- The Octagon is offering fun, creative, and/or musical events every THIRD THURSDAY of each month!
- THIRD THURSDAYs during the summer may feature patio events!
- Every THIRD THURSDAY is also double discount day for members in the Octagon Shop!
2026 EVENTS
January 15
Snack, Sip and Sparkle: Jewelry Night
Join us for a metal jewelry demonstration by Terrie Hoefer and an opportunity to make your own jewelry. For $5, adults have an opportunity to create a metal piece with Terrie – pre-registration required. We will also have a free jewelry option for anyone who attends. Open to all ages with a variety of snacks and drinks.
February 19
Mandalas and Music
Create your own mandala with paint or ink while enjoying relaxing music. Bring a friend and enjoy conversation and relaxation. Open to ages 18+.
March 19
Game Night!
Join us for a fun night of board games and cards. Families and friends of all ages, join us from 5:30-7:00. If you prefer an adults only space and more mature games, come from 7:00-8:30. Beverages will be available for a donation. Bring your own favorite game or use one of ours!
April 16
From Patch to Quilt
Enjoy demonstrations from area quilters, from cutting fabric for patches to the finished quilt. You can try creating your own square as well!
May 14-16
Art from the Attic Sale
Art from the Attic begins Thursday, May 14! Purchase art from members of the Octagon who have graciously donated original artwork, and pieces we have gathered from our building that need a new home. We believe that art is for everyone, so you will find a variety of styles and prices that are affordable. Stop by the gallery between 10AM and 7PM to browse through one-of-a-kind artworks that will fit perfectly in your space at incredibly low prices. The sale continues Friday and Saturday, from 10AM to 5PM.
June 18
Paint and Plant
We provide the flower pot and paint, you create a beautiful home for your plants! We will have plants available for a small fee or give one of your own plants a new home. Open to all ages. Refreshments available for a donation.
July 16
Music on the Patio, 5:30-8:00 PM
Music is back at the Octagon this summer! Join us on the patio, on the west side of the Octagon, from 5:30-8:00 PM on Thursday, July 16 for an evening of great music. This is a free event for all ages. Drinks will be available for a donation.
August 20
Poetry Slam, 5:30-7:30 PM
The Octagon is holding its second annual poetry slam! Last year brought creative writers and lyricists and we are excited to see who participates this year! Come hear original work from local poets of all ages and styles. The event will begin at 5:30 and poets will take the stage at 6:00. This is a free event, for attendees and poets alike. We prefer that poets sign up in advance at this link: Poet Registration. However, we will allow same-day sign up at the event. We hope you’ll join us and support the poets who are participating.
September 17
Music Walk, 5:00-8:00
Music Walk is back for another year and we are thrilled to have Foxpin back with us. Join us on the patio for great music, a place to sit and relax and refreshments for a donation. This all-ages event is a part of the downtown event that showcases musicians from central Iowa. We hope you will stop by!
October 15
Puppets and Cheese, 5:30-7:30
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!
November 19
Mixed Media and Mimosas, 6:00-8:00
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.
