Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

The first Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market of the season will run this Saturday, May 30th from 7:30 a.m. to noon in downtown with over 200 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts; free street parking and ramp options are available.

Future markets are scheduled through September.

Residents near Kenwood Park Northeast cleaned up garbage left after Memorial Day weekend as the city rolled out its new Carry In, Carry Out policy+ neighbors urged visitors to take their trash home to keep the park tidy.

City staff will continue monitoring cleanup needs.

Big Grove Brewery, Iowa’s largest craft brewery by production volume, tripled capacity when its Liberty Plant opened in 2024 on Iowa City’s east side, boosting distribution and production.

The brewery, which began packaging beer in 2018, grew rapidly thanks to strong customer support.

Gas prices in Cedar Rapids dropped 16 cents in the past week, with drivers now paying about $4.14 per gallon — 30 cents below the national average.

Prices remain $1.18 higher than last year.

Gas prices in Iowa dropped 16 cents per gallon last week, with Tuesday's average at $4.15 based on GasBuddy's survey of 2,036 stations — a change from prices 44.1 cents higher last month and $1.20 more than last year.

NOAA says a developing El Niño (not officially 'super') is likely to change winter weather by bringing milder spells with occasional snowstorms and extra rain that may lead to flooding.

Iowans should watch weather updates to stay prepared.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources advises campers not to transport firewood to protect forests from invasive pests such as emerald ash borer and oak wilt.

Local parks and campgrounds offer firewood for sale to help keep the forests healthy.

Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a law that adds a 5-cent tax on vapes & nicotine products to fund $3 million a year for pediatric cancer research at the University of Iowa.

The new measure will take effect Jan. 1.

Throttle & Throwbacks

7-10 p.m. — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — $0 – $15 — Experience the excitement of local NASCAR racing with fan-favorite classes and live action.

Midwest Shredfest Drift Event

8 a.m. — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — Fees vary — Experience the thrill of drifting with beginner-friendly support and on-site food options.

Computer Skills Training

2:30-4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free entry — Boost your digital skills with hands-on exercises and personalized guidance in this interactive workshop.

Blue Blocks Workshop

10-11:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage your creativity with blocks in this community-focused event for children.

Little River Band Concert

7-11 p.m. — McGrath Amphitheatre — Ticket prices range from $59 to $600 — Experience the legendary sounds of Little River Band live in Cedar Rapids.

Zach Johnson Foundation Classic

9:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Elmcrest Country Club — Registration fees apply — This premier golf tournament supports the Zach Johnson Foundation’s Kids on Course program, benefiting local students.

Just Jules Sip & Paint Night

6-8 p.m. — Just Jules Pub & Restaurant — $35 for a 16x20 canvas — Unleash your creativity while enjoying food and drinks in a lively atmosphere.

Josh Turner Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids, IA — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy timeless country hits by Josh Turner in a memorable live performance.

Cedar Rapids Cars & Coffee

8-10 a.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy complimentary coffee while checking out classic and special interest vehicles.

Bigger Bang Bubbles

1:30 – 2:15 PM — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Experience a high-energy bubble performance featuring fire, fog, and smoke bubbles along with fascinating science demonstrations.