101 Things to Do... 2020-2021 | Page 6

17. Pleasantville Pig Out 18 14. Old Soldiers and Settlers Reunion This annual Davis County event is set for July 23-25 in Drakesville. Highlights include a tractor pull, queen contest, talent show, parade, baby contest, rodeo and stage shows. For more information and a full schedule of events, visit www.daviscountyossr.org. Help the city of Pleasantville celebrate their 10th annual Pig Out Festival in late May/early June. Come enjoy a car show, barbecue and cornhole contests, live music, wine, beer, yoga, free kids’ activities, antiques and more. 18. Summer Reading Program There is no age limit to reading fun. The Ottumwa Public Library opens its summer reading program in a variety of age categories, including one for adults. Prizes are awarded for reading accomplishments, and the program offers educational shows for children throughout the summer. The Ottumwa Public Library hosts a variety of events year- round for a wide range of interests. For more information and a schedule of events, visit www.ottumwapubliclibrary. org. 15. Ottumwa Pro Balloon Races This summer favorite brings dozens of hot air balloon pilots to Ottumwa Park for weekend of family-friendly fun. The 2020 event is set for June 26-28. In addition to hot air balloon flights and night glows, the weekend features live bands, food vendors, a carnival, beer garden and more. This year, the event is combining forces with the Ottumwa Elks Charity Fundraiser, which runs June 24-28. For more information, visit www.ottumwaproballoonraces.com. 16. Southern Iowa Fair The Southern Iowa Fair has been delighting fairgoers since 1852. Held each July, the fair provides not only a top- notch county fair experience for 4–H’ers, FFA members and their family and friends, but also draws in exciting national performers. The Southern Iowa Speedway has also attracted top-tier talent to its half-mile dirt track. This year’s event runs July 20-25. 19 6 | 101 Things To Do In Southeast Iowa 19. 16 Sweet Corn Serenade The Sweet Corn Serenade feels like an old-fashioned, small community get-together each July. Thousands of ears of sweet corn are roasted, hamburgers are grilled and live music fills the historic Oskaloosa downtown square July 30. A pie baking contest is held, and there are games and activities for the kids. 20. Thursdays in Pella Every summer, the Pella Area Community and Economic Alliance hosts Thursdays in Pella. The weekly mini festivals take place in Historic Downtown Pella from June to July with fun and engaging activities for the entire family. Activities change every week and correlate to a specific theme. Local businesses, organizations and food trucks also participate. This year, the festivals will run June 4 through July 30 from 6-9 p.m.