Recreation/Events - Cedar Rapids, Nebraska

[Cedar Rapids, Nebraska]

Recreation/Events

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Melodrama

This talented bunch of people will entertain you and make you laugh until you cry. A hard act to follow each year, yet, since 1984, they've done just that. There are several performances to choose from; however, tickets sell out quickly so if interested, get your tickets early. This event is held two weekends in March. For more information, contact City Hall at 308-358-0240.

Polar Bear Dip

This has become an annual event since 2005. Held in February each year at Mel's Landing Park near the Cedar River, it is not an event for the 'weak-hearted' as you will see people jumping in the icy waters of the river. The day starts with the dipping by Full Dippers, Half Dippers, Double Dippers, and Team Dippers (free to dip, pay to watch). There is a large bon-fire to warm up next to. This fun is followed by a Chili Cookoff with "local" Celebrity Judges and an all you can eat chili and soup supper.

Gringo Joe's Cantina

A local tavern, Gringo Joe's Cantina, helps finish off the Polar Bear Dip day with a Mardi Gras party that evening complete with beads, masks and music.

Community Picnic

An annual event for more than 75 years, the picnic is held every summer to celebrate our community cooperation and spirit of involvement. It features parades, youth as well as adult games, tractor pulls, dance, BBQ and lots of fun. The picnic is usually held the fourth Saturday in June with fireworks as part of the entertainment.

Cedar's Rapid Run

The 3rd Annual Cedar's Rapid Run will be held Saturday, August 6, 2011. It will start off with a Tot Trot for children ages 5 and under. There will also be a 1-mile Kids Run, 2-mile Walk/Run, and 5-mile Run. Early registration is recommended. For more information or an entry form contact Elaine at dezoucha@msn.com or Kim at kimsfam@cablene.com

Music & Mayhem

Music & Mayhem will be held Saturday, August 20th downtown. This is the first time for this event, which may become an annual festival. Food vendors, games, beer garden, street dance and more! For more information, call Cindy or Gina at 308-358-0412.

Hunting & Fishing

Our hills and valleys along the Cedar River are rich with wildlife. Pheasant and quail hunting in the fall brings people from all over the state to hunt. The white tail deer is also popular and plentiful for both the bow and the rifle hunter. In addition, the area offers grouse, turkey, squirrel and rabbit hunting. The Cedar River provides great opportunity for the fisherman seeking catfish, carp and other native fish.

Canoeing

The Cedar River is a winding stretch of river that begins in the sandhills northwest of Cedar Rapids and empties into the Loup River to the south. It is a fairly fast moving river. If you can stay within the channel (and off the sand bars) a fun filled day can be spent canoeing or tanking down the Cedar. Watch out for the holes that pocket the river! For more information on canoe rentals or shuttle service, contact City Hall at 308-358-0240 or e-mail us at vocedrap@gpcom.net.

Camping

For the person who likes to rough it, camping is offered at Mel's Landing on the north edge of Cedar Rapids along the Cedar River. City water and outhouse rest room facilities are available. The campsite also offers a canoe landing, along with several fire pits. One electrical hookup for RVs and campers is available.

Golfing

A unique pasture golf course called Timber Creek Cow Patty is located about twelve miles southwest of Cedar Rapids. A local farmer began this nine hole course five years ago. For more information, contact Richard McPhillips at 308-358-0638. There are also courses available in Albion, Spalding and Fullerton.

Hamburger Days/Soup Suppers

Many organizations sponsor fund-raising feeds at several of the Cedar Rapids home sporting events.

Softball/Baseball

Both boys and girls teams compose Cedar Rapids softball/baseball teams. All age ranges are included. There are also adult teams in the area. A batting cage and pitching machines are avaiable for summer use.

Parks

City Park -- The city park houses a baseball diamond, batting cage, two sand volleyball courts, dance pavilion, concession stand, restrooms and playground equipment.
Mini Park -- The mini park is home to a beautifully designed flower garden complete with brick paths, benches, and a gazebo.
Pool Park -- The pool park provides playground equipment and a full size swimming pool with a slide, diving board, and a children's wading pool. There is also a multi-purpose tennis court with basketball hoops.
Mel's Landing -- Mel's Landing offers playground equipment along with various other items as noted under camping section.

Santa Claus Day

Each year Santa Claus visits Cedar Rapids sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Community Club. He gives all youngsters from preschool thru 5^th grade candy and listens to their wish lists. The day also includes a potato bake sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Senior Center. Businesses donate prizes, certificates, and money for drawings. Many offer specials for the day.

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