10.
Greater Ottumwa Rodeo
Voted Iowa’s best one-day rodeo in 2018, the Greater
Ottumwa Rodeo returns to action July 4 in Greater
Ottumwa Park. It is a triple-sanctioned event through the
Iowa Rodeo Cowboys Association, United Rodeo
Association and Missouri Rodeo Cowboys Association.
Visit www.gopip.org for more information.
11.
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Canteen Eating Contest/
Canteen Lunch in the Alley
This popular eatery opened its doors in 1927 and moved
to its current location in 1936. It is a draw for locals and
visitors alike. In 2018, the first-ever Canteen Eating Contest
was held in Central Park and moved to the Canteen Alley
in 2019. This year’s event is slated for 1 p.m. June 6, and
vendors will be set up throughout the day beginning
at 9 a.m. Bikes, Burgers and Brews, a street party with
motorcycles, a band and drink specials, will precede the
event from 5-9 p.m. June 5. For more information, visit www.
canteenottumwa.com or contact Main Street Ottumwa.
8.
Central Park Cinema.
Hosted by Main Street Ottumwa. Enjoy movies on a screen
in Central Park under the night sky. Bring your own chairs
or blankets for sitting. Concessions and pre-movie activities
available. Dates for 2020 are June 20, July 18 and Aug. 18
with screenings of “Dolittle,” “Frozen II” and “Toy Story 4.”
9.
Knoxville Nationals
Head over to the Sprint Car Capitol of the world and enjoy
an action-packed day of racing. The 60th annual Knoxville
Nationals will take place Aug. 12-15 at the Knoxville
Raceway. While there, discover history at the National
Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum. For more information,
visit www.knoxvilleraceway.com.
12.
Lake Red Rock Balloon Fest
One highlight of the summer in the Red Rock Area is the
annual Lake Red Rock Balloon Fest in July. Bring the entire
family to gaze at colorful hot air balloons, participate in a
5K/10K, listen to live music, camp and enjoy fun outdoor
activities on North Overlook Beach.
13.
Live After Five
Each week, a different band plays Ottumwa’s Central Park
Fridays in July and the first Friday of August. The concerts
are a family-oriented community gathering with live music
and food. For more information on the 2020 lineup, visit
ww.sosb-ia.com.
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Divas Who Dish
Partner to the popular 25 Men Who Can Cook, this event
is a fundraiser for the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra.
Area women serve up their favorite recipes to compete
in a variety of categories. The event also includes a silent
auction, cash bar, wine pull and a live auction. The 2020
event will be held in July. For more information, visit www.
ottumwasymphonyorchestra.net.
101 Things To Do In Southeast Iowa | 5