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American Gothic Performing Arts Festival
The Festival ' s mission is to present to Iowa and the Midwest an annual educationally-based festival celebrating the performing arts in an open and friendly atmosphere. This year ' s 14th season runs June 5-28 in Ottumwa with four productions: West Side Story opens the festival June 5 and 7; The Odd Couple plays at the Temple of Creative Arts June 12-21; To Be Heard: Of Many, One Song takes the stage at Bridge View Center June 13; and Grease closes out the season June 25-28. For more information, visit americangothicfest. org.
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Art on the Square
One of Iowa ' s oldest continuing art festivals, Oskaloosa Main Street ' s Art on the Square features artist vendors from the local community and beyond, emerging artists, an art window walk and more. This year ' s event will be held June 13 from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m. on the downtown Oskaloosa City Square.
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BBQ & Brew Festival
Centerville ' s tastiest summer tradition returns for its 5th year on June 6 on the downtown square. BBQ teams from across the region compete for top honors while attendees sample their way through with unlimited tastes, cold drinks, live music and family-friendly activities. Event hours are 11 a. m. to 7 p. m. For more information, visit pactiowa. org.
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Bike Van Buren
Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Bike Van Buren on Aug. 15-16 in Keosauqua. This popular cycling event through Van Buren County offers routes for riders of all skill levels, with SAG support and refreshments along the way. Registration begins at Keosauqua City Park. Visit villagesofvanburen. com to register.
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County Fairs of Southeast Iowa
From livestock shows and 4-H exhibits to fair food, live entertainment and carnival rides, county fairs are a quintessential part of summer in southeast Iowa. This year ' s fairs and their dates: Greater Jefferson County Fair, June 22-29; Wapello County Fair, June 17-21; Mahaska County( Southern Iowa Fair), July 13-18; Marion County Fair, July 10-16; Davis County Fair, July 15-19; Van Buren County Fair, July 15-20; Appanoose County Fair, July 20-25; and Monroe County Fair, July 29-Aug. 3.
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Farmington Strawberry Festival
Head to downtown Farmington for a fun-filled weekend featuring rides, kids ' games, a dog show, Pioneer Museum open house, flea market, live entertainment and more. Don ' t miss the free strawberries and ice cream served 2-4 p. m. Saturday and Sunday. This year ' s festival runs June 12-14 on S. Front Street.
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