Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Communities in Eastern Iowa will host parades, fireworks and family festivals over the 4th of July weekend.

In Cedar Rapids, the Freedom Festival will offer a pancake breakfast, vendor market and a downtown celebration with fireworks at dusk.

Eligible children will see $120 added to their SNAP cards in early June to help with summer food costs, and families not automatically included can apply through Iowa HHS until Aug.

14 (the program is designed to ease grocery bills and lessen food pantry demand).

Wild Lotus Apothecary opened its new shop inside NewBo City Market today from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., offering organic self-care products, sound therapy, and wellness sessions — Cedar Witch Goods moved to 945 6th Ave. in Marion, expanding its homemade bath and body line.

VASA Fitness will open this fall in the old 63,000 sqft Hy-Vee building on Collins Road NE behind Lindale Mall, offering space for cardio, strength training, and even half-court basketball & additional amenities to serve the community.

At a meeting in Palo near Cedar Rapids, about 150 residents opposed the proposed Google data center as part of the town council's first reading of the ordinance.

They urged stricter water requirements or for the council to withdraw the offer to avoid negative community impacts.

Commercial pilots reported drones near CID on Wednesday morning while landing, prompting an investigation by airport safety and federal officials — no damage was reported and two drone pilots working for QTS Data Centers were involved.

The incident is under review.

The ROOTS program helps Cedar Rapids families buy new single-family homes by offering up to $35,000 in down payment assistance for those earning under $81,000 with a 15-year residency plan.

Only 20 homes remain—funded by HUD, the program will close when they sell, likely by end of 2027.

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.

Recruitment Reimagined Workshop

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Greater Cedar Rapids Community — Check for entry fee — Explore innovative volunteer recruitment strategies over lunch.

Amber Hansen: Songs For My Students

3:30-4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful mix of folk, pop, and country songs designed for kids that will have everyone singing along.

Cork N Canvas Painting Class

6-8 p.m. — Mercury Diner & Drinks — $35 per person — Unleash your creativity while sipping drinks and painting a beautiful masterpiece.

USA vs Turkey - World Cup Viewing Party

9-11 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Watch the USA Men's Soccer team take on Turkey while enjoying a cold one in a lively atmosphere.