Kick off summer with these seven events from live music, a drag brunch and shopping
Looking for exciting events to kickstart your summer? Here’s a roundup of what’s happening in Iowa City during the first weekend in June, from an arts festival to nostalgic live music:
Mission Creek Bingo
Experience the Mission Creek Festival in a different way. The Englert Theatre is hosting Mission Creek Bingo on Friday, May 31, to raise funds for next year's festival. The cash-only event starts at 6 p.m. Attendees can win prizes from 20 local artists and businesses, including Mission Creek Festival passes. The first session costs $20, and $15 for additional sessions and cards. The bingo will run for three sessions, with five rounds each and three cards per round.
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Open Air Media Festival
The fifth annual Open Air Media Festival is an outdoor media arts program hosted at PS1 in Iowa City. The festival began in 2020 to give people a chance to experience art during the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival has continued to feature local and visiting artists who display their work through video, performance art, installations, and sound experiences in communal and accessible locations.
This year's programming is divided into two parts. The festivities begin at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, May 31, with a video screening at FilmScene at Chauncey Swan Park. The festival continues at 8:30 p.m. Saturday at Public Space One Close House.
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Solon Area Garage Sales
The Friends of the Solon Public Library host the annual Solon Area Garage Sales on Friday, May 31, and Saturday, June 1. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., dozens of garage sales will be held around Solon. The official map of registered sales will be released on the library's website on May 30.
Browsing Party at the Iowa City Public Library
Find your summer read at the first-ever Browsing Party at the ICPL on Friday, May 31. The social event is open to adults and teens searching for the perfect read. Browse the library's offerings accompanied by refreshments and music. Additional librarians will be on hand to offer recommendations and other activities. The Browsing Party will happen on the first and second floors of the library from 5 to 7 p.m.
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The Mega Mini Mart
Odd Luck Vintage is teaming up with the South District and other Iowa City artists and small businesses to host the Mega Mini Mart on Saturday, June 1.
The event aims to create a community for creatives and artists, highlighting diversity in the Iowa City community. Guests can browse items from local vendors, artists, and vintage dealers from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the South District Market parking lot.
Alien Ant Farm at Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon
Relive Y2K at Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon with the iconic rock band Alien Ant Farm. The group formed in the mid-90s and rose to stardom with their cover of Michael Jackson's song "Smooth Criminal." Alien Ant Farm's music blends elements of alternative rock, punk rock, and metal. Tickets for Saturday's show are available on Wildwood's website and cost $25. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Drag Brunch at Big Grove Brewery
Start Pride Month with a drag brunch at Big Grove Brewery on Sunday, June 2.
The event features brunch and regular food menus, as well as a wide selection of fresh craft beer and cocktails. Guests can purchase tables that seat two to 10 people. Tickets can be purchased on Big Grove's website. Doors open at 11 a.m., with the show starting at noon.
Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at [email protected] or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_
This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Enjoy the Open Air Festival, Alien Ant Farm this weekend in Iowa City
