Calendar of Events
Cultural activities are an integral part of international education at UNI. The OIE provides a variety of fun and entertaining opportunities for our students to experience everyday life in the Midwest.
Here are some of activities we provide
- Cultural Events | celebrate our students cultures and various festivals and traditions
- Volunteering within the Community | Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Public Library, In School Classrooms
- Field trips to experience Midwest and agricultural culture
- Regional trips to neighboring states to explore what the Midwest offers
- Local events and celebrations in the Cedar Valley Community
Upcoming Events
The UNI Office of International Engagement is turning up the fun this summer with an exciting lineup of events just for YOU! Whether you’re looking to explore Iowa, make new friends, or just enjoy some good food and good vibes, we’ve got something for everyone.
June 2025
Grocery Trip Shuttle | June 3rd | 1-5pm | Sign Up HERE
Need to grab groceries but don’t have a ride? Hop on the free OIE Grocery Shuttle and visit local stores with fellow students—easy, convenient, and stress-free. Sign up to reserve your seat!
Japan Summer Festival | June 9th | 6-8pm | Threehouse (2122 Campus Street)
Experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of Japan right here in Cedar Falls! Join us for an evening of traditional food, music, and cultural activities at the Japan Summer Festival. All are welcome! Free, welcome to all ages, and open to the public!
Lunch with OIE: Meet Our Volunteers | June 12th | 12-1pm | Maucker Union Courtyard
Come enjoy a free lunch and meet the amazing volunteers behind OIE! This is a relaxed way to connect, ask questions, and build community with students from around the world. Free, welcome to all ages, and open to the public!
Friendship Village Cultural Presentation | June 13th | 5-7pm | Sign Up HERE
Share your culture and learn about others during this intercultural evening at Friendship Village! It’s a meaningful chance to connect through stories, music, and traditions from around the globe.
Strawberry Picking | June 20th | 1-3pm | Sign Up HERE
Spend the afternoon in the Iowa sunshine picking fresh strawberries at a local farm! It’s a sweet way to enjoy the outdoors and experience local life. Transportation provided—just sign up! (Students are responsible for bringing cash to pay for the strawberries they pick)
Hansen Dairy Farm Visit | June 21st | 1-4pm | Sign Up HERE
Get a behind-the-scenes look at a working Iowa dairy farm! Learn how dairy is made, meet some friendly cows, and enjoy a taste of rural life. This fun and educational visit is one you won’t forget. (Students are responsible for purchasing their own tickets.)
Afternoon at Lost Island Waterpark | June 23rd | 2-6pm | Sign Up HERE
Cool off and have a blast at Iowa’s biggest waterpark! With slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, this trip to Lost Island promises fun for everyone. Bring your swimsuit and get ready for a splash! (Students are responsible for purchasing their own tickets.)
Cheer at a Waterloo Bucks Game | June 24th | 6-8pm | Sign Up HERE
Join us for a classic American night out at the ballpark! Watch the Waterloo Bucks in action, snack on ballpark treats, and cheer with friends. A great intro to U.S. sports culture! (Students are responsible for purchasing their own tickets.) Free, welcome to all ages, and open to the public!
Friendship Village Cultural Presentation | June 27th | 5-7pm | Sign Up HERE
Share your culture and learn about others during this intercultural evening at Friendship Village! It’s a meaningful chance to connect through stories, music, and traditions from around the globe.
Sturgis Falls | June 28th | ALL DAY | Sign Up HERE
Join the Cedar Falls community for this all-day local celebration filled with music, food, parades, and family fun. It's a great way to experience Iowa culture and make summer memories!
July 2025
Grocery Trip | July 3rd | 3-5pm | Sign Up HERE
Need to restock your fridge? We’ve got you covered! Join our free shuttle trip to local grocery stores—convenient, easy, and a great way to shop with friends.
Fireworks Over the Dome | July 3rd | TBD | UNI Dome Lawn
Celebrate Independence Day with a fireworks show over the UNI-Dome! Bring a blanket, grab a spot on the lawn, and enjoy a night of lights, music, and fun.
July 4th Cookout | July 4th | 5-7pm | TBD
Join us for an all-American cookout with classic food, games, and festive vibes. A great way to experience U.S. Independence Day and connect with the community! Free, welcome to all ages, and open to the public!
Afternoon at George Wyth State Park | July 8th | 3-7pm | Sign Up HERE
Unplug and enjoy the beauty of George Wyth! Whether you want to hike, relax by the water, or have a picnic, this afternoon in nature is the perfect summer escape. Free, welcome to all ages, and open to the public!
Onigiri and Miso Soup Workshop | July 9th | 7-8pm | Cedar Falls Public Library
Love Japanese food? Learn how to make onigiri and miso soup from scratch in this hands-on cooking workshop! Come hungry and leave with new skills—and maybe a few new friends too.
Friendship Village Cultural Presentation | July 11th | 5-7pm | Sign Up HERE
Share your culture and learn about others during this intercultural evening at Friendship Village! It’s a meaningful chance to connect through stories, music, and traditions from around the globe.
Lunch with OIE | July 21st | 12-1pm | Maucker Union Rooftop
Enjoy lunch with a view at the Maucker Union rooftop while connecting with fellow students and OIE staff. A chill way to catch up, ask questions, or just relax over a good meal.
Friendship Village Cultural Presentation | July 25th | 5-7pm | Sign Up HERE
Share your culture and learn about others during this intercultural evening at Friendship Village! It’s a meaningful chance to connect through stories, music, and traditions from around the globe.
August 2025
End of CIEP Session Celebration | August 1st | TBD
Celebrate all your hard work this summer at the CIEP closing event! Join fellow students and staff for recognition, refreshments, and a joyful send-off.
Social At Moonfire Ridge | August 10th | TBD | Sign Up HERE
Wrap up the summer with a relaxing social at Moonfire Ridge! Expect scenic views, cozy vibes, and time to connect with friends before the new semester begins. Sign up to reserve your spot!
September 2025
TBD
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October 2025
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