Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival announces 2024 lineup

CEDAR RAPIDS — Balloons will glow, dogs will leap off docks, cardboard boats will sink or swim, fireworks will light up the night sky and heroes will be honored during the 2024 Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival, running June 8 to July 4.

With an array of activities for all ages, the event will celebrate community, patriotism and freedom.

Highlights include the return of the Cardboard Boat Regatta on June 8 at Robbins Lake in Ellis Park; the Tribute to Heroes Breakfast at Veterans Memorial Building on June 14; the Army Band performing in Marion’s Lowe Park on Father’s Day, June 16; the Freedom Bike Ride on June 23, beginning and ending in Ely’s city park; the popular DockDogs, making waves the weekend of June 28; and the Grand Parade, marching through downtown Cedar Rapids on June 29.

Balloon Glow festivities are expanding on June 22 at Jones Park. Festivities will kick off at noon with the return of the Bohemian Betty flea market in the park until 9 p.m. The Eastern Iowa Arts Academy is bringing the Volta Youth Music and Arts Festival to the Balloon Glow Stage at 1 p.m., with Des Moines cover band Birdchild headlining at 7 p.m.

The July 4 grand finale features a 7 p.m. concert by Alisabeth Von Presley at the McGrath Amphitheatre, followed by the downtown fireworks extravaganza.

“We are immensely excited about the festival’s upcoming endeavors,” said Marnie Schultz, the festival’s events and marketing director. “Our collaborative efforts with various area nonprofits aim to foster stronger community bonds and support shared causes. Additionally, we’re extending our reach into neighboring towns surrounding Cedar Rapids, promising an even more inclusive and expansive celebration of freedom and community spirit.”

For the full events list, go to freedomfestival.com or email info@freedomfestival.com.

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