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Join Us for the Fourth Annual Summerfest at River's Edge!

This blog contains information about an event that has already passed. Please visit our community calendar for a list of upcoming events happening in Council Bluffs & Pottawattamie County! 

EVENT POSTPONED

Get ready for a night of fun, entertainment, and community spirit as the City of Council Bluffs hosts the fourth annual Summerfest at River's Edge on Friday, June 7, 2024, from 6 to 10 p.m. This exciting event is free to attend, thanks to the generous support of various community partners, including the City of Council Bluffs, the Iowa West Foundation, Back to the River, The Council Bluffs Public Library, Kiewit Luminarium, Charles E Lakin YMCA, The 712 Initiative, and Pottawattamie Arts, Culture & Entertainment (PACE).

A Night to Remember: Lighted Drone Show

The highlight of Summerfest is the spectacular lighted drone show. As darkness falls around 9:30 p.m., Fantasy Drone Shows will dazzle the crowd with 200 drones lighting up the sky. These drones will create stunning, brightly moving images and simulated fireworks, all choreographed to music. Mayor Matt Walsh expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Last year's drone show was a big hit, and we're happy to bring it back this year. Drone shows are an environmentally friendly alternative to fireworks; they do not produce debris or release harmful pollutants into the air, soil, and water. Everyone enjoyed the safer, cleaner, and quieter summertime entertainment."

Fun-Filled Activities for All Ages

This year's Summerfest is packed with activities for everyone to enjoy:

  • Foam Party: Thanks to the Council Bluffs Public Library, dive into a foam party complete with foam cannons and giant bubbles.
  • Live Art Area: PACE invites you to get creative with paint in their live art area.
  • Recreation Opportunities: Parks and Recreation and The Charles Lakin YMCA are teaming up to offer various sports and yard games, including basketball, baseball, football, soccer, and more!

Live Music and Entertainment

From 6 to 9 p.m., enjoy live music on the lawn with performances by The Prairie Gators and Matt Cox. The Prairie Gators will take you on an accordion-fueled journey through traditional folk, country, and rockabilly. Matt Cox, an award-winning folk, country, and blues artist, returns for his second year at Summerfest.

Delicious Food and Drink Options

A food truck food court will be set up near the River's Edge Pavilion, featuring over ten vendors offering a variety of food, drinks, and snacks. Enjoy tacos, BBQ, hot dogs, snow cones, bubble tea, coffee, and more! Additionally, The Terrace Café and Full Fledged Brewery will have food and drink specials at their locations nearby.

Additional Attractions

Summerfest also includes the Imagination Playground with big blue blocks, photo opportunities, face painting, balloon animals, characters, street performers, and chalk art.

Plan Your Visit

Summerfest activities are free, thanks to the Iowa West Foundation and Back to the River. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, water bottles, and snacks. Parking is available in the parking garage at 4250 River's Edge Parkway, in lots near the river, and on-street in the surrounding neighborhoods.

Join the Fun!

"Summerfest at River's Edge is a testament to the vibrant community spirit of Council Bluffs, bringing together families and friends for a night of unforgettable fun and entertainment. We are grateful to our partners and sponsors for making this free event possible and look forward to seeing everyone there," said Mayor Walsh.

For more information, visit Council Bluffs Events, and follow Summerfest at River's Edge on Facebook @CityofCB for regular updates. Don't miss out on this incredible community event!

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Council Bluffs, IA 51501
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