Events

Dubuque Area June Activities & Events

Storywalk

June 1-30

7 AM-Dusk @ Legacy Tree Trail, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

This month’s Storywalk features the book, The Hidden Rainbow by Christie Matheson. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

O.W.L.S. Birding Hike

Saturday, June 1

8-10 AM @ Bowstring

Saunter along the trails from the prairie to the forest on a search for a variety of feathered friends. Extra binoculars and tour guides are available first come, first served. Older, Wiser, Livelier, Souls (O.W.L.S.) events are specifically geared toward people ages 55+. For more information, call (563) 652-3783.

Tour of Fairy Homes

Saturday, June 1

10 AM-4 PM @ Shake Rag Alley, 18 Shake Rag St. (Mineral Point, WI)

Stroll the magical grounds at Shake Rag Alley to see original fairy homes built especially for this tour. (Think small, really small.) Each home will be situated in a special spot on-site at this fundraiser for the nonprofit school of arts and crafts. There will be a silent auction opportunity to bid on the fairy homes. Admission: $30. Visit ShakeRagAlley.org.

Belden School Open House

Saturdays, June 1 through October 26

10 AM-2 PM @ 52 Heatherdowns Lane (Galena, IL)

Step into the historic 1859 limestone one-room schoolhouse, which has been lovingly preserved to offer a glimpse into the past. Witness the return of the original restored 1880s organ to Belden School. Volunteer docents will be on-site. Admission is free; donations appreciated. Visit TheGalenaTerritory.com.

DRHS Pet Supply Sale

Saturday, June 1, 10 AM-3 PM

Sunday, June 2, 10 AM-2 PM @ Dubuque Regional Humane Society, 4242 Chavenelle Rd.

The sale will include a variety of items (new and gently used) including harnesses, pet beds, cat trees, assorted pet clothing, toys, critter supplies, and more. Cash and credit will be accepted. Gain early bird access on June 1 from 9-10 AM for a $10 fee. Visit DbqHumane.org.

Jam at the Dam

Saturday, June 1

2-11 PM @ The Municipal Parking Lot, Lock & Dam #12 (Bellevue, IA)

The Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) is bringing back Jam at the Dam with live music, food, and kids’ activities from 2-5 PM. Proceeds go towards future events and the continued promotion of Bellevue businesses and organizations. Visit BellevueIAChamber.org.

Music in the Gardens

Sundays, June 2 through August 25

6:30 PM @ Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

The 32nd season boasts 13 weeks of family-friendly music in a variety of styles. Bring a chair or blanket. Admission is free. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Young Riders Kid’s Corral

Tuesday & Wednesday, June 4-5

9 AM-2 PM @ Shenandoah Riding Center, 200 N. Brodrecht Rd. (Galena, IL)

Young Riders will be assigned a horse and experience hours of hands-on horse time, including grooming, riding lessons, horsemanship training, and trail riding. Additionally, they will experience cleaning stalls and tack, feeding, and watering the horses. Lunch will be out on the trail on day two. Please bring a water bottle and a packed lunch. A snack will be provided (apple, carrots, granola bar). Admission: $250 for the two-day camp. Visit ShenandoahRidingCenter.com.

Early Explorers

Tuesday, June 4

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: $10/toddler for non-members; $8/toddler for members. Ages 2-5 with parent/caregiver. RSVP suggested. Visit RiverMuseum.org.

Farm Vet for a Day

Wednesday, June 5

9:30 AM–2:30 PM @ Berning Acres, 8850 N Menominee Rd. (East Dubuque, IL)

Berning Acres farm veterinarians Dr. Jen and Dr. Molly from Veterinary Associates offer an interactive, one-of-a-kind farm vet experience for a day. Participants will learn and utilize animal handling basics. They will also interact with hands-on learning covering topic such as basic anatomy and physiology of farm animals, common farm animal diseases and how to recognize symptoms, first-aid care, nutrition and feeding, and preventative measures to keep animals healthy and well cared for. They will perform real-life field demonstrations, such as routine veterinary procedures. Ages 13-18. Admission: $115. Visit BerningAcres.com/Visit.

 Glenn Miller Orchestra

 Wednesday, June 5

 8 PM @ Five Flags Center

The World-Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will perform their greatest hits as they continue their national tour. The 17-member orchestra, their lead singers, and vocal group will perform their catalog of big band classics just the way they would have over 80 years ago when Glenn Miller stood in front of his band. It is a show that continues to transport audiences back in time and is as nostalgic as it is exciting. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.

Mini-Riders Kid’s Corral

Thursday & Friday, June 6-7

9 AM-12 PM @ Shenandoah Riding Center, 200 N. Brodrecht Rd. (Galena, IL)

Through games, activities, and hands-on time, children will learn to groom, halter, lead and tie-up horses. Each day they will also be given a group riding lesson. Day two will conclude with a pony parade by the mini riders for the family to watch. Please bring a water bottle. Snacks will be provided (apples, carrots, granola bar). Admission: $175 for the two-day event. Visit ShenandoahRidingCenter.com.

Taste of Summer

Thursdays, June 6 & 27

5-9 PM @ National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Guests are invited to attend this after-hours event in the boatyard and plaza areas on campus. Live music, food trucks, and a beer/seltzer stand will be available. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to use; however, a limited number of picnic tables will be available. All ages. Admission: $5 is a suggested donation to support conservation efforts. Visit RiverMuseum.org.

Gary’s Graffiti Nights

Thursdays, June 6 through September 12

5-9:30 PM @ Kennedy Mall

Celebrating their 42nd year, cars 1979 and older gather for a 1950s-1960s car show based on American Graffiti with music and door prizes. Visit Facebook.com/GarysGraffitiNights.

East Dubuque Cruisin’ Thursdays

Thursdays, June 6 through September 26

5-9 PM @ Sinsinawa Ave. (East Dubuque, IL)

Open to all years, makes, and models of classic, muscle, and unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Great food, closed street, open containers, and live music. Visit Facebook.com/EastDubuqueCarShow.

Dubuque Arboretum Workshop

Thursday, June 6

6-8 PM @ Heinemann Visitor Center, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Make a terrarium. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Blacksmithing 101

Friday through Sunday, June 7-9

Friday & Saturday, 9 AM-4 PM

Sunday, 9 AM-1 PM @ Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts, 18 Shake Rag St. (Mineral Point, WI)

You’ll start with the basics: tending the coal fire, hammer control, using the anvil and tongs. Once comfortable with fundamentals, move on to hot iron forging projects such as a variety of handy hooks, plant hangers, bottle openers, key chain fobs, and more. Go home with striking ironwork you’ve forged yourself, and a taste for more. (If you already have smithing skills, join this class and Bob will have a challenge for you.) Visit ShakeRagAlley.org.

Food Festival Fridays

1st Fridays, June 7 through September 6

11:30 AM–1:30 PM @ Washington Park

Join area food vendors in Washington Park for a lunchtime food fest. 365ink Magazine brings the perfect side dish to your chicken sandwich, pizza, or coffee–local, live music. Hosted by Dubuque Main Street. Admission is free. Visit DubuqueMainStreet.com.

Relay For Life Fundraiser

Friday, July 7

5:30-9 PM @ 501 Bell St., Port of Dubuque Parking Lot

Relay For Life is a team fundraising event dedicated to helping the American Cancer Society end cancer. This year’s event will include a free meal for all cancer survivors and their caregivers, entertainment, kids’ activities, food trucks, survivor and caregiver celebrations, and more. All are welcome. Visit RelayForLife.org/DubuqueIA.

Honey Tasting 101

Friday, June 7

6-7 PM @ Galena ARC, 10084 W. US HWY 20 (Galena, IL)

At this one-hour guided honey tasting, your “bee-rista” will start out with some fun and engaging honey and bee trivia to start the “buzz.” Next, you will hear from Galena ARC’s beekeeper to learn a bit about the magic of how bees make honey, and then move to the sweet stuff—the honey tasting. Taste a variety of honeys ranging from light to medium to dark color profiles. All ages. Admission: $25. Visit GalenaARC.org.

First Fridays

Friday, June 7

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.

Traveling Lantern Theater Company

Saturday, June 8

10 AM @ Legacy Square Amphitheater (Dyersville, IA)

The Traveling Lantern Theater Company presents The Quest for the Kakapo. Join the Caterpillar Hunter on another exciting adventure as he travels around the world to rescue the Kakapo, a rare, endangered parrot from New Zealand. Visit Dyersville.lib.ia.us.

Galena Pride Picnic

Saturday, June 8

12-5 PM @ Grant Park (Galena, IL)

Celebrate diversity, love, and unity at Galena’s annual Pride Picnic, organized by the Galena Public Library. This family-friendly event takes place in the picturesque Grant Park and offers an array of activities, performances, and vendors for all ages. Enjoy live music, engaging performances, and a variety of food and drink options. Visit GalenaLibrary.org.

Fairy Houses

Saturday, June 8

1-5 PM @ Galena ARC, 11084 W. US HWY 20 (Galena, IL)

Make a fairy house out of natural materials like wood, acorns, nut shells, bark, pinecones, and twigs. Attendees are invited to display their fairy house on the Belden School Fairy Walk in the Galena Territory on June 15. Ages 6-14. Admission: $35. Visit GalenaARC.org.

Women & Soil

Saturday, June 8

1-5 PM @ Field of Dreams Movie Site (Dyersville, IA) and Online

Learn how women can make a difference in conservation. Get inspired, learn from top-notch female soil health experts, and grow your knowledge. Learn about soil health, conservation, and resources. An additional networking opportunity will follow this event at Textile Brewery, Dyersville, IA. Visit Facebook.com/WLLJonesDelawareIowa.

Alley Stage Reading Series

Saturday, June 8

4-7 PM @ Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts, 18 Shake Rag St. (Mineral Point, WI) The 4th annual Alley Stage Reading Series kicks off with playwright Cass Erickson’s, The Dreamer of Oyster Bay. This reading will be followed by a talkback session and reception. Visit ShakeRagAlley.org.

Stargazing

Saturday, June 8

8:30-10:30 PM @ The Galena Territory Association’s Owners’ Club Parking Lot (Galena, IL)

Learn about the constellations, stars, and fascinating stories behind them from experienced professional and amateur astronomers. Bring a telescope or observe through those provided and explore the wonders of the night sky. Pack a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable seating. Visit TheGalenaTerritory.com.

Horse Play

Sundays, June 9 & 23

10-11:15 AM @ Shenandoah Riding Center, 200 N. Brodrecht Rd. (Galena, IL)

Learn to groom, tack, and lead the horses around the property. There will also be a tour of the barn, showing visitors the functions of a farm and what it takes to care of these amazing animals. Admission: $25. Children under 12 need to be accompanied by a paying adult. Visit ShenandoahRidingCenter.com.

Plant Journal 101 Workshop

Sunday, June 9

11 AM–1 PM @ Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Heinemann Visitor Center

Learn how to apply botanical-observational skills to a hand-crafted journal utilizing simple drawing techniques, watercolor pencils, and pens for basic line work. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Nature Play Camp

Monday through Wednesday, June 10-12 & 24-26

9 AM-12 PM @ Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Heinemann Visitor Center

During this three-hour program, students will have the opportunity to explore and discover various beautiful gardens and natural areas. Mindful Musicians joins during group circle each day to promote positive brain health and coping skills through song. Certified teachers will be facilitating the students throughout the program. This is a student drop-off program. Ages 3-5. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Butterfly Tent

Monday, June 10

10:30-11:30 AM @ Dubuque County Library Asbury Branch (Asbury, IA)

Encounter and feed live butterflies at Absolute Science’s butterfly tents. Learn about the butterfly lifecycle with interactive activity tables. All ages. Visit DubCoLib.org/Events.

Cooking with Basic Herbs

Tuesday, June 11

6-7:30 PM @ Heinemann Visitor Center, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

This is an educational session about cooking with basic culinary herbs. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Galena Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Outing

Thursday, June 13

12 PM @ Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa (Galena, IL)

Lunch, 18 holes of golf (best ball), and dinner on the Eagle Point Patio. Admission: $400 per foursome. For more information, email Director@GalenaChamber.com.

Live @ The Plaza

Thursday, June 13

5-8 PM @ 101 Green St. (Galena, IL)

This family-friendly, free-to-attend event will feature beverages from Galena Cellars, sweet treats from Udderly Delicious, and music provided by Liliana Asta. This event will celebrate diversity and inclusion with special #AmazingForAll giveaways. Visit VisitGalena.org.

Mowing to Monarchs

Thursday, June 13

6-7 PM @ Heinemann Visitor Center, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

This is an educational session. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Family Friday: Stream Study

Friday, June 14

10-11 AM @ Bowstring Wildlife Area, 727 Creek Branch Ln. (Bernard, IA)

Explore what lives in the creeks. From dragonfly larvae to crayfish, up to a full-size trout. All necessary equipment is provided. Family Friday programs are designed for everyone in the family to experience the beautiful outdoors in Dubuque County. RSVP required. Visit DubuqueCountyIowa.gov/Conservation.

Kids Musical Concert

Friday, June 14

10-11 AM @ Packard Pavilion, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Featuring Dino O’Dell and Delaney’s ice cream. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Silver Saddles

Fridays, June 14 & 28

@ Shenandoah Riding Center, 200 N. Brodrecht Rd. (Galena, IL)

Silver Saddles is an interactive horse experience for individuals ages 55+. Participants are invited to brush the horses, groom and feed them treats, and lead them around the property. The goal of this experience is to allow a relaxing bonding experience between the participants and the horses. Admission: $25. Visit ShenandoahRidingCenter.com.

Book Detective: Zar and the Broken Spaceship

Friday, June 14

1 PM @ James Kennedy Public Library (Dyersville, IA)

From author and children’s presenter Dino O’Dell. Check out this interactive, engaging, educational show complete with music, dancing, and tons of fun. Visit Dyersville.Lib.IA.us.

Music on Main Street

Friday, June 14

5-9 PM @ Town Clock, Main Street

As always, free live music under the Town Clock featuring independent national, regional, and local musicians (no cover bands). The lineup includes Elizabeth Moen (full band), Vaulting (formerly Roof Dogs), and Wxxley (solo). Free caricatures by Silly Sketch and free bounce houses. Visit DubuqueMainStreet.com.

Are You Dead Yet?

Friday, June 14

6 PM @ Five Flags Center

This first-ever showing of the horror film Are You Dead Yet? will be in a Hollywood premiere style. At 6 PM, the cast and crew will kick-off the event by walking the red carpet, taking photos, and interacting with fans. At 6:30 PM, the carpet walk will be open to the public for personal photography. NOTE: This movie is intended for mature audiences, ages 17+. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.

Friday Lights Poetry Night

Friday, June 14

6-7 PM @ River Lights Bookstore

Share and read a favorite poem. Listen, laugh, and learn in a quiet space of time. Participate in the poetry book swap—bring one, swap one. Facilitated by Valorie Woerdehoff and Q Hommen-Quario. Visit RiverLights.com.

Jammin’ on the Porch

June 14 & June 26

6-8 PM @ Orchard Lawn, 234 Madison St. (Mineral Point, WI)

Join the Mineral Point Historic Society at the Orchard Lawn for the first Jammin’ on the Porch of 2024. Bring blankets, chairs, and a friend or two. Visit MineralPointHistory.org/Event.

School of Rock

Friday & Saturday, June 14, 15, 21 & 22, 7:30 PM

Thursday, June 20, 7:30 PM

Sundays, June 16 & 23, 2 PM @ The Grand Opera House

Co-produced by The Grand Opera House and Rising Star Theatre Company, School of Rock, based on the hit movie, follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn an extra bit of cash by posing as a supply teacher at a prestigious prep school. There he turns a class of straight–A pupils into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. But can he get them to the Battle of the Bands without their parents and the school’s headmistress finding out? Visit TheGrandOperaHouse.com.

Woodland Fairy Garden Walk

Saturday, June 15

10 AM-2 PM @ Belden School, 52 Heatherdowns Lane (Galena, IL)

Walk among the fairies on the Belden School grounds. Volunteers create, build, and install fairy gardens around the 1859 limestone one-room schoolhouse. Guests may tour the tiny homes while wearing fairy wings (optional) and munching fresh baked goods. There is also a special tent where children can make their own fairy wands. Volunteer docents are onsite and share stories of the school during the open house. Admission is free; donations appreciated. Visit TheGalenaTerritory.com.

2nd Annual Dubuque Dog Expo

Saturday, June 15

1-4 PM @ Flora Park

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time filled with furry fun, featuring pet-friendly vendors and expert tips for a happy and healthy pup. Bring your canine companion and make unforgettable memories together. Enjoy food trucks, agility demonstrations, area dog related vendors, caricature artists, and more. Visit Facebook.com/DbqPetMed.

The Carl Acuff Jr. Show

Saturday, June 15

2 PM @ Ohnward Fine Arts Center, 1215 E. Platt St. (Maquoketa, IA)

Since 1992 the Carl Acuff Jr. Variety Showband has become an American institution. The 2024 tour proves to be no exception to the rule with a dynamite show, costuming, music, and comedy. Enjoy new and old country, gospel, comedy, nostalgic rock, Motown, do wap, disco, audience participation, impersonations, and a salute to all the men and women in uniform from past, present, and future. The group covers everyone from Hank Williams to Bruno Marrs. Admission: $25-$28, adults; $15-$18, ages 18 and younger. Visit OhnwardFineArtsCenter.com.

2X Monster Trucks Live Tour

Saturday, June 15

@ Dubuque County Fairgrounds

The 2X Monster Trucks Live Tour features some of the most recognized and popular monster trucks in the sport, including two-time Monster Jam World Champion Bounty Hunter, Queen of Monster Trucks, Scarlet Bandit, kid favorite Sharkbite, Hot Tamale, and many more. Expect plenty of interactive and action-packed entertainment for the entire family. Visit DbqFair.com.

Dubuque Cars and Coffee

3rd Sundays, June 16 through October

9 AM–12 PM @ Veterans Memorial Plaza

Casual meet-up for cars of all makes, models, and years. Coffee, donuts, and drinks will be for sale. Proceeds go to Veteran’s Freedom Center.  Visit Facebook.com/DubuqueCarsAndCoffee.

Summer Camp: KinderKamp

Monday, June 17

9 AM-12 PM @ National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Read stories, hang out with animals, and have fun with make-believe along the way. Admission: members, $100; non-members, $125. Visit RiverMuseum.org.

Nature Art Camp

Monday through Wednesday, June 17-19

9 AM-12 PM @ Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Heinemann Visitor Center

During this three-hour program, students will have the opportunity to explore an array of art media such as painting, drawing, and sculpture, while also discovering the natural beauty of the many gardens and natural areas. Certified teachers will facilitate the program. Students will have the chance to develop their artistic skills while learning about the different plants and animals that inhabit these locations. This is a student drop-off program. Ages 4-6. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Summer Teen Nights

Mondays through Thursdays, June 17 through July 31

5:30–8:30 PM @ Multicultural Family Center, 1157 Central Ave.

The MFC is the place for teens to hang out and interact in a safe, fun environment that promotes unity, diversity, equity, inclusion, and empowers youth to reach their potential. Teen Nights consists of dinner, field trips, guest speakers, video games, and many other games and activities. Grades 6-12. Admission is free. Visit MFCdbq.org.

Sam Rezz Circus Performance

Tuesday, June 18

Show, 11-11:45 AM @ Dubuque County Library Peosta Branch (Peosta, IA)

Workshop,1:30–2:30 PM @ Dubuque County Library Farley Branch (Farley, IA)

Join circus performer Sam Rezz with her dazzling show of hula hoops, juggling, and more. Following the show, Rezz will teach a workshop for kids on the basics of circus tricks. Visit DubCoLib.org/Events.

Edible Flowers

Tuesday, June 18

6-7:30 PM @ Heinemann Visitor Center, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

This is an educational workshop. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

She Unites

Wednesday, June 19

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. All are welcome. All are worthy. All belong. Admission is free. Visit SheUnitesIowa.com/Events.

Magician Mikayla Oz

Thursday, June 20

10 AM @ James Kennedy Public Library (Dyersville, IA)

Enjoy this fast-paced, interactive, hilarious show complete with hands-on magic training and an appearance from Bubbles the Magic Bird. Visit Dyersville.Lib.IA.us.

Ceramics Class

Thursday, June 20

10 AM-12 PM @ Heinemann Visitor Center, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Paint floral ceramics with guided instructions to learn fun techniques and tricks. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

JDIFF Bushwood Golf Tournament

Friday, June 21

11:30 AM @ Bunker Hill Golf Course

The Julien Dubuque International Film Festival (JDIFF) will host its 3rd annual fundraising golf tournament. This golf event is themed after the famous Caddyshack movie, so don’t expect the usual golfing. There will be shenanigans and lots of fun. Extras include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and dinner. Admission: $150 individual; $500 per team of 4. Visit JulienFilmFest.com.

Great Galena Balloon Race

Friday through Sunday, June 21-23

5-9 PM @ Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa (Galena, IL)

Enjoy a three-day hot air balloon race and festival in Galena. Get close to the balloons and learn all about them. This event features more than 20 hot air balloons, three races, a night glow extravaganza, live music, an art show, car show, and activities for the whole family. The Great Galena Art Show takes over the big tent on Saturday night. Admission: $10, adults; $5, children over 3. This is a cash event with no credit cards/ATM on-site. Visit GreatGalenaBalloonRace.com.

Urinetown

Friday & Saturday, June 21-22, 7:30 PM

Thursday & Friday, June 27-29, 7:30 PM

Sundays, June 23 & 30, 2 PM @ Bell Tower Theater

This Tony Award-winning musical pokes fun at capitalism, bureaucracy, and musical theater itself. After a severe water shortage leads to a ban on private toilets, an evil corporation monopolizes all the public amenities. Tired of being charged admission for humanity’s basic needs, a hero rises to overthrow the tyrannical movement. Filled with witty humor, fast-paced action, and a star-crossed love story. All performers in Urinetown will be high school students from throughout the area. Admission: $15. Visit BellTowerTheater.net.

Dubuque Tour of Gardens

Saturday, June 22

9 AM-4 PM @ Various Locations in Dubuque

The Dubuque County Master Gardeners and Dubuque County Gardeners, Inc., present their annual tour of gardens (rain or shine), and will showcase six local gardens offering a blend of natives, perennials, annuals, fruits, vegetables, shrubs, and mature trees. Be inspired and discover new ideas to incorporate into your own garden or landscape. Ticket purchase includes admission to each of the six gardens plus three workshop opportunities. This year’s workshops include Raised Bed Gardening, Cut & Come Again – Dazzling Dahlias, and Annual Planting Trends & New Arrivals. Admission: $8-$10. Visit DbqTourOfGardens.com.

Blacksmithing & Welding Open Forge Day

Saturday, June 22

9 AM-4 PM @ Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts, 18 Shake Rag St. (Mineral Point, WI)

Have experience with welding or blacksmithing and want access to Shake Rag Alley’s facilities? Come take advantage of Open Forge days. On-site are six coal forges, nine anvils, four gas forges, four oxyacetylene kits, two MIG welders, drill press, grinders, tools, and some scrap metal. While instruction will not be provided, a facilitator will be on-hand for safety and guidance. Visit ShakeRagAlley.org.

Corkless in Galena

Saturday, June 22

12-6 PM @ Depot Park, 91 Bouthillier St. (Galena, IL)

Sample selections of unique wines produced by family-owned Northern Illinois Wineries. Bring your chairs and spend the day. Dance barefoot on the grass to the live music on stage, browse through the different art and craft exhibits by local artists, grab delicious treats from food vendors, and of course enjoy the wine. Admission: $20, advance purchase. Visit CorklessGalena.com.

Beatles Vs. StonesA Musical Showdown

Saturday, June 22

8 PM @ Five Flags Center

Two of the greatest bands of all time face off in a high-energy, adrenaline-pumping musical showdown. The Fab Four, represented by tribute band Abbey Road, will engage in a barrage of hits against premier Rolling Stones tribute band, Satisfaction. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.

HerbFest 2024

Sunday, June 23

9 AM-1 PM @ Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Herb Garden

The herb of the year is yarrow. Enjoy a silent auction, herb garden tours, tasty tidbits, handcrafted items, herbal sample plants, and more. Admission is free. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Cooking 101: Herbs, Spices, & Sauces

Sunday, June 23

3-5 PM @ Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St.

Learn how to be less reliant on recipes and more reliant on spices, herbs, and sauces to make meals. Join Convivium co-founder Leslie Shalabi for this exciting new class, which is part of their Cooking 101 series. It is for those with very limited cooking knowledge and who want to become more confident in the kitchen. This series will be a combination of classroom learning, demonstration, and some limited hands-on experience. Admission: $25-$37.50. Visit Convivium-Dbq.com.

Summer Camp: Rollin’ Through Habitats

Tuesday through Thursday, June 25-27

9 AM-4 PM @ National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Throughout camp, the focus will be on different habitats including prairie, wetland, desert, and aquatic. Where are they located? What animals and plants live in these areas? Take a stroll through the habitats. Admission: members, $120; non-members, $150. Visit RiverMuseum.org.

Plein Air Art for Kids

Tuesday & Wednesday, June 25-26

9-11 AM @ Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Heinemann Visitor Center

Mercedes Pfab from Captured on Canvas will take this class outside and share fun paint-what-you-see techniques. Visit DubuqueArboretum.net.

Wee Ones Wiggle

Wednesday, June 26

9:30-10:30 AM @ Dubuque County Library Asbury Branch (Asbury, IA)

Designed for mobile toddlers, but all little ones who like to dance are welcome. Visit DubCoLib.org/Events.

Live @ The Plaza

Last Thursdays, June 27 through August 22

5-8 PM @ 101 Green St. (Galena, IL)

This family-friendly, free-to-attend event will feature beverages from Frank O’Dowd’s, food from Birds, and music. All dates will have fun giveaways to enter. Visit VisitGalena.org.

Artist Workshop

Thursday through Sunday, June 27-30

Bluff Strokes, an affiliate of the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society, is hosting “Observational Painting: Studio and Plein Air,” with Hector Acuna. His workshop will guide students through an in-depth series of slideshow presentations, live demonstrations, homework assignments, and group critiques covering various observational painting methods. Demos will be in oil, but other media are welcome. This workshop will be conducted in a studio and en plein air. Admission: $440. Visit BluffStrokes.org/Workshops.

Magician Rick Eugene

Friday, June 28

10 AM @ Packard Pavilion, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

All ages are invited to attend this funny and family-friendly magic show with Rick “Eugene” Brammer, a popular magician from the Quad Cities. Brammer specializes in comedy magic and family entertainment. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. No rain dates. Admission is free. Visit CarnegieStout.org.

Family Friday: Caving

Friday, June 28

10 AM-12 PM @ Whitewater Canyon (Bernard, IA)

Come prepared with a flashlight or headlamp to explore caves in Dubuque County. Explore caves large enough to fit 30 people to caves that require crawling and getting a little muddy. Family Friday programs are designed for everyone in the family to experience the beautiful outdoors in Dubuque County. RSVP required. Visit DubuqueCountyIowa.gov/Conservation.

Absolute Science Bubble Stations

Saturday, June 29

8 AM-12 PM @ Legacy Square (Dyersville, IA)

Love making HUGE bubbles? Join in on bubble fun for all ages. Visit Dyersville.Lib.IA.us.

Beginners Gas Forge: Decorative Garden Post

Saturday & Sunday, June 29-30

9 AM-4 PM @ Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts, 18 Shake Rag St. (Mineral Point, WI)

In this beginner’s class, learn the basics of a gas forge, drawing tapers, curling, twisting, and texturing metal to make a garden post with hook and a decorative dragonfly or butterfly adornment. Materials fee includes 3/16th inch square stock and decorative blank. Optional second decorative blank available for an additional $10. Visit ShakeRagAlley.org.

Dubuque Museum of Art Craft Invitational

Saturday, June 29 through October 13

Saturday, June 29 is the opening celebration of DuMA’s Craft Invitational 2024 exhibition from 10 AM-8 PM. From 10 AM-12 PM, there will be a family celebration with “make and take” projects inspired by the exhibition. At 4 PM there will be a panel discussion with Craft Invitational artists moderated by Craft Invitational juror and glass artist Joe Ivacic. The reception is from 5-8 PM. Events are free with admission to the museum. Visit DbqArt.org.

The Cleverlys

Saturday, June 29

8 PM @ Five Flags Center

The Cleverlys is a one-of-a-kind, unique comedy and music experience. From the group’s humble beginnings in the Ozark Mountains, to currently headlining festivals all over the country, there is no other show like this out there. “If Dolly Parton, Earl Scruggs, and Spinal Tap spawned a litter of puppies, it would be The Cleverlys,” says the New York Times. Visit FiveFlagsCenter.com.

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