Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Eastern Iowa families gathered Friday night in Mount Vernon to cheer Team USA at a World Cup watch party organized by MVLS Youth Soccer Club — aiming to spark youth interest in soccer and build local community spirit.

Today marks the 18th anniversary of the historic Cedar River crest in downtown Cedar Rapids, when floodwaters reached 31.12 feet in 2008—flooding thousands of homes.

The city continues work on upgraded flood protection, with projects set to finish in 2035.

Clock House Brewing is developing its new downtown taproom at the former Iowa Brewing Company on 3rd St SE + retaining key Iowa Brewing traditions+ while planning to boost production and offer community events.

The project may increase capacity and preserve local favorites like Surf Zombies and Iowa Eagle.

The Hidden Gems Tour invites residents to tour six historic homes in Mound View from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 14, including Grant Wood’s childhood home and the Greene-Franchere mansion, with proceeds funding preservation of the Zastera Pharmacy building.

That Arena Rock Show, a tribute to classic rock hits, will perform live on Oct.

9 at 8 p.m. at Club 5 inside the Alliant Energy PowerHouse — it recreates the arena experience with songs by Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, AC/DC, Bon Jovi and Guns N’ Roses.

Six painted, donated pianos will be placed around NewBo and Czech Village to celebrate local music and culture.

The pianos will be activated at noon on June 21 during Cedar Rapids' Make Music Day celebration and remain available for public use through Labor Day, with additional events planned this summer.

City leaders approved the final construction package for Cedar Lake improvements today.

The project includes a bird-watching platform and accessible paddle launch (for kayaking and canoeing) plus plans for a nature walkway and playground to boost safe outdoor fun.

Cedar Rapids Fire Chief Greg Smith retires later this month (after nearly 32 years with the department).

He faced major challenges such as floods, a derecho, and the pandemic and will now work part time while enjoying his hobbies.

Drivers in Cedar Rapids should expect delays starting Monday, June 15 as 6th Street SW is reduced to one lane in each direction between 9th and 12th avenues for a five-day water main installation project.

Motorists are advised to use caution and allow extra travel time.

On Thursday morning, Cedar Rapids experienced basement flooding in Newbo and Czech Village, and city crews worked overnight with temporary pumps to locate a suspected pipe blockage.

Drivers are asked to avoid intersections (16th Avenue SE and 2nd Street SE; 16th Avenue SW and A Street SW; Bowling Street SW north of C Street SW).

Local parents are advised to check squishy dumpling toys for proper safety labeling (a strong chemical odor or missing markings may signal a counterfeit) as the viral trend spreads online.

Experts warn that freezing or microwaving these toys can be dangerous.

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.

Putts & Pastries Event

9-11 a.m. — Mini Pines - Mini Golf — Free entry — Enjoy coffee and pastries while hitting holes at this fun mini golf outing.

2026 Cedar Rapids Women's Amateur Golf Tournament

Tournament running on July 10-11 — Twin Pines Golf Course — $60 entry fee — Compete in a stroke play format at this friendly local gathering.

Disney's Finding Nemo: Outdoor Musical Experience

6:30-7:45 p.m. — Brucemore — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a heartwarming musical adaptation of Disney's Finding Nemo under the stars.