Downtown Mini Golf Challenge: Tee Off For A Great Cause

March 6

Get ready for a fun-filled day of mini golf, competition, and community spirit at the Downtown Mini Golf Challenge on March 6, 2025! Hosted by Burlington Black Water Mini Golf & Mississippi Moon Ice Cream Parlor, this exciting event is packed with creative golf holes, prizes, and sweet rewards.

For just $50 per team, gather your friends, family, or coworkers to join the fun and support Downtown Burlington’s growth. Registration is filling up fast, so don’t wait to secure your spot!

Participants will also enjoy delicious sundaes and surprises throughout the day. Proceeds from the event will go toward revitalizing Downtown Burlington, funding new events, beautification projects, and public art installations to keep our Cultural & Entertainment District thriving.

A big thank you to Drake Hardware & Software for being the Premier and Golf Ball Sponsor of this event!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to have a blast while supporting a great cause. See you on the green!

Spring Open House Blooms in Downtown Burlington

April 6, 10 AM - 4 PM

Spring is in the air, and so is the excitement in Downtown Burlington!

On Sunday, April 6, from 10 AM to 4 PM, shoppers, foodies, and trendsetters alike are invited to experience the Spring Open House, a seasonal celebration filled with fresh styles, delicious bites, and unbeatable shopping.

As the weather warms up, Downtown businesses are rolling out their newest arrivals, from fashion-forward looks to must-have home décor. Meanwhile, local eateries and drinkeries are unveiling their latest spring-inspired menus, giving visitors the perfect excuse to sip, sample, and savor the season’s flavors.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Attendees will have the chance to register for up to $750 in Downtown Dollars, making this event not only a feast for the senses but also a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses and score some serious shopping perks.

Whether you're on the hunt for a wardrobe refresh, eager to try the latest menu items, or simply looking to soak in the vibrant Downtown atmosphere, this is the event to mark on your calendar.

Stay up to date with participating retailers, event specials, and exclusive sneak peeks by following the Downtown Burlington Iowa Facebook page.

SnowBull 2025

March 6-8

SnowBull is Iowa's only 3 day, indoor Bull Riding event. Dust off your boots, the Burlington Memorial Auditorium arena will be rocking during SnowBull!

SnowBull brings something unique to the Burlington area... and what's more unique than bucking bulls inside of the Memorial Auditorium in the middle of winter??

Tickets are on sale now at burlingtonsnowbull.com

2025 Open 4 Business Competition

With Main Street Iowa and the Iowa Economic Development Authority, Downtown Partners, Inc. presents the Open 4 Business Competition for a for-profit business located in the Main Street 

district. Each of the state’s Main Street organizations 

can nominate one business. If you have been in business since May 1, 2024 and are either currently or planning to be located in Downtown Burlington, you qualify!

Thyme & Spice Co. was awarded $26,000 for their addition of olive oils and vinegars in 2024.

A complete application must be submitted by April 1. Downtown Partners, Inc. will choose a contestant for the June 12 semifinal judging to compete. The five finalists will then present their ideas in a statewide contest at the Iowa Downtown Conference on in August for up to an additional $20,000 in funding.

Applicants will be required to complete an online 

application and submit a three minute "video pitch" 

about their business idea.

If you are interested in applying and for more information please contact Amy Moyner at 319-752-6365.

Jefferson St Farmers Market

Although it is still winter, Downtown Partners, Inc. is looking forward to the 2025 season of the Jefferson Street Farmers Market!

The market will take place on Jefferson Street on Thursdays from 4:30 to 7 PM beginning May 1.

Follow the Jefferson Street Farmers Market Facebook page for news about the weekly market.

Want to be a vendor?

The Jefferson Street Farmers Market Steering Committee is offering a discount to returning seasonal vendors who sign up in advance, as well as for new seasonal vendors - only $170 a space for the entire 22-week season. This rate is through April 1.

Explore Opportunities at the Downtown Burlington Commercial Space Open House

April 27, 1-3 PM

Entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners looking for the perfect location to launch or expand their ventures will have an exciting opportunity on Sunday, April 27, from 1 to 3 PM. The Downtown Commercial Space Open House, hosted by the DPI Economic Vitality Committee, invites the public to tour available properties and discover the many advantages of doing business in Downtown Burlington.

This free event provides a firsthand look at commercial spaces currently on the market. Participants will receive a directory map of available locations, along with valuable information on business incentives, support programs, and upcoming Downtown projects aimed at strengthening the district’s economic vitality.

With a growing mix of retail, dining, and entertainment, Downtown Burlington has become a prime destination for both residents and visitors. The Open House aims to connect property owners with individuals and businesses eager to invest in the district’s continued success.

Whether you're looking for a storefront, office space, or a unique spot to bring a new idea to life, this event is an opportunity to take the next step toward establishing your business in the heart of Burlington.

For more details, follow Downtown Burlington Iowa on social media or visit their website.

A Very Vintage Market

July 19

Mark your calendars, Saturday July 19, A Very Vintage Market is back!

Vendor applications for A Very Vintage Market are now available online.

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

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Downtown

March 17

Did you know that there are 20+ eateries and drinkeries in Downtown Burlington?!

Unleash your inner Irish and come celebrate St. Patrick's Day in the Downtown! Corned beef and cabbage, ruebens and green drinks will be found throughout the Downtown.

Comedy Thursdays with BRE

April 10

It's Happening in Downtown Burlington at the Riverfront!

It'll be a Dyn-O-Mite night with Jimmy Walker!



Jimmy "JJ" Walker will have you rolling in your seats at the Memorial Auditorium. Don't miss this chance to enjoy top-notch comedy right here in Burlington!

Dvořák's 8th Symphony with Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra

March 8

Join the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra at The Capitol Theater on March 8 for an unforgettable evening of music, featuring a soon-to-be 21st-century masterpiece for chorus and chamber orchestra, a performance by the 2024 Young Artist Competition Winner, and the joyful, expressive energy of Dvořák’s Eighth Symphony. Don’t miss this extraordinary concert filled with passion, artistry, and musical brilliance! 

Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities Team Creates Arts and Culture Plan for Burlington and West Burlington

This year, a group of University of Iowa students in the School of Planning and Public Affairs is undertaking is creating the first ever arts and culture master plan for the cities of West Burlington and Burlington. Through these communities’ yearlong partnership with the UI’s Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC), the group is assessing existing strengths, talking with residents about their visions, and researching planning models and best practices.  

We are happy to share this article with you regarding the Arts and Culture Master Plan:

Beads On One String Celebration

Mark your calendars for an inspiring week in April as the Beads on One String celebration takes over Downtown Burlington!

On April 17, 2025, singer-songwriter Dennis Warner will share his powerful message of unity and positivity with local elementary students during the day, followed by an evening concert at The Capitol Theater featuring his song, Beads on One String. This collaborative event, hosted by The Capitol, Burlington Public Library, Art Center of Burlington, and Downtown Partners Inc., will highlight themes 

of diversity, inclusion, and connectedness. Leading up to the concert, the community is invited to participate in unique projects: create personalized beads at the Art Center, share stories through a Human Library Project at the Burlington Public Library, and enjoy an interactive Story Walk downtown, bringing Warner’s book Beads on One String to life.

These activities provide an opportunity for individuals of all ages to celebrate creativity, foster connections, and support local businesses. The event highlights the importance of unity and showcases the vibrant spirit of the Burlington community.

Downtown Living

Urbane424 on North 3rd Street is now open! 

The property features tile backsplashes, quartz countertops, modern finishes and a stunning rooftop patio. Every unit comes equipped with stainless steel appliances, including washer/dryer and dishwasher. The property has a variety of studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom floor plans available for immediate move in. Ask us about our furnished units and short-term rental options! 

Donate to Downtown Partners, Inc.

Do you love events like the Lighted Holiday Parade, Sip, Taste & Stroll, Living Windows, A Very Vintage Market, and Jefferson St Farmers Market?

Supporting Downtown Partners, Inc. means contributing to the magic of these events and helping Downtown Burlington flourish. Your support plays a crucial role in making these happenings even more fantastic and ensures the growth of our beloved community.

Downtown Partners, Inc. is not just an organization; it's a community-driven force dedicated to preserving and revitalizing Downtown Burlington. By supporting this volunteer-driven Main Street Program, you actively contribute to the improvement of our city's quality of life.

Main Streets are proven economic drivers and essential for the resurgence of local economies. Your support goes beyond events – it fuels the engine that restarts and propels our community's economic vitality.

Downtown Partners, Inc. works tirelessly to bring you special events, enhance buildings and businesses, and beautify our city center. Your contribution, no matter the size, is a meaningful investment in the heart of Burlington.



For more information, please visit the Downtown Burlington Iowa Facebook page, reach out to a board member, or contact Amy Moyner at 319-208-0056 or amoyner@greaterburlington.com.

It's Happening!

Now Open:

• Night Cap Listening Lounge - 211 N 3rd St
• Taste & Seek - 218 Jefferson
• The Main Line Restaurant - 206 N. 3rd St Suite 103
• Iconic.Design - 718 Jefferson St
• Mississippi Moon Ice Cream Parlor - 616-620 Jefferson St
• Black Water Mini Golf - 616-620 Jefferson St
• Korner Kremery - 314 Jefferson Street
• Musty Tomes - 609 Jefferson St

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!

Market Season is just around the corner

• Vendor applications for Jefferson Street Farmers Market and A Very Vintage Market will be open soon online. Follow the A Very Vintage Market and Jefferson St. Farmers Market Facebook page for news about the annual events.

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 summer 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!

Grants:

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.

The Downtown Burlington, Iowa Facebook page has reached 13,000 Followers! We hope you are among them!

The Port of Burlington Welcome Center is open Daily, 10 AM – 4 PM. The store is also available ONLINE. Items may be picked up on site or shipped to any destination in the U.S. Follow the Port of Burlington Welcome Center on Facebook to stay in the know when new products are added.

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