Freedom Festival 2026

May 18-27, 2026: The Medallion Hunt, Cedar Rapids

Get ready, because the Medallion Hunt is back! Every year, the Freedom Festival hides a special Medallion somewhere in the Cedar Rapids Metro area, and this year, it could be yours! The Medallion is a unique acrylic disc featuring the official design of this year’s festival. The hunt kicks off with 10 exciting clues, each bringing you closer to the hidden treasure! Solve the clues, find the Medallion, and you could win $100 and two 2026 Freedom Festival buttons! Learn More.

June 11, 2026: Freedom Feastival, Green Square Park

Savor the flavors of summer at the Freedom FEASTival, the ultimate food lover’s experience at the Freedom Festival! This delicious event brings together local restaurants, food trucks, and culinary artisans for a celebration of community, culture, and creativity. Learn More.

Thursdays, May 28 - August 27, 2026: Food Truck Thursdays, Shuttleworth & Ingersoll

Food Truck Thursdays serve up more than just great food, they help fuel the Freedom Festival! Each week, come out and enjoy a rotating lineup of local food trucks during the lunch hour! Every bite supports the Freedom Festival! Learn More.

Try Dock Dogs, Czech Village
“Let’s Try DockDogs” (pre-registration required!) is back! If you've ever wondered about unleashing the untapped potential of your canine companion, here's your golden opportunity! We invite you to join us in the thrilling world of DockDogs before the seasoned professionals take the docks. Learn More.

DockDogs, Czech Village
DockDogs is the perfect event for both human and canine! As seen on ESPN, ABC, and Outdoor Channel, DockDogs has evolved to the fastest growing sport for our four legged friends. Learn More.

Freedom Drone Show, Marion Airport
Experience the sky like never before at the Freedom Festival Drone Show! This spectacular evening event combines technology, artistry, and patriotism to create a dazzling display of illuminated drones choreographed to music. It’s a modern twist on a traditional fireworks show, perfect for all ages. Learn More.

DockDogs, Czech Village
DockDogs is the perfect event for both human and canine! As seen on ESPN, ABC, and Outdoor Channel, DockDogs has evolved to the fastest growing sport for our four legged friends. Learn More.

Cardboard Boat Regatta
Set sail for fun at our annual Cardboard Boat Regatta! The race format will see head-to-head heats of two boats, with each run timed to completion. The team with the fastest time to finish the route, will be the Cardboard Boat Regatta Winner! The Regatta is open to teams comprised of between two to eight participants (at least 16 years old) per boat. Teams are encouraged to get creative and have themed boats while adhering to design requirements. Learn More.

Patriotic Fest, NewBo
NEW to 2025! The Patriotic Fest will be a full day of fun with a variety of events taking place in the Newbo area! Start your morning off at our Cardboard Boat Regatta at Robbins Lake, then make your way down to Newbo/Czech Village for a packed day! We will be kicking off the event with IMAGINATION! Square presented by Tanager Place! This FREE family-friendly event will include interactive booths, hands-on activities, face painting, Freedom Festival trackless train rides, freebies from area organizations, and so much more! Learn More.

Freedom Bike Ride & Kids Ride
Get rolling with the Freedom Festival Bike Ride & Kids Ride, a fun and family-friendly way to celebrate summer, fitness, and community! The main bike ride welcomes riders of all ages and skill levels to cruise through scenic routes, enjoy the festival atmosphere, and connect with fellow cycling enthusiasts. Safety, camaraderie, and a love of the outdoors make this ride an event you won’t want to miss. Learn More.

DockDogs, Czech Village
DockDogs is the perfect event for both human and canine! As seen on ESPN, ABC, and Outdoor Channel, DockDogs has evolved to the fastest growing sport for our four legged friends. Learn More.

Parade
Celebrate the spirit of community, patriotism, and summer at the annual Freedom Festival Parade! This beloved tradition brings thousands of spectators together to line the streets and enjoy a morning filled with festive floats, marching bands, community groups, veterans, and special guests. Learn More.

Tribute to Heroes & Flag Raising Ceremony
The Tribute to Heroes event is designed to celebrate the remarkable contributions of local heroes who have made a positive impact on the lives of others. From courageous first responders to compassionate volunteers, these individuals embody the spirit of unity and resilience that defines the community. Come join us to enjoy a delicious breakfast and help us honor our heroes! Learn More.

Rock N Bowl, SpareTime Entertainment
We are proud to offer this event for people with disabilities, their friends, and family to enjoy time together. The day will consist of free bowling at SpareTime in the Elite Suite! Other activities will include a photo backdrop, balloon twister, and face painting. We are excited to host this event for the 10th consecutive year! Learn More.

Pancake Breakfast, Veterans Memorial Building
Start your 4th of July morning off in the most delicious way at the Freedom Festival Pancake Breakfast! Join us for a hearty morning meal featuring pancakes, sausage, and freshly brewed coffee. The perfect fuel for a day of festival fun. From 7-11am. Learn More.

Car Show, Downtown Cedar Rapids
Another Freedom Festival 4th of July tradition returns! Rev up your engines and cruise into the Freedom Festival’s Car Show, a must-see event for car enthusiasts! This celebration of classic, vintage, and custom vehicles brings together car lovers from across the region to showcase their prized rides. Learn More.

Yoga on the Island, Mays Island
Kick off your 4th of July celebrations with a rejuvenating yoga session! Beginning bright and early, join us for a peaceful, hour-long yoga class to start your holiday weekend! Learn More.

Patriotic Pop-Up, Veterans Memorial Building
Shop local and celebrate the spirit of the season at the Patriotic Pop-Up Vendor Market during the Freedom Festival! This festive marketplace brings together a variety of local makers, small businesses, and artisans offering unique goods perfect for summer and the Fourth of July. Learn More.

Celebration of Freedom, Downtown Cedar Rapids

Join us for the Celebration of Freedom, the grand finale of the Freedom Festival! This unforgettable event brings the community together to honor our nation’s independence with an evening full of music, entertainment, and festive fun.

Experience live performances, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of summer and patriotism. As the sun sets, gather with friends and family to witness a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the sky, a breathtaking tribute to freedom, community, and celebration.

The Celebration of Freedom is a perfect way to cap off the festival, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Come for the festivities, stay for the fireworks, and celebrate everything that makes our community and country special.

You do not want to miss out on America’s 250th birthday at the Freedom Festival! 4:30-10:30pm.

Entry: A Freedom Festival button is required for entry. Purchase yours ahead of time at any area Hy-Vee or purchase at the gate!