Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival has announced its button design contest for 2026 to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with the theme 'Party Like It’s 1776!'.

Local artists will submit their designs by Nov 17 and the winner will be revealed on Nov 20—earning a VIP spot at festival events and the role of parade grand marshal.

Martin Equipment opened its expanded facility at 820 Thompson Way SW on Monday.

The new 21,500-square-foot site — over twice the size of its old 6th St SW location — will offer more equipment options and faster service, and the family-owned retailer plans an open house next year.

For 60 years, Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa has taught students real-world skills like money management+ entrepreneurship while reaching nearly one million youth.

The organization is celebrating its milestone with hands-on programs such as JA BizTown Mobile+ JA Finance Park Mobile that help students gain confidence and explore career paths.

The Center for Food Safety filed a notice of intent to sue USFWS on Oct.

8 for missing deadlines on a decision to list the Iowa skipper butterfly as endangered. The group said that lost prairie habitat and pesticide drift put the rare butterfly at risk—USFWS must issue a finding or timeline within 60 days.

Cedar Rapids is asking community members for feedback on its animal shelter after two failed state inspections revealed roof leaks and mold—responses are accepted from October 20 to October 31 and will help shape a draft review presented before the end of the year.

Central City Schools plans a $7 million bond referendum for November to add ADA-accessible restrooms, stage areas, and a secure entrance to the elementary wing—efforts shaped by months of community feedback.

If approved, the bond would raise taxes by about $270 a year on a typical $100,000 home—residents can learn more at a Wednesday open house before the vote.

Cedar Rapids city leaders are asking residents for feedback on Animal Care and Control through an online survey that runs until the end of the month.

The anonymous responses will guide an independent review by Matrix Consulting Group — the review will compile inspections and interviews to determine needed improvements before a final report is shown to City Council by year's end.

Odd Mama's Vintage Cafe opened earlier this month at 1201 3rd St SE in Cedar Rapids and is housed in the former Chrome Horse Saloon in the NewBo District.

The cafe serves breakfast and lunch daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features vintage decor—unique touches include dining in an old bank vault and red bell pepper salt shakers.

Airbnb released a gallery of high-rated rental properties in Cedar Rapids on October 20 — the list includes options from historic studio apartments to modern cottages with free parking, full kitchens, and other amenities.

Visitors can book these spaces for short stays as interest grows in local vacation rentals.

CR Sings: The Music of Bob Dylan

7:30-9 p.m. — Opus Concert Cafe — Ticket details vary — Experience live performances of iconic Bob Dylan songs in a cozy atmosphere.

Hawkeye Downs Dirt Kart Spooktacular

12 PM — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling dirt kart racing with family-friendly guaranteed seating.

Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert

6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Olympic South Side Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons surrounded by candlelight.

Monday Morning Story Time

10:00-10:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in fun stories, music, and crafts perfect for kids and caregivers.

Iowa BIG Visit Day

8 AM – 4 PM — Cedar Rapids Downtown District — Refunds available — Learn about Iowa BIG and how it empowers students for real-world impact.

The Rocking Dead Halloween Night

8-11 p.m. — Penguin's Comedy Club — $22 — Enjoy a spine-tingling night of live music with a thrilling costume contest.

Dia de los Muertos Celebration

6 p.m. — CSPS — Free entry — Honor loved ones with traditional music, dance, and vibrant altars at this cultural event.

Home Free Vocal Band Concert

7-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the angelic harmonies of the acclaimed country a cappella group that took the world by storm.

Mercy Mistletoe Market

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Mercy Medical Center Cedar Rapids — Free entry — Explore unique, handcrafted items from nearly 40 local vendors at this holiday shopping extravaganza.

Dubuque Fighting Saints vs Cedar Rapids RoughRiders

7:05-8:35 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Stream available — Don't miss the thrilling hockey showdown as the Saints take on the RoughRiders.