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Sadly, the summer music festival season is coming to an end. Time to hang up the sunglasses and body glitter and swap them for your cardigans, boots and gourmet coffee. However, festival season isn’t over completely. We compiled a list of fun festivals right here in Iowa where you and your pals can take a number of Instagram worthy shots.

KALONA FALL FESTIVAL

Kalona Historical Village, Sept. 28

Head to Kalona on Sept. 28 for the Kalona Fall Festival, which offers pumpkin carving, pony rides, and a plethora of authentic dishes and pastries. Grab some of the famous cheese from Kalona Creamery while you’re there.

IOWA CITY BOOK FESTIVAL

Downtown Iowa City, Oct. 1-7

Head 30 minutes northeast from Kalona and you’ll land in the beautiful college town of Iowa City. If you find yourself there Oct. 1-7, be sure to check out the IC Book Festival. With Iowa City being a UNESCO City of Literature, as well as home to the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, it’s no surprise that a book festival thrives in this community. Check out their schedule here.

OKTOBERFEST

Amana Colonies & many other locations, Oct. 5-7

Interested in drinking some German brews and having a good time? Flying to Munich probably isn’t in the budget this October, but take your pick of Oktoberfest celebrations here in Iowa. There’s at least 9 happening in the state this year. The Amana Colonies throw a pretty fantastic Oktoberfest celebration every year, which makes sense because the entire community is a historic landmark built by German natives. This year it will be taking place on Oct. 5-7 and will feature beer keg tapping, a parade, live entertainment, games, and activities for both adults and kids. There is also log sawing, brat eating, and the timber trek. Be sure to check their website for the times of specific activities.

PUMPKIN FEST

Anamosa, Oct. 6

Head to Anamosa to get your fix of GIANT pumpkins, Pumpkinfest 5k, pumpkin carving, and other pumpkin-themed activities! There’s a huge list of activities happening around town throughout the day for the Pumpkin Fest, so make sure to take a look to plan out the perfect schedule for you and your group.

COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL

Bridges of Madison County, Oct. 13-14

Madison County is full of rich history, and this year marks the 49th Annual Covered Bridge Festival surrounding the famous Bridges of Madison County. This year, the festival’s theme is “Dream Big Dreams,” celebrating the legacy of George Washington Carver. For a mere $2 admission fee, you’ll have access to the parade, car show, quilt show, live music and entertainment, arts and craft vendors, delicious festival food, and more. If you’re a history buff, this is the festival for you!

 

There you have it! Let us know if your favorite festival didn’t make our list, and keep an eye on our Instagram to see stories of our adventures throughout the Fall!

 

 

About Plaid Swan

Plaid Swan is a women-owned marketing communications firm operating out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The firm represents clients across the United States in public relations, media planning, social and digital media, graphic design and strategic planning. Visit us online at PlaidSwan.com or on our social media channels as @PlaidSwan. Lines are meant to be crossed.