Good morning, Iowa City.

The Iowa City Downtown District announced the 9th Annual Downtown Block Party scheduled for Saturday, June 27 from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The free summer festival will span 14 blocks downtown — featuring live entertainment and interactive activities for all ages.

Northside Outside returns May 1 on North Linn Street—creating a car-free space for outdoor dining and gatherings; Northside Saturday Nights concerts start May 9 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with free local music.

Iowa City Schools sought a $25 million loan to improve finances but banks rejected the request, so the district is pausing its master facilities plan and delaying its planned recreation center project with Coralville.

Sen. Chuck Grassley, 92 and recovering from gallbladder surgery, stayed in New Hartford and did not attend the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner since a designated survivor was deemed unnecessary with several Cabinet members absent, according to a White House spokeswoman.

During Autism Awareness Month, University of Iowa psychologist Matthew O’Brien said 25–50% of autistic children had eloped in the past year, urging parents to call 911 if a child goes missing, while Libby Shur and Kristene Day urged local safety measures like added fences and tracking options plus better awareness.

Youth Lacrosse Clinic in Iowa City

5:45-6:45 p.m. — Kickers Field 2 — Free entry — A fun clinic teaching fundamental lacrosse skills with an emphasis on excitement and teamwork.

Friday Crafternoons

1-3:30 p.m. — Stanley Museum of Art — Free entry — Unwind with a low-mess craft in a relaxed environment while enjoying provided snacks and supplies.

NAMIWalks Johnson & Linn Counties 2026

9 AM – 3 PM — Terry Trueblood Recreation Area — Registration required — Walk to support mental health awareness and the community.

Piano Sundays: Alan Huckleberry and Studio at Old Capitol

1:30 p.m. — Old Capitol Museum — Ticketed event — Experience a breathtaking recital featuring live performing arts in a historic venue.

Monday Night Gravel Ride

6:30-8:30 p.m. — World of Bikes — Free participation — Enjoy a no-drop gravel ride around Iowa City ending at Big Grove Brewery.

Christopher’s Bar Exam

8-10 p.m. — Joe's Place — Cash prizes available — Engage in an interactive pub quiz filled with fun challenges and trivia.

Zumba with a VUE

6-8 p.m. — Vue Rooftop — Check for pricing — Dance your way through a high-energy cardio party with veteran instructor Abby Noelck.

Kung Fu Vampire Live

7-10 p.m. — Gabe's — $20 — Enjoy an electrifying live performance by Kung Fu Vampire along with various supporting acts.

Friday Crafternoons

1-3:30 p.m. — Stanley Museum of Art — Free entry — Unleash your creativity with low-mess crafts in a relaxing environment.

DIY Recycled Papermaking Workshop

10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Iowa City Press Co-Op — Sliding scale from $40-$195 — Learn to turn junk mail into beautiful handmade paper in this engaging workshop.