This summer, we’re exploring Council Bluffs through firsthand adventures — one local gem at a time. Follow along as Emily Newby, an intern with the Council Bluffs CVB, shares authentic experiences from trails to treats, and everything in between.
Fourth Friday Vibes at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center
Since opening in 2020, the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center has grown into a creative hub for visual arts, theater, dance, and culinary experiences in Council Bluffs. Operated by Pottawattamie Arts, Culture & Entertainment (PACE), the building hosts a vibrant mix of programming year-round. Full-time tenants include Kitchen Council, which supports local culinary entrepreneurs, and American Midwest Ballet. The venue is also home to performances and exhibits from community partners like Chanticleer Theater, Bluffs Arts Council, and the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra.
One of the building’s most popular recurring events is Fourth Friday, a monthly celebration of local creativity that features live music, pop-up dining, interactive classes, and the chance to meet working artists throughout the facility. Even though I’ve volunteered at the Hoff for three years, this was my first time attending a Fourth Friday event—and I was blown away.
The featured food vendor was Pearl’s Bistro, a Creole food truck that travels around the Omaha/Council Bluffs area. I went with the smash burger sliders—topped with white cheese, sautéed onions, and a rich garlic parmesan aioli. It was the kind of meal that makes you want to sit back and soak it all in.
After eating, I wandered upstairs to explore the gallery and artist studios before the music kicked off. The gallery was showing its 4th annual New Masters exhibit, filled with work from local artists in a variety of styles and mediums—many pieces available for purchase. In the open studio spaces, I especially enjoyed the work of photographer Buck Christensen, whose images capture beautiful and unexpected views of the Council Bluffs area.
Meanwhile, hands-on workshops were underway throughout the building. I spotted a fun puppet-making class and a “make-your-own book nook” activity that had families and creatives of all ages fully immersed.
Later that evening, Tim VanScoyk took the stage with a mix of classic rock and country covers. His laid-back energy and storytelling between songs gave the set a personal touch, and he even took a few audience requests. It felt like a casual concert with close friends, even with a crowd.
Fourth Friday is a perfect example of how the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center brings creativity to life in Council Bluffs. With events that mix food, music, art, and community, it’s a space where locals and visitors alike can explore, connect, and be inspired—all under one roof.
