Craft Fairs & Farmers Markets in Waterloo, Iowa

Black Hawk County 4-H & FFA Fair is a youth-focused county fair held each July at the National Cattle Congress fairgrounds in Waterloo. The fair features 4-H and FFA exhibits across livestock, static projects, clothing, horticulture, and food categories, plus challenge classes open to non-members of all ages (Wood Art, Ugly Cake, Button, and Photo challenges). Food vendors are welcome; a pie contest and family picnic are traditional events. YQCA certification required for most animal exhibitors by July 1.

Held in Waterloo at the Waterloo Convention Center, Homestead Vintage & Makers Market draws hand-selected vintage, antique, handcrafted, artisan, boutique, reclaimed, and repurposed vendors from across Iowa and beyond. Expect live entertainment and kids activities alongside strong foot traffic from downtown shoppers looking to support small makers.

Iowa Irish Fest has been running since 2006 and is Iowa's biggest Irish celebration, held in Lincoln Park in downtown Waterloo. Beyond food vendors and merchant booths, the festival features live music all weekend, dance workshops with professional Irish dance companies, the Guinness Experience, whiskey master classes, Highland Games, rugby, Gaelic football & hurling, sheep herding, and a family fun area with Irish language classes and instrument-playing. It's a broad cultural draw — expect strong foot traffic and a diverse crowd.

Saturday market in front of Farmers State Bank, Waterloo.

Running since 1982, My Waterloo Days is an annual community celebration in downtown Waterloo at Lincoln Park featuring a grand parade, national headliner concerts, kids' activities, and food vendors throughout the festival grounds. The event draws both residents and visitors for a full multi-day experience celebrating the city.

In its 116th year, the National Cattle Congress Fair in Waterloo draws over a century of tradition — livestock shows, rodeo events, live music and entertainment, exhibit halls with shopping vendors, and food booths. Admission is affordable and on-grounds entertainment is free. Food vendors and exhibitors should note the application deadline.

Waterloo Urban Farmers Market has been running since 2018 and operates Saturday mornings each May through October at RiverLoop Expo Plaza. The market draws 40+ vendors selling produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and food offerings. It's built on a mission to make fresh food accessible and support local growers.