Broad Ideas: Opening Reception
Friday, March 1
5-7 PM @ Galena Center for the Arts (Galena, IL)
Broad Ideas is a community art show committed to inclusion by dismantling patriarchy and misogyny through the telling of our stories. Enjoy light appetizers, drinks, and the musical talents of Robyn Davis and Ted Williams. The art show will be on display March 3–25. Visit BroadIdeas.org.
Spring Drink Tasting
Friday, March 1
7 PM @ Millennium Bar & Marina, 780 Harbor Dr. (East Dubuque, IL)
Taste test six drinks and let us know which should be added to our spring menu. Reservations are required. Admission: $19.99. Visit Facebook.com/MillenniumBar&Marina.
Almost, Maine
Friday and Saturday, March 1-2, 7:30 PM
Sunday, March 3, 2 PM @ The Grand Opera House
Almost, Maine is a beautifully structured play, with nifty surprise endings. Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that’s so far north, it’s almost not in the U.S. It’s almost in Canada. And it’s not quite a town, because its residents never got around to getting organized. So, it almost doesn’t exist. One cold winter night, the residents of Almost, Maine, find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. Visit TheGrandOperaHouse.com.
First Fridays
Friday, March 1
@ Various Locations in Dubuque
First Fridays is downtown Dubuque’s monthly visual art series, hosted by galleries, museums, and venues, celebrating Dubuque’s great visual arts scene. Admission is free.
Dubuque Winter Farmers Market
Saturdays, through April 27
9 AM-12 PM @ Kennedy Mall West Concourse
Over 30 regional vendors offer seasonal produce, eggs, meats, cheeses, honey, maple syrup, starter plants, herbs, baked goods, and more. Market Tokens are available for purchase at the Winter Market Information Booth. Bring your own reusable shopping bags and drop off clean egg cartons, glass canning/mason jars (only), and plastic grocery bags. Visit WinterMarketDBQ.com.
Platteville Winter Farmer’s Market
Saturday, March 2 & 16
9 AM-12 PM @ Rountree Gallery, 120 W. Main St. (Platteville, WI)
Find homegrown and handmade products from fresh produce and prepared food, to stained glass and bath bombs. Visit PlattevilleFarmersMarketWI.com.
Big/Little Nut Big Air Competition
Saturday, March 2
11 AM-4 PM @ Chestnut Mountain Resort (Galena, IL)
Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled day on the slopes of Chestnut Mountain Resort, with the March Madness Big Air and Rail Jam competition. This event is open to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, so whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to have some fun, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills. Visit VisitGalena.org.
Brian Imbus: Mind Heist
Saturday, March 2
7:30 PM @ Bell Tower Theater
Brian Imbus returns with a brand new show where illusion blurs reality. Witness astonishing feats of mind reading, telepathy, and psychological illusions that challenge conventional notions of possibility. Prepare to delve into the depths of the human mind as he astounds with uncanny abilities to influence thoughts, predict decisions, and create an unforgettable journey into the mysteries of the psyche. Admission: $29. Visit BellTowerTheater.net.
The Dave Matthews Tribute Band
Saturday, March 2
8 PM @ Diamond Jo Casino Mississippi Moon Bar
The DMTB is the only nationally touring tribute to the Dave Matthews Band. This 5-piece ensemble strives to pay homage to their famous counterparts by matching the excitement, energy, intensity and intimacy of a DMB live show. Ages 21+. Admission is free. Visit MoonBarRocks.com.
DSO Student Concerto Competition Application Deadline
Sunday, March 3
The Dubuque Symphony Orchestra invites local piano, strings, woodwind, brass, and percussion students enrolled in grades 8-12 to participate in their annual Student Concerto Competition on Saturday, April 6 at Clarke University Jansen Music Hall. The Concerto Competition is an excellent opportunity for young artists to develop music performance skills and enhance their portfolio. Applicants may perform as instrumental soloists or as part of a duet, trio, or quartet. Contestants must submit an application form to the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra no later than Sunday, March 3. Visit DubuqueSymphony.org/Concerto-Competition.
Landowner Workshop
Sunday, March 3
9 AM–12 PM @ EB Lyons Interpretive Center, 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd.
Learn how to bring more nature to your property. Engaging sessions about conservation practices from invasive species management, cost share programs, forest management techniques, and more. RSVP required. Visit MinesOfSpain.org.
Horse Play
Sunday, March 3, 17 & 31
10:30 AM @ Shenandoah Riding Center, 200 N. Brodrecht Rd. (Galena, IL)
This is a perfect choice for those who want to interact with horses without having to get into the saddle or ride in an outdoor environment. You will groom, tack, and lead horses around the property, as well as tour our barn. Admission: $25; children 12 and under will need a paying adult. Visit ShenandoahRidingCenter.com.
Landlocked: Building and Sailing Small Boats
Sunday, March 3
5-6 PM via Zoom
Join Tom Pamperin for an introduction to the world of sail and oar cruising in small boats that you can build in your own backyard. You’ll learn how to plan a small boat cruise along with a quick overview of how to choose and build your own cruising boat in your garage, backyard, or your living room. Cost: $4 or $20 for the entire lecture series. Visit Mining.Jamison.Museum/Programs.
Friends Themed Trivia Night
Monday, March 4
6:30-8:30 PM @ Textile Brewing Company, 146 2nd St., NE (Dyersville, IA)
Enjoy Friends themed trivia. Show up early to grab yourself a spot. Have fun and dress up if you’d like. Groups of up to 6. Win prizes. Visit Facebook.com/TextileBrewingCompany.
Early Explorers: Egg
Tuesday, March 5
10-11 AM @ National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Programs include a variety of hands-on and active activities, including a craft and a game. Admission for members, $8 per toddler; non-members, $10 per toddler. Ages 2-5 with parent/caregiver. RSVP suggested. Visit RiverMuseum.org.
Birth Talk
Tuesday, March 5
6-8 PM @ The Health Spa, 7407 Thunder Valley Dr. (Peosta, IA)
Birth Talk is tailored to educating mamas-to-be on all things birth prep, labor, delivery, and postpartum. Ask questions of the expert panel and hear what they have to say about the topics that matter to you. RSVP; space is limited. Admission is free. Visit BirthCollectiveDbq.com.
365ink Impact Awards
Tuesday, March 5
7 PM @ Mississippi Moon Bar
The 15th Annual 365 Impact Awards, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque and Premier Bank, recognizes those who are making an impact on our community. There will be hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar with live music accenting the evening’s awards. The mission at 365ink is to help connect people to relationships, opportunities, and the best possible living experiences in our community. Ages 21+. Admission is free. Visit Dubuque365.com/ImpactAwards.
Duhawk Day
Wednesday, March 6
All Day @ Loras College,1450 Alta Vista St.
One of the best days of the year to be a Duhawk. For the past 11 years, Duhawks have united together across the globe to celebrate and support the place we all love: Loras College. Visit Loras.edu/Duhawk-Day.
Dubuque Area Humanists Social Hour
Wednesday, March 6
6 PM @ Backpocket Dubuque, 333 E. 10th St.
Enjoy a craft beer and join the Dubuque Area Humanists for lively, informed discussions centered around values, philosophy, and life experiences. Admission is free. Visit Facebook.com/DubuqueAreaHumanists.
Camp Albrecht Acres: Celebrating All Abilities Gala
Wednesday, March 6
6-9 PM @ Hotel Julien Dubuque
Enjoy a memorable evening with live music from Tapestry, hors d’oeuvres, and carving stations, cocktails, a short program, awards, live and silent auctions, and other fun activities. All proceeds will help Camp Albrecht Acres provide a safe, accessible, and enjoyable summer camp experience for individuals with special needs. Admission: $125. Visit CAAGala2024.GiveSmart.com.
JDCF Winter Reading Book Club
Wednesday, March 6 & 20
6:30-7:30 PM via Zoom
Announcing JDCF’s reading list for Winter 2024 online book discussion. To honor our mission statement, and in recognition of the 100th anniversary of The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, our reading and discussion will focus on land, water, and The Driftless Area. This is a free program. Registration requested. Visit JDCF.org.
Wild West Wednesday
Wednesday, March 6, 13, 20, 27
7-11 PM @ Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Join us for country dance music and fun Wednesday nights at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds. Visit DBQFair.com.
Rockstar Bingo
Thursday, March 7, 14, 21 & 28
7 PM @ 7 Hills Brewing Company
Ready for a rocking good time? Join us every Thursday for Rockstar Bingo – the ultimate combo of music, beer, and mouthwatering food. Each week has a different theme. Win prizes like beer, appetizers, merch, and gift cards. Admission is free. Visit Facebook.com/7HillsBrewingCompany.
DSO Sound Bites Luncheon
Friday, March 8
11:30 AM–1 PM @ Dubuque Golf & Country Club
Enjoy a lunch buffet followed by insightful commentary by Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Maestro William Intrilligator and the concert guest artist, Jon Nakamatsu. RSVP by March 6. Visit DubuqueSymphony.org.
Dubuque Audubon Annual Duck Waddle
Saturday, March 9
@ Green Island Wildlife Management Area (Jackson County, IA)
Join us on our annual trip to Green Island to observe migrating waterfowl. Contact us for details on where and when to meet, as well as for details on carpooling from Dubuque. Expect an early departure. For more information, email RichAndMarty@gmail.com.
Battle of the Bridges Cornhole Tournament
Saturday, March 9
10 AM @ Five Flags Arena
This marks the first annual cornhole tournament hosted by Five Flags Center, creating a new tradition for the local community. Early registration is recommended to ensure a spot at this exciting event. Admission: $80 per team. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Galena Whiskey Weekend
Saturday, March 9
1-7:30 PM @ Turner Hall, 115 S. Bench St. (Galena, IL)
Experience the warmth and richness of winter with an extensive collection of bourbons and whiskeys at this historic establishment. With over 200 varieties to choose from, you’ll be able to explore the world of whiskey and find your new favorite. Admission: $110. Visit GalenaWhiskeyWeekend.com.
Sherlock Holmes & the Killer Case Files
Saturday, March 9
6:30 PM @ Galena Cellars Downtown (Galena, IL)
In celebration of the 10th annual Galena LitFest, the Galena Public Library, in collaboration with the Galena Shakespeare Festival and Galena Cellars Downtown, brings you an interactive murder mystery dinner experience. Join Holmes at the Diogenes Club as he races against the clock to solve a case that may just be his last. A four-course English pub-style dinner will be served with accompanying wine pairings. RSVP by Feb. 27. Visit GalenaLibrary.org.
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra: Classics 4 – Evening Serenade
Saturday, March 9, 7:30 PM
Sunday, March 10, 2 PM @ Five Flags Theater
As Maestro Intriligator’s 25th season approaches, he is already starting to look back to favorite performers and masterpieces from his past 25 years. This concert welcomes back one of Dubuque’s favorites: pianist Jon Nakamatsu. The concert begins with a heartfelt serenade by Ukranian composer Silvestrov. Saturday evening concert attendance includes entry to the post-concert encore reception. Enjoy refreshments and visit with DSO musicians. Visit DubuqueSymphony.org.
Cabin Fever
Sunday, March 10
10 AM-3 PM @ Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Cabin Fever is an interactive shopping event with more than 50 local vendors, crafters, makers, bakers, wineries, and more. Also enjoy one of the many activities going on throughout the day, including a fashion show, cooking demos, painting and DIY crafting classes, and more.
Starlab Portable Planetarium
Sunday, March 10
12 PM @ EB Lyons Interpretive Center, 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd.
Explore the massive night sky within the convenience of an indoor inflatable dome structure. You will crawl inside a 16-foot dome to experience 360-degree astronomy. You will have an opportunity to learn about stars, constellations, and many more celestial objects. RSVP required. Visit MinesOfSpain.org.
Sourdough 101: Workshop for Beginners
Sunday, March 10
1-4 PM @ Maquoketa Brewing, 110 S. Main St., Suite A (Maquoketa, IA)
Learn the ins and outs of all things sourdough from Rustic Crust and take home your own starter and a fresh baked loaf. Limited to 25 people. Admission: $40. Visit The HummingArrow.com.
DSO Musical Musings
Sunday, March 10
1 PM @ Five Flags Theater
Prior to each Sunday Classics Concert, Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Maestro William Intriligator gives a pre-concert lecture. Admission is free. Visit DubuqueSymphony.org.
Freshwater Mussels of the Upper Mississippi Valley
Sunday, March 10
5-6 PM via Zoom
Dr. Jim Theler, retired UW-La Crosse archaeologist, discusses pre-Columbian Native American and later Euro-American use of freshwater mussels of the Upper Mississippi River. He will be discussing the rush to harvest freshwater pearls from the Pecatonica and other inland rivers, and the shell button industry. Cost: $4 or $20 for the entire lecture series. Visit Mining.Jamison.Museum/Programs.
Leo Kottke
Monday, March 11
7 PM @ Five Flags Theater
Acoustic guitarist Leo Kottke’s 1971 major-label debut, “Mudlark,” positioned him somewhat uneasily in the singer-songwriter vein, despite his own wishes to remain an instrumental performer. Kottke has been awarded two Grammy nominations; a Doctorate in Music Performance by the Peck School of Music at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee; and a Certificate of Significant Achievement in Not Playing the Trombone from the University of Texas at Brownsville. Admission: $35-$69. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Mystery & Mayhem in the Midwest Author Panel
Tuesday, March 12
6 PM via Online
Galena LitFest’s Mystery March continues with a virtual panel of mystery and crime authors from across the Midwest. The Galena Library brings you five award winning and bestselling authors—Marcie Rendon, David Ellis, Tracy Clark, Laura Benedict, and Patricia Skalka—who will discuss why they love the genre, their writing processes, character development, and publishing. The conversation will be moderated by historical mystery author Michelle Cox. Visit GalenaLibrary.org.
Distinctively Dubuque
Wednesdays, March 13 through April 10
5:30-8:30 PM @ Varied Locations in Dubuque
Distinctively Dubuque is a five-night course hosted by high-energy presenters with in-depth knowledge of the Greater Dubuque area and is designed for individuals who are new to the region within the last five years. Location for each course varies. Admission is free. Visit GreaterDubuque.org/Live-Here/Distinctively-Dubuque.
Toastmasters Speakeasy Club
Wednesday, March 13 & 27
6:30-7:45 PM @ Dubuque County Library Asbury Branch (Asbury, IA)
Develop your public speaking and leadership skills. This safe and fun environment will help you become a more skilled and confident speaker. Each meeting will have a few prepared speeches, time to practice your ability to think on your feet with short, improvised speeches, and feedback to guide growth. Admission is free. Visit Facebook.com/ToastmastersSpeakeasyClub.
World Ballet Series: Swan Lake
Wednesday, March 13
7 PM @ Five Flags Theater
Swan Lake will be performed one night only as a part of the World Ballet Series. See the iconic Dance of the Little Swans, count the 32 fouettés performed by Odile, and immerse yourself in magical Tchaikovsky’s music. World Ballet Series attracts many international artists and is composed of renowned professional dancers representing over 10 countries. Admission: $49-$135. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge: The First 100 Years
Thursday, March 14
6-7 PM @ EB Lyons Interpretive Center, 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd.
Ed Britton, manager of the Savanna District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, will summarize the history of the refuge, which stretches 261 miles from Wabasha, MN, to Rock Island, IL, protecting over 240,000 acres of Mississippi River floodplain. He will also discuss recently completed habitat improvements and proposed future projects. For more information, email RichAndMarty@gmail.com.
Easter Cookie Decorating Event
Friday, March 15
5-6:30 PM @ O So Good Winery, 2093 20th Ave., SE (Dyersville, IA)
Come to the cookie decorating pop-up. Cookies, buttercream frostings, sprinkles, etc., will be provided along with a tutorial on styles you can create. Cookie kit boxes are available for $22-$27. Visit Facebook.com/OSoGoodWinery.
Dylan Scott
Friday, March 15
8 PM @ Five Flags Arena
Curb Records recording artist Dylan Scott is a 2023 American Country Music nominee in the category, New Male Artist of the Year. With career streams exceeding $2 billion, the Louisiana native has provided tour support for Garth Brooks, Luke Bryan, and Chris Young, among others, cementing him as an in-demand live act. Admission: $41.75-$51.75. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Bobcat Goldthwait
Friday, March 15
8 PM @ Diamond Jo Casino Mississippi Moon Bar
As a comedian Bobcat Goldthwait has starred in numerous HBO/Showtime specials, performed in venues all over the world, and went on tour as an opening act for Nirvana. Goldthwait has gone on to become a well-respected award-winning director. Ages 21+. Admission is free. Visit MoonBarRocks.com.
Dyersville St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, March 16
10:30 AM @ Downtown Dyersville, IA
Ancient Order of Hibernians-Dubuque County #1 presents Dyersville’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Mass. A church celebration at 10:30 AM at St. Francis Xavier Basilica is followed by the huge parade which starts at 1 PM downtown. Visit Dyersville.org.
Galena St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
Saturday, March 16
11AM-3PM @ Elks Lodge, 123 N. Main St. (Galena, IL)
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style in Galena. The Kids Mini Shimmy Dash is at 11 AM, where youngsters can participate in a fun run without registration. At 11:15 AM, the Shamrock Shimmy 5K run begins. At 2 PM is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Main Street. Admission: 5k run, $30; Kids Mini Shimmy and the parade is free. Visit VisitGalena.org.
Billy Fitzpatrick Presents New Geologic Interpretations in the Lead-Zinc Mining District
Sunday, March 17
5-6 PM via Zoom
Billy Fitzpatrick is a geologist at the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) with a background in economic geology and a focus on the formation of metallic mineral deposits. He received his master’s from the University of Arizona in 2021 and has worked at the WGNHS since 2020 studying sulfide mineralization hosted in the Paleozoic stratigraphy of southern Wisconsin. Cost: $4 or $20 for the entire lecture series. Visit Mining.Jamison.Museum/Programs.
Fr. Boyle Presentation & Book Signing
Wednesday, March 20
11 AM @ Loras College, Lillis Athletic and Wellness Center, 1600 Cox St.
Join us for a special visit from Father Gregory Boyle, the founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, which is the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation, and reentry program in the world. Boyle will be visiting Loras College to give a presentation about his inspirational work, and afterward there will be a book signing of his bestselling book Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion. Click here for more information and to RSVP.
She Unites
Wednesday: March 20
6:30-7:30 PM @ The Innovation Lab, 210 Jones St.
Come together for an evening of socialization and education. She Unites features rotating speakers, talking about anything and everything pertaining to women in a chill environment. Make a new friend, have authentic conversations, and leave with inspiration to power you through. Admission is free. Visit SheUnitesIowa.com/Events.
Collegiate Jazz Night
Wednesday, March 20
7 PM @ Smokestack, 62 E 7th St.
The Clarke Jazz Ensemble and Melos contemporary vocal ensemble perform some jazz, rock, and pop works in this semi-annual event. Collegiate Jazz Night includes ensembles from Clarke University, Loras College, and the University of Dubuque for an evening of good music, food, and spirits. Visit Clarke.edu/ArtsAtClarke.
BestFest 2024
Thursday, March 21
5-7:30 PM @ Grand River Center
A benefit to support Hospice of Dubuque is just as it sounds, a celebration of the best Dubuque has to offer, as voted on by you, the people of Dubuque. Winners will gather and give away samples of their best products. Voting happens by ballot in the Dubuque Advertiser as the event nears. It always sells out in advance, so get your tickets early. Visit HospiceOfDubuque.org/BestFest-2024.
Master Foodie Program
Thursdays, March 21 through May 2
6-8 PM @ Various Locations
ISU Extension and Outreach-Dubuque County’s Master Foodie Program is set to kick off its 6-week farm-to-table journey aimed at enriching participants’ understanding of the local food system. The program combines online lessons, engaging tours, and hands-on educational activities, with researched based local information providing a comprehensive experience for those passionate about local foods. Registration is open until March 7, or until the cohort fills. Cost: $80. Visit http://bit.ly/DbqFoodie.
JDIFF Winter Film Series
Thursday, March 21
7 PM @ Hotel Julien Dubuque
The series closes out on March 21 with A Long Way from Nowhere. The 60-minute documentary tells the story of athletes running the Desert Rats Kokopelli, a 150-mile race through the Utah desert at the height of summer. It is rated GA. Enjoy select films from the 2023 Julien Dubuque International Film Festival. Watch a cause-related film followed by a Q&A or panel. Admission is free. Visit JulienFilmFest.com.
Broad Ideas: Songwriters Showcase
Thursday, March 21
7-9 PM @ Galena Center for the Arts (Galena, IL)
Look forward to some new elements and the all-women-focused musical performance. Refreshments available for purchase. Broad Ideas is a community arts show committed to inclusion by dismantling patriarchy and misogyny through the telling of our stories. The show will be on display March 3-25. Visit BroadIdeas.org.
Skunk Cabbage Hike
Friday, March 22
12-2 PM @ Swiss Valley Nature Preserve
Dubuque, Jackson, and Jones County Conservation are partnering up to provide an adult-focused program in the tri-county area. Join us for a guided hike in search of the first sign of spring—skunk cabbage. Be prepared to travel off trail in boggy areas that may be muddy for this excursion. Hiking poles and sturdy footwear are recommended. This program is specifically geared toward ages 50+. Cost is free. Registration appreciated. Visit DubuqueCountyIowa.gov/628/Conservation.
Godspell
Friday & Saturday, March 22-23, 7:30 PM
Sunday, March 24, 2 PM
@ University of Dubuque Heritage Center
A troupe of eccentric players help Jesus Christ tell parables by using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques, and a hefty dose of comic timing. Admission: $12, adults; $8, children and non-UD students; free for UD faculty/staff/students. Visit Dbq.Edu/HeritageCenter.
Powerlifting & Bench Press National Championship
Saturday, March 23, 9 AM
Sunday, March 24, 5 PM
@ Grand River Center
Attend the UPA Powerlifting & Bench Press National Championship and 2025 XPC Arnold Classic Qualifier. Spectator admission: adults, $15-25; children 10 and under are free. Visit UPAPower.com.
Bad Medicine
Saturday, March 23
7 PM @ Ohnward Fine Arts Center, 1215 E. Platt St. (Maquoketa, IA)
A full dose of Bon Jovi with a supplement of non-Jovi. Hailing from Chicago, Bad Medicine has spent the last seven years establishing itself as one of the most sought-after tribute shows in the nation. The band boasts five top-tier musicians whose shared musical histories include Thin Lizzy, Dio, Great White, and Brett Michaels. Join us for one hour of Bon Jovi and another hour of non-Jovi including hits from Poison, Guns & Roses, Van Halen, and more. Admission: $25-$28, adults; $15-$18, ages 18 and younger. Visit OhnwardFineArtsCenter.com.
Paul Filipowicz Blues Band
Saturday, March 23
7 PM @ Smokestack, 62 E. 7th St.
Paul Filipowicz is one of those rare bluesmen that defines the genre. He is a Chicago Blues Hall of Fame guitarist and singer. For more information, email SmokestackDbq@gmail.com.
Steve Moris
Saturday, March 23
7:30 PM @ Five Flags Theater
Steve Moris is the only “People’s Choice” Nominee for Entertainer of the Year in the history of Princess Cruises. The Best of Branson Missouri voted Moris “Best Comedian,” “Best Comedy Show,” and “Best New Show” in Branson 2021. Moris has been performing for 50 years and has been the Beach Boys’ opener for the past four decades, sharing their stages in some of the largest venues in the world. Admission: $19-$30. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Blue-Ribbon Breakfast & Auction
Sunday, March 24
8 AM-12 PM @ Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Come to the Dubuque County Fairgrounds for their annual Blue-Ribbon Breakfast, a fundraiser to help raise money for improvements for the Dubuque County Fairgrounds and Event Center. Meal includes eggs, ham, sausage, potatoes, fresh fruit, toast, coffee, juice, and milk. Live auction and raffle begin at 11 AM. Admission: $12, adults; kids ages 5-11, $8; children ages 4 and under, free. Visit DBQFair.com.
RARE Raptor Program
Sunday, March 24
12 PM @ EB Lyons Interpretive Center, 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd.
The RARE Group is a nonprofit raptor rehabilitation and education organization located in Iowa City, IA. Learn about The RARE Group, the life of Iowa’s native raptor species, the importance of raptors in our ecosystem, what you can do to help these birds have a successful life in the wild, and meet these raptors up close and personal. Visit MinesOfSpain.org.
The Welsh in Wisconsin’s Lead Mining Region
Sunday, March 24
5-6 PM via Zoom
In this presentation, historian Robert Humphries explains how the Welsh created thriving ethnic settlements where they maintained their culture, religious traditions, and Celtic language throughout the 19th century and into the 20th. Cost: $4 or $20 for the entire lecture series. Visit Mining.Jamison.Museum/Programs.
Freshta Tori Jan Lecture
Monday, March 25
7 PM @ John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center
Freshta Tori Jan, a political asylee from Kabul, Afghanistan, will deliver the Spring 2024 Michael Lester Wendt Character Lecture at the University of Dubuque. Jan and her family were the targets of ethnic cleansing, had to flee the Taliban, and eventually went to India, where they endured unemployment, poverty, and health challenges. Now, as the founder of Hazara Advocates USA, Jan tells her stories and spreads her passion for peace across the globe. Admission is free. Visit Wendt@dbq.edu.
Midwest Bedrock: The Search for Nature’s Soul in America’s Heartland
Tuesday, March 26
7 PM @ Loras College Library – 3rd Floor, 1450 Alta Vista St.
Loras College Professor of English and author, Kevin Koch, invites readers to join him on a journey through the beauty of the Midwest. Part history, part memoir, part interview-based research, Midwest Bedrock is a personal narrative exploring the natural beauty of America’s Heartland, where each location tells the stories that linger on the landscape. Light refreshments will be provided at this book launch. Admission is free. Visit Loras.edu.
The Circus is Coming
Wednesday, March 27
6:30-9 PM @ Five Flags Center
The Carden Circus is coming to Dubuque for one night only. Get ready to be amazed with all-new acts. We can’t wait for your family to experience the laughter and wonder, stunning contortionists, the music and magic, amazing aerialists, and see our elephants, camels, and more for an up close, once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.
Broad Ideas: Spoken Word Closing
Saturday, March 27
7-9 PM @ Galena Center for the Arts (Galena, IL)
Take in the powerful words as people share their stories and poems. There will be a brief champagne and chocolate reception after the spoken word speakers. Broad Ideas is a community arts show committed to inclusion by dismantling patriarchy and misogyny through the telling of our stories. The show will be on display March 3-25. Visit BroadIdeas.org.
Abnormal Psychology in Fiction Writers Workshop
Thursday, March 28
5:30 PM via Online
In this last event of Galena LitFest’s Mystery March, author and educator Steven J. Kolbe will present a writer’s workshop featuring techniques for writing abnormal psychology in fiction, particularly mystery and suspense. Registrants will have the opportunity to submit questions in advance, which will then be incorporated into the program. Visit GalenaLibrary.org.
Easter Egg Hunt Outdoors
March 29–April 1 @ Mines of Spain John & Alice Butler Trail, 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd.
Get outside with the family during the holiday weekend in search of hidden eggs near EB Lyons. After finding eggs, please leave them in their original location for the next family on their search for eggs. Visit MinesOfSpain.org.
Dubuque Community Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, March 30
10-11:30 AM @ Allison Henderson Park
The Authentic Connection once again welcomes kids through sixth grade to participate in the biggest Easter egg hunt around. Get pictures with the Easter Bunny, enjoy tons of golden egg giveaways, face painting, and more. EK Entertainment will be providing tunes for the event. Food trucks will be on site with food for purchase. Visit Facebook.com/TheAuthenticConnectionDbq.
Country Easter
Saturday, March 30
10 AM-12 PM @ Shenandoah Riding Center, 200 N. Brodrecht Rd. (Galena, IL)
Hop into Easter fun at Shenandoah Riding Center’s Country Easter event. The Easter egg hunt starts at 10:30 AM. After the hunt, enjoy crafts, wagon rides, a decadent hot chocolate bar, and cookies. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the Easter egg hunt will be held indoors. Admission: adults, free; children 12 and under, $5. Visit ShenandoahRidingCenter.com.
Hardwired: Metallica Tribute Band
Saturday, March 30
7 PM @ Mississippi Moon Bar
Hardwired brings its hard-hitting and high energy tribute to Metallica to the stage, playing songs from all eras of Metallica’s iconic Hall of Fame career. Visit MoonBarRocks.com.
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