Upcoming Events
Opening Reception for 2026 Budding Artist Show
The FMAAA Art Center, along with sponsor Melissa Derr of Edward Jones, is pleased to once again host our annual exhibition of the region's youngest artists. The Budding Artist Show is everyone's favorite, displaying artwork from grades K - 8th for the month of January. The Opening Reception will be held on Saturday, January 10 from 1pm to 4pm to provide an opportunity for the young artists and their friends and families to celebrate with cookies and other treats.
This year's exhibition will feature young artists from:
Fort Madison Elementary and Middle Schools
Holy Trinity
Central Lee
and Nauvoo / Colusa (IL)
Feather Party at the Rail Yard Sports Bar
Join us for our annual Feather Party for your chance to win some meats and other great prizes. Everything kicks off at 3:00. Snacks will be provided, we hope to see you there.
Wild Fire at Vinnie's
WILDFIRE IS BACK AT VINNIE’S!
High-energy country / rock / alternative—from ’80s & ’90s classics to today’s radio hits.
Blazing female vocals, searing guitar leads, big bass, and tight drum beats made to dance, sing, and lose your voice to.
Grab a drink, grab your friends, and let’s light the place up.
Wildfire at Vinnie’s — don’t miss it!
Jared Harness and Nathan Gosnell at the Landing
Two local legends. One stage. One unforgettable afternoon.
We’re bringing something special to The Landing on Saturday, January 11th as Jerad Harness & Nathan Gosnell come together LIVE from 4–7 PM!
These two are no strangers to the local music scene — each a standout in their own right — and when they share the stage, you can expect great songs, tight harmonies, and the kind of performance that keeps the crowd locked in from the first note to the last.
If you love supporting local talent, this is a show you won’t want to miss.
Kick back, bring your friends, and enjoy a winter afternoon filled with great music and even better company.
The Landing at Dallas City
Saturday, January 11th
4–7 PM
Live Music: Jerad Harness & Nathan Gosnell
Tag your music-loving friends and make plans now!
Elk's Full Menu and Fish Fry
Join us for our full menu and all you care to eat fish fry!
Big Buck Contest 2025/26
THIS YEARS BIG BUCK CONTEST SHOULD BE BIGGER THEN EVER!
Presented by F6 Outdoors & Old Barn Taxidermy
Sponsored prizes by Kents Custom Strings & Steven Fey with Meadow & Main Realty & Auction.
We will have 1st-3rd place prizes and a NEW Biggest Youth Buck Prize! We will also have door prizes for anyone entered in the contest to get a chance at winning.
Last day for registration ($20 Spots)
youth- September 19th
Adult- September 30th
RACK MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN, NO EXCEPTIONS.
42nd Annual Bald Eagle Appreciation
The 42nd Annual Bald Eagle Appreciation Days will be held January 17, 2026 at the First Christian Church (3476 Main St., Keokuk, Iowa) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Come see the many exhibits, shop at the vendor booths and attend the educational seminars. The World Bird Sanctuary of St. Louis will present live raptor programs on the hour beginning at 10:00 a.m. and ending at 4:00 p.m. We will once again have the eagle photo contest - info tba. Bald Eagle Appreciation Days is a fun, family-friendly, free event
Fort Madison Saddle Club Celebration
Looking for a two-steppin’ good time!?
Well SAVE THE DATE We’ll be celebrating the 2025 Show Season at Turnwater’s event room - and with last year’s amazing turnout we’ll be putting up even more tables!!! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Awards
Kid’s Activities
Annual Meeting
Auction
Delicious Dinner
Dancing with the Band
Redneck Reload at Tena's Tap
Come see us in Fort Madison at Tena’s Tap. If you’re looking to stomp your feet and have a good weekend, look no further. We’ve got you covered.
Redemption Band at Vinnie's
NEW BAND ALERT IN FORT MADISON!
Fort Madison, get READY — The Redemption Band is making their debut, and they’re bringing a playlist that swings from Chappell Roan sparkle to Bob Seger soul.
Whether you’re into fierce pop anthems or good old-fashioned rock that hits you right in the feelings, this band has you covered.
January 17
9 PM – 1 AM
Right here in Fort Madison!
Bring your friends, grab your drinks, and come experience a night that’s gonna hit every mood from glittery to gritty.
You’re not gonna wanna miss their first show — trust us.
Stranger Things Trivia Night at Buffalo 61
Stranger Things Trivia Night at Buffalo 61
Think you know Hawkins better than anyone? Join us at Buffalo 61 on January 28 for an epic Stranger Things Trivia Night!
Elk's Full Menu and Fish Fry
Join us for our full menu and all you care to eat fish fry!
Shades of Hunks at the Hitching Post
Don’t Miss the Ultimate Girls Night Out! Grab Your Tickets Now for a Night Full of Fun, Excitement, and Unforgettable Memories. On Sale Now!
Shades of HUNKS at The Hitching Post (West Point, IA) 01/30/26
Tickets On-Sale NOW!
Purchase Tickets Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../shades-of-hunks-at-the...
Shades of Hunks at The Hitching Post
Don’t Miss the Ultimate Girls Night Out! Grab Your Tickets Now for a Night Full of Fun, Excitement, and Unforgettable Memories. On Sale Now!
Shades of HUNKS at The Hitching Post (West Point, IA) 01/30/26
Spazm is back at Vinnie's
Spazm is party rock turned all the way up!
Bringing the hits from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, Y2K, and today, Spazm delivers loud guitars, sing-along anthems, and nonstop energy that keeps the dance floor packed and the bar buzzing.
If you’re ready to drink, shout the words, and rock all night — Spazm is your band.
Elk's Full Menu and Fish Fry
Join us for our full menu and all you care to eat fish fry!
Elk's Full Menu and Fish Fry
Join us for our full menu and all you care to eat fish fry!
Pirated mp3 at Vinnies
PIRATED.mp3 is excited to make our debut at the legendary Vinnie's Longbranch in Fort Madison!
Three Bands/Three Vibes in one night at Vinnie's
Three Bands. Three Vibes. One Night.
Only at Vinnie’s Longbranch.
Hollowtree — moody, gritty, and emotional enough to make you text your ex (don’t do it).
Goat Fight — high-energy, loud, and unapologetically fun.
Resurrection Mary — haunting melodies and rock that sticks with you.
Three bands, three flavors, one killer night of music.
Elk's Full Menu and Fish Fry
Join us for our full menu and all you care to eat fish fry!
Pen City Cruisers Car Show
Pen City Cruisers annual car show. More information to come.
Mental Health and Movement Festival
Join us for a grounding, fun, free flowing, mental health focused art and movement festival in North Lee County. COMPLETELY BEGINNER FRIENDLY ages 16+
Cinco de Mayo Block Party
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Iowa’s oldest Hispanic community! Details coming soon!
Twisted Cat Outdoors Fishing Tournament
Catfish tournament on the Fort Madison Riverfront!
West Point Farmers Market
Farmers Market held every Sunday from 9am to Noon at the city park.
Montrose Farmers Market
Montrose Farmers Market is held every Tuesday at the Montrose Riverfront from 4-6pm. They offer a different meal every week for purchase besides their vendor booths.
Fort Madison Farmers Market
New in 2026 - Fort Madison Farmers Market will be held at the Santa Fe Depot Complex! More information to come.
Riverside Pride Festival
Save the Date for our 5th Anniversary of Riverside Pride Fest!
Details to come soon!
Keokuk Farmers Market
Held every Saturday morning from 8-11am. More information to come.
Fort Madison Farmers Market
New in 2026 - Fort Madison Farmers Market will be held at the Santa Fe Depot Complex! More information to come.
Fort Madison Farmers Market
New in 2026 - Fort Madison Farmers Market will be held at the Santa Fe Depot Complex! More information to come.
Tri State Rodeo Roundup
The TSR Summer Roundup is coming back in 2026! Announcements soon!
Tri State Rodeo Roundup
The TSR Summer Roundup is coming back in 2026! Announcements soon!
Fort Madison Farmers Market
New in 2026 - Fort Madison Farmers Market will be held at the Santa Fe Depot Complex! More information to come.
Fort Madison Farmers Market
New in 2026 - Fort Madison Farmers Market will be held at the Santa Fe Depot Complex! More information to come.
114th Annual Charlie Korschgen Kiddie Parade
The country’s oldest 4th of July Kiddie Parade celebrates in 114th anniversary in 2026.
Shuckfest at Sweet Corn Festival
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and join the fun at Shuckfest, the exciting kickoff event for the annual West Point Sweet Corn Festival in West Point, Iowa! On August 6, 2025, the town will come together to tackle the delicious task of shucking a mountain of sweet corn; and we mean a lot of corn! In 2024, volunteers processed an impressive 16.1 tons (thats around 33,000 ears) of corn in just a few hours! This sweet tradition sets the stage for the festivals famous free sweet corn, served up during the main event! Shuckfest is where the magic of community really shines. Local businesses truck in the fresh corn, keep it cool, and store it to perfection. They also supply plenty of food and drinks to keep the hardworking volunteers fueled for the task. And lets not forget the amazing residents of West Point, who pitch in to set up, husk, and clean up after the corn has been shucked. This lively event is a whirlwind of activity, typically wrapping up in less than two hours, but its the heart and soul of the Sweet Corn Festival. Shuckfest is more than just preparation, its a celebration of West Points community spirit, and you wont want to miss the chance to be part of the action!
West Point Sweet Corn Festival
The West Point, Iowa Sweet Corn Festival is a beloved small-town tradition celebrating summer, community, and endless free sweet corn. Held each August, the festival features a lively parade, family-friendly carnival rides, live music, craft and food vendors, and—of course—piles of fresh sweet corn served by local volunteers. It’s a fun, welcoming celebration that brings people together from across the region to enjoy great food and hometown charm.
Montrose Watermelon Festival
For a refreshing summer treat, head to Montrose, Iowa, for the annual Watermelon Festival. Held in August, this event features juicy watermelon slices, seed-spitting contests, arts and crafts vendors, and live entertainment. It is a perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day and enjoy the sweetness of locally grown watermelons. Annual Watermelon Festival Run Walk or Crawl Watermelon Princess Pageant There are assorted craft booths, bingo and many more items to browse in the park with a themed parade on Saturday.
River & Rail Weekend
Watch 60-80 trains pass by Fort Madison, Iowa and watch the beautiful Mississippi River roll alongside these trains.
Porchstock 2026
This free music event will take place on Saturday, September 20th from 4-7 pm on various porches and yards in the Historic District of Fort Madison. Be sure to come hungry and stop by one of the awesome food vendors. Bring your lawn chair to sit and enjoy one of your favorites or stroll through town and catch them all.
Denmark Iowa Renaissance Faire
Step into a world of knights, pirates and royal pageantry at the Second Annual Denmark Iowa Renaissance Faire, held October 31 and November 1, 2026, in Denmark, Iowa. This immersive event brings the 16th century to life with colorful costumes, live performances, and hands-on fun for all ages. Set in scenic wooded grounds, the faire features three performance stages, interactive encampments, and over 40 artisan vendors offering handcrafted goods, jewelry, clothing, and fantasy items. Visitors can cheer on the Highland games, watch sword fighting and live demonstrations, or join themed activities like archery and crafts; Children can take part in quests and knighting ceremonies, while adults enjoy hearty food, craft beverages, and entertainment ranging from comedy acts to traditional music and dance. The Denmark Iowa Renaissance Faire is Iowas only privately owned permanent Renaissance faire site and the only event of its kind within a 90-mile radius. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes whether Renaissance, fantasy, or pirate-themed and fully join in the fun. With its authentic atmosphere, engaging entertainment, and family-friendly appeal, the Denmark Iowa Renaissance Faire offers an unforgettable weekend of history, fantasy and adventure in the heart of Southeast Iowa.
Parade of Lights
Fort Madison’s kick off to Christmas! Lighted floats travel down Avenue G towards Central Park where they will remain lit throughout the holiday season.
Birthday party with DJ Erik the Red
Come celebrate Chris’ 50th Birthday at Vinnie’s
Featuring DJ Erik the Red bringing the beats, the energy, and the party all night long.
Boss birthday. Big vibes. No holding back.
See you at Vinnie’s.
Full Moon Hike at Wilson Lake
Full Moon Hike at Wilson Lake
6–7 PM | FREE | All Ages Welcome
Experience Wilson Lake after dark under the glow of the full moon! Join Naturalist Clay for a guided evening hike along the park’s peaceful trails as the nocturnal world comes alive.
Along the way, Clay will share fascinating insights about nighttime wildlife—their calls, habits, and the hidden world that emerges after sunset. This relaxed, family-friendly hike is a great way to slow down and see the park from a whole new perspective.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Flashlights are optional—the moon will light our way!
Pre-registration is required.
To register, call 319-463-7673 or email conservation@leecountyiowa.gov
Come explore the mysteries of the night at Wilson Lake!
Cam Cummings at Turnwater
Back at Turnwater Nashville recording artist Cam Cummings and his band is kicking off the New Year RIGHT!!!
Elk's Full Menu and Fish Fry
Join us for our full menu and all you care to eat fish fry!
Scotch Doubles 8 Ball Pool Tournament
Wye Knot ring in the New Year and join us for another Scotch Doubles 8 Ball Pool Tournament!!!
When: 1-1-2026
Cost :$20.00 Entry fee
Play starts at 12:00 (noon)
100% pay back, with the bar adding $100.00
APA Tournament rules (Ball in hand)
Blind Draw for partners
Double Elimination
New Years Day in West Point
New Year’s Day in West Point, Iowa is an old tradition. Save your energy for the biggest bar crawl of the year in this little town!
Nathan Gosnell at Turnwater
Ring in the New Year and start your night at Turnwater with Nathan Gosnel kicking off the party
Reliaquest Bowl and Bacon Palooza
IOWA vs VANDERBILT Kick off at 11am
Bar opens at 10am
We are hosting a BACON-PALOOZA for the ReliaQuest Bowl and we want your help to bring in some goodies. All food brought in must have BACON IN IT!! We're excited to see what everyone comes up with
All you can eat brunch and trivia at the Elks
All you can eat brunch for $15 per person! And what would brunch be without mimosas!! Brunch runs from 10-12 and Trivia will begin at 12:30!! Come eats lots of good food and as a bonus battle it out. On top of everything we will be having a 50/50 raffle!! Be there or be square
Little Evil at Vinnie's
Little Evil is coming to Vinnie’s Long Branch, and they’re ready to crank up the energy!
This local band is bringing their own twist on the covers you know and love, plus a lineup of originals that hit just as hard. Expect a night packed with attitude, tight grooves, and a whole lot of rock-and-roll excitement.
Jerad Harness + McKenzee Perry at Turnwater
Mid-Holiday FUN at Turnwater! Come listen to some of the best live music around … and …. between Christmas and New Year’s, you know it doesn’t get any better than this
Ugly Sweater Party and DJ at the Rail Yard
We are hosting an Ugly Sweater Party with music entertainment by DJ TY!! Show up in your WORST sweater and ready to drink We can't wait
Shades In Blue at Vinnies
Shades and Blue are coming back to Vinnie’s Long Branch, and they’re ready to shake the walls once again!
This heavy rock band delivers catchy melodies, powerful guitar riffs, and high-energy stage presence that hits you right in the chest.
If you’re craving a night of bold, loud, unforgettable rock, this is the show you don’t want to miss. Grab a drink, bring your crew, and get ready to feel every note.
Ugly Sweater Party at Tena's Tap
Ugly Sweater Party
Live music by Dallas Kraus 8 - 11 pm
Guest Bartenders
Drink Specials
Games & Prizes
Angela Meyer live at Turnwater
Come on out to Turnwater Bar & Grill for live music with crowd favorite, Angela Meyer! For fans of Johnny Cash, Alan Jackson, Red Dirt Country music, and originals/holiday tunes!
Elk's Full Menu and Fish Fry
Join us for our full menu and all you care to eat fish fry!
Donnellson Christmas Elves perform at the Santa Fe Depot Complex
The Donnellson Christmas Elves will be spreading holiday cheer on Thursday, December 18, with a festive performance at 5:45pm at the Santa Fe Depot Complex by the Caboose. With a little Christmas magic, Amtrak Southwest Chief passengers may even get to enjoy the music during their 6:00pm stop.
Karaoke with Shaye at Vinnies
Sunday, the stage is YOURS — yes YOU
Not Beyoncé, not Luke Bryan… YOU.
Come be the star , grab the mic and
SING. YOUR. PEACH. OFF.
A Christmas Wish directed by Amy Graham
An original production first presented in 2008, and then again in 2016, A Christmas Wish features local talent and guest artists from afar to tell the story of a small girl away from home on Christmas Eve. Lost and exhausted, she makes her way to an abandoned theater where she snuggles in an empty seat and falls asleep. Her dream reveals an angel who was sent to earth by God to find the one thing that best represents everything good that has been done since the birth of His son, Jesus Christ. The music of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra transcends the audience through the story of the little girl’s dream. After she awakes, she is met by a kindly barkeeper who assists her with getting back home to her father. The angel returns to heaven and places in the Lord’s hand the wish of a soul for the happiness of another. This production is directed by Legacy Theater Foundation board member, Amy Graham. Saturday's performance is generously sponsored by Carson Motors.