Waterloo, Iowa: Food lovers and local producers will come together this spring for the 2026 Iowa Eats Food and Drink Festival, happening on April 11, 2026, at the Waterloo Convention Center (716 Commercial Street, Waterloo, IA 50701).
This one-day festival highlights Iowa’s food, beverages, and agricultural products, offering visitors a chance to taste, shop, and explore.
Event Date and Hours
The Iowa Eats Food and Drink Festival 2026 will take place on:
- Saturday, April 11, 2026: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The afternoon schedule provides plenty of time to enjoy tastings and entertainment.
What Visitors Can Expect
The festival will feature a mix of local artisans, food producers, and vendors.
Visitors can explore:
- Iowa-made food and drink products
- Specialty beverages and unique flavors
- Artisan goods and agriculture-related items
- Kitchen tools and products for home cooking
The event celebrates the best of local food culture.
Food and Beverage Tastings
One of the main attractions is the opportunity to enjoy tastings from a variety of vendors.
- Sample locally produced foods and drinks
- Discover new flavors and specialty items
- Explore products made across Iowa
It’s a great way to experience the region’s culinary diversity.
Live Entertainment and Atmosphere
The festival also offers a lively environment with entertainment and interactive experiences.
- Enjoy live performances
- Explore vendor booths and demonstrations
- Engage with local producers and creators
The combination of food and entertainment creates a fun, social setting.
Learn About Food and Farming
In addition to tastings, visitors can discover tools and ideas for growing and preparing their own food.
- Products for home gardening and farming
- Kitchen tools and cooking essentials
- Educational insights from local experts
It adds a practical and informative element to the event.
Why Attend the Iowa Eats Festival?
Here’s what makes this event worth visiting:
- Local Focus: Celebrate Iowa-made food and products
- Tastings: Sample a wide variety of foods and beverages
- Entertainment: Enjoy live performances and activities
- Educational Value: Learn about food production and preparation
- Community Experience: Connect with local vendors and creators
Read Also: Fort Collins Farmers Market 2026 Returns With Fresh Produce, Handmade Goods and Free Entry
Important Visitor Information
Visitors are encouraged to confirm event details with official organizers before attending, as schedules or vendor participation may change.
Event listing platforms typically do not organize or manage these events.
A Must-Visit Event for Food Lovers in Waterloo
The 2026 Iowa Eats Food and Drink Festival offers a flavorful mix of tastings, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fun day out, it’s a great way to explore local flavors and support Iowa producers.
Are you planning to attend the Iowa Eats Festival? What are you most excited to try—local drinks or unique food products? Share your thoughts below!

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