Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or simply looking for family-friendly fun, it’s finally time to come out of hibernation and welcome the warm season at following spring festivals in Iowa.
Click here for flower fields to visit this spring in Iowa.
March 23 to March 24: 41st Annual Maple Syrup Festival
Cedar Rapids
Satisfy your sweet tooth and connect with nature at the Maple Syrup Festival hosted by the Indian Creek Nature Center in Cedar Rapids. Back for its 41st year, guests will have the exciting opportunity to learn the time-honored art of maple syrup production through guided tours of the sugar bush, where they will witness the tapping of maple trees and the boiling down of sap into syrup. Indulge in a pancake breakfast drizzled with fresh maple syrup and explore the scenic trails of the nature center during this spring festival in Iowa.
Cost: $10 in advance for adults ($12 at the door) and $5 in advance for kids under 12 ($6 at the door).
Tickets: indiancreeknaturecenter.org.
April 5 to May 27: Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival Presented by MidAmerican Energy Company
Des Moines
Experience the magic of spring nights at Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival Presented by MidAmerican Energy Company. This spring festival in Iowa features 50 handcrafted illuminated Asian lanterns, animal displays, mythical creatures and many selfie stations throughout the zoo. The festival will take place nightly from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Admission for non-members is $25 during peak hours ($21 for members) and $23 during non-peak hours ($19 for members).
Tickets: blankparkzoo.com.
April 6: Iowa Eats Food & Drink Festival
Waterloo
Calling all foodies in Waterloo for the Iowa Eats Food & Drink Festival, a culinary extravaganza showcasing the state’s diverse food scene taking place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Waterloo Convention Center. Sample mouthwatering dishes from local chefs and artisans, sip on craft beverages and enjoy live music and entertainment. From farm-to-table fare to global cuisines, this festival is a delicious celebration of Iowa’s gastronomic delights. Main stage speakers will include celebrity chef Thyron Mathews of Netflix’s “Barbecue Showdown” and Jessica Baldus of “Supermarket Stakeout.”
Cost: $10 per person (includes entry and food and beverage samples).
Tickets: iowaeatsfestival.com.
May 2 to May 4: Pella’s 89th Annual Tulip Festival
Pella
Experience Iowa’s most colorful tradition at Pella’s 89th Annual Tulip Festival, where the streets come alive with the vibrant colors of spring blooms and Dutch culture. Explore the town of Pella’s rich Dutch heritage through authentic demonstrations, including quilt shows, wooden shoe displays and Dutch bakery tours. In addition, guests can indulge in traditional Dutch fare with items like Pella bologna and poffertjes from vendors. The biggest draw to the spring festival in Iowa is the tulips, with bulbs blooming in Central Park, Sunken Gardens, Fair Haven, Central College and more.
Cost: Admission is free, subject to purchases.
Tickets: pellahistorical.org.
May 4: Washington Spring Craft Fair
Washington
Celebrate the season of renewal at the Washington Spring Craft Fair in Washington. Browse a diverse selection of handmade crafts and artisanal goods from over 100 local vendors, perfect for finding unique gifts or adding a touch of spring to your home decor. With live demonstrations, delicious food from 10 food trucks and activities for the whole family, this festival is a delightful way to usher in the warmer months.
Cost: Admission is free, subject to purchases.
Tickets: washingtoniowa.gov.
May 16 to May 18: Orange City Tulip Festival
Orange City
Embrace Dutch heritage and floral splendor at Orange City Tulip Festival, a beloved tradition that dates back over 80 years. Held annually in Orange City, this three-day event showcases the town’s Dutch roots with a kaleidoscope of colorful tulips, traditional Dutch costumes, dancing, theatrical performances, fare and lively parades. From Dutch delicacies to wooden shoe carving demonstrations, there’s plenty of cultural immersion and entertainment for visitors of all ages during this spring festival in Iowa.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the selected activity, event and date.
Tickets: octulipfestival.com
Select Weekends in May: Spring Fling at Sleepy Hollow Renaissance Faire
Des Moines
Step back in time and journey to the realm of knights, wizards and maidens at the Sleepy Hollow Renaissance Faire in Des Moines. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes of the Renaissance era as you wander through the bustling village marketplace, where artisans and performers bring history to life. From jousting tournaments to medieval feasts, this family-friendly festival offers a one-of-a-kind adventure for all ages.
Cost: $15 for adults 13-plus and free for children 12 and under.
Tickets: sleepyhollowrenfaire.com.