In celebration of Earth Month 2026 the Office of Sustainability has compiled a number of opportunities to be sustainably engaged (social   , economic   or environmental  ) in the Ames community and beyond during the entire month of April.

Open the sections below to see events occurring each week of April.

Have an event during Earth Month that you do not see here? Email Livegreen@iastate.edu to have it added

Food at First      

Event Date: Varies 

Time and Location: Varies and 611 Clark Ave, Ames IA 

Looking to volunteer? Come help at Food at First and support those facing hunger or food insecurity. For more information about volunteering, visit the Food at First webpage. 

 

The SHOP      

Event Date: Varies

Time and Location: Varies and 1306 Beyer Hall 

Looking to volunteer? Come help at The SHOP, the campus food pantry, where you can assist shoppers, answer questions and stock shelves. Shifts last for an hour and you can sign up for multiple! For more information about volunteering, visit the The SHOP webpage. 

April 1

Iowa Life    

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 1:30 a.m. 

Uncover the diverse tapestry of Iowa’s people, cultures and stories. Through compelling interviews, scenic visuals and authentic storytelling, each episode explores the extraordinary lives of individuals who call Iowa home. 

 

Classical Stretch: By Essentrics     

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 6 a.m. 

Join Miranda Esmonde-White as she offers an exercise program for people of all ages and fitness levels.

 

Road Trip Iowa    

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Create, 9 a.m. 

Explore Iowa’s scenic byways, looking at historic sites, unique attractions and natural beauty along the way.

 

Iowa Life    

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Create, 9:30 a.m. 

Uncover the diverse tapestry of Iowa’s people, cultures and stories. Through compelling interviews, scenic visuals and authentic storytelling, each episode explores the extraordinary lives of individuals who call Iowa home.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition     

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood Burned Art      

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Paint Your Own Pottery: $10 Mug Week       

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Needing a new mug? Come to the Workspace and paint your own pottery, starting at $10 or for an additional $3 take a to-go kit for home.

 

Road Trip Iowa    

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Create, 4 p.m. 

Explore Iowa’s scenic byways, looking at historic sites, unique attractions and natural beauty along the way.

 

Iowa Life       

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 4:30 p.m. 

Uncover the diverse tapestry of Iowa’s people, cultures and stories. Through compelling interviews, scenic visuals and authentic storytelling, each episode explores the extraordinary lives of individuals who call Iowa home.

 

Printmaking: Tote Bags and Tees       

Event Date: April 1 

Time and Location: 6-8 p.m., 427 Douglas Ave, Ames 50010 

Want to learn the basics of relief printmaking and fabric inking? Join Kat Schmidt and carve a linoleum block, use fabric safe inks and learn proper printing techniques to make a customized design on a tote bag and t-shirt. For more information about registration, visit the link https://discoverames.com/events/printmaking-totes-and-tees/

 

The Eagles of Decorah    

Event Date: April 1  

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 8 p.m. 

“The Eagles of Decorah” - learn how a violent thunderstorm destroyed the home of a family of eagles and how the efforts of the Raptor Resource Project restored the birds’ nest.

 

Our New World - The Pulse of Change    

Event Date: April 1  

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 9 p.m. 

“The Pulse of Change” - watch four people on four continents face environmental change driven by climate change. Observe the shifts in wildlife behavior as resources grow scarce.

 

Iowa Life    

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 9:30 p.m. 

Uncover the diverse tapestry of Iowa’s people, cultures and stories. Through compelling interviews, scenic visuals and authentic storytelling, each episode explores the extraordinary lives of individuals who call Iowa home.

 

Wild Metropolis    

Event Date: April 1  

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 10 p.m. 

“Wild Metropolis” - watch how a diverse cast of animals adjust to life in the newest and fastest changing habitat, cities. More and more wild animals are making their homes in urban areas. Explore how they have applied their natural born skills and ability to create a new home in these changing areas!

 

Road Trip Iowa    

Event Date: April 1 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Create, 10 p.m. 

Explore Iowa’s scenic byways, looking at historic sites, unique attractions and natural beauty along the way. 

April 2

Event Date: April 2 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 1:30 a.m. 

Explore Iowa’s scenic byways, looking at historic sites, unique attractions and natural beauty along the way.

 

The Eagles of Decorah    

Event Date: April 2

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 3 a.m. 

“The Eagles of Decorah” - learn how a violent thunderstorm destroyed the home of a family of eagles and how the efforts of the Raptor Resource Project restored the birds’ nest.

 

Classical Stretch: By Essentrics     

Event Date: April 2 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 6 a.m. 

Join Miranda Esmonde-Whtie as she offers an exercise program for people of all ages and fitness levels.

 

OWLS - A Kaleidoscope of Monarchs: Adventures Among the Butterflies    

Event Date: April 2

Hosted by: Story County Conservation

Time and Location: 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., 56461 180th St, Ames, IA 50010

Step into a kaleidoscope of color and wonder of monarch butterflies at the OWLS (Older Wiser Livelier Souls) - A Kaleidoscope of Monarchs: Adventures Among the Butterflies. Learn about Karen Johlas-Szalkoeski's travels to Mexico's mountainous regions, where millions of butterflies reside each winter. Discover simple, meaningful actions you can take to protect these butterflies and other vital pollinators.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition     

Event Date: April 2 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art      

Event Date: April 2 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Paint Your Own Pottery: $10 Mug Week      

Event Date: April 2 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Needing a new mug? Come to the Workspace and paint your own pottery, starting at $10 or for an additional $3 take a to-go kit for home.

 

Mental Health Matters      

Event Date: April 2 

Hosted by: Lectures Programs 

Time and Location: 5-7 p.m., Great Hall, Memorial Union 

Come learn about the many resources available for mental health through an interactive expo and lecture with mental health advocate Foster Huggins. The evening is about connecting with campus and community resources including Student Counseling Services and ISU police, therapy dogs and features a hands-on activity of making yard signs to place throughout the community.

 

Tarot Meetup      

Event Date: April 2 

Time and Location: 6-7:30 p.m., PEO Room, Ames Public Library  

Do you want to learn how to read Tarot? Come to the Tarot meetup and build community with others. Bring your cards (if you have them) and spend the evening with folks who are looking to grow their experience in tarot reading.

 

Intro to Foraging: Ethics, Accessibility and TEA!        

Event Date: April 2 

Hosted by: Reiman Gardens 

Time and location: 6-8 p.m., 1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011 

Intro to Foraging: Ethics, Accessibility, and TEA! - is an opportunity to learn about gathering wild edible plants in Iowa with respect to safety and environment. Learn from local forager and neuroscientist Crystal Jewell for an overview of the history and ethical and legal considerations of foraging. For more information about admission, visit the Reiman Gardens events webpage. 

April 3

Event Date: April 3 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 1:30 a.m. 

Learn how pastry chef Jamie Powers presents innovative recipes using peaches; historic peach orchard.

 

Iowa Life      

Event Date: April 3 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 4:30 a.m. 

Uncover the diverse tapestry of Iowa’s people, cultures and stories. Through compelling interviews, scenic visuals and authentic storytelling, each episode explores the extraordinary lives of individuals who call Iowa home.

 

Classical Stretch: By Essentrics      

Event Date: April 3 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 6 a.m. 

Join Miranda Esmonde-Whtie as she offers an exercise program for people of all ages and fitness levels.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 3 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 3 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Paint Your Own Pottery: $10 Mug Week       

Event Date: April 3 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Needing a new mug? Come to the Workspace and paint your own pottery, starting at $10 or for an additional $3 take a to-go kit for home.

 

Market to Market      

Event Date: April 3 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 8 p.m. 

Market to Market – explore the social, political and economic trends of American agriculture.  

April 4

Market to Market      

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 2 a.m. 

“Market to Market – explore the social, political and economic trends of American agriculture.

 

Classical Stretch: By Essentrics      

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 5 a.m. 

Join Miranda Esmonde-Whtie as she offers an exercise program for people of all ages and fitness levels.

 

Market to Market      

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 8 a.m. 

“Market to Market – explore the social, political and economic trends of American agriculture.

 

Maple Syrup Day      

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Iowa Arboretum & Gardens and Iowa State University's Xi Sigma Pi 

Time and Location: 8-11 a.m., 1875 Peach Avenue Madrid, IA 50156 

Join Xi Sigma Pi forestry program at Maple Syrup Day and Pancake Breakfast at the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens. This is a family-friendly event featuring timber sports demos, maple syrup process, live woodturning, education displays and fun shaped pancakes. For more information on admission and pricing, visit the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens events webpage.

 

Road Trip Iowa       

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 9 a.m. 

Explore Iowa’s scenic byways, looking at historic sites, unique attractions and natural beauty along the way.

 

Iowa Trail Run Series - Center Trails      

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Iowa Trail Run Series and EXILE Brewing Company 

Time and Location: 9-11 a.m., 4500 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 

Join the Iowa Trail Run Series in Iowa’s Capitol at the Center Trails! Participate by doing an 8 or 4 mile race and earn a custom bib and rotating race item such as a BUFF, socks, stocking cap, coffee mugs or aluminum water bottle. You can do one event or sign up for the whole series, for more information about registration, visit the Iowa Trail Run Series webpage.

 

Iowa Ingredient - Farmer's Market Special      

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 11:30 a.m. 

Farmers and chefs explore ingredients with an Iowa flavor.

 

Phi Kapp Pickleball     

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Phi Kappa Theta (PIKE) 

Time and Location: Noon-5 p.m. Phi Kappa Phi Theta  

Missed the nice weather? Join Phi Kappa Phi on April 4 with a team of two or four and compete in their annual pickleball tournament to raise money for the Miller family!

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Paint Your Own Pottery: $10 Mug Week       

Event Date: April 4 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Needing a new mug? Come to the Workspace and paint your own pottery, starting at $10 or for an additional $3 take a to-go kit for home.

April 5

Event Date: April 5

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 2 a.m. 

“The Eagles of Decorah” - learn how a violent thunderstorm destroyed the home of a family of eagles and how the efforts of the Raptor Resource Project restored the birds’ nest.

 

Classical Stretch: By Essentrics     

Event Date: April 5 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 5 a.m. 

Join Miranda Esmonde-Whtie as she offers an exercise program for people of all ages and fitness levels.

 

Brain Fitness     

Event Date: April 5 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 6 a.m. 

Learn exercises to stimulate the brain, including body tapping, visual tactile stimulation and reaction time drills. Exercise with Mary Ann Wilson as she teaches safe workouts to fun music.

 

Classical Stretch: By Essentrics     

Event Date: April 5 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 7 a.m. 

Join Miranda Esmonde-Whtie as she offers an exercise program for people of all ages and fitness levels.

 

Market to Market     

Event Date: April 5 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 12:30 p.m. 

“Market to Market – explore the social, political and economic trends of American agriculture.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition     

Event Date: April 5 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 1-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage. 

April 6

Event Date: April 6 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Student Omelet Brunch to Celebrate Soy Foods Month at ISU     

Event Date: April 6 

Hosted by: Iowa Soybean Research Center 

Time and Location: 9-11 a.m., Student Innovation Center 

Come enjoy a free omelet brunch in celebration of Soy Foods Month. Enjoy omelets, mini donuts, smoothies, giveaways and more!

 

How Free Market Thinking Has Blocked Climate Action      

Event Date: April 6 

Hosted by: Lectures Program 

Time and Location: 6 p.m., Sun Room, Memorial Union 

Come listen to Naomi Oreskes lecture on “How Free Market Thinking Has Blocked Climate Action.” She has been internationally recognized for her scholarship on earth and environmental science and for her influential books such as Why Trust Science? and award-winning Science on a Mission.  

 

April 7

Event Date: April 7 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Create, 8 a.m. 

Farmers and chefs explore ingredients with an Iowa flavor.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 7 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 7 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Rovers at Reiman       

Event Date: April 7, Every Tuesdays in April 

Hosted by: Reiman Gardens 

Time and Location: 4:30-8 p.m., 1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011 

Enjoy a leisurely stroll with your furry companion every Tuesday in April at Reiman Gardens from 4:30 to 8 p.m. During this time, guests are welcome to bring their dogs to explore the beautiful grounds and experience the vibrant blooms of spring. For information about this admission and to reference all rules and regulations, visit the events page on the Reiman Gardens website.

 

Curator's Tour: Albert Paley: Origins     

Event Date: April 7 

Hosted by: University Museums 

Time and Location: 5:30-6:30 p.m., Christian Petersen Art Museum 

Discover how art and architecture come together in the work of internationally renowned metal sculptor Albert Paley. University Museums curations Alison Ranniger, Van Zante and Sydney Marshall will lead an in-depth exploration of the Albert Paley: Origins and the artist’s permanent site-specific sculpture, transformation.

 

Grow Native: Start with Our Seed Bank      

Event Date: April 7 

Time and Location: 6-7 p.m., Farwell T. Brown Auditorium, Ames Public Library 

Come hear from Katelyn Rinicker, a Pollinator Conservation Specialist with Prairie Rivers of Iowa, speaking on “Grow Native: Start with Our Seed Bank.” Learn what the native seed bank is, how it supports native pollinators and how community members can plant their own native garden. 

 

April 8

Butterfly Blizzard       

Event Date: April 8 

Hosted by: Reiman Gardens 

Time and Location: 7:30-9 a.m., 1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011 

Butterfly Blizzard is an opportunity to release your own butterfly in the tropical, indoor garden at Reiman Gardens. Participants can choose how many butterflies they want to release and will get a certificate with their name and the species of butterfly they released. For more information on admission and pricing, visit the Reiman Gardens event webpage.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 8 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 8 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Campfire Comforts        

Event Date: April 8 

Hosted by: My County Parks 

Time and Location: 5:30 p.m., McFarland Park, 56461 180th St Ames, IA 50010 

Campfire Comforts is an opportunity to learn outdoor skills with a beginner-friendly introduction class to cooking over an open flame. You will learn the essentials of safe and simple campfire cooking! For more information about registration, visit the Campfire Comforts event webpage.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition Reception      

Event Date: April 8 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 6-7:30 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Wild Metropolis - Commuters      

Event Date: April 8 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 10 p.m. 

“Wild Metropolis” - watch how a diverse cast of animals adjust to life in the newest and fastest changing habitat, cities. More and more wild animals are making their homes in urban areas. Explore how they have applied their natural born skills and ability to create a new home in these changing areas! 

 

April 9

Road Trip Iowa      

Event Date: April 9 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 1:30 a.m. 

Explore Iowa’s scenic byways, looking at historic sites, unique attractions and natural beauty along the way.

 

Fleaji Vintage Market     

Event Date: April 9 

Hosted by: Phi Gamma Delta – Alpha Iota  

Time and location: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a chance to upgrade your wardrobe? Come to the Memorial Union and check out the 10+ men's/women's clothing vendors, and acquire gently used clothing donated from over 20+ universities nation wide.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 9 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 9 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Spring Cyclone Appreciation Event       

Event Date: April 9 

Hosted by: Iowa State University Bookstore 

Time and Location: 3-6 p.m., ISU Book Store, Memorial Union 

Join this mega semi-annual in-store & one-day only event! The Iowa State University Bookstore is throwing a celebration to say thank you and celebrate the Cyclone community. Local businesses and ISU groups will be tabling that have prizes, free samples, adoptable dogs, and one-day dealings on clothing, gifts and technology.

 

Museum Meetup: Storytellers Abound      

Event Date: April 9 

Hosted by: Brunnier Art Museums 

Time and Location: 6-8 p.m., Scheman Building, 1805 Center Drive, Ames IA 50011 

Museum Meetup: Storytellers Abound is where you go to be in a fairytale! This is a visual storytelling exhibition, where you can explore and create your name or letter sign inspired by illuminated manuscripts.

 

Grad Research Night       

Event Date: April 9 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 6 p.m., 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames, IA 

Come listen to students share their research work in a TED Talk style in a casual co-op environment. The event will feature a series of short engaging presentations.  

 

April 10

Event Date: April 10 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 1:30 a.m. 

Farmers and chefs explore ingredients with an Iowa flavor.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 10 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Agricultural Systems Technology Club         

Event Date: April 10 

Hosted by: Agricultural Systems Technology Club 

Time and Location: West side of Sukup Hall, 1-5 p.m. 

The Agricultural Systems Technology Club is hosting its annual lawn mower service! Drop off a lawn mower for service ($40) or have it pickup up and dropped off ($60, Ames Area). Payments can be made by check or cash. To sign up for a service, visit this online sign-up form.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 10 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-8 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Market to Market      

Event Date: April 10 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 8 p.m. 

“Market to Market – explore the social, political and economic trends of American agriculture.

 

ISU AfterDark     

Event Date: April 10 

Hosted by: AfterDark 

Time and Location: 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun night filled with activities? Come to ISU AfterDark to engage in a variety of FREE activities that include bingo, entertainment and novelty activity. 

 

April 11

Market to Market      

Event Date: April 11 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 2 a.m. 

“Market to Market – explore the social, political and economic trends of American agriculture.

 

Event Date: April 10 

Hosted by: Agricultural Systems Technology Club 

Time and Location: West side of Sukup Hall, 8 a.m.-Noon 

The Agricultural Systems Technology Club is hosting its annual lawn mower service! Drop off a lawn mower for service ($40) or have it pickup up and dropped off ($60, Ames Area). Payments can be made by check or cash. To sign up for a service, visit this online sign-up form. 

 

2026 Spring Fever Symposium      

Event Date: April 11 

Hosted by: Iowa Arboretum & Gardens and Iowa State University's Xi Sigma Pi 

Time and Location: 9 a.m.–3 p.m., 1875 Peach Avenue Madrid, IA 50156 

The 2026 Spring Fever Symposium is an opportunity to hear about seed stories from different keynote speakers. This event includes 4 speakers with lunch and refreshments provided with registration. To learn more about registration and pricing, visit the 2026 Spring Fever Symposium events webpage.

 

Iowa Ingredient - Peas      

Event Date: April 11 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 11:30 a.m. 

Farmers and chefs explore ingredients with an Iowa flavor.

 

Branching Out: Tree Giveaway      

Event Date: April 11 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-Noon, Water Treatment Plant, 1800 E 13th St, Ames, IA 50010 

Attend the Branching Out: Tree Giveaway and pick up your pre-ordered native tree. The City of Ames is giving away 275 free native trees to residents to help grow the urban tree canopy in Ames and spread awareness of tree benefits. For information about pre-ordering a tree, visit the City of Ames website. Deadline to order is Thursday, April 9.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 11 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Meeker Elementary Carnival      

Event Date: April 11 

Hosted by: Meeker PTO 

Time and Location: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., (need location) 

Looking to volunteer? Be a part of the Meeker Elementary Carnival, where you can help with setup, supervising, floating, checking out attendees, and teardown. To volunteer, visit this link Meeker Elementary Carnival sign-up. 

April 12

Event Date: April 12 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 1 a.m. 

Come learn about animals and ecosystems around the world! These stunning documentaries will transport you to far-flung locations ranging from the torrid African plains to the chilly splendors of icy Antarctica. 

 

Event Date: April 12 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 2 a.m. 

This award-winning documentary series focuses on sciences, its many applications, speculation, history and researchers. These showings include interviews with scientists directly involved in the topic at hand and sometimes even boasts footage of a particular discovery! 

 

Sit and Be Fit      

Event Date: April 5 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Iowa PBS, 6 a.m.

Learn exercises to stimulate the brain, including body tapping, visual tactile stimulation and reaction time drills. Exercise with Mary Ann Wilson as she teaches safe workouts to fun music.

 

Holi       

Event Date: April 12 

Hosted by: Indian Student Association 

Time and Location: Noon-4 p.m., Richardson Court Lawn 

Come celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors which celebrates the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil and the joy of coming together as a community. This night is filled with bright colored powders and water, while dancing to music and the opportunity to make amazing memories with others. Tickets are free and just bring your student ID!

 

Puzzle Competition Fundraiser      

Event Date: April 12 

Hosted by: Bertha Barlett Public Library 

Time and Location: 1-3 p.m., 503 Broad St., Story City, 50248 

Looking for a fun group activity? Come to a puzzle competition fundraiser to support the Bertha Bartlett Public Library Summer Reading Program. Teams of up to 4 can work together to complete a 1000-piece puzzle, plus sabotage other teams to increase your chances of winning! To register your group, visit this event webpage.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 12 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 1-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage. 

 

Event Date: April 12 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on World, 7 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Come learn about animals and ecosystems around the world! These stunning documentaries will transport you to far-flung locations ranging from the torrid African plains to the chilly splendors of icy Antarctica. 

April 13

Event Date: April 13 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on World, 7 a.m. 

Come learn about animals and ecosystems around the world! These stunning documentaries will transport you to far-flung locations ranging from the torrid African plains to the chilly splendors of icy Antarctica. 

 

Event Date: April 13 

Hosted by: ISU Fashion Show 

Time and Location: Student Innovation Center, 2:30-5:30 p.m. 

Come enjoy the Special Events Fashion Week Event in the Student Innovation Center. Stop by and see what the ISU Fashion Show has in store before the fashion show! 

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 13 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Acrylic Pouring w/ a Twist        

Event Date: April 13 

Hosted by: Bertha Bartlett Public Library 

Time and Location: 7-8 p.m., 503 Broad St., Story City, IA 50248 

Looking to do acrylic pouring? Come to an acrylic class and explore different applications styles and make a unique artwork piece! To register, visit the events webpage. 

April 14 

Iowa Ingredient      

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Location and Time: Televised on Create, 8 a.m. 

Farmers and chefs explore ingredients with an Iowa flavor.

 

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: Office of Student Financial Success 

Time and Location: 10-11 a.m., Student Innovation Center 2260 

Looking to stregthen your financial literacy skills? Come play “Payback” which is an interactive game that helps you explore real-life financial decisions you experience in college. After playing, you have the opportunity to paint a piggy bank to take home as a reminder to build strong saving habits. If you are interested and want to register, visit this form Payback Workshop and Paint a Piggy Bank. 

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art        

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

A Century of Seed Innovation: Insights from Pioneer Leaders      

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: Lectures Program 

Time and Location: 4:30-5:30 p.m., 0127 Curtiss Hall 

Come listen to “A Century of Seed Innovation: Insights from Pioneer Leaders,” with panelists Geoff Graham, Mark Deterding and Jeremy Dirks. These panelists will discuss the history and evolution of the Pioneer seed brand, originally founded by Henry A. Wallace and its role in developing, producing and commercializing hybrid corn seeds.

 

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: ISU Fashion Show 

Time and Location: Student Innovation Center, 6-8 p.m. 

Stop by and see what the ISU Fashion Show has in store before the fashion show! 

 

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on World, 6 p.m. 

This award-winning documentary series focuses on sciences, its many applications, speculation, history and researchers. These showings include interviews with scientists directly involved in the topic at hand and sometimes even boasts footage of a particular discovery! 

 

World Ballet Company - Cinderella      

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: World Ballet Company 

Time and Location: 7 p.m., Stephens Auditorium, 1900 Center Dr, Ames, IA 50011 

Looking to escape through a Broadway-style ballet experience? Come to see the World Ballet Company as they perform one of the most beloved fairy tales, Cinderella. This enchanting production features grand sets, over 150 radiant hand-sewn costumes and a cinematic style that blends humor, romance and weeping choreography. For more information on ticket pricing, visit the event webpage.

 

Open Mic Night      

Event Date: April 14 

Hosted by: Maintenance Shop 

Time and Location: 8 p.m., Maintenance Shop, Memorial Union 

Have a hidden talent? Come impress your fellow Cyclones at an Open Mic Night, showcase your talents and discover others.  

 

April 15

Event Date: April 15 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on World, 7 a.m. 

This award-winning documentary series focuses on sciences, its many applications, speculation, history and researchers. These showings include interviews with scientists directly involved in the topic at hand and sometimes even boasts footage of a particular discovery! 

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 15 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Event Date: April 15 

Hosted by: ISU Fashion Show 

Time and Location: Noon-2 p.m. at the Campanile Room in the Memorial Union 

Join the Fashion Show at their sustainability event in the Memorial Union! Come learn about the Fashion Show and engage in sustainability crafts. 

 

Art Walk      

Event Date: April 15 

Hosted by: University Museums 

Time and Location: 3:10-4 p.m., Molecular Biology Building, 2437 Pammel Drive, Ames IA 50011 

Join an Art Walk at the Molecular Biology Building and learn about the hidden gems on campus. At this art walk, you will learn about the unique pieces in and outside the building, like the G-Nomes that are 12-foot figures standing guard from atop.

 

Natural Hydrogen: An Overlooked Potential Energy Resource     

Event Date: April 15 

Time and Location: 6 p.m., Sun Room, Memorial Union 

Come listen to Geoffrey Ellis, speak on “Natural Hydrogen: An Overlooked Potential Energy Resource,” understand the growing role of hydrogen in the global energy transition, particularly the increasing demand for blue and hydrogen to meet climate goals. Learn about what is known, what remains uncertain and what advancements are needed to tap into the hydrogen.

 

Event Date: April 15 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on World, 7 p.m. 

Come learn about animals and ecosystems around the world! These stunning documentaries will transport you to far-flung locations ranging from the torrid African plains to the chilly splendors of icy Antarctica. 

 

Event Date: April 15 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 8 p.m. 

This award-winning documentary series focuses on sciences, its many applications, speculation, history and researchers. These showings include interviews with scientists directly involved in the topic at hand and sometimes even boasts footage of a particular discovery! 

 

April 16  

Event Date: April 16 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 2 a.m. 

Come learn about animals and ecosystems around the world! These stunning documentaries will transport you to far-flung locations ranging from the torrid African plains to the chilly splendors of icy Antarctica. 

 

Event Date: April 16 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 3 a.m. 

This award-winning documentary series focuses on sciences, its many applications, speculation, history and researchers. These showings include interviews with scientists directly involved in the topic at hand and sometimes even boasts footage of a particular discovery! 

 

Bookmobile      

Event Date: April 16 

Hosted by: Ames Public Library 

Time and Location: Near Kildee Hall by the food trucks, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 

Looking for a new read? Come out and see the Bookmobile, the neighborhood branch of the Ames Public Library. You can checkout, return and request items from the Bookmobile! 

 

Event Date: April 16 

Hosted by: ISU Fashion Show 

Time and Location: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Parks Library South Lawn  

Join the Fashion Show at their photography event outside Parks Library! 

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 16 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art      

Event Date: April 16 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Iowa Eats: Reflections from Class Cookbooks      

Event Date: April 16 

Time and Location: 5:30-6:30 p.m., Virtual 

Hosted by: University Museums 

Join Dr. Pamela Riney-Kehrberg, a distinguished Professor of History as she shares highlights from a student cookbook assignment in her “America Eats” course. Learn about how every recipe has a story, reveals a cultural identity, childhoods memories and traditions passed from the kitchen.

 

Spring Shutters: Reduce, Reuse, Resign     

Event Date: April 16 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 5:30-7 p.m., 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames, IA  

Join Shelly Codner from the Iowa Waste Exchange in a workshop called Spring Shutters: Reduce, Reuse, Resign! This hands-on workshop involves creating decorative signs using plastic shutters salvaged from Rummage Rampage in Ames. This is all about crafting with sustainability, offering participants an engaging way to keep materials in use while rethinking waste! 

 

April 17 

Event Date: April 17 

Hosted by: ISU Fashion Show 

Time and Location: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 

Interested in seeing the behind the scenes of the ISU Fashion Show. Register and learn with other fellow prospective fashion students about what the Fashion Show has to offer. Guests can explore campus, engage in hands-on sessions, learn from current students and view the dress rehearsal for $10. To register, visit the Behind the Scenes Event Page. 

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 17 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 17 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose. 

 

April 18 

Bird Walk in Zearing        

Event Date: April 18 

Hosted by: BIG BLUESTEM AUDUBON SOCIETY 

Time and Location: 8 a.m., Dakens Lake Park in Zearing 

Join the bird walk with Big Bluestem Audubon Society around Dakens Lake Park in Zearing. Board member, Tyler Morrison will be leading this super fun event. For more information about registering for the walk, visit the the Big Bluestem Audubon Society Events Page. 

 

Spring No-Charge Yard Waste Day        

Event Date: April 18 

Time and Location: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., 309 Carnegie Ave., Ames, IA, 50010 

Spring No-Charge Yard Waste Day is an opportunity to drop off yard waste such as grass clippings and leaves from 8-4 P.M. Help dispose of yard waste appropriately and clean your space for spring!

 

Paws for a Cause 5K      

Event Date: April 18 

Hosted by: Pre-Veterinary Club 

Time and Location: 9 a.m.-Noon., Northeast Beardshear Lawn, Iowa State University 

Looking to support a cause? Join the Paws for a Cause 5K to support wildlife conservation while enjoying the community. All proceeds raised through the event will go towards the Iowa Wildlife Center that helps provide care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wildlife and support conservation efforts. For more information about registration and schedule of events, visit the Paws for a Cause 5K webpage.

 

Spring Enchantment Festival      

Event Date: April 18 

Hosted by Reiman Gardens 

Time and Location: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011 

Spring Enchantment Festival is apart of the month-long spring celebration and includes special music performances, food trucks, art exhibitions, craft stations and a wide array of tulips to see. Explore the beauty of spring and indulge in different activities. For more information on admission, visit the Reiman Gardens event webpage.

 

Plant and Seed Swap        

Event Date: April 18 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Lobby, Ames Public Library 

Looking to trade and swap seeds and plants, come to the Ames Public Library lobby to exchange or donate plants needing a new home. Each participant is able to take up to three plants and only healthy, pest free plants can be offered.

 

Earth Day on the Airwaves – KHOI        

Event Date- April 18  

Hosted by: KHOI-FM Community Radio 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., KHOI-FM Community Radio at 89.1 or stream at http://www.khoifm.org/ 

Come listen to Earth Day on the Airwaves! This event will include live call-ins as well as updates on topics including the annual Stream Clean-up, Stash the Trash, the new Resource Recovery and Recycling Center and the new residential curbside recycling program. Iowa State University sustainability initiatives will be highlighted along with interviews featuring City of Ames departments and Iowa State University students, faculty and staff.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 18 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Ames Repair Cafe      

Event Date: April 18 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Farwell T. Brown Auditorium, Ames Public Library 

Have items in need of repair? Drop by Ames Repair Cafe at the Ames Public Library where volunteers are repairing broken items to give them a longer life. If they are unable to repair the item, they will help you find a local repair shop.

 

Prairie Rose Renaissance Festival       

Event Date: April 18-19 

Hosted by: Ames Renaissance Faire 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 1400 South 4th St, Ames, IA 50010 

Step back in time at the Prairie Rose Renaissance Festival. This festival is about a weekend of fantasy and fun, filled with various vendors, talented entertainers and tasty food options. For more information about tickets, visit the Prairie Rose Renaissance Festival event webpage.

 

Trivia Night      

Event Date: April 18 

Hosted by: BIG BLUESTEM AUDUBON SOCIETY 

Time and Location: Jethro’s BBQ, 6-8:30 p.m. 

Join the Big Bluestem Audubon Society for their second annual trivia night! Teams can include 4-6 players and the cost to enter is only $10 per person with all proceeds benefiting birds and conservation projects. A cash prize will be awarded to the FIRST PLACE team. For more information about the event and how to sign up, visit the Big Bluestem Audubon Society Events Page.

 

Spring of Ames Concert        

Event Date: April 18 

Hosted by: KHOI Community Radio 

Time and Location: 6:30 p.m., Ames City Auditorium, Ames Iowa 

Join KHOI Community Radio as they present the Spring of Ames Concert 2026. This is an annual tradition celebrating nature’s rebirth through music. Highschool and college musicians from Iowa will share their extraordinary talents with the community. For more information about tickets, visit the Spring of Ames event webpage.

 

ISU Fashion Show      

Event Date: April 18 

Hosted by: ISU Fashion Show 

Time and Location: 7 p.m., Stephens Auditorium, 1900 Center Dr Ames, IA 50011 

Attend the annual Fashion Show, which is produced entirely by students and showcases students amazing work and creations. The event has alumni for judges, includes a major guest company, Aerie, and gives students the opportunity to gain leadership experience, network and have an outlet for creative expression. 

April 19

Event Date: April 19 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on  Iowa PBS, 1 a.m. 

Come learn about animals and ecosystems around the world! These stunning documentaries will transport you to far-flung locations ranging from the torrid African plains to the chilly splendors of icy Antarctica. 

 

Event Date: April 19 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 2 a.m. 

This award-winning documentary series focuses on sciences, its many applications, speculation, history and researchers. These showings include interviews with scientists directly involved in the topic at hand and sometimes even boasts footage of a particular discovery! 

 

Prairie Rose Renaissance Festival       

Event Date: April 18-19 

Hosted by: Ames Renaissance Faire 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 1400 South 4th St, Ames, IA 50010 

Step back in time at the Prairie Rose Renaissance Festival. This festival is about a weekend of fantasy and fun, filled with various vendors, talented entertainers and tasty food options. For more information about tickets, visit the Prairie Rose Renaissance Festival event webpage.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 19 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 1-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage. 

April 20  

Event Date: April 20 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition     

Event Date: April 20 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Earth Month Class: Beginner Bike Repair     

Event Date: April 20 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 6:30-7:30 p.m., Store Front Bike Racks, 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames, Iowa 

Interested in bike maintenance? Come learn how to fix a flat, oil your chain and keep your bike in top shape with simple preventative care, learning from Ronn Ritz, the owner of Skunk Rover Cycles in downtown Ames.  

 

April 21

Event Date: April 21 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 21 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

International Community Meetup      

Event Date: April 21 

Time and Location: 5-6 p.m., Danfoss Room, Ames Public Library 

Looking to find community and learn about new cultures, come to the Ames Public Library for an International Community Meetup. Join fellow international residents for fun activities and culture sharing.

 

Earth Month Class: Regrowing Veggies from Scraps        

Event Date: April 21 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 5:30-7 p.m., 413 northwestern Ave, Ames, IA  

Looking to stretch the produce you are already using and help reduce food waste? Come join Cole Lindaman from Seeded Ag and learn how to grow more food from the produce you are already purchasing and cook with the parts you normally toss out.

 

Event Date: April 21 

Hosted by: Iowa PBS 

Time and Location: Televised on Iowa PBS, 6 p.m. 

This award-winning documentary series focuses on sciences, its many applications, speculation, history and researchers. These showings include interviews with scientists directly involved in the topic at hand and sometimes even boasts footage of a particular discovery! 

 

Lyrical Forms: Arts on Campus with ISU Opera Studio      

Event Date: April 21 

Hosted by: University Museums 

Time and Location: 7:30-8:30 p.m., Simon Estes Music Hall 

Looking for a harmonious combination of visual and musical arts, come to see a musical performance by the ISU Opera Studio who is a part of the Department of Music and Theatre at Iowa State University. Listen to student vocal performances that are paired with different works from the Art on Campus Collection.  

April 22

Earth Day Celebration          

Event Date: April 22 

Hosted by Office of Sustainability 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., South Library Lawn, 701 Morrill Road, Ames IA 50011 

Earth Day Celebration is a time to honor Iowa State’s many sustainability initiatives, organizations and accomplishments. This event offers an interactive “Green-It-Yourself" (GIY) activity, tabling and networking opportunities and green-minded giveaways.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition      

Event Date: April 22 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art      

Event Date: April 22 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Earth Week Activity: Green Iowa AmeriCorps Energy Audit Tabling      

Event Date: April 22 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 4-6 p.m., 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames, IA 

Come learn how you can be sustainable in your home! Ava Brunner, a Green Iowa AmeriCorps member serving the City of Ames, will be tabling and learn about energy audit services done by the Green Iowa team. The energy audit and weatherization are completely free to all participants.

 

Swing into Spring     

Event Date: April 22 

Hosted by: Story City Greater Chamber Connection  

Time and Location: 5-7 p.m., 720 Forest Ave, Story City, IA 50248 

Join the Story City Chamber Main Street for a new kind of networking. This event is about networking to foster deeper connections and stronger relationships in the community. There will be a raffle and Plant BINGO to engage in. 

 

April 23 

Event Date: April 23-25 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames IA 

Come enjoy a 3-day Earth Week bulk sale! This three day sale will allow individuals to save 15% on 400+ bulk items. (Member-Owners and Student Discount Holders). Non-members will get to save 5% off regular prices.

 

Focus Grant Exhibition     

Event Date: April 23 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Spring Wildflowers Walk     

Event Date: April 23 

Hosted by: Outdoor Alliance of Story County and Story County Conservation 

Time and Location: 1:30-3 p.m., Reactor Woods, 2098 Scholl Road Ames, IA 50014 

Spring Wildflower Walks is apart of a 3-part series and includes the opportunity to explore local public parks and enjoy the bloom of various wildflowers.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art      

Event Date: April 23 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Museum Meetup: Yoga in the Garden    

Event Date: April 23 

Hosted by: University Museums 

Time and Location: 5:30-6:30 p.m., Christian Peterson Art Museum, 1017 Morrill Hall 

Looking to unwind and make a reset? Join the Museum Meetup by doing yoga in the garden. Let the creativity around you inspire your movement and calm your mind.

 

Gardening for Your Health and Well-Being     

Event Date: April 23 

Time and Location: 6 p.m., Sun Room, Memorial Union 

Come hear from gardening expert, TV/radio host, author and columnist Melinda Myers who has over 40 years of horticulture experience, speaking on “Gardening for Your Health and Well-Being.” Learn about the many benefits of gardening and how it has a positive effect on your well-being.

 

April 24 

Stash the Trash       

Event Date: April, 24

Hosted by: Resource Recovery Plant and Iowa Home Consulting  

Time and Location: Friday, 24 at Midnight to Sunday, 26, 11:59 p.m., location is TBD 

Stash the Trash is looking for volunteers to improve the appearance of the community and appropriately dispose of waste. Areas that are need of help will be posted on the City of Ames website and there will be a designated drop site. COME help clean and green a space! If you are looking to volunteer or want to register your group, visit the Stash the Trash event webpage.

 

Event Date: April 23-25 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames IA 

Come enjoy a 3-day Earth Week bulk sale! This three day sale will allow individuals to save 15% on 400+ bulk items. (Member-Owners and Student Discount Holders). Non-members will get to save 5% off regular prices.

 

Starting New Plants from Seeds & Cuttings Workshop       

Event Date: April 24 

Hosted by: Melinda Myers  

Time and Location: 10 a.m., 2260 Student Innovation Center 

Want to learn how to grow new plants from scratch? Come to a hands-on workshop led by plant expert, author and guest speaker Melinda Myers. Learn how to start zinnias from seeds, grow microgreens you can harvest indoors and take cuttings from houseplants to root your very own plant. The event is free, but seats are limited. Want to register? Visit this form Starting New Plants from Seeds & Cuttings Workshop. 

 

Focus Grant Exhibition    

Event Date: April 24 

Hosted by: Memorial Union Art Gallery 

Time and Location: MU Art Gallery, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

The Memorial Union Art Gallery is hosting the final exhibition of 20 Iowa State students who received Focus Grants for creative projects outside the classroom over the past year. Funded projects in 2025-2026 include painting, mosaic, glass, cyanotype, collage, printmaking, photography, apparel design and music performance. To learn more about the artists being showcased, visit this webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art       

Event Date: April 24 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

Cattle Show      

Event Date: April 24 

Hosted by: Campustown 

Time and Location: 6 p.m., Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center  

Come enjoy one of the many parts of the Campustown Showdown event, the cattle show. See a showmanship competition.

 

April 25 

Stash the Trash       

Event Date: April, 25

Hosted by: Resource Recovery Plant and Iowa Home Consulting  

Time and Location: Friday, 24 at Midnight to Sunday, 26, 11:59 p.m., location is TBD 

Stash the Trash is looking for volunteers to improve the appearance of the community and appropriately dispose of waste. Areas that are need of help will be posted on the City of Ames website and there will be a designated drop site. COME help clean and green a space! If you are looking to volunteer or want to register your group, visit the Stash the Trash event webpage.

 

Donut Run 5K    

Event Date: April 25 

Time and Location: 8-10:30 a.m., 5205 Grand Ave, Ames, IA 50010 

Hosted by: Donut Run 5K 

Looking for a unique 5K run? Join the annual Donut Run 5K where you are rewarded for eating donuts. Each additional donut you eat at the aid stations takes additional time off your finishing time. For more information about registration and schedule of events, visit the Donut Run 5K event webpage.

 

Out of the Darkness: Suicide Awareness Walk    

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: Student Health and Wellness 

Time and Location: 8 a.m., Central Campus, South Campanile Lawn 

Shine Light Into the Darkness at the Wellness Connection & Out of Darkness Suicide Awareness Walk. The event is about reaching out and speaking out to save a life, ultimately changing the narrative on suicide. The event features different activities, resources, program speakers and a collaborative walk to raise awareness and support those who may be struggling. Registration is free and more information about the schedule of events, visit, Out of the Darkness event webpage.

 

Three Day Earth Week Bulk Sale     

Event Date: April 23-25 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames IA 

Come enjoy a 3-day Earth Week bulk sale! This three day sale will allow individuals to save 15% on 400+ bulk items. (Member-Owners and Student Discount Holders). Non-members will get to save 5% off regular prices.

 

Run for the Trees       

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: Iowa Arboretum & Gardens 

Time and Location: 8:15-10 a.m., 1875 Peach Avenue Madrid, IA 50156 

Run for the Trees is a 5K and 1K walk to support the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens. Come join this collaborative event by running or walking and enjoying the amazing gardens, prairie and woodland grounds during the amazing springtime. This year includes a Kid Fun Run around the paved, accessible Treehouse Village trail loop. To register, visit the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens event webpage.

 

Spring Free County - Wide Meal and Fun Festival    

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: Feeding the 5,000 INC 

Time and Location: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Cobblestone Inn & Event Center, Boone IA 

Looking for a volunteer opportunity or fun event to attend? Come to a free county, wide spring meal and fun festival with endless food options and activities to engage in. For more information about how to get involved or learn more about the event, visit the events webpage.

 

Campustown Showdown      

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: Campustown 

Time and Location: 9:30 a.m., Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center 

Cattle show with a market beef show, breeding heifers show and various vendors to engage with. 

Time and Location: 6:30 p.m., Campustown Business District 

Campustown Showdown features a unique cattle show and will have a Grand Drive event where exhibitors are vying for cash prizes and showcase their top market beef and breeding heifer cattle. The event celebrates Iowa's leadership in agriculture, innovation and community through a cattle show, a fashion show by Western Edge, various vendors, live music and more! 

Come enjoy the Grand Drive event which is part of the Campustown Showdown. There will be a fashion show, live music performance, market beef show selection, breeding heifer show selection, showmanship winners' announcement, live interviews with chosen champions and many vendors. For more information about schedule of events, visit the Grand Drive events webpage.

 

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: BIG BLUESTEM AUDUBON SOCIETY 

Time and Location: 10 a.m., Lost Lake Parking Lot, Ledges 

Come explore and appreciate what’s growing, blooming and flying in the Ledges park this season. Compare sites before and after forest management and learn about invasive species. This is free and open to the public! 

 

Earth Month Class: Beginner Bike Repair     

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Store Front Bike Racks, 413 Northwestern Ave, Ames, Iowa 

Interested in bike maintenance? Come learn how to fix a flat, oil your chain and keep your bike in top shape with simple preventative care, learning from Ronn Ritz, the owner of Skunk Rover Cycles in downtown Ames.

 

4K For the Kids     

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: Dance Marathon 

Time and Location: 2-5 p.m. Iowa State University, Central Campus, North of the Campanile 

Join the Dance Marathon’s Ignite Team for a 4K For the Kids event! Run, walk, jog or skip through Iowa State’s campus on a 4K route and help raise funds and awareness for a good cause. The event raises money to support Dance Marathon’s efforts to help local families affected by childhood illness and treated at Stead Family Children’s Hospital. For more information about registration, visit this event webpage.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art      

Event Date: April 25 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

April 26

Stash the Trash       

Event Date: April, 24-26 

Hosted by: Resource Recovery Plant and Iowa Home Consulting  

Time and Location: Friday, 24 at Midnight to Sunday, 26, 11:59 p.m., location is TBD 

Stash the Trash is looking for volunteers to improve the appearance of the community and appropriately dispose of waste. Areas that are need of help will be posted on the City of Ames website and there will be a designated drop site. COME help clean and green a space! If you are looking to volunteer or want to register your group, visit the Stash the Trash event webpage.

 

Earth Week Activity: Stash the Trash in our Neighborhood       

Event Date: April 26 

Hosted by: Wheatsfield Co-op 

Time and Location: 10 a.m.-noon, location not provided 

Join the Co-op Staff to Stash the Trash around the Co-op neighborhood in honor of earth Day! Trash bags, plastic gloves and a snack will be provided.

 

Paint the Path 5K     

Event Date: April 26 

Hosted by: AESHM Students, specifically the EVENT 4850 Course 

Time and Location: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Around Jack Trice Stadium and Iowa State Center 

Paint the Path 5K is looking for volunteers and runners to participate in a color run, promoting positive well-being and community connections. You can walk or run the 5K, enjoying entertainment, activities and food after. To volunteer or for more information about registration and pricing, visit this link: Paint the Path 5K.

 

Safe in the Sun Run     

Event Date: April 26 

Hosted by: The Cancer Bucket Foundation 

Time and Location: 2 p.m. and Ada Hayden Heritage Park, 5205 Grand Ave, Ames IA 50010 

Safe in the Sun Run is looking for volunteers and runners to run for a cause which supports organizations and universities in implementing sun safety measures, as well as skin cancer and melanoma research efforts. Pricing varies if you are an adult or student, for more information on registration, visit the Safe in the Sun Run event webpage.

April 27

Event Date: April 27 

Hosted by: University Museums 

Time and Location: Noon-1 p.m., Parks Library, 701 Morrill Road, Ames IA 50011 

Join the Monday Monologue in honor of National Poetry Month, featuring an art walk with special guest Deb Marquart, distinguished professor and former Poet Laureate of Iowa. The tour will conclude in the Christian Petersen Art Museum and become empowered through poetry!

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art      

Event Date: April 27 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

April 28

Event Date: April 28 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

April 29

Event Date: April 29 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.

 

A Fresh Look at Anthropogenic Climate Change     

Event Date: April 29 

Hosted by: Lectures Program 

Time and Location: 6 p.m., Sun Room, Memorial Union 

Come listen to David R. Legates speak on “A Fresh Look at Anthropogenic Climate Change” discussing the science behind climate change is not complex, despite frequent misconceptions in popular media. He will provide an overview of observed climate change in the United States, outline points of scientific consensus and areas of disagreement, clarify what climate models project and illustrate why they do not identify as a climate change alarmist.

 

April 30 

Event Date: April 30 

Hosted by: Outdoor Alliance of Story County and Story County Conservation 

Time and Location: 1:30-3 p.m., Robison Wildlife Area, 29490 632nd Avenue, Maxwell, IA 50161 

Spring Wildflower Walks is a part of a 3-part series and includes the opportunity to explore local public parks and enjoy the bloom of various wildflowers.

 

Drop-in Craft: Wood-Burned Art      

Event Date: April 30 

Hosted by: Workspace 

Time and Location: 2-9 p.m., Memorial Union 

Looking for a fun activity? Come to the Workspace to test your hand at drawing with a pyrography pen which is used to create designs on wood with burn marks. Choose from different options including a coaster, tray, trinket box, frame or wood canvas. Crafts start from $10-$20, varying on the one you choose.