Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Eastern Iowa will host a busy April with festivals, concerts and family events in Cedar Rapids and nearby areas (including circuses, markets and art shows).

Residents can review the full list to plan outings.

R&B legends TLC, Salt-N-Pepa, and En Vogue will perform at the Iowa State Fair on Tuesday, August 18.

Tickets go on sale Thursday at 10:00 a.m. on the fair's website and the Its Iconic tour will bring classic hits to the grandstand.

Iowa farmers have seen production costs jump nearly 65 percent since 2021, as reported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, and National Ag Day was observed on March 24 in recognition of their work — efforts that include buying directly from local growers to help with rising expenses.

The IRS warns Cedar Rapids taxpayers to be alert to tax scams that use texts, emails, and phone calls to lure quick refunds, urging residents to verify any unexpected messages (IRS does not initiate contact this way) ahead of the April 15 tax deadline.

Residents near the former Transamerica building have voiced concerns about future development today after a city council discussion on the property, citing issues from increased traffic to neighborhood disruption, while no plans have been finalized and residents urge improved discussion with the developer (neighbors have long felt ignored).

Northbound 3rd Street SE will be closed between 1st and 2nd Avenue SE today (for about two weeks) due to building construction.

Residents at a town hall meeting in Palo voiced concerns over a proposed $1B Google data center project Tuesday night that could affect local utility bills and control.

City officials said the feedback will guide next steps near the Duane Arnold Energy Center.

Iowa’s Severe Weather Awareness Week has begun with local officials advising Cedar Rapids residents to protect their homes by installing lightning rods and surge protectors and to stay indoors during storms.

The goal is to reduce fire risks and keep everyone safe.

University of Iowa Health Care now uses robotic kidney removal surgery that may allow more donor options for patients on a waitlist of nearly 600.

Dr. Ramy El-Diwany performed the first living donor robotic kidney removal in December — a breakthrough that may help those with complex anatomies donate successfully.

Iowa and Iowa State men’s basketball teams will continue their tournament runs with Iowa set to play Nebraska Thursday and Iowa State meeting Tennessee Friday night.

Fans and students show excitement as both teams head into the Sweet 16 (a nod to local pride).

Tai Chi for Well-Being

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Enhance your fitness and balance with a relaxing Tai Chi session.

Cedar Rapids Festival 2026

8:00 a.m. — Paramount Theatre — Sold Out — Celebrate the vibrant community spirit at this highly anticipated event in Cedar Rapids.

Livin' La Vida Lutheran

7 p.m. — Amana Performing Arts Center — $25 — Experience a comedic journey with the Looney Lutherans through music, laughter, and joy for a lively heart.

Youth Advisory Board Meeting

5-6 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Contribute your ideas and help shape the future of the library.

Almost, Maine

7:30 p.m. — Ballantyne Auditorium — Free entry for students — Experience the heartfelt comedy of love and connection in a remote town on a magical winter night.

Good Friday Prayer Breakfast 2026

6:30-8:30 a.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex — No cost mentioned — Enjoy a morning of prayer and breakfast with keynote speaker Kyle Hunter on this holy day.

Zeus Rebel Waters and the Ghetto Cowboys Live

8 p.m. — Moco Game Room & Hot Dog Bar — No refunds — Experience a dynamic night of music with Zeus Rebel Waters and the Ghetto Cowboys on their Gumbo Show Tour.

Community Writers Circle

1-2 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — A supportive space for adults to explore creative writing and storytelling.

Cedar Rapids Titans vs North Michigan Muskies

7-10 p.m. — Alliant Energy Power House — Special ticket prices for students and essential workers — Catch the thrilling matchup between the Titans and Muskies.

An Evening With The Fab Four

2:30-11:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the ultimate Beatles tribute with incredible performances and costume changes that capture the essence of the Fab Four.