WATERLOO, Iowa – The highly anticipated Iowa Eats Food & Drink Festival returns on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., bringing a vibrant celebration of Iowa’s rich food and agricultural heritage back to the Waterloo Convention Center.
Now in its fourth year, the festival showcases the best of Iowa’s food, beverages, chefs, and artisans, offering attendees a flavorful experience unique to eastern Iowa. The event is hosted by and benefiting Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area.
Festival-goers can enjoy food and beverage tastings, live cooking and product demonstrations, educational sessions, and opportunities to meet local and regional experts in the food and agriculture industries.
The Main Stage will feature an exciting lineup of talent, including:
Sarah Pratt, the Iowa State Fair’s renowned Butter Cow sculptor
Sarah Booz, foodie and social media influencer
Seth Hedquist, agricultural historian and musician
Jayjay Goodvin, The Iowa Gallivant serving as Iowa Eats MC for the fourth year
“Our goal is to celebrate Iowa’s incredible food culture while creating a fun, welcoming experience for all ages,” said Candy Streed, Managing Director of Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area. “From tastings and demonstrations to engaging speakers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to join butter sculptor Sarah Pratt for fun, hands-on classes at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. For just $5 per person, participants will hear what it’s like to create the iconic butter cow each year, then try sculpting their own masterpiece using a stick of butter. Space is limited, and tickets are sold during the event only.
Admission is $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Ticket includes food and beverage samples. Children five and under are free, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees must be 21 and present a valid ID to sample or purchase alcoholic beverages. Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase from vendors.
Returning for another year is the popular Jim Walsh Firefighter Cook Off, where local firefighters compete in a culinary showdown. Cooking begins at 11 a.m., with awards presented at 1 p.m. This year’s judges are Waterloo Mayor Dave Boesen, John Stoakes from Iowa Corn, and Waterloo Convention Center Chef Scott Zimmerman.
In addition to exhibitor booths, attendees can participate in sessions led by industry experts, authors, and local personalities, covering topics from baking and cooking techniques to beverage pairings and global flavors.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.iowaeatsfestival.com
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Photos available upon request:
Iowa Eats Festival vendors, past cook-off winners, and event highlights
Topics: General
