Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Over the weekend, the 43rd annual Freedom Festival drew crowds at Ellis Park with a cardboard boat competition that featured a kid-friendly race called Little Skippers, and the celebration continues with a Tribute to Heroes Breakfast today + Rock N Bowl on Thursday + a Fourth of July event on Saturday.

A 9-year-old boy with a nervous system disorder was surprised Monday at Wilson Avenue Hy-Vee when Make-A-Wish Iowa revealed his wish for a Disney cruise to the Caribbean during a pirate-themed celebration — with staff, volunteers, donors and family supporting his dream and marking a cherished moment in his life.

Investigators determined that the fire at Cedar Creek Lanes and the Professional Bowling Concepts pro shop in southwest Cedar Rapids was unintentional and caused significant damage on Friday when firefighters arrived just before 2 a.m. and found no one inside.

Cedar Rapids restaurant Biaggi's permanently closed after 25 years, and the Italian chain thanked the community in a social media post.

Customers may use remaining gift cards (or request a refund by emailing the corporate office) at other locations.

Gas prices in Iowa have dropped nearly 6 cents, with averages at $3.49/g today based on GasBuddy data.

The drop brings relief ahead of the 4th of July weekend + prices remain 51.4 cents above last year's average.

Cedar Rapids Community School District is launching the Five Seasons Virtual Academy this upcoming school year for students in grades 3-12.

The online program will offer daily live classes with academic enrichment and targeted support while parents provide supervision and ensure reliable internet access.

Extreme heat this week has prompted Linn County to designate cooling centers at facilities including Cedar Rapids’ libraries and city halls - visitors should check hours before visiting.

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.

Decoupage Painting Night at Just Jules

6-8 p.m. — Just Jules Pub & Restaurant — $20 for one tray, $35 for two trays — Enjoy a creative evening of painting with all supplies included and food/drink available.

Disney's Finding Nemo Musical

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Brucemore — Family-friendly event — Dive into an ocean adventure with Marlin and Nemo in this delightful musical.

Elvis in Person

7-8:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Tickets required — Experience a world-class tribute to Elvis Presley featuring Matt Stone and his all-star band.

World Cup 2026 Final Watch Party

2-5 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Reservations recommended — Catch the excitement of the World Cup final on the giant screen while enjoying your favorite brews.

Computer Skills Training Workshop

2:30 – 4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free — Enhance your digital literacy and gain essential computer skills with personalized guidance in an interactive setting.

Cypress Hill Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — McGrath Amphitheatre — Ticket prices starting at $82 — Experience the iconic sounds of Cypress Hill live in Cedar Rapids.