Things to do in August
The last full month of Summer is August, to ensure a lack of F.O.M.O. before fall begins, make sure to get out to these QC events this month. From sports and vintage cars to fashion and art, the QC has something for you!
Aug 1st - 3rd - Mississippi Valley Fair
Kick off August with the last three days of the fair! Third Eye Blind is on Friday the 1st, followed by Pop Evil & Lit on the 2nd, then Jon Pardi brings the week to a close on Sunday the 3rd. Enjoy fun activities for the whole family throughout, including animal encounters, parades, corn dog eating contests, fireworks and skydivers every night!
Aug 7th-10th - Rust Belt Americana Antique Swap Auction
All classic car afficionados and antiquers must make their way to this swap & auction! QC native and American Picker's own Rob Wolfe is organizing the 2nd annual event with a vision to transform the Quad Cities into a global vintage car and antique destination. This event is by the QC for the QC, with trade scholarships gifted to local students through proceeds. With different events happening on different days, make sure to check out the event for more detailed information!
Aug 8th & 9th - Quad City Balloon Show
This lighting of the QC skies has grown from a modest gathering to a beloved and anticipated celebration at Rhythm City Casino Resort. Food vendors, live music, and bounce houses help bring in the sunset for the balloon show. Entry for all is FREE and tethered balloon rides will be offered both days. On Friday the Crazy X Band performs and on Saturday a car show on launch field will take place before the balloon launch.
Aug 9th - 2nd Saturdays On 2nd Ave
Start the day off at the Farmers Market with live music from Frankie Joe then get active with Yoga classes for all levels. Games will be going on throughout the day, including: Cornhole, Giant Chess, Giant Connect 4, and Tetris Tumble, with balloon twisting and an XL Bubble Station as well! Food and drinks will be provided by a Huckelberry's pop-up and Patio Specials at El Patron. With all of the new improvements downtown, make sure to come experience, enjoy, and welcome this awesome Quad City addition.
Aug 9th - Second Saturdays at the Figge Art Museum
After finishing up at 2nd Ave, head to the Figge for more live music, hands-on art making, community conversations, and more! All ages are welcome with FREE admissions from 10-5pm with all shopping purchases tax free for the day. Each month features different experiences and mediums that are sure to evoke and delight, do not miss on your monthly chance for a free day at the Figge!
Aug 10th - Rock Island Artists Market
Celebrate local artists while enjoying delicious food with a variety of sweet treats, with music performed by Roger Carlson throughout! Buy art directly from the artists who created it, learn about their process, and mix and mingle with neighbors and fellow art lovers.
Aug 14th-17th - Alternating Currents
Alternating Currents has been bringing music, comedy, film, and art to the QC since 2017. Returning, again, AC is here to highlight our vibrant cultural scene while cultivating local creators and business along the way. The Quad Cities own festival is accesable and open to all, covering a multitude of genres, mediums, and styles.
Aug 15th & 16th - FLOATZILLA!
Taking over The Mississippi River for the weekend, FLOATZILLA will have fun games, events, races, and live music. The assortment of races range from an all-watercraft race to a carboard boat race, while a rubber duck hunt and an obstacle course ensure fun for everyone. The FUNKTASTIC 5 will be bringing everything together as floaters launch from 8 sites throughout the QC, so get out on the river for a good time for ALL ages!
