Great events in Ames all summer long

There is always plenty to do in Ames, and this summer is no exception! Ames has many fun and unique events to be excited about, and there is something everyone in the family can look forward to. These events help show our awesome sense of community and why Ames is so special. Let me tell you about some of them.

When I start to fill out my summer calendar, I make sure to mark Saturdays from May to October. I like to start my weekend at the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market that takes place on the 300 and 400 blocks of Main Street. This market has something for everyone. When you walk through the market you will see the diverse vendors selling fresh produce and their unique handcrafted items. The tasty aromas from the variety of food vendors will fill the air attracting both Ames residents and visitors to our community. Each week there are two different musicians adding live music to this special atmosphere. The Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market is an opportunity for us to directly support our local businesses, artists and showcase all the wonderful things Ames offers.

On June 1st, I invite you to kick off summer at Summerfest on the 200th block of Welch Ave in Campustown. Attendees can enjoy the live music and the beer garden. Prior to 6 p.m., there will be activities for every member of your family including a root beer garden, henna tattoos, face painting and a petting zoo. Even your four legged friend is invited because from 5 to 6 p.m., there will be a cutest dog contest!

I will be spending many summer nights on Main Street for their multiple events throughout the summer. To start, I will be at Art Walk on June 7 from 5-8 p.m. This is a family-friendly event pairing our local businesses with community artists. There will be a variety of artists including sculptors, musicians, woodworkers, photographers, painters, jewelry makers and more. This is another way to support our local artists and take home something beautiful that is unique to our town.  

During early July, you will find me in my red, white and blue on Main Street for our Independence Day Celebration. This is one of the biggest events of the summer beginning July 3rd with the stunning City of Ames Fireworks. On July 4th, the day includes a full slate of events including a delicious pancake breakfast, the Friendship Arc 5K, the Bill Riley Talent Competition and the fantastic parade down Main Street. The excitement doesn’t end after the Fourth of July because Foodies and Brew is on July 11th. I’ll be heading to the Ames Municipal Airport to enjoy the live music, local food and brew samplings.

On the last Thursday of each month I will be spending my evenings at Reiman Gardens to enjoy some spectacular local entertainment, delicious food carts and beverages. FUEL Fest put on by FUEL Story County is open to everyone. Admission is only $5 for adults and is free for FUEL members and children. FUEL Fest is sure to be a great time and we look forward to seeing you there!

These are just a few of the events happening in Ames this summer. To find more information on events check out resources such as www.ameschamber.com, www.thinkames.com and www.amestrib.com.
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This summer, please join me in supporting our community by attending these unique events. Nobody living in Ames should ever utter the words “I’m bored”, because there are so many things going on. These events are just one of the many reasons Ames is the #SmartChoice to live, work and play.