Dubuque’s Grand River Center Hosts Free Community Celebration On October 28th

Dubuque is gearing up for a monumental celebration at the Grand River Center, as it marks its 20th anniversary, and the community is invited to join in the celebration.

Managed by OVG360, a division of Oak View Group that offers full-service venue management and hospitality, and in collaboration with the City of Dubuque, the Grand River Center hosts their 20th Anniversary Celebration. This day promises to be filled with fun, food, and entertainment, as a huge thank you to the community for making the Grand River Center an integral part of Dubuque.

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The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 28, from 11am to 3pm, making it a perfect outing for families and friends. Located on the historic riverwalk of Dubuque, the Grand River Center boasts a remarkable 86,000 square feet of conference and meeting space, offering a magnificent backdrop against the stunning Mississippi River.

Activities and entertainment ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy. From "sip & shop" sessions with local boutiques, to line dancing lessons with Adam's Dance Connection, this celebration promises a diverse range of entertainment options. Gamers rejoice, as Dream Land Collectibles sets up gaming consoles for all to enjoy. And for the little ones, Rumble Tumble Bounce House will provide bouncy houses to keep them entertained and wear them out.

Of course, no celebration is complete without delicious eats. Complimentary food will be available while supplies last, making sure you have time to fully enjoy the day's festivities.

“We look forward to a fun-filled day with our community partners, residents, and local businesses as we celebrate Grand River Center’s first 20 years. We express our sincere gratitude to the numerous businesses, organizations, and individuals who have collaborated with us to make this event a success.”

- Ryan Bonifas of OVG360, General Manager of the Grand River Center.

Looking ahead, OVG360's management of the Grand River Center hopes to create an environment where innovation, creativity, and collaboration come together, offering the ultimate setting for unforgettable events.

In addition, the Grand River Center has a lineup of exciting events planned, including the Dubuque Halloween Costume Ball on October 27th, the Holiday Arts & Crafts Show in Dubuque on November 4th, and Attitude of Gratitude on November 18th.

For more information about the 20th Anniversary Community Celebration or the Grand River Center, visit their website. Don't miss this incredible celebration of community, milestones, and the Grand River Center's role in shaping Dubuque's cultural landscape over the last two decades. Join in the fun and be a part of history.

Check out the events full schedule below:

• GRC Welcome Center: Visit our information hub to stay up to date on future GRC events and job opportunities.  While you're here, be sure to grab your GRC passport scavenger hunt to complete and redeem for an exciting prize! Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / Registration on 1st Level
• Recreation Space: From inflatable bounce houses and bubble soccer to making Halloween slime, this area promises enjoyment for individuals of all ages! Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / Exhibit Hall 
  1. Rumble Tumble Bounce Houses Presenting: Bounce Houses
  2. Clarke University Presenting: Bubble Soccer & Trashee Ball
  3. Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois: Halloween Slime activity
• Beer Garden: Worried about missing the big game? Don't worry! We've got you covered.  Grab a beverage, relax, and catch the game while still enjoying all the other activities.​Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / Spine
• Dubuque ESports League Competition | Presented by Dubuque ESports League: This is your opportunity to witness the face-paced, competitive world of ESports LIVE!​ Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / Meeting Room 1 
• Self-Defensive & Kick Boxing Demos | Presented by Empowermental. Discover essential self-defense techniques and kickboxing moves to empower yourself with the skills to stay safe. Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / Meeting Room 2
• Magic Show | Presented by Magic Bob: Prepare to be mystified and enchanted as you step into the world of magic! ​Time: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM / Meeting Room 3
• Jukebox Bingo | Presented by Alexxus Entertainment: This isn't your typical bingo; it's a high-energy, music-filled extravaganza that combines the excitement of a jukebox with the thrill of bingo. Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM / Meeting Room 6
• Performance Space: Enjoy the live entertainment & even learn how to line dance! Various times in the Ballroom.
  1. Turnt Kidz - Time: TBD
  2. Adam's Dance Connection - Line Dancing Class - Time: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
• Vendor Showcase Space: Explore our diverse array of vendors, offering everything from arcade games to volunteer opportunities.  You're sure to find a little bit of everything in this space! Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / Ballroom Pre-Function
  1. Tri-State Sports Cards
  2. -Higher Self Holistic : Tarot Card Readings
  3. Dreamland Collectibles : Retro Arcade Games
  4. Dubuque Regional Humane Society - Information & Volunteer Opportunities
  5. Mississippi River Museum
  6. Makers Space presented by Carnegie Stout Library : Key chain activity
• Sip & Shop: Indulge in the ultimate sip and shop experience, featuring breathtaking Mississippi River views, where you can enjoy your favorite beverage while you shop! Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / River Room
  1. Blush Beauty Co.
  2. J & R Fashions
  3. Momerella
  4. Hey Girl
  5. Kindzerella
• Dubuque by Carriage: Step back in time and experience the charm of a horse-drawn carriage ride! ​Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / Weather dependent