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Diversity Conference
The 19th annual event is held in March on the Indian Hills Community College campus in Ottumwa. The purpose of the conference is to celebrate, advocate, and educate about the world’ s wide range of cultures, ethnicities, values and beliefs. It’ s a platform to recognize and honor what makes each individual unique. Come and explore these differences to promote positivity, enlightenment, and a safe environment. For more information, visit www. indianhills. edu / news / events / diversity / index. php
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Easter Egg Roll
Held prior to Easter each year, the Easter Egg Roll at the American Gothic House and Visitors Center includes egg rolling races on the lawn, spring-themed crafts, an activity passport and more. The Easter Bunny is a frequent visitor, and you can get pictures with him in front of the famous backdrop.
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Family Fest
Bridge View Center will host a free Family Fest as a fun-filled day of family activities in early March. The goal of the event is to give back to the families of Ottumwa and southeast Iowa. The event typically includes bounce houses, science exhibits, entertainment acts, health tips, exhibitors and Safety City, a chance for kids to tour an ambulance, firetruck, patrol car and / or other law enforcement vehicles.
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Indian Hills Jazz Band Dance
Dance the night away on the Indian Hills Community College dance floor. Enjoy an evening of dance lessons, followed by live music and a free dance at the IHCC’ s Hills Diner. Twirl away to jazz, ballroom, swing and pop-rock tunes performed by the Indian Hills Jazz Band, under the direction of David Sharp. Lessons run from 3:30-5 p. m. Live music and dancing goes from 7:30-9 p. m.
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101 Things To Do 2025
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King of the Corn BBQ contest
The King of the Corn Contest is a continuation of the successful Ottumwa Smoketoberfest contest that quickly became the most anticipated KCBS contest in Iowa. Under Francis Dunnton ' s lead, King of the Corn will be one of the most hospitable BBQ contests in the Midwest. The two-day event is scheduled for May 15-16 in the Warehouse BBQ parking lot, located at 2818 N. Court St.
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Klompen Classic 5K
This annual race is always held the day before Tulip Time begins, and thousands of individuals have participated in the Klompen Classic 5K. This fun run / walk raises funds for local programs to help children and families, and winners are awarded a wooden Dutch shoe. Come enjoy a touch of Holland and experience the beautiful tulips and windmills of Pella the Wednesday before Tulip Time. For more information, visit www. crossroadspella. org / klompen.
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Ladies Night Out
Fill up your passport by visiting participating businesses in Downtown Ottumwa to be entered into a drawing for prizes donated from the businesses. Live music and prizes for drawings follow. The event is held annually on a Friday night in April. For more information, contact Main Street Ottumwa.