A Very Vintage Market

Downtown Burlington

July 18

One of the Midwest's favorite shopping traditions returns to Downtown Burlington on Saturday, July 18! A Very Vintage Market features more than 100 juried vendors offering vintage treasures, antiques, handmade goods, repurposed décor, clothing, specialty foods, and one-of-a-kind finds throughout the historic downtown district. With live music, local food vendors, and thousands of shoppers expected, it's the perfect day to explore, shop, and experience all that Downtown Burlington has to offer.

Follow the A Very Vintage Market Facebook page for news about the event.

Thank you to our sponsors that make this event possible!



Premier Sponsor, Standard of Beaverdale

Media Sponsor, Titan Broadcasting & Digital Group

Map Sponsor, Black Water Mini Golf & Mississippi Moon Ice Cream Parlor

July is Hopping at the Jefferson Street Farmers Market

Thursdays, 4:30-7 PM

Summer is in full swing at the Jefferson Street Farmers Market! July brings the flavors of the season with sweet corn, melons, fresh produce, baked goods, local meats, flowers, handmade items, and so much more. Stroll four blocks of vendors while enjoying live music, delicious food, and the vibrant community atmosphere that makes Downtown Burlington the place to be on Thursday evenings.

Join us every Thursday through September 24 on Jefferson Street between 3rd and 7th Streets and discover something new each week. Whether you're shopping for fresh ingredients, supporting local businesses, or simply enjoying a summer evening downtown, there's something for everyone.

📍 Location: Jefferson Street, between 3rd and 7th Streets

📅 Every Thursday, May 7 – September 24

⏰ 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Special events, entertainment, and pop-up experiences will take place throughout the season, offering something new each week. Whether you’re shopping for dinner, catching up with friends, or discovering your new favorite vendor, it’s happening on Jefferson Street!

A special thank you to our July Presenting Sponsor, Koch Fertilizer, for helping make the Jefferson Street Farmers Market possible.

Stay up to date with weekly vendor lists, theme nights, and weather updates by following The Jefferson St Farmers Market Facebook Page.

July Sounds of Summer at the Jefferson Street Farmers Market

Thursday evenings in Downtown Burlington come alive with free live music during the Jefferson Street Farmers Market from 4:30 to 7:00 PM.

Shop fresh produce, local foods, handmade goods, and unique finds while enjoying performances from talented local musicians that create the perfect soundtrack for a summer evening downtown.

More than just a market, the Jefferson Street Farmers Market is where the community gathers to shop local, connect with friends, and experience the energy of Downtown Burlington.



July Live Music Schedule

• July 2: Lillian Chavez
• July 9: Jared Rouggly
• July 16: Ruby Orr, plus free Horse & Trolley Rides
• July 23: Diane DeJaynes
• July 30: Ruby Orr



Special thanks to F&M Bank & Trust for sponsoring this season’s live entertainment and helping keep the beat alive in Downtown Burlington.

For updates on performers and weekly features, visit the Jefferson Street Farmers Market Facebook page.

Kid's Market Returns

August 20

Young entrepreneurs are invited to take center stage at the Kid's Market during the Jefferson Street Farmers Market on Thursday, August 20, from 4:30 to 7:00 PM. Open to ages 17 and under, this free event gives kids the opportunity to sell handmade crafts, baked goods, artwork, produce, and more while keeping 100% of their profits. Participants provide their own setup, and a parent or guardian must be present.

Thank you to presenting sponsor, Burlington Black Water Mini Golf and Mississippi Moon, for helping inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Snake Alley Festival of Film

Capitol Theater

July 9 - 12

Lights, camera, action! The Snake Alley Festival of Film returns to Downtown Burlington for four days of independent films, screenplays, filmmaker Q&As, and creative conversations at the beautifully restored Capitol Performing Arts Center. Since 2012, SNAFF has welcomed established and emerging filmmakers from around the world, showcasing outstanding short films and celebrating the art of storytelling.

Whether you're a dedicated film enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Snake Alley Festival of Film offers an inspiring weekend of creativity, connection, and entertainment in the heart of Downtown Burlington.

SHIPS HAPPENING! Downtown is Open for Business

Monday Aug 3, 17 & 31

When the Viking River Cruise docks in Burlington, something exciting is, SHIPS HAPPENING in Downtown!

On select Mondays throughout the season, downtown businesses are opening their doors to welcome both cruise guests and the local community for a day of shopping, dining, and exploring.

Whether you're discovering a new boutique, enjoying lunch with friends, or browsing your favorite local shops, it's the perfect opportunity to experience the energy of Downtown Burlington while welcoming visitors from around the world.

Watch for participating businesses, special offers, and Downtown BINGO as we turn every Viking stop into a celebration of our community. Shop local, support downtown, and help us show visitors why Burlington is a destination worth remembering!

Help Shape the Future of Downtown Parking

As Downtown Burlington continues to grow, your feedback can help shape its future.

The City of Burlington, in partnership with the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission and Downtown Partners, Inc., is conducting an updated Downtown Parking Study to better understand current parking needs and identify opportunities for future improvements.



Whether you live, work, own a business, or visit downtown, your input is valuable. Take a few minutes to complete the survey and share your thoughts on parking availability, accessibility, safety, and future enhancements. Together, we can help ensure Downtown Burlington remains welcoming, accessible, and ready for continued growth.

Celebrate the Fourth at Burlington Black Water Mini Golf

July 4

Celebrate America's 250th birthday with a special one-day offer at Burlington Black Water Mini Golf on July 4! Enjoy a single scoop of ice cream for just $2.50 and a round of vintage 1930s indoor mini golf for only $2.50. Stick around after 5:00 PM for GLOW Golf, then head out to enjoy the evening's fireworks. It's a fun and affordable way to celebrate the holiday with family and friends in Downtown Burlington!

Glow Party at Black Water Mini Golf

July 11

Turn up the fun at Black Water Mini Golf's Late Night Glow Party on Saturday, July 11! Starting at 8:30 PM, enjoy unlimited glow mini golf for just $5 as black lights, great music, and a vibrant atmosphere transform the course into a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience. Ice cream will also be available, making it the perfect summer outing for all ages. The event ends at 10:30 PM, with the last tee time at 10:00 PM.

4th Friday on the Riverfront

July 24

Kick off the weekend at Burlington Riverfront Entertainment's 4th Friday on Friday, July 24! Enjoy a free evening of live music on the riverfront featuring Bocephus Wayne, presented by The New Mix 107.3 and King Kleen. Bring your family and friends, relax by the river, and enjoy another great summer night of entertainment in Burlington.

Award-Winning Riverfront

Burlington's riverfront continues to earn national recognition!

The City of Burlington's Riverfront Park has received a Merit Award for Design Excellence from the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, recognizing the vision, collaboration, and innovation behind the transformation of this community asset.

Made possible through Burlington's $17 million TIGER Grant, the award-winning project has strengthened connections between Downtown and the Mississippi River while enhancing recreation, accessibility, flood resiliency, and public gathering spaces.

Congratulations to the City of Burlington, project partners, and everyone whose dedication helped create a riverfront that residents and visitors can enjoy for generations to come.

Fire & Splash Summer Bash

July 25

Cool off and celebrate summer at the Fire & Splash Summer Bash on Saturday, July 25, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM in the 400 Block of Valley Street!

Hosted by the Burlington Fire Department, Drake Hardware & Software, and Elks Lodge 84, this free, family-friendly event features water games, fire trucks, food and drinks, and the chance to dunk the Fire Chief and your favorite firefighters.



Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun, laughter, and community as Burlington celebrates summer in a big way!

Burlington Riverfront Car Show

July 25

Start your engines! The Burlington Riverfront Car Show rolls into the Riverfront and Port of Burlington on Saturday, July 25, from 2:00 to 7:00 PM.

Browse an impressive lineup of classic cars, custom builds, trucks, and motorcycles while enjoying food trucks, community voting, and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.



Vehicle owners are invited to enter from 2:00 to 5:00 PM for a chance to win Community Choice Awards in multiple categories. Whether you're showcasing your ride or simply admiring the incredible vehicles on display, this is an event every car enthusiast won't want to miss.

Patio Season in Downtown Burlington

Welcome to Patio Season in Downtown Burlington, Iowa!

Embrace the gorgeous weather and unwind on one of the charming patios scattered throughout the Cultural & Entertainment District. Indulge in delicious food, sip on refreshing drinks, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Your perfect outdoor oasis awaits!

Beautiful Patios From:

The Drake Restaurant - 106 Washington Street

Thyme & Spice Co. - 612 Jefferson Street

The Beancounter Coffeehouse & Drinkery - 212 Jefferson Street

Valley Monster Public Tap House - 217 Valley Street

Martini's Grille - 610 N 4th Street

La Bohème- Burlington,IA - 417 Jefferson Street

The Som - 863 Jefferson Street

Farneys - 702 Jefferson Street

The Busted Cup Brewhouse - 724 Jefferson Street

The Paddle Wheel Lounge - 613 Jefferson Street

Corked 101 - 514 Jefferson Street

Mississippi Moon Ice Cream Parlor - 620 Jefferson Street

Cedar & Vine - 423 N 3rd Street

To experience patio season in Downtown Burlington to the fullest, grab a seat at one of these inviting locales and savor the best that the city has to offer. Discover your new favorite spot under the sun or stars and explore Downtown Burlington's patios and make this summer unforgettable!

History Club Brings Local Stories to Life Each Week

Wednesdays

Community members are invited to take a step back in time each week with the History Club, held every Wednesday at the Des Moines County Historical Society.

This free, informal gathering meets in the Bart Howard Lounge and is led by Executive Director Colton Overton. The club offers a welcoming space to explore local history, share memories, and uncover unique stories that have shaped the Burlington community.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas, topics, or questions, or simply come ready to follow where curiosity leads. Each session offers something a little different, making it a great opportunity for both longtime residents and those new to the area to learn more about the region’s rich history.

The History Club continues to be a meaningful way to connect with the past while building community in Downtown Burlington.

Washington Street is Open for Business

Construction is temporary, but the businesses along Washington Street are here every day, ready to welcome you!

While improvements are underway at 4th,7th, 8th and Washington Streets, we encourage the community to go a little out of your way to support the local shops, restaurants, organizations, and services that call this corridor home.

From fitness studios, gyms and restaurants to event venues, retailers, financial services, and historic landmarks, Washington Street offers something for everyone. As you visit, take time to explore the beautiful architecture, discover the charm of nearby Snake Alley, and experience another unique corner of Downtown Burlington.



Thank you for supporting our Washington Street businesses during construction. Your continued patronage makes a lasting difference and helps keep Downtown Burlington thriving.

Splash into Summer at the Riverfront

Looking for a fun way to cool off this summer? Burlington's Riverfront Splash Pad is the perfect destination for families to beat the heat while enjoying one of the community's most beautiful views.

As evening falls, the illuminated Great River Bridge creates a stunning backdrop, making the splash pad a favorite spot for summer fun and unforgettable memories.

Pack the towels, bring the kids, and experience all the excitement waiting along Burlington's award-winning riverfront.

Discover Downtown with the Downtown App

Everything you love about Downtown Burlington is just a tap away! The free Downtown App makes it easy to discover local restaurants, boutiques, events, public art, historic landmarks, and more, all in one place. Whether you're planning a day downtown or exploring with friends and family, the app is your go-to guide for shopping, dining, entertainment, and self-guided walking tours.

Download the Downtown App today and experience everything happening in Downtown Burlington right from your pocket!

📱 Download the app now and get exploring!

• Google Play: Click here
• Apple App Store: Click here

Just don’t say we didn’t warn you: fun is highly likely.

Explore the Region with the Destination: Greater Burlington Podcast

Discover the people, places, and experiences that make Greater Burlington a destination worth exploring! Hosted by Chris Gram of the Greater Burlington Convention & Visitors Bureau and Amy Moyner of Downtown Partners, Inc., the Destination: Greater Burlington podcast highlights local attractions, events, businesses, and hidden gems throughout the region.

Whether you're planning your next adventure or looking for something new close to home, tune in on Spotify and let the Destination: Greater Burlington podcast inspire your next visit.

Downtown Living Starts Here

Historic charm meets modern living at Dehner's Lofts, now leasing in the heart of Downtown Burlington. These beautifully renovated one and two-bedroom apartments feature high-end finishes, secure building access, in-unit laundry, and all the convenience of downtown living just steps from shopping, dining, entertainment, and the riverfront.

Commercial space is also available, offering a unique opportunity for businesses to become part of this revitalized historic property. Applications are now being accepted, making this the perfect time to call Downtown Burlington home.

It's Happening!

Now Open:

• The Daiquiri Lab - 718 Jefferson Street Suite 101
• Becky Thee Braider - 718 Jefferson Street
• Jefferson Street Ice Cream Company - 314 Jefferson Street
• About the House - 312 Jefferson Street
• Wardrobe 111 & Studio - 122 N 4th Street
• The Kloset Boutique - 108 N 4th Street
• La Reyna International Store - 404 Jefferson Street
• 369 Aesthetics - 214 Jefferson Street
• Lucid Lotus Holistic Health - 221 N 8th Street
• Musicians Pro Shop - 108 N 4th Street
• Cedar & Vine - 423 N 3rd Street
• The Dandelion - 318 N 4th Street

Don't miss all of the fun at the Art Center of Burlington

• Visit the Art Center of Burlington for winter classes, new art installations, and events for a date night, girls' night out, or family fun!

It's Happening all year long at the Capitol Performing Arts Center

• Visit the Capitol Performing Arts Center for Concerts, Movies, Comedy and more. It's Happening All Year!

The Burlington Public Library has so much scheduled all year long

• There is so much happening at the Burlington Library all winter long! Lots of activities for all ages! Visit the Burlington Public Library Calendar to see what's going on and join in on all the fun!

Thank You:

• Thank You to Our Amazing Supporters! Downtown Burlington wouldn’t be the same without you! Volunteers, businesses, and community organizations, your dedication makes our events, tours, and vibrant atmosphere possible. Every helping hand brings our downtown to life, creating unforgettable memories for all. Thank you for all you do!

Grants:

• Main Street Challenge Grant: Due July 1 Apply Now

• Blade Sign Grant:

Downtown Partners, Inc. Business Signage Grant Program offers applicants up to $400 in matching grant funds for perpendicular “blade” signage for their businesses!

Blade signs have several benefits:

• Accentuating the traditional historic and walkable character of Downtown Burlington
• Emphasizing the Downtown district as a collection of small, independent, locally owned businesses
• Adding to the liveliness of the streetscape
• Freeing up sidewalk space occupied by sandwich board signs
• Encouraging businesses to explore their individuality and examine their branding
• Increasing business visibility for potential customers who would otherwise not know anything about the business unless they were directly in front of it

If you are interested in applying and for more information please contact Amy Moyner at 319-752-6365 or visit the Blade Sign webpage.

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