Oskaloosa, Iowa — One of Mahaska County’s most cherished summertime traditions returns on Thursday, July 24, as Sweet Corn Serenade celebrates its 38th year in downtown Oskaloosa. Hosted by Oskaloosa Main Street, this family-friendly event offers a full day of activities, entertainment, and community pride.The event kicks off at noon with a vendor show around the downtown square. Attendees can enjoy browsing handmade goods, unique products, and local services while connecting with community members and visitors alike....
Oskaloosa, Iowa — One of Mahaska County’s most cherished summertime traditions returns on Thursday, July 24, as Sweet Corn Serenade celebrates its 38th year in downtown Oskaloosa. Hosted by Oskaloosa Main Street, this family-friendly event offers a full day of activities, entertainment, and community pride.
The event kicks off at noon with a vendor show around the downtown square. Attendees can enjoy browsing handmade goods, unique products, and local services while connecting with community members and visitors alike.
A variety of food vendors will serve lunch and dinner from 12:00 to 9:00 p.m., including Barnyard Tenderloin Xpress, Eatery Island, My Eatzz, Nina’s Tacos, Rural Revival, Grubby’s Kettle Korn, SnoBiz, Sweet Henry’s, and Wild Hogz BBQ.
Starting at 4:00 p.m., the Mahaska County Cattlemen will serve a hot meal featuring a beef burger, Iowa sweet corn, and a cold drink for $8. Meal tickets will be available until 9:00 p.m. (cash or Venmo only). Additional tents on the east side of the square will offer sweet corn and pie à la carte for those interested in individual items.
From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., the Farm Bureau Kids’ Zone will feature free activities for children, including the Many Little Farm Hands exhibit, the Iowa Corn Trailer, face painting, a coloring table, and more. Community First Credit Union will also provide free train rides along 1st Avenue East.
Other activities include The Ohana Kids’ Pedal Pull (ages 3–11) will take place on 1st Street north of the square. Registration is from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., with younger children welcome to pull for fun. This event is sponsored by Corteva Agriscience, Farm Credit Services of America, McKim Tractor, and Pierson Seed. A cornhole tournament on 1st Avenue East begins with registration and practice at 4:00 p.m., and play starting at 5:00 p.m. The Oskaloosa Public Library will host a coloring activity on its second floor, and a photo opportunity will be available in the Reading Garden with the Big Red Chair.
Live music will be featured throughout the evening. The Thunderkatz will perform from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m., delivering energetic classic rock and country favorites, sponsored by Bank Iowa. The evening will conclude with a performance by the Oskaloosa City Band beginning at 8:00 p.m. at the downtown bandstand.