Discover community events, mouthwatering eats, and additional activities to add to your star-spangled Fourth of July weekend itinerary in Ames.
Celebrate with the community
Don’t miss out on one of the highlights of summer: Independence Day in Ames. This community celebration features fireworks on Friday night, July 3, followed by the Fourth of July Parade in Downtown Ames on Saturday at 11 a.m. The Ames Community Fireworks have been postponed until Sunday, July 5 at 10 p.m. Check back to Discover Ames website and social media for further updates.
Celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary at the Ames History Museum with the Big Bash from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, July 3! This event is free and open to the public and will include food trucks, vintage car show, family fun zone, local bands, World Ward I poster show, and free admission to the museum.
Start celebrating the Fourth on Thursday, July 2 with the Ames Municipal Band’s patriotic concert at 8 p.m. in Bandshell Park. Note that this Thursday concert begins one hour earlier than usual. The concert features patriotic music, and all veterans will be recognized. Bandshell Park is located at East Sixth Street and Duff Avenue. The concert is free, fun, and family-friendly. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets!
Savor the flavors of summer
For classic flavors, Hickory Park Restaurant has been serving up hearty, family-friendly meals since 1970. Or, for something deliciously unique, head to Cornbred, where everything from giant cinnamon rolls to finger-licking ribs and brisket awaits. Either stop is a win, you really can’t go wrong.
Craving something different? Grab a footlong hot dog from Daisy’s Dog House! Whether you like your 12-inch dog piled high with pulled pork, pizza sauce, or street corn, or kept classic with just ketchup and mustard, you’ll be back for more.
Looking to unwind? Head to Wallaby’s Bar & Grille, where you can relax on the rooftop patio or cheer on your favorite teams while digging into American classics like burgers, chicken sandwiches, mac and cheese, and more, all with great views and the game on.
More to explore
Tee off at one of beautiful golf courses in Ames: Homewood Golf Course, Veenker Memorial Golf Course, or Coldwater Golf Links. Whichever course you choose, you’re in for a great day on the green.
Looking for something more hands-on? Get crafty at Board & Brush, where you can create a patriotic piece or build your own summer decor.
Too hot to be outside? Head indoors and burn off some energy at Bluestem Boulders, a climbing gym welcoming all ages and experience levels.
Reiman Gardens, a 17-acre award-winning public botanical garden, is the perfect place to explore this summer, with colorful blooms and butterflies throughout the grounds. And don’t miss out on the Big & Small summer exhibit, open now through September 30.
