For over 50 years, Celebrate CB has brought the Council Bluffs community together to honor what makes our city a one-of-a-kind place to call home. From May 4–10, 2026, the celebration continues with this year’s theme: “CB On Track!” Events will be happening all across the city and feature activities for all ages that highlight CB's spirit, creativity, and community pride. Whether you're reliving memories or making brand-new ones, come celebrate the timeless charm of Council Bluffs with us!
2026 Celebrate CB Schedule:
Monday, May 4 Activities:
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Celebrate CB Week Proclamation: 3 PM at City Hall
Tuesday, May 5 Activities:
- Clean Sweep: 4 PM - 6 PM
- Clean Sweep is a collective volunteer effort to clean up the community. Volunteers can register and choose sections of the community for a Council Bluffs-wide spring cleaning! Since 2012, this event has resulted in more than 28,000 pounds of trash cleaned up!
Wednesday, May 6 Activities:
- More details to come!
Thursday, May 7 Activities:
- Council Bluffs Farmers Market: 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
- Shop at the Council Bluffs Farmers Market on the south side of Bayliss Park! Enjoy a mix of fresh seasonal favorites and weekly vendors, plus wellness activities and lively entertainment the whole family will love!
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Ag Committee Spring Cookout: 11:30 AM - 1 PM
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Join the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee for the 2026 Spring Cookout at Bayliss Park. All proceeds go towards college scholarships for area students studying careers in agriculture.
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Friday, May 8 Activities:
- More details to come!
Saturday, May 9 Activities:
- Pancakes in the Park: 8 AM
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Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Bayliss Park served by the Pancake Man! Coffee will be available for purchase from Travelin’ Toms Coffee Truck and Spirits of the Faire. Families can explore a variety of free activities throughout the park, including Rec on the Move Blocks, a Kids’ Business Fair, a hands-on PACE art activity, and a lively bubble station. Be sure to check out the chalk art in front of City Hall!
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- Celebrate CB Parade: 10:30 AM
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Join us for the 2026 Celebrate CB Parade! This year’s theme celebrates the connections, progress, and partnerships that keep Council Bluffs moving forward. Inspired by our community’s rich rail history and the momentum shaping our future, CB On Track highlights the people, organizations, and initiatives driving growth, opportunity, and quality of life across the region!
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Railroad Days | May 9–10
Celebrate Council Bluffs’ rich railroad heritage at Railroad Days. Enjoy:
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Interactive exhibits at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, Historic General Dodge House, and the RailsWest History Museum.
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Creative activities at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center, including mini trains, puzzles, panning for gold, and more
- Trolley transportation looping through participating venues from 12 – 6 PM each day
This year’s celebration is extra special as it aligns with National Train Day (May 10) and America’s 250th birthday, offering an unforgettable tribute to what makes Council Bluffs and the metro area so iconic—our powerful tie to railroads. Whether you’re a lifelong train enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend adventure, Railroad Days is a one-of-a-kind way to explore CB’s history and celebrate our city.
Visitors attending Railroad Days will also have a rare opportunity to view an extraordinary piece of American history. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum will display the original Louisiana Purchase Proclamation of 1803 as part of its “Nation Before the Railroad” exhibit!
Other Events Happening in the Community:
- Cheers for CB Schools | May 8: Celebrate the impact of the Council Bluffs Community School District with live music, raffles, and more!
- Corgi Races | May 9: Celebrate good vibes and cute pets in one fun and fast adventure at Tom Hanafan Rivers Edge Park!
