Downtown Community Calendar
- SU
- MO
- TU
- WE
- TH
- FR
- SA
- 28
- 29
- 30
- 11st Saturday FREE Write Together10:00 am – 12:00 pmJoin us at Fifth Street Writers on the 1st Saturday of each month from 10 AM to Noon. Together we’ll write in community on our writing projects. What’s an Open Write? Bring your laptop or whatever you write with to work on your creative writing projects—novels, memoirs, poems, project outlines, your to-do list for the , …Wonka Chef’s Table5:30 pm – 7:30 pm🍽 Overview Step into a world of culinary wonder inspired by the whimsical universe of the movie Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. This multi-course fine-dining experience invites you to savor dishes that creatively reflect the magic and imagination of the film, served over the course of the evening. While this is not , …Musical Tour of Mexico6:00 pm – 7:00 pmCome to a free hands-on musical tour of Mexico. Learn the names of the different rhythms from each region of the country from R. J. Hernandez of the musical ensemble Las Guitarras de Mexico. You will also have a chance to try various types of guitars and percussion instruments. Registration is required for this program , …Beginning Cross Stitch: Halloween Edition6:30 pm – 8:30 pmThis course is for absolute beginners or those who need a refresher. Students will learn about cross stitch supplies, including fabric and needles, as well as how to read a pattern, start stitching, and changing colors. Participants can choose from 4 different monster patterns: Cthulhu, Mothman, Bigfoot, or Jackalope. , …
- 2Fall Sip & Shop5:00 pm – 7:00 pmJoin us at b.e.good for shopping, Fall cocktails + bites, and a pop-up with darlinDSM Charm Bar! , …Dog-Eared Books and Ames PRIDE Present J.R. Dawson7:00 pm – 9:00 pmDog-Eared Books, in partnership with Ames PRIDE, is excited to be hosting sci-fi/fantasy author JR Dawson! J.R. is a queer midwestern author who explores history, belonging, identity, and joy in her books. Dog-Eared was honored to host JR for the release of their debut novel, The First Bright Thing, and we can’t wait t , …
- 3Sip & Stitch Meetup4:00 pm – 6:00 pmNeed a relaxing night of stitching fun? Bring your favorite beverage and join us for a night of fun and needlework. , …
- 4Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market9:00 am – 12:30 pmSpecial Event: Iowa League of Heroes Musician: TBD Day Sponsor: Vendor List: Full-Time Vendors: Amaz 3D Kreations B+ Beards Backcountry Winery Baked by Beth Barrelly Conscious Bellbottom Mobile Cafe Carlos Quesadillas Crafty Folks of Ames Dusty Hill Farm EarGame Farm Story Meats Fisher’s F , …Fifth Street Writers | 1st Saturday Write Together9:30 am – 12:00 pmJoin us at Fifth Street Writers on the 1st Saturday of each month from 10 AM to Noon. Together we’ll write in community on our writing projects. What’s a Write Together? Bring your laptop or whatever you write with to work on your creative writing projects—novels, memoirs, poems, project outlines, your to-do listR , …
- 5Lucky Star Fall Market at Fareway11:00 am – 4:00 pmJoin us for our annual Fall Fareway Market! Sunday, October 5th 11am-4pm in Downtown Ames *Shop over 44 local small batch makers, artisans, vintage collectors and creative entrepreneurs! *Come hungry! Enjoy local food & beverage trucks *Live music all day *Friendship Ark’s Halloween Boutique onsite. (Support , …Buttermilk Flaky Biscuits11:00 am – 1:00 pm🍽 Overview Join Chef Patrick for an engaging hands-on class where you’ll master the art of making flaky buttermilk biscuits from scratch. You’ll get to work directly with the dough, learning techniques that ensure tender, flaky layers every time. Alongside the biscuit-making, Chef Patrick will demonstrate h , …
- 6
- 7Cooking Class: Mercimek Köftesi (Lentil Balls) with a Turkish Grandma5:30 pm – 7:00 pmLearn how to prepare Mercimek Köftesi (lentil balls), a classic Turkish dish made with red lentils, fine bulgur, and fresh herbs. These flavorful, bite-sized lentil patties are both healthy and satisfying – perfect as a light meal, appetizer or party snack. Taliha will show you step by step, sharing tips to make , …Hands-on Dumplings6:00 pm – 8:00 pm🍽 Overview Join us for an engaging hands-on experience where you’ll craft pork and kimchi dumplings from scratch. This class covers every step—from rolling and folding to crimping and frying these delicious potstickers. You’ll also learn how to prepare steamed dumplings and a complementary sauce to elevate , …
- 8Author Event: Hard Hat Hank and the Sky High Solution10:00 amAuthor Charlotte Gunnufson will join us to talk about her new book, “Hard Hat Hank and the Sky High Solution” (illustrated by Brian Biggs). Hard Hat Hank and the Sky High Solution is the Iowa Center for the Book’s 2025 selection for young readers. Hard Hat Hank and his hardworking crew are ready to build in , …The Story of Feed Sacks7:00 pm – 8:00 pmLong before “sustainability” was a household word, people reused the fabric bags that once held everything from animal feed and seed to sugar and flour to ballots, hams, and even laxatives. Based on her book, “Feed Sacks: The Colourful History of a Frugal Fabric,” Linzee Kull McCray will share both the beau , …Late Night Happy Hour with Limestone Branch Distilling7:00 pm – 9:00 pmJoin us on Tuesday, October 8th from 7–9 PM for a special evening featuring Stephen Beam and Stephen Fante of Limestone Branch Distilling Co. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage with two of the most passionate voices in the bourbon world and learn more about the heritage and craftsmanship behind their award-winni , …
- 92025 Witches Walk6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Come out for a scary good time on Thursday, October 9! Downtown businesses will be open late and hosting snacks and sips between 6:00 – 8:00pm. This event is geared towards adults, but all are welcome and costumes are encouraged. If you are looking for a trick or treating opportunity for kids, join us for Downtown Tri , …Chili & Layering Spices with Anilisa6:00 pm – 8:00 pm🍽 Overview Join Anilisa for an engaging hands-on class where you’ll dive into the art of making chili from scratch. This session focuses on building rich flavors and mastering the perfect balance of spices to create a hearty and satisfying dish. Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or looking to expand your co , …Author Spotlight: John T. Price7:00 pmLIVE and In Person at Fifth Street Writers | 612 5 Street, Ames, IA Thursday, October 9 at 7 PM Books for Sale & Author Signing Presented by the Ames Writers Collective & KHOI Community Radio , … - 10Sip & Stitch Meetup4:00 pm – 6:00 pmNeed a relaxing night of stitching fun? Bring your favorite beverage and join us for a night of fun and needlework. , …Sola Wood Flower Reed Diffuser Workshop5:30 pm – 6:30 pmJoin us for a hands-on creative workshop where you’ll design a beautiful, everlasting wood flower arrangement that doubles as a natural essential oil diffuser. Using sola wood flowers, reeds, and a decorative vase, you’ll craft a piece that’s both functional and stylish—perfect for adding a touch of fragrance and charm , …Pasta 1016:00 pm – 8:00 pm🍽 Overview Discover the art of hand-crafted pasta from scratch in this engaging, hands-on class. You’ll learn to make your own pasta dough, roll it out to the perfect thickness, and cut it into classic shapes. Once your pasta is ready, you’ll enjoy it served with a simple yet flavorful Cacio e Pepe or a tra , …Embroidered Sweatshirt Workshop6:30 pm – 8:30 pmHave you ever wanted to try embroidering on clothing? Seriously, no experience necessary! Owner of Handful of Made, Karlie Hunter, will walk you through a few basic stitches and give you tips and tricks before you start on your final custom crewneck sweatshirt. Price includes the use of all required supplies, instructi , …Fifth and Clark Fridays with Unique Vibrationz7:00 pm – 9:00 pmThis years Fifth and Clark Fridays series will kick off with Unique Vibrationz. Unique Vibrationz is a fusion Funk, Hiphop, and Rock band based out of Des Moines, Iowa. They specialize in sharing stories and medicine through sound, using our lyrics to take the audience on a unique journey. Their electric stage presence , …Twilight Prom8:00 pm – 11:00 pmDog-Eared is excited to announce Twilight Prom in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the cult classic vampire series. Join us to enjoy an evening of music, dancing, gambling, snacks, Twilight memorabilia, classic prom photos, and more! Prom will be from 8 PM – 11 PM, with an afterprom taking place at London U , …
- 112025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Ames, IA8:00 am – 10:00 amAmes Main Street Farmers’ Market9:00 am – 12:30 pmSpecial Events: Chili Cook Off, Ames Bookmobile & Halloween Activities Contest Sign Up: Click Here Musician: Miles Morgan Day Sponsor: Vendor List: Full-Time Vendors: Amaz 3D Kreations B+ Beards Backcountry Winery Baked by Beth Barrelly Conscious Bellbottom Mobile Cafe Carlos Quesadil , …Ames Pridefest 202510:00 am – 6:00 pmJoin Ames Pride’s annual street festival event of stage entertainment, vendor fair, and educational opportunities between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. at the intersection of 5th & Douglas and inside Ames Public Library, then stick around for Post Pride events at businesses all over downtown Ames! , …Ames Artists’ Studio Tour10:00 am – 4:00 pmThe 2025 Ames Artists’ Studio Tour will be held on Sat., Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun., Oct. 12 from noon to 4 p.m. During this free, self-guided tour, patrons may choose to visit any number of the eleven (11) participating studios and discover the original art – paintings, ceramics, creative writing, radio, , …Build Your Own Plant Terrarium Workshop10:00 am – 11:00 amIn this creative, hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to build and care for your very own terrarium, whether you prefer a lush, self-sustaining closed terrarium or an airy, desert-inspired open one. These living landscapes bring a bit of nature indoors and make beautiful, low-maintenance décor. We’ll walk you through e , …Authentic Tortilla Soup with Maria11:30 am – 1:30 pm🍽 Overview Discover the vibrant flavors of Authentic Tortilla Soup in this engaging demonstration led by Chef Maria. This fresh and bright fall soup features just a touch of heat, making it a perfect seasonal favorite inspired by Chef Patrick’s go-to recipe. Watch as Maria walks you through the preparation and key tech , …Saturday Stitchers1:00 pm – 3:00 pmCelebrate the weekend with a special weekend stitching group. Show off finished projects, find great new patterns, and maybe even get a stitch or two on your current WIP at this fun monthly event. , …Buckmiller Schwager Trio at Della Viti8:00 pm – 11:00 pmBuckmiller Schwager returns to Della Viti, Saturday ! This band is so good, and so FUN you don’t want to miss it! , …
- 12Ames Artists’ Studio Tour12:00 pm – 4:00 pmThe 2025 Ames Artists’ Studio Tour will be held on Sat., Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun., Oct. 12 from noon to 4 p.m. During this free, self-guided tour, patrons may choose to visit any number of the eleven (11) participating studios and discover the original art – paintings, ceramics, creative writing, radio, , …Tarot 1014:00 pm – 5:30 pmJoin us at Dog-Eared Books for an introductory tarot course with Megan Lane of Violet Lane Florals. This event is ticketed; for $25, guests receive the one-hour course and a Rider-Waite tarot deck to take with them. , …
- 13Rainbow Stitch & Bitch6:30 pm – 7:30 pmAmes Pride and Prairie Rose Needleworks are partnering for a special craft meetup for LGBTQIA+ crafters! Bring your craft project and join the fun! , …
- 14Become a Dementia Friend7:00 pm – 8:00 pmBecome a Dementia Friend by attending this one-hour informational session to learn about what dementia is, what it’s like to live with it, and how to communicate with and support someone living with the disease. Join Maria Mendoza, Chief Operating Officer of Home Care Assistance and Dementia Champion, to gain practical , …
- 1520th Anniversary & Change of Ownership Sale9:00 am – 5:30 pmMoorman Clothiers is celebrating their 20th Anniversary in Ames and official change of ownership! Enjoy 20% off fall merchandise when you shop until October 18th , …Beginning Embroidery6:30 pm – 8:30 pmThis course is for absolute beginners or those who need a refresher. Students will learn embroidery basics including preparing the fabric in the hoop, how to use the stranded cotton thread and over 6 different stitches. All supplies are provided. , …Bored? Games!6:30 pm – 8:30 pm , …
- 1620th Anniversary & Change of Ownership Sale9:00 am – 7:00 pmMoorman Clothiers is celebrating their 20th Anniversary in Ames and official change of ownership! Enjoy 20% off fall merchandise when you shop until October 18th , …Third Thursday Spooky Makers Table5:30 pm – 7:30 pmOctober is the month for spooky fun and we have a room full of art supplies to help you design a spooky creation! All you need is $5 and your imagination. Open to all ages, children 12 and under must be with an adult. Bring your family or gather for a friend’s night out and join us! , …Needle-Felted Plant Workshop6:00 pm – 8:00 pmLearn to needle-felt while creating a beautiful monstera! Confidently create beautiful felted wool art as you learn needle-felting techniques step-by-step in a casual, relaxed environment. All tools & supplies are included, as well as a design stencil and 4” embroidery hoop for framing your art. Follow along step-b , …Board Game Night6:00 pm – 9:00 pmMorning Bell will be open late, offering our coffee menu plus a special cocktail and mocktail with board games available to play , …
- 1720th Anniversary & Change of Ownership Sale9:00 am – 5:30 pmMoorman Clothiers is celebrating their 20th Anniversary in Ames and official change of ownership! Enjoy 20% off fall merchandise when you shop until October 18th , …Sip & Stitch Meetup4:00 pm – 6:00 pmNeed a relaxing night of stitching fun? Bring your favorite beverage and join us for a night of fun and needlework. , …Essential Oils Basics Class5:00 pm – 6:00 pmYou may have guessed, we love essential oils! However, we once were overwhelmed and not sure what to do with these little bottles of plant juice. That’s why we want to share the basics of getting started with essential oils. During our essential oils basics, you’ll learn the science behind how essential oil , …History Happy Hour: Witchcraft & Skepticism5:00 pm – 8:00 pmJoin in a spooky evening at the museum! Dive into the history of witchcraft with Dr. Michael Bailey, sip on two themed drinks, and enjoy exclusive after-hours exhibit viewing. This event is for ages 21+. Advance reservations required. , …
- 18Fall Fair – United Women in Faith9:00 am – 1:30 pmTea rings, pies, noodles, handmade items, baked goods, First United Methodist Church , …20th Anniversary & Change of Ownership Sale9:00 am – 4:00 pmMoorman Clothiers is celebrating their 20th Anniversary in Ames and official change of ownership! Enjoy 20% off fall merchandise when you shop until October 18th , …Ames: A Glimpse Inside10:00 am – 3:00 pmAmes: A Glimpse Inside is a new free public event featuring an open house at 10 locations in the Main Street and Old Town Historic Districts. Come inside and learn about Ames history, its amazing architecture and rich historic resources. , …
- 19
- 20
- 21
- 22View from the Margins Book Group7:00 pm – 8:00 pmCheck out this book group for fresh insights and lively discussion about topics relating to society, identity, and culture. Book selections include fiction and non-fiction from a wide variety of perspectives and marginalized identities. This month we are reading Beautiful Country: A Memoir of an Undocumented Childhood, , …
- 23Boozy Book Fair6:00 pm – 9:00 pmJoin us for Boozy Book Fair! We are returning to Alluvial Brewing for more books, more beer, and more fun. When: Thursday, October 23 from 6 – 9 PM Where: Alluvial Brewing Company, 3715 W 190th Street, Ames, IA, 50014 Come and enjoy: + Locally brewed beer from Alluvial Brewing Company + A costume contest + Books! , …Creating with Carol6:00 pm – 7:00 pmJoin Ames artist Carol Patrick and learn how she creates new from old, how to combine colors and patterns, and a few of her tips that make sewing fun and easy. Carol creates unique reversible aprons from vintage tablecloths. Learn how she does it and a bit about the history of 40’s and 50’s tablecloths. The , …
- 24French Macarons Baking Class2:00 pm – 4:00 pmJoin Sift N Sprinkle at The Recipe for a fun afternoon baking a delightful French Macaron cookie. This is a demonstration cooking class with a few opportunities for hands-on piping! A great activity for something to do during ISU Homecoming. , …Sip & Stitch Meetup4:00 pm – 6:00 pmNeed a relaxing night of stitching fun? Bring your favorite beverage and join us for a night of fun and needlework. , …Crystals 101: Awaken Your Connection6:00 pm – 7:00 pmJoin certified crystal healer, Sarah Jane, and step into the world of crystal energy. Learn how to work with these ancient allies for balance, clarity, and manifestation. She’ll cover how to choose, cleanse, and attune your stones, then explore simple ways to weave their magic into everyday life. Each guest will receiv , …
- 25Embroidery Embellishment Sweater Workshop4:00 pm – 6:00 pmJoin Karlie Hunter, owner of Handful of Made, as she guides you through the process of embroidering a sweater with yarn and a needle. Your registration includes all embroidery supplies, needle, yarn, design, and expert instruction. Please bring your own sweater (suggestions/examples below). Before the class, email hand , …
- 26Build Your Own SPOOKY Plant Terrarium1:00 pm – 2:00 pmIn this creative, hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to build and care for your very own terrarium, whether you prefer a lush, self-sustaining closed terrarium or an airy, desert-inspired open one. These living landscapes bring a bit of nature indoors and make beautiful, low-maintenance décor. We’ll walk you through e , …
- 27
- 284th Tuesday Free Open Write3:30 pm – 5:00 pmJoin Ana McCracken for our Open Write Tuesday on Zoom or in person at Fifth Street Writers. WHAT’S AN OPEN WRITE? We join together, share what we’re working on, and write for ~90 minutes. At the end, we share our successes, and sign off. Easy peasy. Email Ana, ana@ameswriterscollective.org to register for the event. , …
- 29Della Viti Trivia – Spooky Trivia Time!8:00 pm – 9:00 pmHey Halloween / spooky / scary trivia buffs, get ready – the more you wager – the more fun it is! Bring your best buds and drop some knowledge – get here early to grab a table! Costumes: Dress in halloween costumes for extra points for your team!! All the spooky things, music, movies, food, all the th , …
- 302025 Downtown Trick or Treat10:00 am – 1:00 pmCalling all ghouls, ghosts, goblins, and characters of all kinds…come trick or treat in Downtown Ames! Babies, toddlers, kids and parents… everyone is encouraged to dress up! Join our friendly businesses in Downtown Ames and enjoy a fun afternoon with the kids while getting to know our community. We’r , …We Can Do Better: Land, Conservation, and Public Policy6:00 pm – 8:30 pmProgram Type: Iowa Center for the Book, Author/Writing, Nature/Sustainability Age Group: Adults Program Description Program Details Come to Ames Public Library for a book release and panel discussion featuring We Can Do Better: Collected Writings on Land, Conservation, and Public Policy. This book collects writing , …
- 31Sip & Stitch Meetup4:00 pm – 6:00 pmNeed a relaxing night of stitching fun? Bring your favorite beverage and join us for a night of fun and needlework. , …
- 1
Add Event
Hosting an event in Downtown Ames? Add it to our Community Calendar!
Questions or problems? Contact travis@amesalliance.com.