COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (June 17, 2026) — Get ready to celebrate America in historic fashion! The Hundred Block Community Collective will host Council Bluffs Celebrates 250, a free community celebration that will take over the Historic 100 Block of West Broadway.
Kicking off the Independence Day weekend a day early on Friday, July 3 from 3 to 11 p.m., this high-energy street festival will bring together neighbors, visitors and families for an unforgettable night of live music, delicious food, local vendors and family-focused fun.
Event Highlights & Designated Zones
The Kid Zone (3-9 p.m.): Hosted in partnership with American Legion Post 2, the Kid Zone will be packed with free activities to keep the youngest celebrators entertained all afternoon and evening:
• Live Music: The Yachties and Now & Forever will keep the energy alive on the main stage, while DJ JPEG plays family-friendly music in the Kid Zone.
• Hydrant Party: A refreshing, neighborhood-favorite splash zone to cool off.
• Creative Fun: Face painting, balloon art and sidewalk chalk stations.
• Interactive Play: A variety of engaging yard games and sports.
The Family Zone & Community Hub: Located near Park and Glen avenues, the Family Zone brings together prominent local organizations that offer resources, activities and community connections. The event will feature Habitat for Humanity, PACE (Pottawattamie Arts, Culture & Entertainment), Veterans Services Office and Council Bluffs Public Library.
The Grand Finale: Spectacular Drone Show (9:45 p.m.): As night falls, the celebration moves its eyes to the skies. At 9:45 p.m., a breathtaking, synchronized Drone Show will illuminate downtown Council Bluffs that will provide a cutting-edge visual tribute to America’s 250th milestone.
Food, Drinks & Local Vendors: No historic street festival is complete without local flavor support. Attendees can browse a designated vendor lane and enjoy food, drinks and shopping from local staples:
• Featured Council Bluffs Vendors: Meadow & Charm Permanent Jewelry, Anytime Tees, Cox Communications, Boxer BBQ, Turner’s Tube Steaks, Fancy Sips, Spirit of The Faire and Bailey & Coopers.
• Historic 100 Block Favorites: Local businesses along the strip will be open and welcome eventgoers, which includes Barley’s, Caddy’s, Glory Days, B-Side Bar, Napoli’s, Dusted Charm and The Pizza Counter.
For more updates, maps and detailed vendor schedules, visit CelebrateCouncilBluffs.com.
About The Hundred Block Community Collective:
The Hundred Block Community Collective is dedicated to preserving the vibrant culture, economic growth, and community spirit of Council Bluffs’ Historic 100 Block. Through inclusive civic events, local partnerships, and heritage celebrations, the collective aims to make downtown a premier destination for residents and visitors alike. Follow The Hundred Block Community Collective on Facebook.
