Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Events Newswire

2026 LFS Alumni Society Dues 11/10/2025 - 4/30/2026

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 23:08:17 GMT

Become of member of the LFS Alumni Society!

Proceeds from the Alumni Society directly fund the Youth LFS Program which allows area high school juniors to participate at no cost to them or their school. As an alum of the program, thank you for investing in the next generation of leaders in our community!

Alumni Society dues can be paid in 3 different ways:

1 Year Membership: $50
3 Year Membership: $125
Lifetime Membership: $500

**Alumni Society dues go towards the calendar year within which it is paid, unless it is paid in November or December, when it will count for the following calendar year. While dues can be accepted at any time, payment is encouraged prior to, or by the end of, Q1 as the spring event in April is for Alumni Society members only.

Click REGISTER to pay for Alumni Society dues via credit card or contact Tyanna at tstephenson@cedarrapids.org if you would like an invoice or to pay by check.

Alumni Society Benefits Include:

Exclusive invite to LFS Alumni Spring Lunch (April) – Alumni Society Only
Discounted admission to LFS Annual Golf Outing
Additional Alumni Society events and perks (coming soon!)
Eligibility for Alumni Society Committee & LFS Advisory Board
Opportunity to serve on an LFS industry day planning committee
The reward of staying connected while helping the program endure

Photos with Santa! 🎅 11/28/2025 11:00 AM - 12/24/2025 7:00 PM

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 09:53:16 GMT

Lock in the magic with Santa photos at Lindale Mall! ?? Santa is returning to Lindale Mall for another fun photo experience. Book your visit NOW to lock in the day and time you choose. Guests booking reservations will receive a FREE digital message from Santa, a personalized phone call, or a bedtime story video. Don’t miss out on this festive opportunity to celebrate the joy and wonder of Christmas. ????

Reserve my spot: Where Is Santa - Lindale Mall

Making Snowglobes 12/1/2025 6:00 PM - 12/1/2025 8:00 PM

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:05:33 GMT

Come join us at Making Snowglobes where we'll get crafty and create our own winter wonderlands in a cozy, fun atmosphere!

Making Snowglobes | ThirdSpace Create x Big Grove

Come join us at Big Grove Brewery & Taproom for a fun-filled event of crafting your very own snowglobes! Let your creativity shine as you assemble your unique winter wonderland in a jar. This hands-on workshop will guide you through the process of creating a personalized snow globe to take home with you. No experience necessary, just bring your imagination and we'll provide the rest! Get ready to get crafty and festive with us at this exciting event.

Iowa Corporate Games December Webinar 12/2/2025 10:00 AM - 12/2/2025 10:30 AM

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 11:13:17 GMT

The Iowa Corporate Games December Webinar is designed for companies to learn more about the Corridor Corporate Games. The CCG is a company competition that has taken place across the Corridor since 2019. The aim of the Corporate Games is to provide companies an opportunity to engage with their employees and build company pride through friendly competition.

We encourage you to learn more about the CCG and join in on this unqiue offering.

This Webinar will take place via Zoom.

Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/8417628809178/WN_A9ZEULrlTWWaLEW19LP9mA

Aura Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Vendor Market 12/3/2025 5:00 PM - 12/3/2025 7:00 PM

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:48:38 GMT

Join Aura Independent Living for Our Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony! ?

Aura Independent Living, Cedar Rapids’ newest senior community, invites you to kick off the holiday season with us!

Holiday Vendor Market
Shop local and discover unique gifts from area vendors.

Outdoor Christmas Tree Lighting
Experience the magic as we light our very first community Christmas tree in our beautiful new space.

Come explore the community, enjoy festive treats, and celebrate the season with friends and neighbors.

ImpactCR: Holiday Happy Hour 12/3/2025 5:00 PM - 12/3/2025 7:00 PM

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:46:26 GMT

ImpactCR Holiday Happy Hour: Ugly Sweater Edition!

Get ready to sleigh the season with ImpactCR’s Holiday Happy Hour at Lion Bridge Brewing Company! Rock your most outrageous, sparkly, or downright hideous holiday sweater for a chance to win some fun prizes! Enjoy great brews, good pizza, and plenty of holiday cheer!

With ImpactCR, young professionals go beyond exchanging business cards—they come to build meaningful connections, foster personal and professional growth, and actively contribute to shaping the future of the Cedar Rapids Metro. Our mission is to empower young professionals to uncover their “why” and equip them with the tools to make a lasting, positive impact in their careers, community, and lives. We welcome individuals from all industries, skill sets, and backgrounds. ImpactCR is not just about working—it’s about living, learning, and thriving together.

Sight & Season 12/4/2025 10:00 AM - 12/4/2025 2:30 PM

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:09:43 GMT

Sight & Season

LASIK Screenings
Donate Blood with American Red Cross Holiday
Shopping with Local Vendors

Enter to win $400 off LASIK Surgery.

RSVP to Donate Blood No RSVP needed for LASIK screenings or holiday shopping

🎄 Cookies & Cheer: A Christmas Cookie Celebration 🍪 12/6/2025 11:00 AM - 12/6/2025 1:00 PM

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 09:34:13 GMT

Get ready to indulge in the sweetest holiday tradition! Join us for Cookies & Cheer, a festive Christmas cookie event packed with delicious treats, cozy vibes, and plenty of holiday magic.

What to Expect:

Christmas cookie tastings
Cookie-decorating stations for kids and adults
Holiday music and festive games
Face painting & balloon twisting

Special performance by Prestige Dance Studio

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or simply here for the sugar rush, this event is the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season. Slip on your favorite holiday sweater, bring your festive spirit (and maybe a friend or two!), and come make some sweet memories.

Location: Common Area by the Santa Set
Date: Saturday, December 6
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Let’s make this season a little sweeter — one cookie at a time!

Santa Cares 12/7/2025 10:30 AM - 12/7/2025 12:00 Noon

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 13:00:10 GMT

Join us for a special visit with Santa Cares on Sunday, December 7th, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Santa Cares offers a calm, supportive photo experience designed for guests with sensory, physical, and developmental needs.

Please note: The mall will be closed during this event. Guests should enter through the Collins Rd entrance near Chipotle.

Book my reservation: Where Is Santa - Lindale Mall

Pet Night with Santa 12/8/2025 4:00 PM - 12/8/2025 7:00 PM

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 12:59:58 GMT

Bring your pet to Lindale Mall for a dose of holiday cuteness on December 8th from 4:00–7:00 PM! Mix and mingle with fellow pet lovers while your furry friend strikes a paw-sitively adorable pose with Santa.

Reserve your spot here: Where Is Santa - Lindale Mall

Business Breakfast 12/9/2025 7:30 AM - 12/9/2025 9:00 AM

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 14:13:58 GMT

The Business Breakfast Series is a gathering of area employers and industry experts for a morning of networking and in-depth discussion about the latest issues in economic development. Every event is moderated by representatives of The Gazette news division with diverse panelist perspective. Three breakfasts will take place in Cedar Rapids along with two in Iowa City. Held on December 2 from 8-9 AM. Doors will open at 7:30 AM for networking and a light breakfast.

ImpactCR Volunteers: Waypoint Winter Wonderland 12/9/2025 4:00 PM - 12/9/2025 6:00 PM

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 20:15:13 GMT

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED. THIS EVENT IS FULL!

Join ImpactCR as we support Waypoint’s Holiday Giving Program, Winter Wonderland, an annual initiative that spreads joy to local families during the holiday season. Together, we’ll help transform donated gifts into a magical shopping experience for parents and caregivers in our community.

Date: Tuesday, December 9
Time: 4:00–6:00 PM
Location: Waypoint (enter through the 5th Street front doors; street parking available nearby)

What We’ll Be Doing:
Volunteers will help prepare the gift distribution spaces, including:

Sorting donated gifts in the ballroom by age and gender
Organizing the book, puzzle, and parent gift room
Organizing the stocking stuffer room

No experience necessary—Waypoint staff will give a brief overview of the organization and walk us through each task. This is a hands-on, high-impact volunteer opportunity that directly supports families in need during the holidays.

Iowa Heartlanders Home Game vs Kansas City 12/10/2025 10:30 AM - 12/10/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:59:07 GMT

LFS Alumni Holiday Breakfast 2025 12/10/2025 7:30 AM - 12/10/2025 9:00 AM

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:35:23 GMT

Join the Leadership for Five Seasons Advisory Board and LFS Alumni at the Alumni Holiday Breakfast at Indian Creek Nature Center! This event is free for all LFS alumni to attend and is a great chance to get your class together before the holidays and socialize with other Alumni. Registration is required and seats are limited!

Kickoff to LFS Alumni Society Dues Season:

Register for the holiday breakfast and pay pay for Alumni Society in one place by clicking the REGISTER button below. Those who join the Alumni Society for 2026, before or at the event, will be entered into drawings to win LFS goodies and gift cards to local establishments! You do not need to be present to win. More information about Alumni Society Dues can be found HERE. As always, Alumni Society dues supports the Youth LFS Program and is encouraged to be paid in Q1.

Non-Profit Donation Drive: In the spirit of sharing comfort and joy this holiday season, we invite attendees to bring gift items to the Holiday Breakfast for clients of Four Oaks.

Linn County Worksite Wellness Committee Winter Roundtable: "Navigating New Frontiers: Health Coverage, Cannabis, and Workplace Wellness" 12/10/2025 8:30 AM - 12/10/2025 10:00 AM

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 17:47:34 GMT

Linn County Worksite Wellness Committee Hosts Winter Roundtable: “Navigating New Frontiers: Health Coverage, Cannabis, and Workplace Wellness”

LINN COUNTY, Iowa – An upcoming Worksite Wellness Roundtable is helping business leaders navigate complicated issues impacting their companies. The Linn County Worksite Wellness Committee (LCWWC) invites business owners, human resource professionals, and members of the community to learn about changes in federal health insurance benefits as well as the legality of cannabis use among employees.

Many Iowans rely on state or federal insurance programs. At the Worksite Wellness Roundtable, employers will learn how Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, and employer-sponsored health insurance shape a workforce’s health and stability. Presenters will also share current knowledge about shifts in public policy.

Insurance is not the only area in which employers have questions; previous Roundtable participants asked the LCWWC to lead an exploration of cannabis in the workplace. At the winter Roundtable, attendees will learn the differences between CBD and THC, review legal products in Iowa, explore trends, and discuss how employers can navigate the changing landscape surrounding cannabis.

Event details

Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Time: 8:30–10:00 a.m.

Location: This is hybrid event. Participants can attend virtually or in person at Linn County Public Health, 1020 6th St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401. The event will be held in Room 234 A/B.

Whether you are attending virtually or in person, please register for the event.

Virtual participants will receive the link to attend upon registration.

Cost: Free

Link to register: https://sprw.io/stt-2pkE0

Free Worksite Wellness Assessment

At the Roundtable, employers will have the opportunity to enroll in a free Worksite Wellness Assessment. The assessment will identify successful policies already in place at a worksite as well as areas for improvement. Employers can use this powerful tool to identify actionable steps that will simultaneously improve the health of their workforce and their business.

All Linn County employers are eligible to participate. The committee is especially interested in working with small businesses with 15-20 employees. Those unable to attend the event may still access the assessment by contacting Kristy Knight at Kristy.Knight@linncountyiowa.gov.

About the Linn County Worksite Wellness Committee: The committee is comprised of health care professionals, Linn County Public Health, and company representatives throughout Linn County. Together, they are committed to promoting healthier workplaces and improving the health of employees.

Community Savings Bank Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting 12/10/2025 4:00 PM - 12/10/2025 4:30 PM

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 23:01:29 GMT

Community Savings Bank is celebrating the opening of its new branch location with an Open House from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. We invite you to join us for a Ribbon Cutting at 4:00 p.m. as we formally welcome them to Downtown.

Refer to our Membership Directory for a full list of members:https://www.cedarrapids.org/membership/directory/. If you're interested in becoming a member, reach out to our Membership Development Manager Anne Laugen at alaugen@cedarrapids.org.

2026 Legislative Launch 12/10/2025 5:00 PM - 12/10/2025 7:00 PM

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 16:10:43 GMT

The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and the Greater Iowa City, Inc., with the collaboration of our partners throughout the region, invite regional policy makers, members and community stakeholders as we launch our 2026 state and federal priorities. Talk directly with policy makers who represent our cities and counties in a casual setting.

This event is for members of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, Greater Iowa City, Inc. and invited guests.

This event is sponsored by ADM and Can Shed.

Q4 Speed Networking 12/11/2025 8:30 AM - 12/11/2025 9:30 AM

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 20:26:07 GMT

Join us for our quarterly speed networking event that rotates between various EA member businesses. At these sessions, you have the opportunity to meet many individuals from a variety of industries in a fast-paced, upbeat environment. We'll bring the coffee, you bring your most energetic self and get ready to network!

Registration is required and spots are limited! REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT WILL OPEN IN EARLY NOVEMBER

Contact Rebecca Sullens at rsullens@cedarrapids.org for more information.

This event is for members of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. Refer to our Membership Directory for a full list of members: https://www.cedarrapids.org/membership/directory/. If you're interested in becoming a member, reach out to Membership Growth Specialist Anne Laugen at alaugen@cedarrapids.org.

Iowa Heartlanders Hawkeye Night 12/12/2025 7:00 PM - 12/12/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:57:33 GMT

Join us for a high-energy night packed with Heartlanders hockey and Hawkeye spirit! Whether you're an alum, student, or lifelong fan, come rep the Black & Gold and cheer loud as we celebrate the pride of Iowa. Expect a game night full of excitement, themed entertainment, and a whole lot of Hawkeye flair, don't forget to wear your colors!

7:00PM
Toledo Walleye
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Iowa Heartlanders Hawkeye Night 12/12/2025 7:00 PM - 12/12/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:59:11 GMT

7:00PM
Toledo Walleye
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Wynonna Judd 2025 at Riverside Casino & Golf Resort 12/12/2025 8:00 PM - 12/12/2025 9:30 PM

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 09:46:45 GMT

With the release of her 1992 self-titled solo debut, Wynonna emerged as a singular force in American music. Beyond the five Grammy Awards, the multi-platinum albums and sold-out tours, the country/soul vocalist built on the Appalachian traditionalism that defined The Judds to create a world where Top 5 dance/club hits were as possible as being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Having practically grown up as America's favorite musical daughter, Wynonna matured into a woman who embraced how life is filled with peaks and valleys, great thrills, and heavy disappointment. Those realities informed her 5-times platinum Wynonna and nearing 3-times platinum Tell Me Why, the albums that gave voice to every human being emerging into their own adulthood with joy in their heart.

Beyond the groundbreaking music she and her mother created as The Judds, Wynonna has grown into her once-in-a-generation vocal prowess with an ease that made people clamor to her. "No One Else On Earth," "Tell Me Why," "She Is His Only Need," "Girls With Guitars," and "I Saw The Light" set the next chapter in motion of for the girl from Ashland, Kentucky who became a global superstar.

Tickets are $85, $80, $75 or $70 plus tax and an online/phone ticketing fee (this fee is waived when tickets are purchased in the Gift Shop). Tickets in the ADA section are for patrons with mobility disabilities and up to three companions. If companion seating is not available because the ADA section is sold out, RCGR will offer other seats as close as possible to the accessible seat, if available, at the purchase price of the other section. Tickets can be purchased in the Gift Shop, by calling 319-648-1234 or online.

Doors open at 7 PM for the 8 PM show.

This ticket may only be purchased directly through our website or the box office located at our property. We do not use third-party resellers or brokers for ticket sales. Tickets purchased through third-party resellers or brokers are not valid for entry. We will not refund or exchange tickets purchased through third-party resellers or brokers. This ticket may not be resold, transferred or used for commercial purposes (e.g., promotions, contests, advertising or giveaways), without our express, written permission.

Iowa Heartlanders Teddy Bear Toss 12/13/2025 6:00 PM - 12/13/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:57:28 GMT

Join us for one of the most heartwarming nights of the season, Teddy Bear Toss, presented by One Source Handling Inc, as fans bring new stuffed animals to throw on the ice after the Heartlanders’ first goal of the game! All tossed teddies will be collected and donated to local children’s charities, spreading cheer to those who need it most this holiday season.

6PM
Toledo
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Inclusive IOWA - Purpose in Action: How Community Engagement Builds Stronger Workplaces 12/17/2025 8:30 AM - 12/17/2025 10:00 AM

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 17:15:53 GMT

Join Inclusive IOWA for a session exploring how community engagement can strengthen workplace culture and align with your company’s mission, vision, and values. Hear from a panel of leaders, from large corporations to small businesses, on how they foster purpose through volunteerism, donation drives, and local partnerships. A featured nonprofit will share how business collaboration fuels community impact. Attendees will leave with fresh ideas and reflection tools to help bring purpose to life within their own organizations.

This meeting is a virtual event. The link for the event will be sent in the confirmation email after you register. Please be sure to add this to your calendar.

Agenda:

Welcome
Panel Discussion
Small Group Discussion
Share out
Wrap up

An Inclusive ICR meeting is a space to host complex, solution-focused discussion among members. The common thread we have as a coalition is the belief that diversity, equity and inclusion should be a top priority for the region, fueling benefit for our current and future workforce. We meet, explore and build on idea with a platform where all voices to be present, heard, and respected.

If you have any questions or need help with registering, please contact: economicalliance@cedarrapids.org.

For more information about Inclusive ICR, visit their website.

EDGE Investment Solutions Monthly Webinar - Maximizing Social Security Benefits 12/17/2025 5:30 PM - 12/17/2025 7:00 AM

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:21:08 GMT

This will be a special presentation by Elaine Simmons of Social Security Informed on How to Maximize Your Social Security Benefits.

Elaine Simmons spent over 34 years working for the Social Security Administration. She was consistently promoted during that time working in 11 different offices. Following her retirement, she started her own independent consulting firm due to her deep understanding of SSA laws and regulations combined with a genuine passion to help individuals make an informed decision regarding this significant asset in retirement.

Elaine has earned an elite national reputation as one of the top specialists in her field.

We are honored to have Elaine join us for the webinar this month!

Please join us for this complimentary webinar event:
Wednesday, December 17, at 5:30 PM CT

Iowa Heartlanders Home Game vs Indy 12/17/2025 7:00 PM - 12/17/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:57:15 GMT

Skip the midweek slump and come feel the rush at Xtream Arena, where the action is fast, the hits are hard, and the energy is electric. Whether you're cheering from the glass or grabbing a bite on the concourse, it’s the perfect way to power through the week.

7:00PM
Indy
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

December BizMix Hosted by PinSeekers Tiffin 12/18/2025 4:00 PM - 12/18/2025 6:00 PM

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 22:00:13 GMT

Join us for the December BizMix hosted by PinSeekers Tiffin.

The event will run from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Meet your business peers and connect with new members of our communities.

BizMix brings together area professionals and is hosted by a different member business each month. This event provides EA members with increased opportunity for participation and connections.

If you'd like to save the event to your calendar, a calendar invite will be sent in the post-registration email. Registration is not required.

This event is for members of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and the Marion Chamber of Commerce. Refer to our Membership Directory for a full list of members:https://www.cedarrapids.org/membership/directory/. If you're interested in becoming a member, contact our Membership Development Manager, Anne Laugen at alaugen@cedarrapids.org.

Visit Santa at Cassill Motors 12/18/2025 5:00 PM - 12/18/2025 7:00 PM

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 15:37:23 GMT

Join us for Santa Night at Cassill Motors in Cedar Rapids on Thursday, December 18th, from 5–7pm! Families are invited to enjoy a free visit with Santa and a holiday photo opportunity right here at our dealership. To make your experience even smoother, guests can reserve a photo time to skip the line and ensure a quick, easy visit with Santa.

It's all free for our family, friends, and fans!
*Park in Theisen's lot or our dealership lot.

This annual event is a favorite for families looking for festive holiday activities in Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area. Cassill Motors is proud to host community-focused events that help create lasting memories—stop by for a fun, family-friendly evening with Santa!

Reserve your photo time with Santa!

Handmade Crafts Show 12/20/2025 8:00 AM - 12/21/2025 7:00 PM

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 09:53:05 GMT

Spaces filled with vendors selling handmade arts and crafts. Stop by the Former Younkers space and show these vendors your support.

Saturday December 20th from 8:00am to 7:00pm

Sunday December 21st from 10:00am to 5:00pm

If you wish to become a vendor: Email Jason at wolfdencloseouts@yahoo.com

Breakfast With Santa at Granite City 12/20/2025 9:00 AM - 12/20/2025 12:00 Noon

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:32:41 GMT

You're invited to Breakfast With Santa at Granite City. Join us Saturday, December 20; 9am - 12pm

Enjoy a buffet breakfast and a meet and greet with Santa himself! There will also be crafts and coloring.

Adults: $15.99

Chrildren: $7.99

Iowa Heartlanders Bluey Night 12/26/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:57:09 GMT

What better holiday gift than going to BLUEY NIGHT! Treat your family to an unforgettable evening full of energy, imagination, and curiosity at Xtream Arena. Celebrate the season with Bluey and friends in a fun-filled atmosphere the whole family will love.

Don’t miss your chance to meet Bluey in person on the concourse and create magical memories that will last all year long!

Also make sure to check out Face Painting on the concourse, thanks to Face Painting by Hailey.

7PM
Bloomington
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Rubix Kube at Riverside Casino & Golf Resort 12/31/2025 9:00 PM - 1/1/2026 12:00 Midnight

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:24:53 GMT

RUBIX KUBE has taken the universe by storm as the most excellent 80's tribute band of all time! Their one-of-a-kind "THE EIGHTIES STRIKE BACK Show" is performed across the planet, and to galaxies far . . far away. The KUBE is more than just a cover band - they're a totally awesome, true 80's Experience. Every super-charged show takes it to the max and guarantees to set the roof on fire and burn down the house.

Join us this New Years Eve from 9 PM until Midnight.

Free Admission

Party Hats - Beads - Champagne Toast at Midnight

Must be 21+