s the co-star and executive producer of The Travel Channel’s Kindred Spirits, one of the longest-running and highest-rated paranormal television shows. Amy is also the host of the wildly popular Haunted Road podcast. She is the owner of Strange Escapes, a company offering paranormal excursions to some of America’s most notoriously haunted destinations. A native of northern California, Amy now lives in Newport, RI with her young daughter. $28–$58. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 24–25 @ 7:30 PM
October 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show
October 24–26 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
The original kitschy rock ’n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical is more fun than ever! In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler. Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Ages 16+ recommended. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Friday, October 25
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS USA Hockey NTDP U17
Friday, October 25 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 25 @ 7:30 PM
October 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show
October 25–26 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
The original kitschy rock ’n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical is more fun than ever! In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler. Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Ages 16+ recommended. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Saturday, October 26
Galena Farmers Market
Saturdays through October: October 26 @ 7 AM–Noon
Galena City Hall Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Find seasonal produce, flowers, maple syrup, baked goods, re-purposed crafts, meat, roasted coffee beans, and more. Rain or shine. 101 Green St, Galena, IL. 563-542-0996. facebook.com/galenafarmersmarket.
Dubuque Farmers’ Market
Saturdays in October: October 26 @ 8 AM–Noon
11th–13th and Iowa St
Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offers a variety of produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, handmade goods, on-site prepared foods, and more. Browse booths from area farmers and vendors while enjoying live music from a variety of musicians. Rain or shine. 563-588-4400. DubuqueFarmersMarket.org.
Platteville Summer Farmer’s Market
Saturdays though October: October 26 @ 8 AM–Noon
Platteville City Park (Platteville, WI)
Find everything from delicious vegetables to a variety of flowers, great gift items to canned preserves, and just about everything in between. All of the products you’ll find are locally grown, harvested, or handmade by local vendors. 75 N Bonson St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 26–27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Stargazing in The Galena Territory
Saturday, October 26 @ 6–8 PM
The Galena Territory Association Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)
Enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars at this stargazing event. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a curious beginner, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the constellations, stars, and fascinating stories behind them from experienced professional and amateur astronomers. Bring your telescope or observe through those provided and explore the wonders of the night sky. Don’t forget to pack a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable seating; remember that the event is weather-dependent. Come and be amazed by the beauty and mysteries of the universe. Free. 2000 Territory Dr, Galena, IL. thegalenaterritory.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS USA Hockey NTDP U17
Saturday, October 26 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show
October 26 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
The original kitschy rock ’n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical is more fun than ever! In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler. Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Ages 16+ recommended. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Sunday, October 27
Love, Lies & the Lottery
October 27 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Celebrate Arts & Humanities month with the Iowa premiere of Love, Lies & the Lottery. Peter is an unlucky guy. With a treacherous soon-to-be ex-wife, an overbearing mother, and a not-so-bright best friend, he just can’t catch a break. When he finds a winning lottery ticket worth $510 million, his luck seems to turn around, but with just a couple of days left to cash in the ticket, this bizarre band of characters must navigate mistaken identities, psychics, and the home shopping network to secure the grand prize. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Brew Ha Ha Players Present: Spooktacular
Sunday, October 27 @ 5–7 PM
Stone Cliff Winery
Legendary Hollywood directors are in town to cast and shoot their new big-budget killer thriller when life suddenly imitates art in a very real and bloody way. Popular horror stars Leslie Craven, Bella Lagossi, Jason Krueger, and Freddie Voorhees vie for parts in this open-call slasher flick when suddenly someone literally gets CUT from the film. Stir in wildly adventurous props mistress Leanne Chaney and Russian Cinematographer Igor Karloff, and it’s hard to tell where the laughter ends and the horror begins. Includes a four “corpse” meal and a show. $85. RSVP by Oct. 19. 600 Star Brewery Dr. 563-583-6100. stonecliffwinery.com.
Tuesday, October 29
Readings Under the Influence
October 29 @ 7 PM
Smokestack
RUI is a themed, interactive live and local arts showcase. As far as giving you an understanding of how it all goes and what to expect, well, it’s different every time. Sometimes it’s edgy, sometimes sweet, sometimes controversial, sometimes downright vicious, but always artful. RUI also loves audience participation, and they love giving away their infamous “Burden Prizes,” so prepare for nerdy, wordy trivia outbursts between readings as well as a shots-infused, volunteerish interactive audience participation game. Feeling chill and inspired? Sit a while in the Writer’s/Artist’s Corner, wherein you may dump those inspired musings onto paper. Doors at 6:30 p.m. Free. 62 E 7th St. facebook.com/RUIDBQ.
Wednesday, October 30
Sesame Street Live! Say Hello
Wednesday, October 30 @ 6 PM
Five Flags Arena
Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to your neighborhood to say hello! At Sesame Street Live! Say Hello, sing, dance, and play alongside your favorite furry friends, all while you follow Elmo’s puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide & seek. So put on your dancing shoes and make your way to where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street! In an exclusive post show experience add-on, you and your family will have the opportunity to make a lasting memory of your visit by taking a photo alongside characters from Sesame Street Live, Say Hello! $30–$70. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
November 2024
Friday, November 1
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra: Sound Bites Luncheon
Friday, November 1 @ Noon
Dubuque Golf & Country Club
Enjoy a lunch buffet followed by insightful commentary by Maestro William Intriligator and bandoneonist Charles Gorczynski. The Friday before each classics concert the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra League hosts a pre-concert luncheon. Guest soloists also attend and share information about their education, careers, concert experiences and thoughts about the music. Guest artists often perform short excerpts from the featured concert. RSVP by Oct. 30. $20. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Open Rehearsal
Friday, November 1 @ 7 PM
Five Flags Theater
Open rehearsal is a great opportunity to watch how the DSO shapes and fine-tunes a piece of music before presenting it in concert. You are welcome to stay for all or part of the rehearsal, which typically goes until 9:30 p.m. Theater lobby doors open at 6:30 p.m. Please be seated by 6:50 p.m. Free. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
First Fridays
1st Friday: November 1
Various Locations in Dubuque
First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly visual art series, hosted by galleries, museums, and venues, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Free.
Saturday, November 2
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays through April: November 2 @ 9 AM–Noon
Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Regional vendors offer homemade and baked goods, meat, cheese, eggs, seasonal produce, and more. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass jars, and plastic clam shells. The all-volunteer driven market focuses on supporting our regional food system, eating from our food shed year-round, and providing annual funding to farmers through a grant program. 555 JFK Rd. wintermarketdbq.com.
Platteville Winter Farmer’s Market
1st & 3rd Saturdays though April: November 2 @ 9 AM–Noon
Rountree Gallery (Platteville, WI)
Find homegrown and handmade products from fresh produce and prepared food to stained glass and bath bombs. 120 W Main St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
GIT Improv
Saturday, November 2 @ 7:30 PM
Bell Tower Theater
Bell Tower favorites GIT Improv will be back for two shows in 2024. These master comedians offer improv comedy at its best. Every performance is a brand-new adventure as they create a unique show right before your very eyes using suggestions from you and your fellow audience members. Tickets are $24. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Classics 2 Latin-American Inspiracion
Saturday, November 2 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, November 3 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Theater
Turn up the heat with the rhythms, dances and melodies of Latin America! The DSO welcomes back Charles Gorczynski, a highly skilled bandoneon player known for his virtuosity and deep connection to tango music. He will be featured in Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla’s symphonic take on tangoes. The orchestra will also perform dances by various Mexican and Argentine composers, as well as Ravel’s mesmerizing Spanish/Cuban dance, Bolero. The passion, mystery, and seduction of the “forbidden dance” ignites the stage as professional Tango dancers Ashley Kalchik and Daniel Moreno join Gorczynski and the orchestra in Argentinian composer Pugliese’s iconic “La Yumba.” Saturday evening concert attendance includes entry to post-concert Encore Reception. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and visit with DSO musicians. On Nov. 1, enjoy a lunch buffet at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club followed by insightful commentary by Maestro William Intriligator and bandoneonist Charles Gorczynski. On Friday, be seated by 6:50 p.m. for an open rehearsal at 7 p.m. At 1 p.m. prior to each Sunday Classics Concert, Intriligator gives a pre-concert lecture in the theater. $20+. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Sunday, November 3
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra: Musical Musings
Sunday, November 3 @ 1 PM
Five Flags Theater
Prior to each Sunday Classics Concert, Maestro Intriligator gives a pre-concert lecture. Free. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Classics 2 Latin-American Inspiracion
Sunday, November 3 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Theater
Turn up the heat with the rhythms, dances and melodies of Latin America! The DSO welcomes back Charles Gorczynski, a highly skilled bandoneon player known for his virtuosity and deep connection to tango music. He will be featured in Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla’s symphonic take on tangoes. The orchestra will also perform dances by various Mexican and Argentine composers, as well as Ravel’s mesmerizing Spanish/Cuban dance, Bolero. The passion, mystery, and seduction of the “forbidden dance” ignites the stage as professional Tango dancers Ashley Kalchik and Daniel Moreno join Gorczynski and the orchestra in Argentinian composer Pugliese’s iconic “La Yumba.” Saturday evening concert attendance includes entry to post-concert Encore Reception. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and visit with DSO musicians. On Nov. 1, enjoy a lunch buffet at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club followed by insightful commentary by Maestro William Intriligator and bandoneonist Charles Gorczynski. On Friday, be seated by 6:50 p.m. for an open rehearsal at 7 p.m. At 1 p.m. prior to each Sunday Classics Concert, Intriligator gives a pre-concert lecture in the theater. $20+. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Tuesday, November 5
Early Explorers: J is for Jellyfish
1st Tuesday: November 5 @ 10–11 AM
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Programs include a variety of hands-on and active activities, including a craft and a game. Ages 2–5 with parent/caregiver. RSVP suggested. $10/toddler Non-members; $8/toddler members; adults free. 350 E 3rd St. 563-557-9545 x222. RiverMuseum.org/early-explorers.
Friday, November 8
Friday Lights Poetry Night
2nd Friday: November 8 @ 6–7 PM
River Lights Bookstore
Bring your work to share and read a favorite poem. Listen, laugh, and learn in a quiet space of time. Participate in the poetry book swap—bring one, swap one. Facilitated by Valorie Woerdehoff and Q Hommen-Quario. 1098 Main St. 563-556-4391. RiverLights.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Green Bay Gamblers
Friday, November 8 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Saturday, November 9
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays through April: November 9 @ 9 AM–Noon
Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Regional vendors offer homemade and baked goods, meat, cheese, eggs, seasonal produce, and more. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass jars, and plastic clam shells. The all-volunteer driven market focuses on supporting our regional food system, eating from our food shed year-round, and providing annual funding to farmers through a grant program. 555 JFK Rd. wintermarketdbq.com.
Lollipops & Music for Our Preschoolers
2nd Saturday through April: November 9 @ 10–10:30 AM
Carnegie-Stout Public Library
Northeast Iowa School of Music is pleased to present Lollipops and Music for Our Preschoolers (L&MOP) preschool concert series. L&MOP is a monthly concert series that introduces children and their families to a variety of musical styles and instruments. Audience members should come prepared to sing, play instruments, and dance a bit with their family. Children leave with a greater appreciation of music and a lollipop. All ages. Free. 360 W 11th St. 563-690-0151. nisom.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Green Bay Gamblers
Saturday, November 9 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Friday, November 15
Honey & Mead Education and Tasting Experience
November 15 @ 4–5:15 PM
December 13 @ 4–5:15 PM
Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, IL)
Enjoy a full sensory honey tasting experience as you taste light, medium, and dark colored honeys as well as creamed, crystallized, and direct from the comb honey. Engage all of your senses as you use a flavor wheel to identify the aromas and flavors you experience as you taste each honey. Each attendee will make honey tasting notes and we will compare as they go along. At the end of the tasting, each attendee will receive a glass of honey mead wine to further enjoy honey in another delightful way. Tasting led by local apiary Dry Creek Beekeeping. $35. 444 Eagle Ridge Dr, Galena, IL. 815-297-3366. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
Saturday, November 16
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays through April: November 16 @ 9 AM–Noon
Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Regional vendors offer homemade and baked goods, meat, cheese, eggs, seasonal produce, and more. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass jars, and plastic clam shells. The all-volunteer driven market focuses on supporting our regional food system, eating from our food shed year-round, and providing annual funding to farmers through a grant program. 555 JFK Rd. wintermarketdbq.com.
Platteville Winter Farmer’s Market
1st & 3rd Saturdays though April: November 16 @ 9 AM–Noon
Rountree Gallery (Platteville, WI)
Find homegrown and handmade products from fresh produce and prepared food to stained glass and bath bombs. 120 W Main St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Des Moines Buccaneers
Saturday, November 16 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Sunday, November 17
Brew Ha Ha Players Present: Fast Times at Stone Cliff High
Sunday, November 17 @ 5–7 PM
Stone Cliff Winery
It’s been years since you last roamed the halls of Stone Cliff High, which officially closed 10 years ago. However, the school spirit is still alive amongst graduates, and—according to the reunion planning committee, it’s time to bust out those shoulder pads and flip up those collars, as this year’s reunion—extended to ALL graduates—is ‘80s themed. Why not, you think as you don your leg warmers? It’s all in good fun… until the night takes a dark twist. One of your fellow graduates (or perhaps a teacher, coach, or staff member?) is out for some righteous revenge. But why? What buzzkill is about to share why dreams were shattered and lives ruined? Brace yourself for a gnarly night of surprises, suspense, and, most of all, big hair. This Totally Tubular Night Murder, Mayhem, and Mixed Tapes includes an ‘80s trivia contest and four “corpse” meal. $85. RSVP by Nov. 9. 600 Star Brewery Dr. 563-583-6100. stonecliffwinery.com.
Wednesday, November 20
She Unites
3rd Wednesday: November 20 @ 6:30–7:30 PM
The Innovation Lab
Come together for an evening of socialization and education. She Unites features rotating speakers, talking about anything and everything pertaining to women in a chill environment. Make a new friend, have authentic conversations, and leave with inspiration to power you through. All are welcome. All are worthy. All belong. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Free. 210 Jones St. SheUnitesIowa.com/events.
Saturday, November 23
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays through April: November 23 @ 9 AM–Noon
Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Regional vendors offer homemade and baked goods, meat, cheese, eggs, seasonal produce, and more. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass jars, and plastic clam shells. The all-volunteer driven market focuses on supporting our regional food system, eating from our food shed year-round, and providing annual funding to farmers through a grant program. 555 JFK Rd. wintermarketdbq.com.
23rd Annual Attitude of Gratitude
Saturday, November 23 @ 4:30–9 PM
Grand River Center
The 23rd annual Attitude of Gratitude is the largest fundraiser of the year for Opening Doors. Doors at 4:30 p.m., program at 6:30 p.m. The event features entertainment, plated dinner, silent and live auction, three raffles, and an inspirational message from a woman who has achieved success through Opening Doors’ program. Proceeds support women and children who are experiencing homelessness. $100. 500 Bell St. openingdoorsdbq.org/AOG.
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Des Moines Buccaneers
Saturday, November 23 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
Yung Gravy
Saturday, November 23 @ 8 PM
Five Flags Arena
Yung Gravy brings originality and positivity to make his one-of-a-kind impact on the genre. Gravy flexes his passion for soul music and oldies in his production, sampling a wide range of musical styles dating from the 1940’s to the present-day. Nostalgic and often-jubilant melodies paired with heavy trap drums form the usual canvas for his signature baritone voice—reminiscent of Barry White. His accolades include three platinum and four gold singles as well as 10 sold out tours of North America, Europe, and Australia. He has collaborated with his self-proclaimed musical heroes, including Lil Wayne, Chief Keef, Juicy J, T-Pain, and the late Young Dolph. Tallying 6 billion streams and selling 5 million units thus far, he’s notched four entries on the Billboard 200, two in the Top 30 of the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart, and two on the Top 20 of the Top Album Sales Chart. His newest release, Serving Country, features artists such as Zac Brown, Brantley Gilbert, Juicy J, Shania Twain, and Dylan Marlowe. Carter Vail is fresh off the heels of his sophomore album 100 Cowboys and the success of his Bossa nova-inspired absurdist comedy song “Dirt Man,” which has garnered over 30 million views across platforms and helped him amass 834,000 followers on Instagram and 801,000 followers on TikTok. Despite gaining notoriety for the short form social media content he makes, his “serious music” works in conjunction with that to paint a full picture of a multifaceted and wholly original creative who’s “time is now” according to Hypebeast. Though the Los Angeles songwriter’s sophomore album boasts the same tasteful and turbocharged alternative that dominates his catalog, beneath the breezy arrangements are his most bracingly personal lyrics yet. Written following a devastating breakup, Vail channels messy, heartbroken feelings into nine galvanizing and cathartic songs. It’s as anthemic as it is compelling, all delivered with palpable, tongue-in-cheek charm. $46–$76. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Friday, November 29
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever The Musical
November 29–30 and December 6–7 @ 7:30 PM
December 1 and 8 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Ring in the holidays with the Herdmans! The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world–so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. There’s not supposed to be biting or cigar-smoking in Bethlehem, and while these kids have never even heard the Christmas story, they definitely have rewrites! Soon, everyone is calling for reluctant director Grace Bradley to cancel the whole thing. It’s up to the Bradleys and the Reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this buoyant musical adaptation of the funny and touching holiday classic. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Saturday, November 30
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever The Musical
November 30 and December 6–7 @ 7:30 PM
December 1 and 8 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Ring in the holidays with the Herdmans! The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world–so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. There’s not supposed to be biting or cigar-smoking in Bethlehem, and while these kids have never even heard the Christmas story, they definitely have rewrites! Soon, everyone is calling for reluctant director Grace Bradley to cancel the whole thing. It’s up to the Bradleys and the Reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this buoyant musical adaptation of the funny and touching holiday classic. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
December 2024
Sunday, December 1
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever The Musical
December 1 and 8 @ 2 PM
December 6–7 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
Ring in the holidays with the Herdmans! The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world–so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. There’s not supposed to be biting or cigar-smoking in Bethlehem, and while these kids have never even heard the Christmas story, they definitely have rewrites! Soon, everyone is calling for reluctant director Grace Bradley to cancel the whole thing. It’s up to the Bradleys and the Reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this buoyant musical adaptation of the funny and touching holiday classic. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Brew Ha Ha Players Present: Ho, Ho, Homicide
Sunday, December 1 @ 5–7 PM
Stone Cliff Winery
Everyone at the North Pole is working extra hard this year to make this a holiday to remember, but something’s amiss on Poinsettia Parkway. The newest, coolest, and most revered kids’ bike on the market—Zuzu’s Pedals—has some production issues. On top of that, Mrs. Claus is worried about Santa’s diet but mostly about his sugary-sweet secretary, Candy Cane. Add in some elves, an environmentalist checking everything twice, and a perky Customer Service Rep who covers Santa’s Ho, Ho Hotline, and you’ve got a Ho, Ho, Hilarious Homicide. Includes a four “corpse” meal and a show. $85. RSVP by Nov. 23. 600 Star Brewery Dr. 563-583-6100. stonecliffwinery.com.
Tuesday, December 3
Early Explorers: K is for Kestrel
1st Tuesday: December 3 @ 10–11 AM
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Programs include a variety of hands-on and active activities, including a craft and a game. Ages 2–5 with parent/caregiver. RSVP suggested. $10/toddler Non-members; $8/toddler members; adults free. 350 E 3rd St. 563-557-9545 x222. RiverMuseum.org/early-explorers.
Friday, December 6
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Waterloo Black Hawks
Friday, December 6 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr.
Seasonal Allergies
December 6–7, 12–14, and 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
December 8, 15, 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever The Musical
December 6–7 @ 7:30 PM
December 8 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Ring in the holidays with the Herdmans! The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world–so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. There’s not supposed to be biting or cigar-smoking in Bethlehem, and while these kids have never even heard the Christmas story, they definitely have rewrites! Soon, everyone is calling for reluctant director Grace Bradley to cancel the whole thing. It’s up to the Bradleys and the Reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this buoyant musical adaptation of the funny and touching holiday classic. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
First Fridays
1st Friday: December 6
Various Locations in Dubuque
First Fridays is Downtown Dubuque’s monthly visual art series, hosted by galleries, museums, and venues, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Free.
Saturday, December 7
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays through April: December 7 @ 9 AM–Noon
Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Regional vendors offer homemade and baked goods, meat, cheese, eggs, seasonal produce, and more. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass jars, and plastic clam shells. The all-volunteer driven market focuses on supporting our regional food system, eating from our food shed year-round, and providing annual funding to farmers through a grant program. 555 JFK Rd. wintermarketdbq.com.
Platteville Winter Farmer’s Market
1st & 3rd Saturdays though April: December 7 @ 9 AM–Noon
Rountree Gallery (Platteville, WI)
Find homegrown and handmade products from fresh produce and prepared food to stained glass and bath bombs. 120 W Main St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Holiday Family
Saturday, December 7 @ 1 PM
Five Flags Theater
The DSO’s special one-hour family program of kid-friendly holiday music features vocalist Kira Guloien, the Dubuque Chorale Children’s Choir and members of the Heartland Ballet. Sing and jingle along to your favorite holiday tunes including carols, selections from The Nutcracker, film scores, and more! Includes photos with Santa post-concert. $24+ Adults, $14+ children. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
Seasonal Allergies
December 7, 12–14, and 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
December 8, 15, 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts
Saturday, December 7 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, December 8 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Theater
The warm sounds of the holidays fill the hall as the DSO is joined by vocalist Kira Guloien, the Dubuque Chorale and members of the Heartland Ballet in an enchanting collection of holiday favorites. Expect to hear plenty of holiday favorites, including carols, selections from The Nutcracker, film scores and more. Saturday evening concert attendance includes entry to post-concert Encore Reception. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and visit with DSO musicians. $19+ Adults, $12+ children. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever The Musical
December 7 @ 7:30 PM
December 8 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Ring in the holidays with the Herdmans! The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world–so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. There’s not supposed to be biting or cigar-smoking in Bethlehem, and while these kids have never even heard the Christmas story, they definitely have rewrites! Soon, everyone is calling for reluctant director Grace Bradley to cancel the whole thing. It’s up to the Bradleys and the Reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this buoyant musical adaptation of the funny and touching holiday classic. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Sunday, December 8
Seasonal Allergies
December 8, 15, 21–22 @ 2 PM
December 12–14 and 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts
Sunday, December 8 @ 2 PM
Five Flags Theater
The warm sounds of the holidays fill the hall as the DSO is joined by vocalist Kira Guloien, the Dubuque Chorale and members of the Heartland Ballet in an enchanting collection of holiday favorites. Expect to hear plenty of holiday favorites, including carols, selections from The Nutcracker, film scores and more. Saturday evening concert attendance includes entry to post-concert Encore Reception. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and visit with DSO musicians. $19+ Adults, $12+ children. 405 Main St. 563-557-1677. dubuquesymphony.org.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever The Musical
December 8 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
Ring in the holidays with the Herdmans! The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world–so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. There’s not supposed to be biting or cigar-smoking in Bethlehem, and while these kids have never even heard the Christmas story, they definitely have rewrites! Soon, everyone is calling for reluctant director Grace Bradley to cancel the whole thing. It’s up to the Bradleys and the Reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this buoyant musical adaptation of the funny and touching holiday classic. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Tuesday, December 10
World Ballet Company: Nutcracker
Tuesday, December 10 @ 7 PM
Five Flags Theater
World Ballet Company presents Nutcracker live on stage and features a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers gathered to bring the most beloved holiday tradition to life. Enjoy a family-friendly experience accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, over 150 radiant hand-crafted costumes, lavish hand-painted sets, and the iconic Lev Ivanov choreography. See the iconic Waltz of Flowers, and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, meet Mother Ginger and the Drosselmeyer. Driven by the belief that ballet is for everyone, performances appeal to newcomers and seasoned ballet goers alike. The company attracts many international artists and comprises renowned professional dancers representing over 10 countries. To date, World Ballet Company has traveled to more than 280 cities, reaching an audience of more than 250,000, many of whom are first-time attendees to a ballet. Ages 2+. $42+. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Thursday, December 12
Seasonal Allergies
December 12–14 and 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
December 15 and 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Friday, December 13
Honey & Mead Education and Tasting Experience
December 13 @ 4–5:15 PM
Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, IL)
Enjoy a full sensory honey tasting experience as you taste light, medium, and dark colored honeys as well as creamed, crystallized, and direct from the comb honey. Engage all of your senses as you use a flavor wheel to identify the aromas and flavors you experience as you taste each honey. Each attendee will make honey tasting notes and we will compare as they go along. At the end of the tasting, each attendee will receive a glass of honey mead wine to further enjoy honey in another delightful way. Tasting led by local apiary Dry Creek Beekeeping. $35. 444 Eagle Ridge Dr, Galena, IL. 815-297-3366. drycreekbeekeeping.com.
Friday Lights Poetry Night
2nd Friday: December 13 @ 6–7 PM
River Lights Bookstore
Bring your work to share and read a favorite poem. Listen, laugh, and learn in a quiet space of time. Participate in the poetry book swap—bring one, swap one. Facilitated by Valorie Woerdehoff and Q Hommen-Quario. 1098 Main St. 563-556-4391. RiverLights.com.
Seasonal Allergies
December 13–14 and 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
December 15 and 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Saturday, December 14
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays through April: December 14 @ 9 AM–Noon
Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Regional vendors offer homemade and baked goods, meat, cheese, eggs, seasonal produce, and more. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass jars, and plastic clam shells. The all-volunteer driven market focuses on supporting our regional food system, eating from our food shed year-round, and providing annual funding to farmers through a grant program. 555 JFK Rd. wintermarketdbq.com.
Lollipops & Music for Our Preschoolers
2nd Saturday through April: December 14 @ 10–10:30 AM
Carnegie-Stout Public Library
Northeast Iowa School of Music is pleased to present Lollipops and Music for Our Preschoolers (L&MOP) preschool concert series. L&MOP is a monthly concert series that introduces children and their families to a variety of musical styles and instruments. Audience members should come prepared to sing, play instruments, and dance a bit with their family. Children leave with a greater appreciation of music and a lollipop. All ages. Free. 360 W 11th St. 563-690-0151. nisom.com.
Seasonal Allergies
December 14 and 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
December 15 and 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
The Nutcracker
December 14 and 20–21 @ 7:30 PM
December 15 and 21–22 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
An annual Christmas tradition inspired by Dubuque! Whirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers frame this beloved holiday classic. Clara and her enchanted nutcracker battle the dreadful Mouse King in a nightmare that becomes a beautiful dream. Performed annually for over 20 years, the DCYB production will be a highlight of your family’s holiday celebration. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Sunday, December 15
Seasonal Allergies
December 15 and 21–22 @ 2 PM
December 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
The Nutcracker
December 15 and 21–22 @ 2 PM
December 20–21 @ 7:30 PM
Grand Opera House
An annual Christmas tradition inspired by Dubuque! Whirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers frame this beloved holiday classic. Clara and her enchanted nutcracker battle the dreadful Mouse King in a nightmare that becomes a beautiful dream. Performed annually for over 20 years, the DCYB production will be a highlight of your family’s holiday celebration. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Brew Ha Ha Players Present: Cutthroat Christmas
Sunday, December 15 @ 5–7 PM
Stone Cliff Winery
The Cutter’s Tree Farm is Iowa’s ultimate destination for Christmas trees, boasting a dazzling collection of all 16 varieties, from perfectly pruned pines to beautiful balsams. But as the holiday season approaches, a prickly pine parasite threatens to upend the entire inventory. While President Pine (more inclined toward Christmas Cocktails than serious business) remains nonchalant, the rest of the team faces the grim reality of lost jobs, and we soon discover that trees aren’t the only thing on the chopping block. This holiday whodunnit is a hoot. Includes a four “corpse” meal and a show. $85. RSVP by Dec. 7. 600 Star Brewery Dr. 563-583-6100. stonecliffwinery.com.
Tuesday, December 17
Home Free
Tuesday, December 17 @ 7 PM
Five Flags Arena
Experience the magic of the holidays with the all-vocal country group Home Free, as they bring an unforgettable evening of incredible harmonies, mixing Christmas classics with Nashville-dipped pop hits and timeless country standards on their “Any Kind of Christmas” tour. Having captivated audiences worldwide, Home Free has racked up nearly 600,000 album equivalents globally, embarked on major international tours, and amassed over 750 million views and 1.7 million subscribers on YouTube. Taste of Country hails them as “Country music fans’ favorite a cappella group.” This 2024, Home Free celebrates the festive season with their signature blend of country and holiday tunes. Their latest album, Crazy(er) Life, follows the 2023 album As Seen On TV and the chart-topping success of 2022’s So Long Dixie, which hit No. 1 on the Current Country Albums chart to become the sixth Top 3 album of the group’s career. The group, known for their harmony-laden versions of hits by artists like John Mayer, Blake Shelton, and The Oak Ridge Boys, will bring a heartwarming mix of Christmas classics and country favorites to the stage. Join Home Free for an unforgettable evening filled with Nashville-dipped pop hits, timeless country standards, incredible harmonies, and their trademark quick-witted humor. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting holiday memories with Home Free’s “Any Kind of Christmas” tour. $19.50–$49.50. 405 Main St. FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Wednesday, December 18
She Unites
3rd Wednesday: December 18 @ 6:30–7:30 PM
The Innovation Lab
Come together for an evening of socialization and education. She Unites features rotating speakers, talking about anything and everything pertaining to women in a chill environment. Make a new friend, have authentic conversations, and leave with inspiration to power you through. All are welcome. All are worthy. All belong. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Free. 210 Jones St. SheUnitesIowa.com/events.
Thursday, December 19
Seasonal Allergies
December 19–20 @ 7:30 PM
December 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
Friday, December 20
Seasonal Allergies
December 20 @ 7:30 PM
December 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
The Nutcracker
December 20–21 @ 7:30 PM
December 21–22 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
An annual Christmas tradition inspired by Dubuque! Whirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers frame this beloved holiday classic. Clara and her enchanted nutcracker battle the dreadful Mouse King in a nightmare that becomes a beautiful dream. Performed annually for over 20 years, the DCYB production will be a highlight of your family’s holiday celebration. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Saturday, December 21
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays through April: December 21 @ 9 AM–Noon
Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Regional vendors offer homemade and baked goods, meat, cheese, eggs, seasonal produce, and more. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass jars, and plastic clam shells. The all-volunteer driven market focuses on supporting our regional food system, eating from our food shed year-round, and providing annual funding to farmers through a grant program. 555 JFK Rd. wintermarketdbq.com.
Platteville Winter Farmer’s Market
1st & 3rd Saturdays though April: December 21 @ 9 AM–Noon
Rountree Gallery (Platteville, WI)
Find homegrown and handmade products from fresh produce and prepared food to stained glass and bath bombs. 120 W Main St, Platteville, WI. 608-218-4374. PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Seasonal Allergies
December 21–22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
The Nutcracker
December 21 @ 2 and 7:30 PM
December 22 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
An annual Christmas tradition inspired by Dubuque! Whirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers frame this beloved holiday classic. Clara and her enchanted nutcracker battle the dreadful Mouse King in a nightmare that becomes a beautiful dream. Performed annually for over 20 years, the DCYB production will be a highlight of your family’s holiday celebration. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Sunday, December 22
Seasonal Allergies
December 22 @ 2 PM
Bell Tower Theater
What are the holidays without a little chaos? Julia’s life is turned upside down when her soon-to-be-divorced brother shows up unexpectedly and stays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Don’t miss the local premiere this funny, heartwarming comedy about friends, family, and holiday stresses. Thursday night performances are Girl’s Night Out, and everyone will get a free glass of wine before the show. $24, $12 early bird. 2728 Asbury Rd. 563-588-3377. BellTowerTheater.net.
The Nutcracker
December 22 @ 2 PM
Grand Opera House
An annual Christmas tradition inspired by Dubuque! Whirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers frame this beloved holiday classic. Clara and her enchanted nutcracker battle the dreadful Mouse King in a nightmare that becomes a beautiful dream. Performed annually for over 20 years, the DCYB production will be a highlight of your family’s holiday celebration. All ages. $25 Adults, $17 ages under 18. 135 W 8th St. 563-588-1305. TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
Friday, December 27
Dubuque Fighting Saints VS Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
Friday, December 27 @ 7:05 PM
ImOn Arena
The defending Eastern Conference Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey team returns for another season at ImOn Arena on Schmitt Island. This season’s full schedule features 30 home dates highlighted by a season-long celebration of the Fighting Saints’ 15th anniversary season as a Tier-1 franchise. $13+. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr. DubuqueFightingSaints.com.
