Ottumwa Stories: Looking Forward To Summer Events

Published April 5, 2021

We’re looking forward to everything summer has always had to offer – bright sunshine, longer days, outdoor activities and warm temperatures, just to name a few ways we’re getting back to normal! Summer also brings many favorite events and activities to the Ottumwa community, and several have already been added to our calendar.

Wapello County Fair

June 16-20 at the Wapello County Fairgrounds in Eldon

Country music artist Chris Janson will headline Friday evening! The week’s activities will include Twilight Harness Races, late model car races, the Bill Riley Talent Search 2021, music from Tyler Richton & the High Bank Boys and Jennifer Handling & Revolution, livestock shows and the Red Neck Rally.

Elks 347/Ottumwa Pro Balloon Races

June 23-27 in Greater Ottumwa Park.

This 5-day, family-oriented event has something for everyone! Hot Air Balloon competition flights and Night Glows, live bands, carnival, beer garden, food vendors, fireworks, Kids Day, Bike Night, car show, Bags Tournament, Chili Cook-off, Volleyball Tournament and more.

Greater Ottumwa Rodeo

July 2-3 in Greater Ottumwa Park.

A Rogue Rodeo production featuring eight exciting rodeo events. Lefty the Clown will be back to keep the crowd entertained between events, and PRCA trick rider Dusta Kimzey-O’Connell will provide some excitement during interlude.

Babe Ruth 14-Year-Old World Series

August 14-21 at the Babe Ruth Fields in Greater Ottumwa Park.

Ottumwa is proud to host 10 Babe Ruth teams from across the country for their annual championship tournament. Community events will be held throughout the week, culminating in the Championship Game on Saturday, August 21.

Midwest Ford Fest

August 14-15 in Greater Ottumwa Park.

This free car show presented by the Iowa Missouri Ford Club features show and shine with hundreds of Ford-powered vehicles. The Fairlane Club has a mini-meet, local food vendors have concessions on hand and there are dozens of great prizes up for grabs. Proceeds benefit the Auto Tech students at Indian Hills Community College.

And that's just the beginning! Visit www.meetottumwa.org/events to stay up to date on everything happening in and around Ottumwa and Wapello County.