55th Annual Octagon Art Festival
2026-09-27 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Octagon Center for the Arts, 427 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA, 50010, United States
The Octagon Art Festival takes place the fourth Sunday of September along Main Street in downtown Ames, IA. The festival is held outdoors on pavement, RAIN OR SHINE. Visual arts, children’s art area, food vendors and performing arts form the foundation of the Octagon Art Festival. Approximately 10,000 people attend the festival.

Third Thursday Puppets and Cheese
2026-10-15 17:30 - 19:30
If your first response is confusion, you’re not alone. If your first response is oh, I remember that, then you’ve been around Ames for a while. In honor of our 60th anniversary, Puppets and Cheese is returning for a one-night only event! This all ages event features a puppet show, cheese (of course) and you can even leave with a puppet of your own! It’s not just for kids – bring out your inner child and join us!

Third Thursday Mixed Media and Mimosas
2026-11-19 18:00 - 20:00
If you love to be creative but are intimidated by the idea of painting, drawing or throwing clay, this is the night for you. Join our group of mixed media artists and experiment with different found objects, paper and ephemera to create your own unique piece of art. This is an activity that allows your creative juices to flow and take a break before the holiday season begins. This event is for adults only with mimosas available to those 21 and over. us!

4th Annual Winter Market
2026-11-23 10:00 - 2026-12-24 17:00
4th Annual Winter Market
Event by Octagon Shop

Event Dates:
November 23, 2026 – Event Opening Day
December 24, 2026 – Event Closes

About This Event:
The Octagon will hold the 4rd annual Winter Market, featuring great finds on holiday-themed artworks from local artists and week-by-week special deals.
