Events

English Learning Circle

Mondays, September 14–December 28, 2026 | 5:00–5:45 PM

Fairfield Public Library, Main Space Center Tables

Join native speakers, advanced students, and beginners for weekly conversational English practice. Participants can practice speaking in a relaxed, welcoming setting while meeting other language learners.

The Library also encourages participants to use the free Mango Languages learning app, available to all FPL borrowers.

Photography: Gillian Brown

ICON Contemporary Art

58 N. Main St., Fairfield, IA

August 7-October 17, 2026

Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-4:00 PM

Explore the photography of Gillian Brown in this exhibition at ICON Contemporary Art in downtown Fairfield. The exhibition will be on display through October 17.

Flicka: A Love Letter

Fairfield Arts & Convention Center

Tuesday, September 15, 2026 | 7:30 PM

Join us for a free screening of Flicka: A Love Letter, an inspiring documentary about the legendary life and career of world-renowned mezzo-soprano Frederica "Flicka" von Stade.

Directed by Brian Staufenbiel, the film celebrates Flicka as both an artist and humanitarian, featuring archival performance footage, interviews with colleagues including Renée Fleming and Jake Heggie, and an intimate look at her remarkable post-retirement work bringing music to underserved communities.

This special preview event is presented by Maharishi School ahead of Flicka's return to Fairfield on Saturday, September 26, for Our Children and Music, a fundraiser concert for Maharishi School. A talkback will follow the film.

Cost: Free and open to the public

Spanish Learning Circle

Wednesdays, September 2–December 30, 2026 | 5:00–5:45 PM

Fairfield Public Library, Main Space Center Tables

Join native speakers, advanced students, and beginners for weekly conversational Spanish practice in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Participants meet at the tables in the center of the Library, between the Book Sale area and Adult Fiction, and are welcome to explore the Library during the session.

The Library also encourages learners to use the free Mango Languages learning app, available to all FPL borrowers.

Book Treks

Every Thursday | 10:00–11:00 AM

Chautauqua Park

Audience: Adults

Enjoy audiobooks and the outdoors with Book Treks! Meet other audiobook listeners at Chautauqua Park and stroll while listening to the audiobook of your choice.

Each month, Fairfield Public Library will select an audiobook through the Libby app and make it available to FPL borrowers with no wait time.

This program is co-sponsored by the Fairfield Department of Park & Recreation.

Japanese Learning Circle

Thursdays, September 3–December 31, 2026 | 5:00–5:45 PM

Fairfield Public Library, Main Space Center Tables

Join native speakers, advanced students, and beginners for weekly conversational Japanese practice in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Participants meet at the tables in the center of the Library, between the Book Sale area and Adult Fiction, and are welcome to explore the Library during the session.

The Library also encourages learners to use the free Mango Languages learning app, available to all FPL borrowers.

Game Club at Wanderer’s Haul

Every Sunday & Thursday 

Sunday 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Thursday 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

206 S Main St, Fairfield, IA 52556

Wander in to Wanderer's Haul every Thursday for a night full of strategy, fun, and a little friendly competition. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a first-time player, there's something for everyone. Explore new board games, meet new people, and dive into engaging gameplay. From classics to the latest releases, the fun keeps rolling.

What to Expect:

Play popular board games

Meet fellow board game enthusiasts

Learn to play the weekly highlighted game

RSVP: Not required. Just bring your love of games and a competitive spirit.

Steinway Silent Film: East & West

Fairfield Arts & Convention Center

Thursday, September 17, 2026 | 7:30-9:30 PM

The Barhydt Organ Spotlight Series features master organists and pianists showcasing Fairfield's beautiful Barhydt Organ and Steinway grand piano at their finest.

Experience the newly restored silent film East & West, starring Molly Picon, with a live original score performed by master silent film pianist Donald Sosin and renowned klezmer violinist Alicia Svigals. The 1923 Yiddish comedy follows a young American woman as she visits her family's Eastern European shtetl and encounters a shy orthodox scholar.

The 84-minute film was reconstructed by Filmarchiv Austria and will be presented as a live cine-concert, combining silent film with live piano and klezmer violin.

Cost: Free
Suggested donation: $10 at the door

Beginner Fly Tying Series

Jefferson County Park Nature Center

2003 Libertyville Road, Fairfield, IA

September 18, October 9 & November 13, 2026 | 5:00-6:30 PM

Cost: $5

Learn to tie three effective flies for Southern Iowa ponds and trout streams: the San Juan Worm, Black Beauty Midge, and Woolly Bugger. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided. Participants will tie three of each fly and receive a fly box to store them in.

Pre-registration is required. One registration provides access to all three classes.

Movies at Central Park: Toy Story 2 (1999)

Friday, September 18th | Central Park, Fairfield, IA

Movie begins at dusk | Free & family-friendly

Movie: Toy Story 2 (1999)

Description:
When Woody is stolen by a toy collector, Buzz Lightyear and the gang set out on a rescue mission. Woody discovers his past as a valuable collectible, forcing him to choose between staying with his toy friends or being preserved in a museum. A Pixar classic about friendship, loyalty, and identity.

Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lu0sotERXhI

More info: Fairfield Parks & Recreation | 641-472-6159

Fairfield Kiwanis Kids Day

Saturday, September 19 | Pancakes start at 6 AM 

Central Park Square

Join Us for one of Fairfield’s most beloved family traditions! Kiwanis Kids Day, a high-energy celebration made just for kids—and the grownups who love them.

Start your morning with fresh, hot pancakes (served from 6 AM to 1 PM on the square), Kids Day Parade, kicking off promptly at 10 AM.

 After the parade, downtown turns into a kid-friendly wonderland with FREE activities on the square:

 Pony Rides

 A Real-Life Clown (Get ready for giggles)

 Pedal Pulls

 Face Painting

 Bouncy House

Whether your little ones dream of pirates and princesses, ponies and pancakes, or just a day full of fun—this is their time to shine. Mark your calendars and bring the whole crew for a Saturday packed with adventure, laughter, and small-town magic.

2026 All-State Barn Tour - Sept 19-20

The all-state tour highlights barns that have received restoration grants from the Iowa Barn Foundation and those that have received an Award of Distinction or Preservation Award for restoration fully funded by the owner. The self-guided tour is free and open to the public and makes for a great multi-generation family weekend adventure. Participants have the unique opportunity to experience and appreciate Iowa’s agriculture heritage as they walk through these majestic barns.  Barns are open for touring 9-5 both days.
Fairfield's Maasdam Barns will be part of this tour

Escaramuza — Annual Mexican Rodeo
Maasdam Barns, 2224 Hwy 1, Fairfield, IA

Saturday, September 19 | 2 PM – 5 PM

Experience the excitement of the Annual Mexican Rodeo featuring the Escaramuza — an equine drill team from Des Moines and Central Iowa. Enjoy impressive horseback riding skills, traditional rodeo events, and vibrant cultural displays that highlight the rich heritage of Mexican rodeo traditions.

This family-friendly event is a must-see for rodeo fans and anyone interested in equestrian performance.
Open to the public.

Some o the vibyest singin' n playin' this side o the badlands!

Soak up some prairie medicine on Saturday the 19th with the return of Fairfield favorite David Huckfelt, formerly of The Pines, accompanied by mojo meister guitarist Jeremy Ylvisaker. David brings his deep, dirt road, native Americana originals, leaving an indelible mark on any and all comers in need of healing, in the tradition of Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan. Groundwater Sound wizard Dustin Busch will open with his soundscape/found sounds & songs.

Doors open at 7:00. Come early for a drink and a pastry. Tickets are also available in person at the Cafe, in advance or at the door, usually even if they are sold out on this site since we only make 25 available on line. Go to FairfieldMuse.org to find out how you can support live music!

Karaoke Night at Noble House Kava

Noble House Kava

115 N. Main St., Fairfield, IA

Every Saturday | 8:00-10:30 PM

Join Noble House Kava for weekly karaoke night. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to have some fun with friends, everyone is welcome to take the mic.

Grab a drink, sing your heart out, and enjoy an evening of music and good company.

Mahjong Bootcamp

Atwood's 

1639 Packwood Road, Fairfield, IA

Sunday, September 20, 2026 | 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Cost: $85

Reserve your spot: Tickets

Ready to learn the exciting game of American Mahjong? Join Mahjong by Heidi and Angie for a fun, welcoming beginner series designed for brand-new players.

Mahjong 101 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Begin your Mahjong journey by learning tile identification, suits and tiles, how to read the National Mahjong League card, game setup and terminology, building hands, and basic game flow.

Lunch | 1:00-1:30 PM

Lunch is included with your ticket.

Mahjong 102 | 1:30-4:00 PM

Put your new skills into action while learning to build and manage walls, navigate the Charleston and passing strategies, use defensive and offensive play techniques, read the card with confidence, and practice through guided gameplay.

All materials and game supplies are provided. By the end of the two sessions, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to join open play events and begin your Mahjong adventure.

.

Sunday Gravel Ride

Date: Every Sunday(Labor Day to Fall)

Time: 1/1:30 PM

Location: Leave from Chautauqua Park

Details:Join a friendly and inclusive cycling group for Fall Sunday gravel rides. Whether you\'re new to gravel or a seasoned rider, there’s a route for you. Each week, riders can choose from 2 to 3 different route options with varying mileage to match your pace and goals.

After the ride, stick around for a casual post-ride hangout at a local restaurant. Come for the ride, stay for the community.

All levels welcome. Bring water, and a sense of adventure.

Fall Interchangeable Ladder Workshop

Atwood’s Seasonal Experience

1639 Packwood Road, Fairfield, IA 52556

Tuesday, September 22, 2026 | 6:00 PM

Reserve your spot: Tickets

Join the Country Mile for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn how to paint sandwich boards with interchangeable seasonal tiles. Choose your frame style, board size, and number of inserts to create a personalized piece for your home.

Frame Options:

Single Frame: $10

Double Frame: $15

Triple Frame: $20

Leaning Ladder: $20

Each Insert: $10

Spaces are limited, so registration is required. Registration deadline: September 14, 2026 to allow time for supplies to be prepared. Extra inserts from other seasons will also be available while supplies last.

What is This?

FRAN is hosting ten free block parties, two in each of Fairfield's five wards, so every neighborhood gets its turn. Each one connects you to practical help and to the people next door.

What to Expect?

Your neighbors!  Games and activities for all ages. Free snacks and good company. Home repair and resource table.

What to Bring?

Some sites have little shade. A water bottle, a hat, and a lawn chair are good to have.

2nd Annual Tri-State Stink-O-Rama Trapping Convention

Jefferson County Fairgrounds

Friday, September 25-Saturday, September 26, 2026 | 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Join us for two full days of live trapping demonstrations, dealers, tailgaters, craft vendors, trapping supplies, lures, outdoor products, food, giveaways, and family fun.

Friday evening features a Coyote Round Table and dinner at 6:00 PM. RSVP is requested.

Saturday includes a kids' area from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM with a scavenger hunt, Find the Golden Trap, skillet toss contests, and a kids' bike giveaway at 3:00 PM. Children must be present to win.

Cost: $10 per day
Kids 12 & under: Free

Vendor spaces are available. Inside tables are $30 each and tailgating spaces are $25.

For more information or to reserve a vendor space: Mike Houk, 641-919-4057

Monarch Tagging

Zillman’s Hickory Hills

2437 Glasgow Rd.

Friday, September 25, 2026 | 4:30-6:30 PM

For the past several years, high numbers of migrating monarchs have been found at Zillman’s Hickory Hills. Join us for a fun evening of catching, tagging, and releasing monarch butterflies as they begin their annual migration.

Monarch butterflies cannot survive our cold Iowa winters, so they travel up to 3,000 miles south to forests high in the mountains of Mexico. Along the way, they stop to nectar, giving us an opportunity to see and help these remarkable pollinators.

Assist with monarch research by catching butterflies, placing a small tag on their wings, recording their information, and releasing them to continue their journey. These tags help researchers learn more about monarch migration.

Cost: Free