Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

On April 19th, pet lovers will gather at the National Guard Armory in Cedar Rapids for the 2025 Eastern Iowa Pet Expo which will offer adoptable pets from local rescues, a pet nutrition seminar by Dr. Christine Woodford, a petting zoo, live grooming demonstrations, a live podcast recording and a car show fundraiser that benefits local pet organizations. Admission is free while donations of pet food and money are welcome.

Linn County Conservation campgrounds are open for the 2025 season — most sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Wanatee Park and Buffalo Creek Park A-Loops may be reserved online — campers must self-register, pay the required fee, and use a site for no more than 14 days out of a 21-day period.

Two adults and a pet escaped a house fire on the 3600 block of Mount Vernon Road SE early Thursday morning when heat woke them; firefighters arrived around 12:30 a.m. to quickly put out flames even as the home suffered heavy damage, and the American Red Cross is helping the displaced while an investigation continues.

NewBo City Market in Cedar Rapids resumed its expansion project after receiving $2 million in federal grants— the project will add new amenities, create jobs and bring a local food grocery store to the neighborhood with groundbreaking set for September.

NewBo City Market resumed its expansion project after nearly $2 million in federal grants were released—its plans include adding vendors, creating jobs, and offering new amenities despite rising construction costs and tariffs.

Market leaders have already raised over $4 million and will seek an additional $1.25 million as they prepare for a groundbreaking ceremony in September.

The governor’s bill to help Iowans rebuild after natural disasters cleared four committees and is eligible for floor debate today after last year’s tornadoes and floods damaged many homes.

The law will pull $13.6 million from the Economic Emergency Fund to provide housing assistance, speed up claims, fund flood-control projects, and demolish unrepaired buildings—steps designed to quicken disaster recovery.

Coralville Chaos at Cedar Rapids River Kings

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Alliant Energy Power House — Tickets starting at $22 — Experience an exciting night of hockey with the River Kings in Cedar Rapids.

Mercy Auxiliary Spring Bazaar

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Mercy Medical Center Cedar Rapids — Free entry — Browse unique handcrafted items and support patient care services at this vibrant spring bazaar.

Good Friday Prayer Breakfast 2025

7-9 a.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex — Early Bird Tickets $34 — Gather in prayer and fellowship over breakfast with keynote speaker Chris Norton.

CAR SHOW at R&W Auto Detailing

3 PM — Summit View Village — Free entry — A delightful Cars and Coffee event featuring collaborations with local community groups.

The Cher Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Tickets available — An inspiring journey through the life and music of Cher with vibrant performances and costumes.

The Rapids

7-8 p.m. — Mirrorbox Theatre — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy an improvised soap opera comedy where audience suggestions drive the hilarity.

Cooking for a Cause: Italian Night with Chef Craig

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Groundswell Cafe — $25 per person — Learn to cook a delicious Italian dinner while supporting a great cause.

Murder Mystery Dinner Show

6-9 p.m. — 101 1st Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA — $ — Put on your detective hat and enjoy a thrilling interactive murder mystery dinner experience.

Cedar Rapids Merit Badge University 2025

8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Mount Mercy University — Ticket sales start Jan 31st — Earn exciting merit badges with experienced instructors at this community-focused event.

Dubuque Fighting Saints Home Game 2

6:59 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Dubuque Fighting Saints in this exciting playoff match.