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.
An epic night of music on the Missouri, with skyline views, bridge lights, and boats on the water- only in CB.
Council Bluffs has become a growing hotspot for live music, and it recently hosted one of its biggest events yet at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park. The 89.7 The River’s 30th Anniversary Show did not disappoint!
I love music and have a passion for concerts, so I was incredibly excited to be immersed in a full day of live music in Council Bluffs. The weather was perfect when I arrived—it was cooler than it had been all week. The setup featured a massive stage positioned against the backdrop of the Missouri River and the Omaha skyline. As the day progressed, the sunlight danced across the river, adding a natural shimmer to the scene.
Even though the gates weren’t open yet, a line of eager fans had already formed, hoping to score prime spots to see their favorite bands. Most of the crowd parked in Omaha and crossed into Council Bluffs on foot via the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. That walk alone added to the magic—the scenic views and energy of crossing the Missouri River set the tone for what was to come. As dusk settled in, the bridge lit a beautiful blue, casting a soft glow that enhanced the park’s atmosphere.
Inside the park, booths sold band merchandise and gave attendees free sunscreen. Food trucks lined the park's north side, offering a range of cuisines. Before the main crowds arrived, I grabbed lunch from a local truck, HippoHot. Their chicken fingers hit the spot! The food lineup included something for everyone—American, Indian, Mexican, Greek, vegan—you name it. Cold beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, were also available throughout the park to help beat the summer heat and keep the good vibes flowing.
The musical lineup consisted of local and national rock bands. Local band Anchondo kicked things off, followed by The Urge, whose high-energy blend of hip-hop and rock got the crowd moving. While I wasn’t familiar with either band beforehand, their energy was infectious.
Later in the day, Blue October took the stage. Even though I only knew a few of their songs, their powerful lyrics and alternative-rock sound made them my favorite set of the day.
As Sublime took the stage, the energy ramped up. Their set included a massive blow-up Dalmatian dog head, adding extra flair to an already electric performance. Boats began to line up behind the stage on the Missouri River, creating a surreal backdrop of floating fans enjoying the show from the water. The sky had just started to fade into dusk, setting the scene for an unforgettable evening.
Then, as 311—originally formed in Omaha—closed out the night, the sky shifted from orange to twilight. The glow of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge turned a brilliant blue as darkness fell, and the skyline lit up behind the stage. With 8,000 people in attendance, the sold-out event buzzed with energy, ending the night on an unforgettable high.
The experience was unforgettable, not just because of the music, but because of everything surrounding it: the illuminated Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, the public art installations in the park adding character to the space, and the remarkable way the entire metro came together for a night of celebration. It was a true showcase of Council Bluffs’ proximity to the Omaha metro, vibrant art and event scene, and ability to turn a riverside park into an unforgettable concert venue. I hope this is the beginning of more live music magic in CB!
