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Art on the River Opening Reception FRIDAY , AUGUST 9 @ 5 – 7 PM GRAND RIVER CENTER PATIO ( 500 BELL ST ) Head to the patio behind Grand River Center on Friday , Aug . 9 , from 5 to 7 p . m . for the City of Dubuque ’ s annual temporary public art exhibit , Art on the River . Celebrate with an opening reception for the 2024 – 25 exhibit .
The theme for this year ’ s exhibition is “ Culture & Conversation ,” with 11 works selected that speak to the artists ’ ability to enlighten , educate , and affect communities and culture . Culture is learned . Culture is adaptive . Culture is shared . The aim of this exhibition is to provoke conversations that serve to connect us across divides , help us overcome barriers , and foster economic growth and community prosperity .
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Reception activities will include social time from 5 to 5:30 p . m . featuring live music by saxophonist Anthony Collins Jr ., with light hors d ’ oeuvres served and a cash bar available . At 5:30 p . m ., Mayor Brad Cavanagh will welcome attendees followed by a spoken word performance , artist acknowledgements , and awards presented by City of Dubuque staff .
Live performances by Adams Dance Connection , local DJ Enoc Sanchez , and 3D artmaking demonstrations along the Riverwalk by local artists continue from 6 to 7 p . m .
Throughout the evening , the Dubuque Camera Club , Dubuque Urban Sketchers , and Plein Air Painters of Dubuque will be set up along the Mississippi Riverwalk to capture festivities on paper , canvas , and in photos . Adams Dance Connection will offer instruction in cultural dance styles for your participation and enjoyment .
As has become a tradition , the Art on the River reception will include interactive activities that highlight Dubuque-based creatives . This year ’ s event will incorporate live art-making demonstrations stationed along the Riverwalk by artists who work in 3D materials and processes .
Art on the River is part of the Dubuque City Council ’ s ongoing efforts to foster diverse arts and culture experiences that will improve the social and cultural vibrancy of the community . Since its inception , the program has featured 165 sculptures representing the work of 109 artists at the Port of Dubuque . The reception is free to attend . In case of inclement weather , reception activities may be scaled back and held indoors at the Grand River Center . More information is available at cityofdubuque . org / artontheriver . •
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DBQFest AUGUST 10 – 11 WASHINGTON PARK ( 700 LOCUST ST ) DBQFest , Iowa ’ s longest-running arts fair and festival , returns to downtown Dubuque ’ s Washington Park on Aug . 10 and 11 . This year ’ s event showcases the talents of more than 65 exceptional artists and makers from across the region , along with 15 music and theatrical performances , hands-on activities , and five local food trucks . DBQFest is family-friendly event that is free to attend , filling the entire city block of Washington Park at 700 Locust St .
Known for its vibrant celebration of the arts , culture , and community , DBQFest , will transform Washington Park into a bustling 2-day creative hub where visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in a diverse array of creative expressions . A focal point of the event is highlighting the visual arts with stunning paintings and sculptures to unique handcrafted jewelry and ceramics , woodworking , glass art , and more on display and for sale . Attendees will have the opportunity to peruse and purchase artworks directly from the talented 65 artists and makers juried into this year ’ s event .
DBQFest is also a feast of performative and culinary arts . Live music is scheduled throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday , accompanied by special
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performances of aerial arts and theatrical productions sprinkled throughout both days . Local food trucks will be stationed along 6 th Street with food and beverage for purchase both days .
In addition to the creativity on display at the event , DBQFest is also about bringing the community together . Community booths will also be present at the festival , providing an opportunity for local organizations to engage with the public and share information about their initiatives . Adults and kids alike can explore the all-ages creation station , where they can unleash their creativity through handson activities and interactive art projects . The unique opportunity to participate in and observe an aluminum casting will be facilitated by local artist , Tamsie Ringler . Whether you ’ re an art enthusiast , a music lover , a foodie , or simply looking for a fun weekend activity , DBQFest offers something for everyone . Admission to DBQFest is free , offering an inclusive and accessible experience for all from 10 a . m . to 5 p . m . on Saturday , Aug . 10 concluding with a special musical performance by River Glen until 7 p . m . Activities resume on Sunday , Aug . 11 at 10 a . m . until 5 p . m .
The second annual Key City Beer & Seltzer Festival brings Dubuque area ’ s best craft beer and seltzers to Washington Park . General admission tickets are $ 30 include a 5 oz souvenir glass and unlimited tastings on either Aug . 10 or 11 from 1 to 5 p . m . VIP for $ 70 gets you all of the above plus you get in one hour early , a swag bag , a T-shirt , and food truck bucks .
DBQfest is a volunteer-driven and directed program of the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society . To volunteer , get involved , and for more information visit DBQfest . com or stop by the DCFAS information booth during the event . •
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Is There Life After 50 ? AUGUST 9 – 10 , 15 – 17 , AND 22 – 23 @ 7:30 PM AUGUST 11 , 18 , AND 24 – 25 @ 2 PM BELL TOWER THEATER ( 2728 ASBURY RD ) The Bell Tower Theater hosts the summer comedy Is There Life After 50 ? by Cynthia Haynes-DiSavino on Aug . 9 – 10 , 15 – 17 , and 22 – 23 at 7:30 p . m . and Aug . 11 , 18 , and 24 – 25 at 2 p . m .
See what happens when three wives trick their unsuspecting husbands into spending their yearly vacation at a health resort . Will pizza , beer and The Godfather win out over salad , sparkling water and Jazzercise ? This battle of the sexes divides the cabin in half as they answer the question , is there really life after 50 ?
The Early Bird Special performances on Aug . 9 and 10 are $ 12 , and all other
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performances are $ 24 . Thursdays are Girls ’ Night Out ; all audience members ( 21 and over ) get a free glass of wine . For more information and to purchase tickets , call 563-588-3377 or visit BellTowerTheater . net . • |