Great River Days returns to the Muscatine Riverfront from July 29 through August 2, 2026. This summer tradition promises five days of carnival rides, live music, food trucks, and community fun along the water.
Carnival rides will light up the riverfront every day. The gates open Wednesday, July 29, from 5 to 10 PM. On Thursday, the rides run from 2 to 10 PM. Friday and Saturday bring even more time for family fun, from noon to 10 PM. The event wraps up Sunday, August 2, with rides from noon to 5 PM. You can buy tickets directly at the carnival.
The concert series, presented by Musco Lighting, brings a full lineup of live music on Friday and Saturday nights. The festival atmosphere grows with food trucks and a beer tent near the stage.
On Friday, July 31, Eugene Levy kicks off the music at 6 PM, followed by Dark Alley at 7:30 PM, and Roseland at 9:30 PM. Saturday, August 1, features The Spinners at 4 PM, RM-212 at 5:30 PM, Fair Warning at 7 PM, and The Spazmatics closing out the night at 9 PM.
Admission is $5 and includes a Great River Days button as your ticket. Children 12 and under get in free. One button covers both nights of concerts. Buttons will be available for purchase soon and at the gate while supplies last.
Organizers are planning more special events and updates. What memories will you make with your family and friends at Great River Days this year? Will you try every food truck or catch your favorite band on stage? The Muscatine Riverfront invites you to join the celebration.
