08/12/2026
🎉 IT’S TUG FEST WEEK! 💪🇺🇸
Before we kick off one of our favorite (and busiest!) weekends of the year, we have a few reminders to help everyone have a fun and SAFE Tug Fest weekend!
🚨 NEW PARADE ROUTE 🍬
Due to ongoing construction, this year’s Tug Fest Parade will follow a different route than in years past. Please take a look at the attached map before Friday and plan accordingly. Road closures and traffic patterns will also look a little different, so give yourself some extra time!
🍻 Celebrate Responsibly 🥳
If you’re drinking, please make a plan before you head out. Designate a sober driver, arrange a rideshare, or find another safe way home. Our officers will be busy all weekend, but we’re never too busy to stop an impaired driver. Do not drink and drive!🚫 Speaking of alcohol… Quick reminder that Tug Fest weekend does not change our open-container laws. Alcohol must remain inside the designated event area and is not permitted on public streets or sidewalks.
👨👩👧 Safety Plan 👀
If you’re bringing children to the festivities, we encourage you to make a safety plan beforehand. Tug Fest can get crowded! Choose a designated meeting spot in case you get separated and remind your kids to find a police officer, firefighter, or Tug Fest staff member for help if they’re lost.
🚂 Railroad Crossings 🛤️
PLEASE stay clear of the railroad tracks.
Trains will continue traveling through town over the weekend. If you hear or see a train approaching, move away from the tracks immediately and never try to cross in front of one. The railroad is aware of the festivities, but trains may still travel through town at normal speeds.
🌦️ Mother Nature 🌡️
While the weather hasn’t exactly been cooperative so far this week, we’re crossing our fingers that things clear up in time for all the festivities! Either way, remember to stay hydrated! It’s August in Iowa, after all. 🥵
🚦 Friday Night Traffic 🚙
Once the fireworks end on Friday, thousands of people will be trying to leave town at the same time. Traffic WILL be heavy and our officers will be working to keep vehicles moving as quickly as possible, but safety comes before speed. Please be patient, follow officers’ directions, and give everyone a little grace while we get you on your way.
📣 As we get closer to the weekend, please keep an eye on the official Tug Fest Iowa page for any updates, schedule changes, or important announcements.
Most importantly! Have fun, look out for one another, and enjoy everything Tug Fest has to offer! 🎪🎠🎡🎶🎆
GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF OUR TUGGERS!💪🏼🤘🏼👏🏼