Established 2001 | Always free, thanks to you!

With warmer weather come outdoor concert series, and we’ve got several to check out this weekend in Cedar Rapids, Des Moines and Iowa City. For those looking for something unique and biological, there’s Jason Snell’s Pulses show at Public Space One’s Close House, where participants’ “brainwaves and heart rhythms are translated into a live audio-visual performance using biofeedback headsets.” Comedian Katt Williams is heading to Des Moines, meanwhile, and UAY is putting on a battle of the bands in Iowa City. There’s plenty to do this weekend, so get out there and do it!
The Weekender is sponsored by:
COMING UP
Summer Concert Series at Jasper Winery
Des Moines | Jasper Winery | Thurs, May 9, 6 p.m.
These concerts are great for families (kids allowed), or an evening out with friends. Guests are allowed to bring their own food, but alcohol must be purchased onsite. This event is free and open to the public.
Emery & The Almost
Des Moines | Wooly’s | Thurs, May 9, 7 p.m.
Emery’s colossal third album I’m Only A Man (Tooth & Nail) captures the aggressive quintet building on the blueprint of its remarkably successful back catalogue to deliver the album of their lives.
Crock-Pot Battle of the Bands
Iowa City | United Action for Youth | Fri, May 10, 5:30 p.m.
An Iowa City youth music showcase with prizes, celebrity judges, and more! This event is free and open to the public.
The Weekender is sponsored by:
Rock the Block 2024: Surf Zombies
Cedar Rapids | NewBo City Market | Fri, May 10, 6 p.m.
Rock the Block is NewBo City Market’s free weekly concert series, featuring Surf Zombies this Friday. This event is free and open to the public.
Friday Night Concert Series: Iowa Steel Band
Iowa City | Ped Mall | Fri, May 10, 6:30 p.m.
The Iowa Steel Band performs this Friday at the Iowa City Friday Night Concert Series. This event is free and open to the public.
Ballroom and Latin Social Dancing at Old Brick
Iowa City | Old Brick | Fri, May 10, 7:30 p.m.
A free FOXTROT dance lesson by Anne Bates from Des Moines Ballroom will be provided at 7:30pm (doors open at 7 p.m.). Social dancing to recorded music 8:30pm – 10:30pm. Lesson included with price of admission! All levels of dancers welcome!
Katt Williams
Des Moines | Wells Fargo Arena | Fri, May 10, 8 p.m.
Don’t miss comedian and actor Katt Williams this Friday at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines.
CR Brewing Society BenzFest
Cedar Rapids | Benz Beverage Depot | Sat, May 11, 1 p.m.
The Cedar Rapids Brewing Society and Benz Beverage Depot present CR Brewing Society BenzFest! This festival features beers, meads, ciders, and spirits from all over Iowa and the Midwest.
Pulses | Jason Snell
Iowa City | Public Space One – Close House | Sat, May. 11, 6:30 p.m.
“Pulses” is the premiere of Jason Snell’s 10-person biofeedback orchestra. Participants’ brainwaves and heart rhythms are translated into a live audio-visual performance using biofeedback headsets.
Anthony Worden Album Release
Iowa City | Gabe’s | Sat, May 11, 8 p.m.
Anthony Worden performs at Gabe’s for the Plain Angels album release show, featuring 24thankyou and Lex Leto.
RIDICULESQUE: A Comedy-Themed Burlesque and Variety Show!
Cedar Rapids and Iowa City | The Olympic Theater, The James Theater | Fri and Sat, May 10-11
Join Bawdy Bawdy Ha Ha for RIDICULESQUE, a collection of the most ridiculously hot & hilarious burlesque from the Midwest and beyond!
Spring concert by the Family Folk Machine!
Iowa City | Englert Theatre | Sun, May 12, 3 p.m.
Join us Sunday at the Englert Theatre as the Family Folk Machine presents “Dreaming of Justice: Songs for a Crowded Table,” with special guest LaTasha DeLoach!
Help keep it free!
Voluntary contributions from LV readers help maintain this magazine and website as a free resource that benefits the whole community. Donors contributing at least $10/month or $100/year can receive Little Village by mail!















