Contact:
Jori Wade-Booth
Communications & Marketing Manager
Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area
jwadebooth@silosandsmokestacks.org
Office: 319.234.4567; Cell: 319.404.1311
WATERLOO, Iowa (April 1, 2025) – The highly anticipated Iowa Eats Food & Drink Festival returns on April 5, promising a flavorful celebration of the state’s rich food culture. This year’s festival is set to be even more exciting with a special appearance by Eileen Gannon, the acclaimed baker featured on Netflix’s Blue Ribbon Baking Championship.
Featuring Iowa food, beverages, chefs, and artisans, the festival is the first of its kind to be held in eastern Iowa. The third annual event is hosted by Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area and presented by Iowa Corn Grower’s Association, the State Historical Society of Iowa and the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Festival presenter and Iowa native Eileen Gannon has competed on Netflix’s “Blue Ribbon Baking Championship,” Discovery Channel’s “Bake it Like Buddy,” and Food Network’s “Bakers vs. Fakers.” She has been featured in dozens of magazines, newspapers, and podcasts across the country, always sharing how growing up on an Iowa farm developed her commitment to whole, natural foods and pure ingredients.
Iowa Eats Food & Drink Festival goers will enjoy food and beverage tastings, cooking and product demonstrations, and more. Tickets are $10 per person and include food and beverage samples. Children five and under are free and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees must be 21 and have a valid ID for sampling or purchasing alcoholic beverages. Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.
“Our ticket price is only $10 but bring extra cash,” said Cara Miller, Silos & Smokestacks Executive Director. “Vendors will not only provide samples but also have their products for sale. If you sample something you love you can buy it and take it home with you!”
For the second year Iowa Eats Food & Drink Festival will present The Jim Walsh Firefighter Cook Off. Four area Fire Fighters will face off in a sizzling contest. Cooking starts at 11 a.m. and awards are at 1 p.m. The contest will be hosted by celebrity emcee and Cedar Valley native Gary Kroeger, best known for his work on Saturday Night Live.
In addition to visiting exhibitor booths, festivalgoers will have the opportunity to attend classes led by food and beverage industry experts, authors, and local celebrities. Sessions will range from pie making to bread baking, rubs and sauces to Ecuadorian seasoning.
Jayjay Goodvin, The Iowa Gallivant, will be returning as festival emcee and will be presenting “Let’s Talk Tenderloins.” Meet Michelin Chef Jacob Schroeder of Crafted Food Services and Moxie Kitchen & Events. Master Gardener Bob Durrwachter will instruct on picking the right plants for your garden.
“Northeast Iowa is a vibrant part of our state,” said Miller. “We want people from all over Iowa to join us and see all the great food, drink and fun to have in this region.”
To learn more to buy your tickets, visit iowaeatsfestival.com.
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