Events

Axe Use & Safety: Tips, Tricks & Techniques for the Backyard and the Backcountry

Join Curt Isaacson, Ambassador for Hults Bruk Axes of Sweden, as he demonstrates and leads participants in the use and safety of axes for the backyard and the backcountry, and get a chance to win door prizes! This hands-on seminar will cover the following:

• Axe types and selection including hatchets
• General axe safety
• Axe sharpening/maintenance/modification
• Multiple splitting/bucking/limbing techniques
• Pairing the axe with other tools (such as saws, mauls, wedges and knives)
• The extreme dangers of felling trees with an axe
• Identifying firewood in the backcountry
• Basic firelaying using an axe and more.

Participants are welcome to bring personal axes. Curt and his team will help identify how to get the axe into shape for tasks as well as address potential hazards such as grain issues in the haft, poor fit, damage/cracks in the eye, etc. Ages 10 years and up. Youth ages 10 to 18 must have an accompanying adult registered for the program. $15 per person.

Live Music and Dancing at the YMCA

Enjoy live music, dancing, and fellowship, while the Greg Spevak and Leo Lonnie Orchestras play your favorite tunes. You'll hear your favorite Latin, Swing, Waltzes, and Polkas as you dance in our beautiful ballroom! Mention this advertisement and your first dance is free. Photo ID is required for first time guests.

Live Music Finale at Stanley's

Enjoy the scenic outdoors and live music with the duo of Jocelyn Oliver and Brenda Lee. This will be the final live music at Stanley's for the season. Bring a chair, BYOB, and umbrella to sit and savor fall at its best. Savor the tasty burgers from our farm's cows and handmade pizzas, and stock up on gelato to get you through until spring!

Legal Life Preparations Made Easy

Learn about legal issues and documents that protect your rights and the rights of your loved ones. We’ll discuss health care designations, living wills, DNR, power of attorney and more. Presented by Jessica Duncan, CDP with Angels Care Home Health. This program is free and open to the public.

Zach Bryan American Heartbreak Tour with Charles Wesley Godwin

Zach Bryan is a singer/songwriter from Oologah, Oklahoma, proud of his small-town roots and whose music is fueled by a desire to stay true to himself. His success is found in his raspy voice, a mix of classic folk melody and outlaw country with a raw edge that cuts to the bone. Come see him on the big stage on October 3rd in Council Bluffs for an all-ages show! 

Impacting Nonprofits: Investing for Progress

Please join TS Bank for a professional development opportunity geared toward nonprofit leaders and employees focused on building resilience, navigating challenges, and strengthening successful teams. This year, Impacting Nonprofits: Investing for Progress, will feature a hands-on workshop with an introduction to the Six Types of Working Genius.

2022 Home Food Preservation Series: Whole Hog Fabrication

Join Chef Nate Steinbach and learn how to make the most of your harvest! You'll learn how to make shelf-stable jellies and freezer jams. Research tested techniques for water bath canning of sauces, soups and salsas. Connect with local pork producers and make your own ham, bacon and sausage!

July 17: Yeast Breads for Beginners

July 23: Ice Cream, Gelato & Sorbet

August 9: Jam and Jelly

September 6: Soups, Sauces and Salsas

October 4: Whole Hog Fabrication 

Adult Board Game Night

Adult Board Game Night - bring a friend!

Come play new and classic board and card games. This group meets the first and third Tuesday of each month, and it is free to attend. You are welcome to bring your favorite games or just stop in to join a game.

City of Council Bluffs Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

The Historic Preservation Commission meets at 4 pm the first Wednesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Taco Ride

The Taco Ride takes place every Thursday evening on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Mineola, Iowa, and back. The scenic ride is about 20 miles through the Loess Hills and ends with dinner at Tobey Jack's Mineola Steakhouse. The weekly rides take place from when the trail is dry enough in the spring (usually in April or May) until late in the fall (usually until Halloween).

Most riders start at Iowa West Foundation Trailhead Park where parking is available. Slightly more than halfway between the trailhead and Tobey Jack's, many riders will stop at a picnic area, nicknamed Margaritaville, for a quick break and to join in a conversation with fellow bikers or to partake in refreshments they brought with them.

Note: The Taco Ride is a weekly event. It runs every Thursday evening during most of the year, weather permitting. Visit the Taco Ride website, linked below, for event news. For more information about the ride, visit our blog. 

Comedy Night at the Orchard

Come out and drink some local adult beverages and enjoy some adult comedy while your at it! Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 7:30pm! Featuring: Rachel Ware, Don Seager, Noe Ramirez, and David Kousgaard. Tickets are $10 and there is limited seatind, so get your tickets fast! 

PACE | Haunted History Trivia Night

Get in the Haunted Holiday Spirit this Halloween Season with PACE at our first-ever Haunted History Pub Night! Test your knowledge and learn something new as we explore the deep recesses of things the scholars would rather we forget. Take a stroll through Haunted American History to famous sites still around today. Test your knowledge of these legendary haunting cases, like the Villisca Axe Murder House, Winchester House, Squirrel Cage Jail, and The Stanely Hotel. The winner takes home 2 free class vouchers. Bring a friend, a date, or family this Friday to PACE! Free event. 

Callahan Craft Fair

Exhibitors presenting and selling thousands of unique, handmade products. Among the various products being sold at the show are leather goods, oak, pine and wine barrel furniture, paintings and prints, ceramics, kids teepees, wall hangings, toys, blankets, jewelry, metal art sculptures, pet products, etched and stained glass, yard and garden art, pottery, candles, clothing, quilts, aprons, pillows, doll clothes, baskets, rugs, placemats, table runners, purses, floral arrangements and wreaths, wood and metal signs, soap and lotions, emu oils and many more original products. Exhibitors will also be selling coffee cakes, dips, salsa, barbeque sauce, soups, jams, jellies, cheese and sausage, wines, fudge, honey, food mixes, and roasted nuts. All items offered for sale to the public are handmade by the exhibitor.

Fall Open House at Sherbondy's Garden Center

Enjoy the sights and sounds of fall at Sherbondy's Garden Center during the Fall Open House! Take your fall photos in front of our festive display and enjoy pumpkin decorating with the kiddos! Cattle Drive food truck will be on-site from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. serving delicious food. We'll also have a variety of heirloom pumpkins and colorful fall mums available for purchase. We can't wait to see you!

Raices de Mexico

Enjoy a performance by the Mexican folkloric dancers of Raices de Mexico. This program is free and open to the public and was made possible with help from the Council Bluffs Public Library Foundation.

BIKEtober and BLOCKtober

The 712 Initiative and Pottawattamie County Trails Association are teaming up once again to bring you the season’s best citywide bike ride on Saturday, October 8th! Your registration includes the long or short bike ride, a limited edition BIKEtober t-shirt, and access to all festivities and refreshments along the routes! Then roll on through the finish line located at the BLOCKtoberfest after party featuring live music, German food, Oktoberfest beer tasting tents, stein hoist contest, giant beer pong, bags, and tailgating garden for those who can’t miss a game!

Registration is $35.00. 

* Register before September 26th to guarantee your shirt*
* You can register on the day of the event as well, but the fee will be $40 and we can’t guarantee we’ll have a t-shirt in your preferred size.

Schedule:

• 3:00 PM – Registration
• 4:00 PM – Short & Long Rides begin
• 6:00 PM – BLOCKtoberfest begins!
• 7:00 PM – Raffle Drawing and Stein Hoist Contest on Stage
• 9:00 PM – Time to say “Gute Nacht!” (BLOCKtoberfest Ends)

BLOCKtober is now a free entry event to enjoy with your friends and family after the ride! Invite them to cheer you on as you cross the finish line and then enjoy the festivities, band, and football!

Fairview Cemetery Guided Walking Tour

Nestled in the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River Valley, Fairview Cemetery is home to many Council Bluffs settlers, business entrepreneurs, and a scurry of black squirrels. This tour explores the majesty of this historic memorial garden, the lives of some who rest there, and the art erected to memorialize them. Tickets start at $25.00

Harvest Market

Come to Underwood for the Fall Harvest Market! Shop for local produce, baked goods, home decor, and more, all perfect for fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The festivities also include pumpkin decorating, a kids costume parade, food from Laurie Kouba, and free apple cider! 

Click here to see the event flyer. 

Coffee & Contacts

Join us at Coffee & Contacts for a great opportunity to network with other CB Chamber members sponsored by Council Bluffs Soccer Club.

Creating Content-A Hands On Workshop (In Person)

If you are the person that gets a little bit intimidated when it comes to writing content, this workshop is for you. We will cover best practices for writing blogs, social media posts and ads, white papers, videos, and all of the things.

Prairie Seed Harvest

Support land stewardship by collecting local ecotype native prairie seed for ecological restoration efforts in western Iowa's Loess Hills. The event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. This event includes walking over steep, rugged terrain, so dress appropriately. Email lance@goldenhillsrcd.org with questions. Meet at the Loess Hills Lodge at Hitchcock Nature Center. Full details and directions are available at goldenhillsrcd.org/prairieseed. The event may be rescheduled if inclement weather. Check back on the day of the event.

Project funding was provided by Specialty Crop Block Grant, Pottawattamie Conservation Foundation, and Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration.

City of Council Bluffs Planning Commission Meeting

The City Planning Commission meets the second Tuesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Silhouette Cameo ~ Paper Crafting Drop-In

Looking to get your craft on? Stop by the Makerspace to make & take a Pumpkin Treat Holder! The Silhouette Cameo is an extremely versatile electronic cutting and drawing machine that makes cutting paper, cardstock or vinyl for your favorite projects, a snap! Paper Crafting Drop-In is offered on the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month and is free and open to the public.

Taco Ride

The Taco Ride takes place every Thursday evening on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Mineola, Iowa, and back. The scenic ride is about 20 miles through the Loess Hills and ends with dinner at Tobey Jack's Mineola Steakhouse. The weekly rides take place from when the trail is dry enough in the spring (usually in April or May) until late in the fall (usually until Halloween).

Most riders start at Iowa West Foundation Trailhead Park where parking is available. Slightly more than halfway between the trailhead and Tobey Jack's, many riders will stop at a picnic area, nicknamed Margaritaville, for a quick break and to join in a conversation with fellow bikers or to partake in refreshments they brought with them.

Note: The Taco Ride is a weekly event. It runs every Thursday evening during most of the year, weather permitting. Visit the Taco Ride website, linked below, for event news. For more information about the ride, visit our blog. 

746 Needlework Club

Knitting, crochet, embroidery - all skill levels welcome! Meet with people who share your interest in needlework; share ideas and help each other! Bring your own supplies or projects to work on. 746 Needlework Club meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month. It is free and open to the public.

An Evening with Geraldine Brooks

Join the Council Bluffs Public Library for "An Evening with Geraldine Brooks" on October 13, 2022, at 7 pm! New York Times-bestselling and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks writes impeccably researched historical novels, including Horse, The Secret Chord, March, People of the Book, Year of Wonders, and Caleb's Crossing. A former Wall Street Journal correspondent for Bosnia, Somalia, and the Middle East, Brooks delves deeply into history with a journalist's eye for detail and a master storyteller's sense of character. The author's talk begins at 7 pm with a book signing to follow at 8 pm. Books will be on sale from The Bookworm. This event is proudly sponsored by the Council Bluffs Public Library Foundation!

Drag Yourself to Brunch

Come to Caddy’s for Drag Yourself to Brunch every third Saturday or the month. We offer two shows, the first one starts at 10am, and the second starting at 1pm. Please call for reservations. We do offer a few walk in tables, but reservations are recommended.

RECtoberfest

This free outdoor event is designed for kids ages 12-18 with field day activities, carnival games, music, and lots of prizes!

Saturday Matinee - The Lost City

Reclusive author Loretta Sage writes about exotic places in her popular adventure novels that feature a handsome cover model named Alan. While on tour promoting her new book with Alan, Loretta gets kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire who hopes she can lead him to an ancient city’s lost treasure from her latest story. Determined to prove he can be a hero in real life and not just on the pages of her books, Alan sets off to rescue her. ~ 2022 ~ PG-13 ~ 1 hour, 52 minutes Free and open to the public – popcorn included.

Momentum by American Midwest Ballet

American Midwest Ballet’s award-winning mixed repertory program features an exciting mix of ballets that showcase the expressive range of dance. Guest choreographer and Broadway performer Ray Mercer is creating a world-premiere work that celebrates community in a style he calls “very contemporary, very athletic.” Renowned choreographer Frank Chaves is reviving Eva, a work hailed by the Chicago Sun-Times at its premiere as “an instant classic.” AMB artistic director Erika Overturff serves up The Diner, an audience favorite that celebrates America’s love of food and the open road. And the famous grand pas de deux from the classical ballet Don Quixote blends charming acting with dazzling technical feats.

Saturday, October 15, at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, October 16, at 2:00 pm at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center (1001 S 6th St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501).

SalonCentric Show

SalonCentric Industry Show - providing 10 hours of continuing education credits for those in the cosmetology industries. Whether you're visiting one of more than 585 stores, working with one of our expert sales consultants, or ordering from us online, we’re committed to listening to your needs and helping you identify the right education and business solutions for your salon. We are passionate about the professional beauty industry and share that passion through a variety of educational opportunities, including in-store demonstrations, in-salon training, regional classes, and large-scale stage presentations at industry shows.

Fall Foliage Ride down the Wabash Trace

Join BBC members as they ride down to Silver City (a 28-mile ride round trip) (some may continue to Malvern for a 45-mile round trip) from Council Bluffs and enjoy the fall colors along the Wabash Trace Trail. Some of us will also stop at Toby Jack's in Mineola for refreshments on the way back. Membership in the BBC is NOT required. Registration is required. No Fees. No Drop Ride. Avg Speed 10-15 mph. Bike with tires 32 mm or wider recommended. The surface is packed limestone.

Car Show and Music

Come on over for music and cars, starting at 11 am at Auto Plus here in Council bluffs!  Stop by to register your car. 

We are always looking for vendors to participate in our show. Contact Craig at 712-323-4020

Bridal Flea Market

Sell your new or gently used wedding items. You set your price and negotiate a great deal on your decor, flowers, linens, etc. It’s just $15 per table to sell. Admission is free. Contact Lisa for further info or to reserve your table today! Lisakerkman@yahoo.com

Angels Dementia Caregiver Series at Primrose Retirement Community

Angels Care Home Health Dementia Caregiver Series - Keeping the Peace. RSVP to Jessica Duncan at Jessica.duncan@angmarcompanies.com

Adult Coloring Club

Coloring can have a calming effect on the mind and promote overall wellness. Experience the stress-reducing benefits and creative self-discovery of adult coloring! Supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own coloring utensils and prints if you prefer. Color, relax, and chat – bring a friend!

Halloween Green Screen Photos

One of the best parts of Halloween is costumes! On Monday, October 17th and Thursday, October 20th from 6:30-8:00 PM the Makerspace will have its green screen backdrop set up to take photos of you in your costume, and then Photoshop it onto an awesome background.

Manufacturers and Trades

Join the CB Chamber as we recognize our local manufacturers and trade workers. Hear from guest speaker, Ron Debord, with Owen Industries.

City of Council Bluffs Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting

The Zoning Board of Adjustment meets the third Tuesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Adult Board Game Night

Adult Board Game Night - bring a friend!

Come play new and classic board and card games. This group meets the first and third Tuesday of each month, and it is free to attend. You are welcome to bring your favorite games or just stop in to join a game.

Third Wednesday Cookout (TWCO)

Monthly cookout to support the Great Plains Wing of the Commemorative Air Force and the P51D "Gunfighter". Museum will be open and aircraft will be on display. Cookout is burgers, brats and chicken with sides and beverages. Free will donation requested.

Chamber Mixer

Join us for a Chamber Mixer. This is a great opportunity to network with Chamber members. Appetizers and refreshments are provided.

Taco Ride

The Taco Ride takes place every Thursday evening on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Mineola, Iowa, and back. The scenic ride is about 20 miles through the Loess Hills and ends with dinner at Tobey Jack's Mineola Steakhouse. The weekly rides take place from when the trail is dry enough in the spring (usually in April or May) until late in the fall (usually until Halloween).

Most riders start at Iowa West Foundation Trailhead Park where parking is available. Slightly more than halfway between the trailhead and Tobey Jack's, many riders will stop at a picnic area, nicknamed Margaritaville, for a quick break and to join in a conversation with fellow bikers or to partake in refreshments they brought with them.

Note: The Taco Ride is a weekly event. It runs every Thursday evening during most of the year, weather permitting. Visit the Taco Ride website, linked below, for event news. For more information about the ride, visit our blog. 

Dementia Caregivers Support Group

As a caregiver, family member or friend of someone facing memory loss, you know how tough and isolating the experience can be, especially if you are their main caregiver. While no book or training can fully prepare you for the experience, we can learn strategies, get help from an expert and support each other in our journey. Presented by CountryHouse, you can expect: Helpful resources and tips, A supportive environment to share concerns, and Opportunities to ask for advice.

Halloween Green Screen Photos

One of the best parts of Halloween is costumes! On Monday, October 17th and Thursday, October 20th from 6:30-8:00 PM the Makerspace will have its green screen backdrop set up to take photos of you in your costume, and then Photoshop it onto an awesome background.

Anime NebrasKon

Anime NebrasKon is Nebraska's longest-running Anime Convention! Our mission is to connect all people and communities through Japanese animation and pop culture with education and activity. From the Student Union at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln with 300 attendees, our family has grown to over 6,500 attendees. Anime NebrasKon is a 24-hour con with something for everyone, from family-friendly panels, to video and board games, and from dances to video rooms, there is always something to do! Pre-registration for Anime NebrasKon 2022 is now open! Pre-registration prices are good through September 11th. Badges will be available for purchase online until October 17th. Anyone wishing to purchase badges after that date will have to purchase their badge at the door.

HawkWatch 5k Run/Walk

Welcome to the 17th Annual HawkWatch 5K Walk/Run! Grab your running or walking shoes and join us at Hitchcock Nature Center on October 22nd. Proceeds support Pottawattamie Conservation's efforts to preserve habitat in the county and offer low-impact recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy. The run/walk will utilize Hitchcock Nature Center's trail system.

Race time: 9:00 a.m.

Registration: Now through October 2nd: $28 | After October 2nd: $33 |

*Online registration closes at 6 PM on 10/20/22

T-shirts: Guaranteed size until 10/5/22. After this date, you may receive a t-shirt, but it might not be the correct size.

Packet pickup: From 7:30 a.m. to 8:50 a.m. at the race site in Hitchcock Nature Center

PACE | Makeup Design: Movies & Monsters

Join us in making your costume a first-prize winner this Halloween season as we teach you some makeup design techniques like fake cuts and bruises, to a pencil sticking out of your eye! This event is for kids ages 7-12. (Adults must be accompanied by a kiddo).

Members $30 | Non-Members $35 If you or your kiddo can’t make this one, call our box office at 712-890-5600 and ask for details on booking a private class. 

Live Music and Dancing at the YMCA

Enjoy live music, dancing, and fellowship, while the Greg Spevak and Leo Lonnie Orchestras play your favorite tunes. You'll hear your favorite Latin, Swing, Waltzes, and Polkas as you dance in our beautiful ballroom! Mention this advertisement and your first dance is free. Photo ID is required for first time guests.

Zombie Run & Monster Mash Dance Party!

The Carson Park Board will be hosting a Zombie Run and Monster Mash Dance Party! The zombie run portion of the event will start at 4:00 PM. There will be lurking creatures possible throughout the route and a few obstacles. The Park Board will be serving a concessions-style dinner thereafter at the Community Center along with a DJ and the Legion will have the bar open. Plan for a fun night! Follow the City of Carson Facebook page and website for further announcements on the details.

PACE | Kids Costuming: Make it at Home

Happy Halloween bandits and ghouls! We invite you to come up on stage (don’t worry, we won’t put you in the cast of an upcoming production… Yet), and learn to make a fun and scary Halloween Costume in 15 minutes with items you already have at home! Denise Putman and Jason Long are part of Chanticleer Theater, with plenty of experience using found materials. Ages 12+. Adults must be accompanied by a child, and please, leave the ghosts at home, we have plenty here.

Members $10 | Non-Members $15 If you or your kiddo can’t make this one, call our box office at 712-890-5600 and ask for details on booking a private class

Treynor Trunk or Treat

Treynor Trunk or Treat is a family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween safely for children. There will be games and activities for everyone and a pumpkin patch set up for you to get your Halloween pumpkin to carve or decorate. Organizations and businesses will have lots of treats from the trunk of their vehicle ready to distribute in the parking lot.

Prairie Seed Harvest

Support land stewardship by collecting local ecotype native prairie seed for ecological restoration efforts in western Iowa's Loess Hills. The event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. This event includes walking over steep, rugged terrain, so dress appropriately. Email lance@goldenhillsrcd.org with questions. Meet at the Loess Hills Lodge at Hitchcock Nature Center. Full details and directions are available at goldenhillsrcd.org/prairieseed. The event may be rescheduled if inclement weather. Check back on the day of the event.

Project funding was provided by Specialty Crop Block Grant, Pottawattamie Conservation Foundation, and Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration.

2nd Annual Field of Treats

Come down to the Iowa West Sports Plex for the 2nd Annual Fields of Treats event! Local organizations and teams will be set up to give out candy and goodies. This event is free for all children to attend. Please share with your friends, family, teams, and whoever else you'd like to! We had 600+ kids and 25 local businesses and teams last year. Let's make it even bigger for year 2!! If your business, organization, or team would like to set up a table to participate in the event, please contact (712) 796-4163 or seth@cbsoccerclub.org. It's free for organizations to participate. 

Taco Ride

The Taco Ride takes place every Thursday evening on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Mineola, Iowa, and back. The scenic ride is about 20 miles through the Loess Hills and ends with dinner at Tobey Jack's Mineola Steakhouse. The weekly rides take place from when the trail is dry enough in the spring (usually in April or May) until late in the fall (usually until Halloween).

Most riders start at Iowa West Foundation Trailhead Park where parking is available. Slightly more than halfway between the trailhead and Tobey Jack's, many riders will stop at a picnic area, nicknamed Margaritaville, for a quick break and to join in a conversation with fellow bikers or to partake in refreshments they brought with them.

Note: The Taco Ride is a weekly event. It runs every Thursday evening during most of the year, weather permitting. Visit the Taco Ride website, linked below, for event news. For more information about the ride, visit our blog. 

Fairview Cemetery Guided Walking Tour

Nestled in the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River Valley, Fairview Cemetery is home to many Council Bluffs settlers, business entrepreneurs, and a scurry of black squirrels. This tour explores the majesty of this historic memorial garden, the lives of some who rest there, and the art erected to memorialize them. Tickets start at $25.00

746 Needlework Club

Knitting, crochet, embroidery - all skill levels welcome! Meet with people who share your interest in needlework; share ideas and help each other! Bring your own supplies or projects to work on. 746 Needlework Club meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month. It is free and open to the public.

Squirrel Cage Jail Flashlight Tours 2022

Join us for a 45-minute night tour of the Squirrel Cage Jail, you never know what you might find around the next spooky corner! Your guide will carry a flashlight and will be lighting the way for you. Decorations, fog machines, and some scarers will be located throughout the building. Tours are limited to 15 people and cost $10 per person. Tours are available every half hour. 

**Strobe lights and fog machines are in use during the tours

Silhouette Cameo ~ Paper Crafting Drop-In

Looking to get your craft on? Stop by the Makerspace to make & take a Pumpkin Treat Holder! The Silhouette Cameo is an extremely versatile electronic cutting and drawing machine that makes cutting paper, cardstock or vinyl for your favorite projects, a snap! Paper Crafting Drop-In is offered on the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month and is free and open to the public.

PACE | Trick-or-Treating at the Hoff

Trick or treat, smell my feet, and give us something good to eat! Find a path at PACE this Frightening Fourth Friday to knock on doors and fill a bucket up with your favorite sweets! Afterward enjoy some more fun activities with us, like the costume contest, gallery flashlight tours, and chainsaw pumpkin carving! Adults must be accompanied by a child at this free event. 

Squirrel Cage Jail Flashlight Tours 2022

Join us for a 45-minute night tour of the Squirrel Cage Jail, you never know what you might find around the next spooky corner! Your guide will carry a flashlight and will be lighting the way for you. Decorations, fog machines, and some scarers will be located throughout the building. Tours are limited to 15 people and cost $10 per person. Tours are available every half hour. 

**Strobe lights and fog machines are in use during the tours

PACE | Halloween Costume Contest

Compete for victory and bragging rights (and of course some cool prizes) this Halloween at the first ever Costume Contest at PACE! $5 Entry | Ages 21+

1st Place: A gift basket that includes: Gift Card (TBD), four free drink tickets to McCormicks 1894 Bar, two free meals at one of our next pop-up restaurant dates, two free class registrations of your choice, two free tickets to Cemetary Club presented by Chanticleer Community Theater, and $25 PACE Bucks that can be redeemed for a class, main-stage tickets, etc.

2nd Place: Four free drink tickets to McCormicks 1894 Bar, two free class registrations of your choice, $25 PACE Bucks that can be redeemed for a class, main-stage tickets, etc.

3rd Place: Two free drink tickets to McCormicks 1894 Bar, $25 PACE Bucks that can be redeemed for a class, main-stage tickets, etc.

Thompson Square

Thompson Square- Acoustic Duo With romantically charged #1 hits like Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not and If I Didn’t Have You, multi-platinum international success, and honors including Vocal Duo of the Year from both the ACM and CMA Awards, Country duo Thompson Square admit they don’t have much left on their bucket list. Husband and wife team of Keifer and Shawna Thompson rode a wave of success rising from their Grammy-nominated, double-platinum breakout Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not, traveling the world with superstars Jason Aldean and Lady A (formerly Lady Antebellum) and racking up Country-radio favorites like the devoted I Got You (Top 10 in 2011) and the flirty Everything I Shouldn’t Be Thinking About (Top 5 in 2013). As new parents and a newly independent duo, Thompson Square have stepped into the next chapter of their Country-music fairytale with their latest album Masterpiece.

Tissue Paper Flowers

Fall is here and fall colors are all around! Stop by the Council Bluffs Public Library Makerspace and add to your festive décor with tissue paper flowers. No registration required.

Squirrel Cage Jail Flashlight Tours 2022

Join us for a 45-minute night tour of the Squirrel Cage Jail, you never know what you might find around the next spooky corner! Your guide will carry a flashlight and will be lighting the way for you. Decorations, fog machines, and some scarers will be located throughout the building. Tours are limited to 15 people and cost $10 per person. Tours are available every half hour. 

**Strobe lights and fog machines are in use during the tours

Fairview Cemetery Guided Walking Tour

Nestled in the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River Valley, Fairview Cemetery is home to many Council Bluffs settlers, business entrepreneurs, and a scurry of black squirrels. This tour explores the majesty of this historic memorial garden, the lives of some who rest there, and the art erected to memorialize them. Tickets start at $25.00

Fairview Cemetery Guided Walking Tour

Nestled in the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River Valley, Fairview Cemetery is home to many Council Bluffs settlers, business entrepreneurs, and a scurry of black squirrels. This tour explores the majesty of this historic memorial garden, the lives of some who rest there, and the art erected to memorialize them. Tickets start at $25.00

City of Council Bluffs Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

The Historic Preservation Commission meets at 4 pm the first Wednesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Bison Fest at Botna Bend

In honor of National Bison Day, come visit our bison herd out at Botna Bend Park and learn more about this magnificent species and the conservation efforts that help protect them. Swing by between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for fun, family-friendly activities, including:

- Say hello to Botna Bend’s live bison herd
- Atlatl and bison chip throwing
- Bison wool spinning
- Hay rack rides
- Bison artifacts
- Storytelling
- Crafts
- Fossil finding demonstration: Learn how to search for and find fossils
- Prairie hike: Learn how bison support vital prairie ecosystems

This event is free with a $3/vehicle park entry fee or membership. We'll see you there!

Cyber Security for Small Business (Zoom)

This workshop developed by America’s SBDC North Star Initiative provides basic level cybersecurity training for small businesses. We will cover what information to protect, how to protect that data, how to detect problems, and how to respond and recover.

City of Council Bluffs Planning Commission Meeting

The City Planning Commission meets the second Tuesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Live Music and Dancing at the YMCA

Enjoy live music, dancing, and fellowship, while the Greg Spevak and Leo Lonnie Orchestras play your favorite tunes. You'll hear your favorite Latin, Swing, Waltzes, and Polkas as you dance in our beautiful ballroom! Mention this advertisement and your first dance is free. Photo ID is required for first time guests.

Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience

The Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience is a rare newcomer to traditional pop – fusing a big band spirit with an inventive edge – and garnering a top 5 Billboard spot with the release of their first album. Shaun, an Emmy award-winning crooner (and lead singer of the internationally-known a capella ensemble, Tonic Sol-fa) indelibly stamps vocal jazz and swing with a contemporary punch – to the delight of both traditionalists and newcomers – emerging as an original voice in the continuing tradition of the American vocalist.

City of Council Bluffs Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting

The Zoning Board of Adjustment meets the third Tuesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is returning to Council Bluffs with The Ghost of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More! The doors open at 6 p.m. Get your tickets online or at the Mid-America Center box office Monday thru Friday from noon to 5:00 p.m. 

Dementia Caregivers Support Group

As a caregiver, family member or friend of someone facing memory loss, you know how tough and isolating the experience can be, especially if you are their main caregiver. While no book or training can fully prepare you for the experience, we can learn strategies, get help from an expert and support each other in our journey. Presented by CountryHouse, you can expect: Helpful resources and tips, A supportive environment to share concerns, and Opportunities to ask for advice.

Drag Yourself to Brunch

Come to Caddy’s for Drag Yourself to Brunch every third Saturday or the month. We offer two shows, the first one starts at 10am, and the second starting at 1pm. Please call for reservations. We do offer a few walk in tables, but reservations are recommended.

The Nutcracker by American Midwest Ballet

Visual splendor, a charming story, and brilliant classical dancing – it’s no wonder American Midwest Ballet's version of the world’s favorite holiday ballet is a family tradition! Fresh, lively, and thoroughly entertaining, The Nutcracker highlights the versatility of AMB’s international cast of professional artists, backed by a polished ensemble of student dancers from across the metro area. The Nutcracker features lavish sets and more than 250 beautiful costumes.

Saturday, November 19, at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm, and Sunday, November 20*, at 2:00 pm at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center (1001 S 6th St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501).

*November 20 is a sensory-friendly performance, designed to increase accessibility for people on the autism spectrum.

Angels Dementia Caregiver Series at Primrose Retirement Community

Angels Care Home Health Dementia Caregiver Series - The Behaviors. RSVP to Jessica Duncan at Jessica.duncan@angmarcompanies.com

City of Council Bluffs Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

The Historic Preservation Commission meets at 4 pm the first Wednesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Jim Brickman: A Very Merry Christmas

Jim Brickman, the multiple Grammy-nominated songwriter and piano sensation is back this festive season with his annual holiday tour “A Very Merry Christmas,” a magical evening celebrating music, love and family. Brickman will warm the hearts of all as sounds of faith and love make spirits bright, bringing family and friends together for anything but a silent night. Join Brickman for this LIVE and joyous concert experience that blends yuletide memories and holiday favorites with his own hit songs such as, “The Gift,” “Sending You A Little Christmas,” “Angel Eyes,” and “If You Believe” Jim Brickman: A Very Merry Christmas wraps up the sweet sounds of the season only he and his piano can provide.

Live Music and Dancing at the YMCA

Enjoy live music, dancing, and fellowship, while the Greg Spevak and Leo Lonnie Orchestras play your favorite tunes. You'll hear your favorite Latin, Swing, Waltzes, and Polkas as you dance in our beautiful ballroom! Mention this advertisement and your first dance is free. Photo ID is required for first time guests.

Taking Control of Your Website (Zoom)

Your website is one of the most important assets in your business. It is your 24-hour presence that customers and prospective customers can utilize to find out imperative information about you even when you are closed. This workshop will make sure that you utilize this powerful tool to help you gain and keep valuable customers by going over design and content best practices.

City of Council Bluffs Planning Commission Meeting

The City Planning Commission meets the second Tuesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Dementia Caregivers Support Group

As a caregiver, family member or friend of someone facing memory loss, you know how tough and isolating the experience can be, especially if you are their main caregiver. While no book or training can fully prepare you for the experience, we can learn strategies, get help from an expert and support each other in our journey. Presented by CountryHouse, you can expect: Helpful resources and tips, A supportive environment to share concerns, and Opportunities to ask for advice.

Angels Dementia Caregiver Series at Primrose Retirement Community

Angels Care Home Health Dementia Caregiver Series - Dementia and Medications. RSVP to Jessica Duncan at Jessica.duncan@angmarcompanies.com

City of Council Bluffs Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting

The Zoning Board of Adjustment meets the third Tuesday of every month unless otherwise notified.

Classic Albums Live- Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Founded in 2003 by Craig Martin, Classic Albums Live takes the greatest albums and recreates them live on stage - note for note, cut for cut, using the best musicians. “Think of it as a recital,” says Martin, “these albums are historic and stand the test of time.” Forgoing costumes and impersonations, Classic Albums Live concentrates solely on the music. “We don’t dress up or wear any sort of costume. We just stand there and play. All of our energy is put into the music. We want the performance to sound exactly like the album,” says Martin. It’s the symphony of our time. Dark Side of the Moon came out in 1973 and achieved over 20 million album sales. At the time of its release, it had massive cultural appeal. School students took to drawing the album art on school binders, and people started paying attention to the sound of cash register bells. Classic Albums Live knows how to perform this album with all of its complexities and soul. It’s a masterpiece that will be remembered forever.

L.A. Theatre Works presents "Lucy Loves Desi: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sitcom"

Lucy Loves Desi: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sitcom is the hilarious and true story behind one of America’s most beloved TV comedies. Lucille Ball paved the way for many of today’s top comediennes, while forcing Hollywood to begin dealing with the rising power and influence of women artists, both on-screen and behind the scenes. Playwright Gregg Oppenheimer – son of I Love Lucy creator Jess Oppenheimer – spins this witty, fast-paced tale of Lucy and Desi’s battles with CBS over the pioneering ideas that changed the face of television forever. From casting her real-life husband, Cuban-born Desi Arnaz, to insisting that the show be filmed in Hollywood, where she wanted to raise her family, to incorporating her real-life pregnancy into the show, Lucy left her impression on the television industry. L.A. Theatre Works (LATW) has been the foremost radio theater company in the United States for four decades.

Dallas String Quartet (DSQ) Electric

Dallas String Quartet (DSQ) is an international music sensation that plays a fusion of contemporary classical and pop music. DSQ is referred to as “Bach meets Bon Jovi” and compared to artists like Lindsey Stirling, Vitamin String Quartet and 2Cellos. They use both traditional and electric string instruments performing as a quartet with the full accompaniment of drums and guitar and are known for their eclectic renditions of anything from Guns N’ Roses “Sweet Child of Mine” to Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello’s “Señorita.” In addition to performing internationally, DSQ had played “at home” for Presidents Bush and Obama, the College Football Playoff and for the NBA and NFL. DSQ has sold out concert venues like the House of Blues and symphony halls alike. They have played alongside the likes of Josh Groban, Chicago, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and recently played for the wedding of Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani.

The Wizard of Oz by American Midwest Ballet

This smash-hit production is back by popular demand! Choreographer Erin Alarcón takes us dancing down the Yellow Brick Road in this imaginative full-length story ballet. A lifelong fan of both the classic film and the groundbreaking fantasy novel, Alarcón uses the magic of dance to create an unforgettable experience through her interpretation of the beloved Oz story and its iconic characters: Dorothy, the storm-tossed but unflappable heroine; her companions the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion; the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch; and, of course, the Wizard himself. This fast-paced, entertaining spectacle tells the story in styles ranging from the grandeur of classical ballet to the energy of large-scale musical theater. A huge success at its 2019 premiere, The Wizard of Oz is sure to be one of the hottest tickets in town! Friday, April 7, at 7:30 pm at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center (1001 S 6th St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501).

Lightwire Theater: The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare

Lightwire Theater has been featured as semi-finalists on NBC’s America’s Got Talent and winners of Tru TV’s Fake Off. The performance combines theater and technology to bring stories to life in complete darkness and has been internationally recognized for their signature brand of electroluminescent artistry. The 60-minute show begins with Aesop’s classic fable, The Tortoise and the Hare, but continues the story 10 years into the future. Now the classic competitors have children of their own who are exploring modern-day distractions. Smartphones and video games create a landscape of lost connections to life experiences. The Next Generation features Tortoise Junior and Lil’ Hare in a whole new kind of race, where their adventures lead them into unexpected territory. Old Man Tortoise and Big Daddy Hare must come together despite their differences to find and save their children. What hurdles will they have to overcome to make it to the finish line?