Downtown Block Party | Iowa City Downtown District

2025 Downtown Block Party

Saturday, June 28, 3:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

PRE-PURCHASE CUPS & WRISTBANDS

Iowa City’s biggest event of the year returns this summer! The 8th Annual Downtown Block Party is set for Saturday, June 28th from 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. and will take over 14 blocks in the heart of Downtown Iowa City. The event is for all ages and specifically targets the feel of a community block party. Rather than selling tickets, the event instead sells Block Party cups that allow attendees 21 and older to purchase their drink from local establishments and take it into the street to enjoy. All of the programming activities and entertainment are completely free and open to the public.

Pre-sale cups can be purchased online for a reduced price of $10. Tickets will buy you the official event cup and wristband that will allow you to walk around the event with wine and beer in-hand. Cups only need to be purchased if you plan on consuming alcohol. Day-of cups can also be purchased during the event at cup stations for an increased price of $15.

This year’s festival is made possible through the generous support of community sponsors: GreenState Credit Union, iBev, Hills Bank, Thompson & Co. Salon Parlor, RDG Planning & Design, Chase, McGrath Toyota of Iowa City, Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, Iowa Speedway, Raising Cane’s, The Learning Grove Academy, and Lionheart Early Learning. Proceeds from the event are donated to local groups, clubs, and non-profits that volunteer to support the festival.

See you on the street on June 28th!

Event Programming & Activities

This year you’ll be welcomed with a wide variety of activites such as adult tricycle races, crossnet volleyball, kid’s street hockey, hula hoop stations, rollerskating, live music, and so much more. And many fan favorites such as Dueling Pianos Sponsored by Hills Bank, Silent Disco Sponsored by GreenState Credit Union, the Main Stage Sponsored by iBev, and SCWPro Wrestling, are slated to return.

Englert Main Stage Sponsored by iBev and Curated by Englert Theatre

- 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. | BYOBrass
  - BYOBrass is a collective of musicians and educators from throughout the state of Iowa. Founded in 2017 by a group of friends and students at the University of Northern Iowa, the band quickly gained a following in the Cedar Falls area. Since relocating to the Des Moines metro in 2021, BYOBrass has taken their show and expanded their audience to the entire state of Iowa and the Midwest. BYOBrass draws inspiration from all across the musical spectrum and uses their influence to create high-energy original music as well as give their take on popular classics. Their live shows and eclectic mix of influences and styles are sure to please audiences of all ages!
- 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. | La Rosa Noir
  - Born & Raised in Chicago, IL. La Rosa Noir is known for their unique blend of surf, post punk, and Latin rhythms, tying them to their cultural heritage. Their debut album, “Arellano,” named after frontwoman Yeshi Regalado’s grandmother’s maiden name, pays tribute to her significant musical influence. With storytelling lyrics inspired by personal experiences, the album explores themes of relationships, loss, and self-discovery, set against a backdrop of dreamy dissonance and fiery punk energy.
- 8:00 – 9:30 p.m. | HOUNDS
  - HOUNDS is a three-piece alternative rock band based in Nashville, TN. Utilizing melodies that bury themselves deep in your mind, rich and intricate vocal harmony, and a deep love for synth and catchy rhythms, Jordan Slone, Jack McCoy and Logan Mohler create music that simultaneously acknowledges the past and celebrates the future. Since originally forming in 2017, the band has seen two full-length releases. The first, the self-titled and independently released “Hounds”, and after securing a deal with BMG, their second album, “Cattle In The Sky”.

Iowa Avenue Stage Sponsored by iBev | 3:00 – 9:30 p.m.

- 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Childserve Talent Show
  - The ChildServe Talent Show returns, showcasing fun and inspiring performances from kids and teens. With singing and comedy to unique and creative acts, this feel-good show is full of surprises and big smiles!
- 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. | Iowa City Swing Dance
  - Join Iowa City Swing dance with performances and short solo jazz lessons! Swing dance is an umbrella term for a variety of styles of vintage jazz dance, including Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Balboa. They are all social and improvisational. Lindy Hop, the most famous swing dance, is an African-American jazz dance born in Harlem, New York City in 1928. It is primarily a partnered social dance, but includes elements of solo dancing, performances, and competition.
- 5:45 – 6:45 p.m. | Snack Break Movement Arts
  - Snack Break showcases street dance styles like breakin’, Hip Hop, House, and funk with a mix of local artists. Their high-energy show celebrates freestyle and Hip Hop’s message of peace, love, unity, and fun.
- 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. | The Braymores
  - The Braymores are a Chicago indie/folk/alt rock band known for heartfelt lyrics and melodic guitars. They released their debut album Who You’d Have Been in 2024, following their 2023 EP Talking to Trees.
- 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. | Studio 13 Drag Show
  - Closing out the night with glam and flair, the Studio 13 Drag Show hits the stage! Don’t miss dazzling performances by Hollywood Hope, Hazel Sanchez-Belle, Daphne Danger, India Love, and Myling Belle—always a Block Party favorite!

SCW Pro Wrestling with Black and Brave Wrestling Academy

- 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Wrestling Matches
- 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Photos with Wrestlers
- 8:00 – 8:30 p.m. Wrestling Match Finale

Eulenspiegel Puppet Show | 3:00 – 5:30 p.m.

Catch a magical puppet show with colorful characters and playful storytelling that will delight kids and adults alike!

Jazz Trio | 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Street DJ | 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Tap Dance Performances with Nolte Academy | 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Silent Disco sponsored by GreenState Credit Union | 4:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Grab a headset and hit the dance floor! Pick your channel, choose your vibe, and dance like no one’s watching. With multiple DJs spinning at once, the Silent Disco is a choose-your-own-adventure dance party that’s fun for all.

Dueling Pianos sponsored by Hills Bank | 5:00 – 10:00 p.m.

- Get ready for a high-energy, all-request show with Dueling Pianos! Two talented performers face off on the keys, playing your favorite songs, taking audience requests, and turning the night into a sing-along party full of music, laughter, and fun.

Gabe’s Stage – Beaker Brothers | 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.

- The Beaker Brothers bring a fresh take on the rock, blues, and jazz sounds of the late ’60s and early ’70s. Inspired by legends like Clapton, Hendrix, and Santana, their high-energy sets blend classic vibes with modern soul, perfect for a groovy summer night.

Aerial Performance by Mimi Ke & Elaine McCague | 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.

- The Downtown Block Party ends on a high note with a spectacular aerial show from Mimi Ke and Elaine McCague. Blending strength, grace, and daring movement, these internationally recognized artists will transform the skyline into a stage. With Iowa-based talent Mimi and Irish aerialist Elaine joining forces, this one-of-a-kind performance promises a magical mix of circus, dance, and pure awe.

Rollerskating with Old Capitol City Roller Derby | 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- Lace up your skates and roll through downtown with music, lights, and good vibes. Skates and socks available to borrow!
Pedal Go-Karts & Strider Bikes with Parks and Recreation | 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- Little riders can cruise a safe, closed course on trikes and balance bikes.
Street Hockey with Iowa Heartlanders | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Grab a stick and hit the street for fast-paced hockey fun, hosted by the pros from the Iowa Heartlanders!
Hula Hoop Station | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Spin, swirl, and twirl! Drop by the hula hoop station to test your skills and show off your best moves.
Basketball | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Shoot hoops and challenge your crew to a friendly game of street ball—no court required, just bring your A-game!
CrossNet Volleyball | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Try your hand at CrossNet—the four-way volleyball game taking over the streets! With five courts set up, there’s plenty of space to jump in and play.
Yard Games | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Enjoy classic and oversized games like SmashNet, 360 Pickleball, popdarts, giant Jenga, 4 Square, and corn hole—perfect for groups and drop-in fun.
Pickleball in the Ped Mall
- 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Free Play
- 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Tournaments (sign up HERE!)
- 9:00 – 10:00 p.m. Free Play
Mini-Golf | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Putt your way through a full 18-hole mini-golf course right in the middle of downtown!
Beach Area with the Iowa Children’s Museum | 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- Dig, build, and play in a pop-up beach zone filled with sand, toys, and fun—perfect for little hands and big imaginations!
All-Ages Yoga with HotHouse Yoga | 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
- Join HotHouse Yoga for a special outdoor session for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or trying it for the first time, come center yourself with breath, movement, and community.
4-Square | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Scooters | 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Cruise around downtown on two wheels! Zip through designated paths and test your skills with free scooter rides available throughout the evening.

Community Mural with Laura Palmer

Join artist Laura Palmer in painting a large-scale community mural, presented by ICDD in partnership with Think Iowa City & the Community Foundation of Johnson County. Fill in outlined sections like a giant paint-by-number and help create a shared piece of art right in the heart of downtown.

Art Corner Sponsored by The Learning Grove Academy and Lionheart Early Learning | 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.

- Porch Light Literary Arts Center: Join the team from PorchLight Literary Arts Center for a collaborative art making experience at the Image+Word Assembly Line. You give them the first line for a story or poem and they’ll pass it through the line of word-smithing typists and multi-media artists who take your idea and run with it. This collaborative activity is fun for adults and children alike. See what your ideas spark, and take home a one-of-a-kind piece of Iowa City art!
- Public Space One: Print your own Downtown Iowa City postcard using letterpress and foil stamping equipment from PS1’s community print studio, the Iowa City Press Co-op!
- FilmScene: Bring your kids to FilmScene’s Popcorn Magic Fairy Fantasyland tent to make your own mini-movie with an incredible backdrop commissioned by a local artist, fun theatrical props and customizable clapboard sheets that can be taken home.
- The Learning Grove Academy and Lionheart Early Learning: Our sponsors will be featuring sensory play–get creative with colorful chalk and hands-on sensory activities perfect for little ones. Families can stop by for some engaging outdoor fun with Learning Grove Academy and Lionheart Early Learning!

T-Shirt Screen Printing Sponsored by Chase | 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.

- Make your own Downtown Block Party t-shirt! Wright House of Fashion artists will guide you through screen printing your design and curing it on the spot—yours to wear and take home that day!

Adult Tricycle Races with Briar Ridge Bikes | 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Hop on a giant trike and race your friends for laughs and bragging rights.
Tug-of-War with Iowa City Ducks Rugby | 9:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Grab a rope and join the ultimate test of teamwork and strength, hosted by the mighty Rugby Ducks!
- Sign up HERE!

Blitz and Bullet Chess Tournaments with Iowa Chess Association| 4:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- 3:15 – 3:45 Registration On-site
- Fast-paced and fun, these timed matches are open to all skill levels and offer the chance to win prizes for top players. Prefer a more relaxed game? Stop by the open play tables, available all day for casual matches with friends, family, or new opponents.
Puzzle & Gaming Plaza with Diversions Tabletop Game Lounge | 3:00 – 9:00 p.m.
- Enjoy oversized yard games, casual tabletop games, and friendly competition. Try your hand at the Speed Puzzle Tournament, where teams or solo players race the clock for a spot on the leaderboard and a chance to win prizes. Or join the hilarious action of CornChecks, a life-sized mix of checkers and cornhole.

Iowa City Letters | 3:00 – 10:00 p.m.
The Snap Wagon Mobile Photo Booth | 3:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Event FAQ’s

Event FAQ:

How does the event work?
The Downtown Block Party is a one-day event packed with unique street programming, local food, and all-ages fun. All programming is free to attendees. A ticket is only necessary if you would like to consume alcohol throughout the festival footprint. The official Block Party cup will act as your ticket.

Can I bring my family?
Absolutely! The Downtown Block Party is for everyone. We have many kid and family oriented activities, including beach play, mini-golf, hula-hoop station, art activities, and so much more.

Where should I park?
We recommend parking in one of the 6 parking ramps: Court St & Dubuque St, Dubuque St & Burlington, Dubuque & Burlington, Iowa Ave & Linn St, and Harrison St. All ramps are free on Block Party day!

Can I bring my dog?
We recommend leaving pets at home. The event can mean large crowds, loud music, and hot concrete.

What about food and drinks?
All of our local bars and restaurants will be serving food and drinks! Most establishments will be set up outside of their doors for quick-service. As a reminder, if you’d like to drink in the streets you will need to purchase an official Block Party cup.

Ticket & Cup FAQ:

PRE-SALE TICKETS: I purchased a ticket online…now what?
Bring your ticket (digital QR code or printed PDF) and ID to one of the four cup stations located throughout the event footprint. There will be a PRE-SALE tent at each location. Upon being ID’d and wristbanded, you will show your ticket in exchange for a cup.

I have friends coming that didn’t purchase tickets ahead of time, can we go to the same cup station?
Yes, at every glass station there will be a pre-sale booth and a day-of booth. Four locations will be located throughout the event – Clinton & College, College & Linn St, Washington St & Linn St, and Iowa Ave and Linn St.

What if I have problems with my ticket, where do I go?
Volunteers can assist at any of the cup stations. The volunteer booth will also be located in the Ped Mall outside of Wells Fargo.

What should I bring to the event?

Your ID! We need your identification to provide you with your official wristband and cup.
If you purchased a Pre-Sale ticket, bring your ticket!
Your friends and family!
Sunscreen and sunglasses.
We recommend wearing tennis shoes for some of the activities.

We want every community member and attendee to feel safe while attending the Downtown Block Party. Specific questions regarding safety, security, medical, and any others can be directed to info@downtowniowacity.com. If you have an immediate need while on-site seek out on-site public safety officers or the first-aid tent. ‍
Weather & Safety Protocols for Downtown Block PartyIn case of lightning– All are asked to take shelter inside open businesses, Iowa City Public Library, or a nearby parking ramp lowest level. If no shelter is available, find a clearing away from trees. Never stand near a tree. Lightning strikes the tallest point and travels downward, sometimes arcing to things – including people nearby. Once you find a clearing, squat on your toes with as little of your body touching the ground as possible. Once lightning is confirmed, programming will stop until it has been confirmed that it is safe to continue
In the case of a tornado–A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for the formation of a tornado. It doesn’t necessarily mean a tornado has been spotted. A tornado warning means that rotation has been spotted in the clouds or a funnel has actually touched down. If there is rotation or a warning, take cover immediately. A tornado will generally come from the southwest and move northeast. Most injuries and deaths from a tornado are a result of flying debris. Tornado storms can produce more than one funnel, lots of lightning, rain, and hail. In this storm, everyone should take immediate action and find shelter. Designated tornado shelters should be used including any open buildings with basements (see map below*note: send people into businesses & open city buildings)
In case of hail–Attempt to seek shelter immediately. If there is no lightning, move under a tree. Generally, if there is hail with a severe storm, it probably means lightning, in which case standing under a tree is not advised.

2025 Block Party Food & Drink Specials

All downtown bars and restaurants are open for regular business, with some set up outside their location with quick-serve items and specials. If you are looking to hydrate, any of the bars and restaurants will have water. You can also visit Target, CVS, or Bread Garden to purchase bottles of water. Please make sure to stay hydrated!

Please remember, only beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed in the official Block Party cup.

AlleyCat & Studio13