Family Friendly Events

Join us for the fourth hike in the 2019 Hitch Hike series.

Meet up with the group at the Old Lincoln Highway Deck at the Hitchcock Nature Center Campground to begin this walk down the Hohneke Trail to Oak Avenue and the Bunker Hill Loop. Explore the northern section of the park and view a remnant of the original Old Lincoln Highway.

This event is free with paid park admission or current Pottawattamie Conservation Foundation membership. Visit our website for details.

More Information
Contact: Michelle Biodrowski
(712) 545-3283
michelle.biodrowski@pottcounty-ia.gov
http://www.pottcoconservation.com/calendar/details.aspx?ID=607

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The place to be for locally sourced farm-fresh foods and homegrown fun including live music, group fitness, kids activities, special events, and more!

More Information
Contact: The 712 Initiative
(712) 396-2494
info@the712initiative.org
https://www.facebook.com/FarmersMarketCB/

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Everyone is welcome to join in the fun with the Hitchcock Nature Center Insect Club. The meeting will feature a presentation on insects that are commonly spotted in the pollinator gardens at Fontenelle Forrest by club member Loren Padleford.

This organization combines learning with volunteering as insect enthusiasts gather together in Iowa's Loess Hills. Meeting the fourth Thursday of the month, from May through September, this club provides a new opportunity for those with an interest in insects. Each meeting will include discussing club business, and a presentation or educational program.

All club meetings are open to the public. Attendees under 16 must be chaperoned by an adult during meetings and other events.

More Information
Contact: Michelle Biodrowski
(712) 545-3283
michelle.biodrowski@pottcounty-ia.gov
http://www.pottcoconservation.com/calendar/details.aspx?ID=711

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The Hollowbodies consist of Jeff Moore and Bret Nellor and their unique blend of acoustic rock and country—the perfect mix for McCoy's! This alternative duo and their respective bands have been packing stages all over the area. This Party on the Patio is not to be missed!

McCoy's will host free live music every Thursday and Saturday night—and four select Fridays—in May, June, July, and August. It's fun for the entire family. Bring a chair for Friday night shows as the place will be packed! See the full summer lineup here!

More Information
Contact: Connie Ratliff
(712) 328-2374
connie@thunderbbowl.com
http://www.thunderbowl.com/mccoys

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Four outstanding musicians inspired by two of the best writers and performers in history, Tom Petty and Johnny Cash. Come out and have a blast with us!

Apple Jacks at the Patch offers various wines from Prairie Crossing Winery as well as beer, food, and appetizers. We have bands almost every Saturday evening. Visit our Facebook page, linked below for a complete list.

So, roll out past the city limits and enjoy some fun at Apple Jacks at the Patch!

More Information
Contact: Tarry or Jan
(712) 366-1505
ptapples@ptapples.com
https://www.facebook.com/Pioneer-Trail-Orchard-WineryBar-Grill-Pumpkin-Patch-140456218049/

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Join us for the 2nd annual Midland's Renaissance Festival on the beautiful grounds of Ditmars Orchard on the edge of Council Bluffs. Help us bring back this much-loved festival that long ago saw the Iowa Western Community College grounds as home. You'll see all your favorite Renaissance performers and merchants, such as Joust Evolution! And you're sure to find new merchants and entertainment that you'll love!

More Information
Contact: Mike Amos
(402) 999-5463
Midwestfest2@gmail.com

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Come join Full Fledged for our Back to School Bash! We'll have fun, amazing live music by The Algorhythms from 7 to 10 p.m. and delicious food by D's Catering from 4 to 9 p.m.

Plus, teachers will receive happy hour pricing all day long! Not a teacher but still want a discount? No problem! Help a student by bringing in a school supply item off our list (check our Facebook page and a list in our taproom as we get closer to the event) and your first beer will be 50 percent off!

More Information
Contact: Iesha Conley
(712) 350-0985
iesha@fullfledgedbeer.com
https://www.facebook.com/events/502959347125695/?active_tab=about

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Shadow Ridge is back again, bringing their unique style of country music to the McCoy's stage. They also will be playing songs from the '50s and '60s along with other classic tunes. We hope to see you on the patio for an amazing country party!

McCoy's will host free live music every Thursday and Saturday night—and four select Fridays—in May, June, July, and August. It's fun for the entire family. Bring a chair for Friday night shows as the place will be packed! See the full summer lineup here!



More Information
Contact: Connie Ratlaff
(712) 328-2374
connie@thunderbowl.com
http://www.thunderbowl.com

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Come spend the day in Macedonia, Iowa, just 25 miles east of Council Bluffs! We have lots of activities happening all day, from breakfast starting at 7 a.m. to the last dance late that evening. There's something for everyone no matter what age!

Check out the schedule of events for everything happening:

MVFD Breakfast | 7-9:30 a.m.
Craft Fair | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Poker Run | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Flea Market | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Pioneer Trail and Stempel Bird Museums Open | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Silent Auction | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Parade | 10 a.m.
Treats at TS Bank | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Food Booths | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Folk Art Festival | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Bed Races | 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Chalk Art For Kids | 11-11:30 a.m.
Garden & Flower Show | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Classic Car Show | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Live Music at The Back Forty | 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Hot Dog Eating Contest & Bubblegum Contest | 12-1 p.m.
Dessert at DeWitt | 12-4 p.m.
Bounce House | 1-8 p.m.
Face Painting | 1-4 p.m.
Cow Bingo | 1-4 p.m.
Dunk Tank | 1-4 p.m.
Gyrosphere | 1-4 p.m.
Kickball Tournament | 1-4 p.m.
Cornhole Tournament | 4 p.m.


More Information
https://blog.tsbank.com/bed-races-live-music-and-sense-of-community-among-the-draws-for-donia-day

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The place to be for locally sourced farm-fresh foods and homegrown fun including live music, group fitness, kids activities, special events, and more!

More Information
Contact: The 712 Initiative
(712) 396-2494
info@the712initiative.org
https://www.facebook.com/FarmersMarketCB/

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Preserve Council Bluffs explores burgers, Broadway, carhops, and carefree summer evenings spent at the drive-in restaurants of Council Bluffs. From Christy Creme to Maid Rite to Ewalds and Kings, the program endeavors to provide memories and burger history through photos and narratives. The talk will be presented by Dr. Richard Warner.

The program is free to members of the Historical Society of Pottawattamie; members of the public are welcome to attend for a $5 admission fee. Due to library policy and to ensure sufficient seating, guests are asked to purchase tickets in advance. This can be done by phoning Patricia Murphy at the number below, on our website (click the computer icon below), or at the Squirrel Cage Jail or RailsWest Museums during their open hours. Historical Society members need not preregister.

More Information
Contact: Patricia Murphy
(402) 850-0822
information@TheHistoricalSociety.org
http://www.TheHistoricalSociety.org

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Not U Two was the first band to ever perform on the new McCoy's patio, and they are excited to return for the fourth season in a row. Not U Two plays all of your favorite hits from yesterday to today and they are so pumped for another Party on the Patio at McCoy's!

McCoy's will host free live music every Thursday and Saturday night—and four select Fridays—in May, June, July, and August. It's fun for the entire family. Bring a chair for Friday night shows as the place will be packed! See the full summer lineup here!

More Information
Contact: Connie Ratliff
(712) 328-2374
connie@thunderbbowl.com
http://www.thunderbowl.com/mccoys

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Celebrate Labor Day weekend at Bass Pro Shops! Join us for activities like photo downloads, duck ponds, a fish ring toss game, a kid's craft (Labor Day sign), and more. There will also be face painting from 1 to 4 p.m. There will be giveaways at some activities.

The first 100 children to complete in the photo download, ring toss challenge, and bean bag toss activities will receive an adventure tin box. Must complete all three to receive. There will also be seminars throughout the weekend and free food to try!

Schedule:
Kids activities | 12-5 p.m. (Saturday) and 12-4 p.m. (Sunday)
Free samples of funnel cake and apple cobbler | 1-3 p.m.
Free hot dogs | 1-4 p.m.
Tailgate Cooking Seminar | 1 p.m.
Camp Cooking Seminar | 2:30 p.m.

Seminars will take place in the camping section on the second floor. A tin patriotic sign will be given to the first 25 people to each seminar. At the end of each seminar, we will draw to win a large cooler bag. Must be present to win.





More Information
Contact: Rebecca Younkins
(712) 325-6017
REYounkins@basspro.com

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Come enjoy the scenic orchard while enjoying the sounds of Rick Spurgin.

More Information
Contact: Ashley Stange
(712) 256-7053
info@ditmarsorchard.com

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Council Bluffs Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce the Bayliss Park Block Party, a free event with a lineup of activities the whole family will enjoy!

Bayliss Park Block Party Lineup:

3:00 p.m. | Block Party Begins: Food trucks, face painting. balloon art, games, prizes, and more!
4:30 p.m. | Laurie Berkner Concert
6:00 p.m. | High Heel Concert
8:00 p.m. | Movie in the Park: Incredibles 2

More Information
Contact: Ashley Kruse
(712) 318-9000
akruse@councilbluffs-ia.gov
https://www.facebook.com/events/341102756836108/

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One2Go plays a mix of dance and party music, featuring current and classic hits!

McCoy's will host free live music every Thursday and Saturday night—and four select Fridays—in May, June, July, and August. It's fun for the entire family. Bring a chair for Friday night shows as the place will be packed! See the full summer lineup here!


More Information
Contact: Connie Ratlaff
(712) 328-2374
connie@thunderbowl.com
http://www.thunderbowl.com

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Shadow Ridge was such a hit we are happy to have them back! Enjoy an evening with Shadow Ridge performing country, '50s, '60s, classics, rock, and more.

Apple Jacks at the Patch offers various wines from Prairie Crossing Winery as well as beer, food, and appetizers. We have bands almost every Saturday evening. Visit our Facebook page, linked below for a complete list.

So, roll out past the city limits and enjoy some fun at Apple Jacks at the Patch!

More Information
Contact: Tarry or Jan
(712) 366-1505
ptapples@ptapples.com
https://www.facebook.com/Pioneer-Trail-Orchard-WineryBar-Grill-Pumpkin-Patch-140456218049/

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Do the Hoo Doo Hustle!

$15-5K (Hoo Doo Days coozie and drink ticket with registration)
$10-1Mi Kids (Phoenix movie theater ticket with registration)
Register by August 28 to guarantee your registration goodies!

Hustle your way around town to the finish line and collect your medal. Then, head out to enjoy the family friendly events going on all day, or beeline to the beer garden to cash in your drink ticket and put your coozie to good use! The Phoenix movie pass can be used that evening or saved for a later date. Lots of fun for kids and adults alike!

Registration forms are available on our Facebook group (click on the computer icon below) or at the Neola Area Community Center and Blue Cow.

More Information
Contact: Katie Ausdemore
(402) 639-8980
katie.ausdemore@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1522516834644757?view=permalink&id=2448267505403014

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Come enjoy the scenic orchard while enjoying the sounds of Stephen Monroe.

More Information
Contact: Ashley Stange
(712) 256-7053
info@ditmarsorchard.com

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Enjoy a concert in the park set against the Missouri River. Help us end the season with our final concert of 2019 featuring the music of Omaha trio 37 Years. This terrific group plays through a catalog of old favorites and new originals; perfect for music lovers of all ages.

The Summer Concert Series is a monthly event held on the first Sunday of the month, June through September, featuring a variety of family-friendly bands. Events are open to all ages, free with park admission or an annual membership, and require no pre-registration or tickets.

More Information
Contact: Ryan Penney
(402) 490-1290
ryan.penney@pottcounty-ia.gov
http://www.pottcoconservation.com/calendar/details.aspx?ID=588

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Area homeschool students are invited to join us for another exciting Homeschool in the Hills program.

What's so great about dirt? Turns out there's quite a bit! Learn more about Iowa's unique and spectacular Loess Hills and the soil that makes them so special. Explore minerals of all shapes and sizes and get your hands dirty in a wonderful way.

Two sessions of this program are offered. The morning session is from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and the afternoon session is from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Participants must register online for the session of their choice.

More Information
Contact: Rene Stroud
(712) 545-3283
rene.stroud@pottcounty-ia.gov
http://www.pottcoconservation.com/calendar/details.aspx?ID=603

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Bloom Works is hosting its annual flower giveaway. Please join us distributing over 8,000 roses into our community. All you have to do is walk into our shop and you’ll receive 12 free roses with the intention that you keep one for yourself and give the 11 other away to 11 different people. Join the fun while supplies last!

More Information
(712) 256-3156
alisa@bloomworks.omhcoxmail.com
http://Ebloomworks.com

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The place to be for locally sourced farm-fresh foods and homegrown fun including live music, group fitness, kids activities, special events, and more!

More Information
Contact: The 712 Initiative
(712) 396-2494
info@the712initiative.org
https://www.facebook.com/FarmersMarketCB/

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Better late than never! Join us for pancakes and take in the recently completed repairs following the March 2019 flooding of Botna Bend Park. Due to the flood's timing, we have none of our traditional real maple syrup but that won't stop us from serving breakfast. Grilled pancakes and sausage will be served along with coffee and orange juice until 11 a.m. so don't be late!

Attendees must purchase a $3 per vehicle daily entrance pass or have a membership to the Pottawattamie Conservation Foundation to attend this program. Daily passes may be purchased with exact change or check at the front gate and may be purchased the day of the event. Annual memberships may be purchased for $20 from the staff at any of our parks, at the Loess Hills Lodge at Hitchcock Nature Center during regular business hours, or online.

There is no additional fee to attend this program. Free will donations will be gratefully accepted & all donations will directly fund continued flood repair efforts at Botna Bend Park.

Please call the number below for more information.

Meet at Olsen Lodge, weather permitting.

2019 Programs Sponsored by the Pottawattamie Conservation Foundation.


More Information
(712) 741-5465
katherine.simmons@pottcounty-ia.gov
http://www.pottcoconservation.com/calendar/details.aspx?ID=665

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