Upcoming Area Events
May - June 2026
Spring Campout with the Deslondes
Cabin Concerts
May 22-23, 2026
Elkader, Iowa
Enjoy live music on the banks of the Turkey River at Cabin Concerts
Grazing for Birds
Mississippi Valley Conservancy
Saturday, June 27, 9-11 a.m.
Plum Creek Conservation Area, Crawford County, Wis.
Join Audubon’s range ecologist Krysten Zummo to learn how a few minor adaptations in farming practices can make a world of difference for grassland birds on your property. Register at www.mississippivalleyconservancy.org/events.
2026 Summer Eagle Viewing River Cruises
National Eagle Center
This season will offer a total of 11 cruises, including two kid’s cruises. The first cruise is May 23, aboard the Cal Fremling in Winona, Minn. These cruises last two hours, feature wildlife viewing and interpretation, expert Q & A and are wheelchair accessible. Check your calendar and join us on the river!
Explore the River
River Action
May 26 - August 29
Quad Cities
Our Summer Education Program teaches participants about wildlife, history, culture and geography of the Mississippi River and Quad Cities. Sessions are given on the Channel Cat Water Taxi or during guided Riverine Walks at various river locations. Register at www.riveraction.org/education.
Trail Days
Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail
Saturday, May 30, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Chatfield Center for the Arts, Chatfield, Minn.
Take a hike on a new segment of the trail. Enjoy scavenger hunts and crafts for all ages, as well as rattles and giveaways. The organization’s first annual meeting is at 12:45 p.m.
BOU Spring Fling Dock Party
Boat Owners United & Friends of Pool 2
June 5 - 7
Treasure Island Casino Marina, Welch, Minn.
Join boat owners, river lovers and outdoor enthusiasts for a high-energy day on the water. This year the party benefits Friends of Pool 2, a local nonprofit that works to champion and advocate for safe and accessible on-the-water recreation.
Mightyssippi 10-Mile Run
Friends of the Mississippi River
Saturday, June 6, 7:30 a.m.
St. Paul
Beginning on Mississippi River Boulevard in Highland Park, we will run along the river — winding through towering trees, lakes and scenic bridges to Upper Landing Park. This is a great opportunity to experience the awe of the Mississippi and answer the call to safeguard its future. Register at www.fmr.org/events.
Water Ski Show Team
Ski Bellevue
June 6 & 20, July 4, 5 p.m.
Riverview St., Bellevue, Iowa
Watch the only water ski team in Iowa that performs on the Mississippi River. Enjoy free family entertainment with bare-footing, jumping, human pyramids, glittery costumes, great music and powerful towboats. We are always looking for new members of all ages and skill levels.
The Great Museum Race
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
June 17, 5:45 - 9 p.m.
Dubuque, Iowa
Looking for a fun team-building experience? The museum will be transformed into a race course with lots of laughs, excitement, activities and games. Teams of four to six will race against the clock to win games, challenges, brainteasers and more. Register at www.rivermuseum.org/events.
I Can Fish!
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
June 5 & July 3, 4 p.m.
Fort Snelling State Park
June 6 & 20 & July 4, 10 a.m.
Whitewater State Park
Experience the excitement of a tug on the line! These hands-on programs teach all the basics from fish identification to casting. Programs last about two hours, no experience is necessary and equipment is provided. Get more information and register at www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/fish.html.
A Cooler World Gathering
Dubuque Rendezvous!
June 25 - 28
Various Locations
Dubuque, Iowa
This is a free, multi-disciplinary rendezvous of environmental perspectives, creative dialogue, hand’s-on workshops, exhibits and performances supporting the Mississippi River system and its communities. It is a collaborative production of Dubuque institutions, regional groups, community volunteers and national artists. Everyone is welcome! www.climaterendezvous.org.
2026 National Convention
Izaak Walton League
July 17 - 18
Hilton Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
3800 American Blvd E., Bloomington, Minn.
Join us to celebrate conservation leaders, members and volunteers! It is guaranteed to inspire and delight by offering opportunities for engagement, learning and action. Come early for family-focused activities. Register at www.iwla-getitdone.org.