Pints and Politics is a year-round gathering featuring The Gazette, presenting sponsor Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors and special guests from across the state across all party lines. National, state, and local issues are covered, with opportunities to zone in on the latest headlines. P&P attendees participate in audience polls, submit questions, and enjoy time with some of their favorite reporters, columnists, and guests!

The Business Breakfast Series is a gathering of area employers and industry experts for a morning of networking and in-depth discussion about the latest issues in economic development. Every event is moderated by representatives of The Gazette news division with diverse panelist perspectives.

Each year the State of the City provides an opportunity to highlight many of the positive projects and programs the City has been working on for the past year.

The Iowa City Downtown District invites you to attend our State of the Downtown Annual Meeting on May 21st from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. in the Assembly Room at the Iowa City Senior Center. We welcome the community, civic leaders, business partners, and Downtown members to celebrate highlights from the past year and learn about our vision for the future. 

Highlights will include the success of the Downtown Ambassador program, X Marks the Arts, special events, business advocacy, and the completion of our strategic planning process. We will also be looking to the future of the organization as we announce the renewal plan for the business improvement district. 

Happy Hour | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. 

Program | 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. 

*Attendees may enter through the doors on Linn Street. ADA accessible entrance on Washington Street.  

The Gazette’s HER Women of Achievement is an annual program that recognizes individuals who are leading, inspiring and creating positive change in Eastern Iowa.

The Gazette and partner Premier World Discovery are gearing up for international travel in 2026. Join us for an informational meeting that highlights confirmed destinations!

Iowa City’s biggest event of the year returns this summer! The 8th Annual Downtown Block Party is set for Saturday, June 28th from 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. and will take over 14 blocks in the heart of Downtown Iowa City. The event is for all ages and specifically targets the feel of a community block party. Rather than selling tickets, the event instead sells Block Party cups that allow attendees 21 and older to purchase their drink from local establishments and take it into the street to enjoy. All of the programming activities and entertainment are completely free to the public. 
 
Pre-sale cups can be purchased online for a reduced price of $10. Tickets will buy you the official event cup and wristband that will allow you to walk around the event with wine and beer in-hand. Cups only need to be purchased if you plan on consuming alcohol. Day-of cups can also be purchased during the event at cup stations for an increased price of $15.  

This year you'll be welcomed with a wide variety of activites such as adult tricycle races, crossnet volleyball, kid's street hockey, hula hoop stations, rollerskating, live music, and so much more. And many fan favorites such as Dueling Pianos Sponsored by Hills Bank, Silent Disco Sponsored by GreenState Credit Union, the Main Stage Sponsored by iBev, and SCWPro Wrestling are slated to return. 

See you on the street on June 28th!