Art Walk
Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 10am-4pm | Kohlmann Park
Join us in Waverly, Iowa for the beloved Art Walk, a juried fine arts and crafts show that transforms scenic Kohlmann Park into an open-air gallery along the beautiful Cedar River. Celebrating its 21st anniversary, the Art Walk showcases talented artists from across the tri-state area, offering original works in Basketry, Jewelry, Pottery, Photography, Painting, and much more.
Artists' booths line the park’s winding sidewalk, offering a relaxing and inspiring stroll through creativity. Whether you’re a collector or just browsing, it’s the perfect place to support local artists and find something truly unique.
The event features live music, food vendors, and free kids' art activities, making it a family-friendly event for all ages.
All participating artists are eligible for awards and cash prizes, judged by a panel of local art professionals.
Make it a day in downtown Waverly—grab coffee, enjoy the river views, listen to music, and connect with local art.
The event is co-sponsored by the Waverly Chamber of Commerce and the Waverly Leisure Services Department.
Concerts in Kohlmann – Waverly’s Summer Music Series
Thursday nights in June & July | 6:30pm | Kohlmann Park
Enjoy live music in beautiful Kohlmann Park, right along the Cedar River in Waverly, Iowa. The Concerts in Kohlmann summer series features performances by the Waverly Municipal Band and a variety of local musical acts each Thursday evening in June and July.
Bring a blanket or lawn chair, relax by the river, and soak in the sounds of summer with friends and family. This event is free and open to the public, with complimentary popcorn and lemonade served throughout the evening.
Concerts in Kohlmann Boat Floats
Make it an unforgettable night. On select Thursdays, you can float the Cedar River in a kayak while enjoying the music live from the water brought to you by CrawDaddy Outdoors.
Boat Float Dates
- Thursday, June 12
- Thursday, July 17
In case of inclement weather: Concerts will move indoors to Waverly-Shell Rock Middle School.
Jack-O-Lantern Night Trick-or-Treating
Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 6–7:30pm | Downtown Waverly
Get ready for a spook-tacular evening in downtown Waverly! The Waverly Chamber of Commerce and Main Street invite families to our annual Jack-O-Lantern Night, where little ghosts, goblins, and superheroes can trick-or-treat in a safe, festive setting.
Local businesses will be handing out candy and goodies along Bremer Avenue, so don your favorite costume and bring a bag for treats!
This community event is a fun and safe way to celebrate Halloween with your family. The whole downtown comes alive with decorations, costumes, and community spirit.
Santa’s Visits to Waverly
Santa’s House at Kohlmann Park | 101 1st Street NW, Waverly, Iowa
Grab your wishlist and your camera—it’s time to visit Santa in Waverly! Santa will be making special appearances at his freshly updated house in beautiful Kohlmann Park.
Families are invited to stop by, share their wishes, and snap a photo with the big guy himself. It’s a holiday tradition you won’t want to miss!
Santa's 2026 schedule is coming soon!
Check back for official visit dates and times—once we hear from the North Pole. Rumor has it he’s still checking that list... twice.
Send a Letter to Santa
You can also mail your holiday wishes directly to Santa by dropping a letter in his special mailbox at Kohlmann Park.
Be sure to include your full name and return address so Santa can send a letter back from the North Pole!
Christmas Greetings on Main
Thursday, December 10, 2026 | 6-8pm | Downtown Waverly
This annual holiday event features live Christmas windows along with Santa Claus, an ice carver and FREE Nestle hot cocoa. Join
thousands of residents and visitors in downtown Waverly for this signature holiday event!
2026 Job Fair & Skilled Trades Career Expo
Waverly-Shell Rock High School | Open to Students Grades 7–12
The Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street is excited to bring back our Job Fair & Skilled Trades Career Expo in 2026! Designed for middle and high school students from W-SR and surrounding school districts, this event helps students explore career paths in skilled trades such as construction, automotive, electrical, plumbing, and more.
Whether college is on the horizon or not, this is a chance to discover real-world, hands-on careers in high-demand industries.
Spring Retail Open House
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Celebrate the arrival of spring with fresh finds, featured products, and seasonal specials.
Waverly merchants will be hosting Spring Retail Open Houses in conjunction with the Waverly Art Walk. During this event retailers, will feature new spring styles and merchandise! Shop your way around town and enjoy spring savings, sweet treats and more at participating Waverly businesses!
Ridiculous Days – Sidewalk Sales
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Shop ridiculously low prices on quality products during Waverly’s annual Ridiculous Days! Mark your calendars and join us on Saturday, July 11 for Waverly’s summer sidewalk sales. The ridiculousness begins bright and early at 7am! Enjoy ridiculously low prices on quality products from both local merchants and sidewalk vendors.
Fall Fest Retail Event
Saturday, September 19, 2026
A cozy kickoff to autumn with fall merchandise, specials, and family-friendly fun downtown.
Celebrate the sights, scents, and savings of the season during Waverly’s Fall Fest Retail Event! This community-wide shopping event invites you to rake in the deals while exploring downtown’s best boutiques, shops, and seasonal displays.
Enjoy fall-themed open houses, limited-time discounts, and exclusive merchandise as local retailers showcase everything you need to cozy up for the season—from fashion and home decor to gifts and gourmet goods.
Whether you're shopping for pumpkin spice everything or the perfect fall outfit, this is your day to support local and enjoy the charm of downtown Waverly.
Event Highlights
- Fall retail open houses
- Special promotions and one-day-only savings
- Family-friendly activities
- A chance to shop local and enjoy the autumn vibes
Holiday Open House
Friday, November 6 - Saturday, November 7, 2026
Shop Waverly first this holiday season!
Join us as downtown Waverly kicks off the most wonderful time of the year with our annual Holiday Open Houses.
On Friday, November 6, participating retailers will launch an area-wide Shop Local Holiday Campaign that runs through the entire holiday shopping season. From festive window displays and early gift ideas to exclusive in-store specials, this event is the perfect way to start checking off your list.
Enjoy
- Holiday-themed retail open houses
- One-day savings and early-bird promotions
- Wish list creation at participating stores
Whether you're browsing for that perfect gift or just looking to soak in the holiday spirit, you'll find something special around every corner in Waverly.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 28, 2026
Support local on the Saturday after Thanksgiving—find gifts, holiday cheer, and shop small with a big impact. Help us say thank you to our small business owners by shopping with them for your holiday needs. Shop Local, Shop Waverly First.
Annual Awards Celebration
Honoring Excellence in the Waverly Business Community
The Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street Annual Awards Celebration is an evening dedicated to celebrating the people, businesses, and organizations who help make Waverly thrive. Each year, local business professionals come together to network, reflect, and recognize outstanding contributions to our community.
This year's event brought together Chamber members, city leaders, and community partners for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration.
Congratulations to the 2026 Award Winners
- The Other Place II
Signs & Designs Distinguished Small Business Award
- TruStage
United Equipment Accessories Distinguished Large Business Award
- Bremer County Fair Association
Waverly Health Center Distinguished Non-Profit Award
- Dr. Ann Rathe
Wartburg College Community Service Award
- Bob Buckingham
First Bank Lifetime Achievement Award
Networking with a Casual Twist
Chamber Happy Hour is the Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street’s informal networking event, created to bring members together for connection, conversation, and community.
Hosted at rotating local venues, Chamber Happy Hour offers a releaxed setting to unwind after work, catch up with fellow Chamber members, and build new relationships over drinks and light conversation. There are no speeches and no formal agenda, just a welcoming space to connect with other profesionals in the Waverly business community.
All employees of Chamber member businesses are invited to attend.
2026 Chamber Happy Hour Dates
4:00-6:00 p.m.
- Thursday, April 23, 2026
Bremer Brewing Co. by Greater Waverly Kiwanis Club
- Thursday, November 19, 2026
Golf Outing Fundraiser
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Waverly Municipal Golf Course
The Waverly Chamber & Main Street Golf Outing brings together local businesses and community leaders for a day on the course focused on connection, visibility, and community impact. This annual fundraiser supports the programs, events, and initiatives that strengthen Waverly’s business community.
Learn Over Lunch
Quarterly Educational Series for Chamber Members and Main Street Businesses
Learn Over Lunch is a free, quarterly event designed for Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street members and businesses located in Waverly’s Main Street District. Hosted in partnership with the Waverly Rotary Club, this program combines networking, lunch, and learning in one engaging session.
Enjoy a catered lunch while hearing from a lineup of engaging speakers who share insights on business, community development, leadership, and more.
Whether you're a small business owner, nonprofit leader, or community partner, Learn Over Lunch offers a valuable opportunity to connect and grow alongside fellow professionals.
2026 Learn Over Lunch Dates
All events begin at noon | Heritage Ballroom, Wartburg College
- Wednesday, February 18
Katy Susong, Grow Cedar Valley
- Wednesday, April 15
Mr. Brady Weber, W-SR High School Principal
- Wednesday, June 17
- Wednesday, August 19
Project LEAD
Project LEAD is a selective leadership program that equips participants with a deeper understanding of the community, stronger leadership skills, and meaningful connections with other local leaders.
Meeting monthly from September through April, the program offers a structured cohort experience focused on leadership growth, civic awareness, and relationship-building across the community.
Vines & Steins
Thursday, October 15, 2026
7:00-9:00 p.m.
Waverly Area Veterans Post
1300 4th St NW, Waverly, IA 50677
Vines & Steins is an annual social and networking fundraiser hosted by the Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street. Designed to bring the community together in a relaxed, festive setting, this event features:
- A variety of local wines and craft beers available for tasting
- Light hors d’oeuvres
- A silent auction filled with items donated by area businesses and supporters
Whether you’re looking to mingle, sip, or support the Chamber’s mission, Vines & Steins offers a great night out for a great cause.
Chamber & Community Networking Breakfast Series
Waverly Connected is a quarterly networking breakfast hosted by the Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street. Designed to keep our community informed and connected, these events bring together business leaders, city officials, and local organizations for timely updates and conversation over coffee.
Each session includes
- News and updates from the Chamber & Main Street team
- City of Waverly insights and community happenings
- Spotlights on local business leaders and organizations
- A welcoming space to network and collaborate
- These events are free to attend and open to all area professionals and community members. Locations vary, with each event hosted by a local Chamber & Main Street member.
2026 Waverly Connected Dates & Locations
All events begin at 7:30 a.m.
- Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Hosted by Waverly Senior Center
- Tuesday, June 9, 2026
- Tuesday, September 8, 2026
