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Big Crowds, Big Energy: 2026 Events at the Mid-America Center

The Mid-America Center continues to be a hub for energy, entertainment, and community gatherings in Council Bluffs. From national dance competitions and championship sports to expos, banquets, and high-energy live events, the Arena & Convention Center is packed with reasons to plan a visit. Here’s a look at what’s coming up from January through March — and why it’s a great time to Unleash CB. After a day of excitement, Council Bluffs is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Be sure to explore our hotels for a relaxing place to recharge after an amazing experience!

come for the creation stay for the comfort

April Highlights

Prime Time Dance Competition

April 10-12
Prime Time Dance Competition brings professional hosting and event management experience developed at Showbiz since 1988. Combined with PrimeTime Live Finals, it creates a unique, high-energy competition that’s fun and welcoming for dancers of all levels.

Rockstar Championships Cheer

April 11
Rockstar Championships Cheer was founded in 2007 with a goal of providing quality, organized, and professional competitions, hosting its first event in 2008 at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, OK. Now in its 15th year, Rockstar continues to expand, delivering high-energy events with premium stage lighting, big sound, and a commitment to raising the bar as an independent, family-owned company.

Spotlight Dance Cup

April 17-19
Each Spotlight event is staged as a professional theatrical production, creating a family-oriented and student-focused experience. Events are run on time in a friendly, low-stress, and personalized atmosphere, with talented professional judges providing impartial, constructive critiques that inspire dancers of all ages and ability levels.

Thunderstruck Dance Competition

April 17-19
Thunderstruck Dance Competition has been delivering quality events across the United States since 2000. It continues to provide high-energy, professionally run competitions for dancers of all levels. 

brick days
Brick Days: @traveling_travman

2026 Brick Days

April 23-26
Brick Days is a family-friendly event featuring amazing custom creations, games, and interactive activities, all built from LEGO bricks by LEGO enthusiasts from across the Midwest. You will see the newest creations from many different builders, the best prizes, and the newest up-to-date swag from the most popular vendors within LEGO® community!

Join the Adventure

Kids Artistic Revue Dance Competition

April 24-26
KAR is dedicated to producing world-class dance events that create rewarding and positive experiences. These events are designed to support and inspire dancers, teachers, and parents alike.

May Highlights

In10Sity Dance Competition

May 1-3
In10Sity 2026 is the ultimate dance showdown, showcasing talent, creativity, and unstoppable energy. Dancers are invited to bring the heat and leave it all on the stage in this high-energy competition.

mystic fest
Mystic Fest @artbyjasminelillian

Mystic Fest

May 29-31
Step into the mystical at Mystic Fest in Council Bluffs! Enjoy Tarot & astrology readings, energy healing, aura photos, and a lively marketplace with crystals, candles, jewelry & more. Free, family-friendly, and all-inclusive—come explore, connect, and awaken your spirit!

Together 4 Tails

May 30
Join the Midlands Humane Society for their signature annual fundraiser celebrating the ways pets enrich our lives. The evening features hundreds of silent auction items, the chance to purchase a golden ticket, special appearances from ambassador animals, a delicious dinner buffet, and a lively live auction. Every dollar raised supports homeless animals with food, shelter, medical care, and second chances. A night of connection, compassion, and celebration awaits!

July Highlights

2026 U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships

O Con Expo

July 6-12
Get ready for a week full of precision, performance, and powerhouse talent as the 2026 U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships take over Council Bluffs. Athletes from across the country will compete in high-energy routines showcasing skill, strength, and creativity—making it an exciting event for both dedicated fans and first-time spectators. Whether you’re cheering on competitors or just stopping by to catch the action, it’s a unique and inspiring experience you won’t want to miss.

O Con Expo

July 17-19
Celebrate a decade of fandom at O Con Expo, the Omaha Metro’s largest and longest-running comic convention. This high-energy event brings together fans of all kinds with exciting guests, unique vendors, talented creators, live wrestling, and even a crowd-favorite room full of corgis. What started as a vision to unite the Omaha and Council Bluffs communities has grown into a must-attend summer tradition for all ages. Make a night of it and enjoy one of the many nearby dining spots before or after the fun!

Plan Your Trip to Council Bluffs

With so many events drawing visitors from across the Midwest and beyond, the Mid-America Center is the perfect anchor for a weekend getaway or extended stay. Pair your event experience with local dining, entertainment, shopping, and attractions throughout Council Bluffs. Be sure to view dining options near the Mid-America Center in our blog to find the perfect spot to eat before or after your event. Whether you’re here to cheer, compete, learn, or be entertained, there’s always something happening. Begin planning your CB getaway by using our trip planner tool and book your hotel room today through our website!

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