July's last hurrah

July’s Last Hurrah
Can you believe this Thursday is already our final Downtown Summer Market of the season? It feels like we just kicked things off with long swim days at the pool, bike rides around town and the smell of grilled dinner in the air — and now, here we are, staring down the end of July. Just like that, we’re heading into August.
Yes, we’re deep in the dog days of summer — sticky, sun-drenched, and very sweaty — but this is the heart of it. These are the golden days we’ll miss when winter and cold weather arrive. So grab that lemonade shakeup, wander the vendor booths, pick up a new flavor of fry pie, and take a moment to soak it all in. Try something new. Dance a little. Let the kids run a bit wild — it’s summer, after all.
This might be the last Downtown Summer Market, but it’s not the end of the fun. August is full of festivals and sunshine, and we’ll keep finding ways to make the most of every warm day left.
See you Thursday — wear sunscreen, bring cash, and don't forget your fry pie!

July 21st Edition – Be a Backyard Tourist!
Let’s face it—we all say we’ll explore the local stuff “someday,” but then Netflix hits us with a new season and poof, there goes the weekend. So here’s your friendly nudge: be a backyard tourist! Fort Madison and our surrounding area are packed with cool things to do that don’t require a suitcase or a hotel reservation.
Start at the CBQ Depot Museum, where kids (and kids-at-heart) can touch the exhibits! Go ahead—pop on that conductor’s cap and channel your inner train boss. The Sheaffer Pen Museum is open four days a week—step inside to learn how Fort Madison inked its way into history. Ever seen a $10,000 pen? You can now.
This Wednesday is Nauvoo Neighbor Night—with pioneer games, live music, dancing, and the beloved pageant. Or stop by the Donnellson Library’s Richard Proenneke Museum, honoring the Iowa native who lived alone in an Alaskan cabin and made it look easy.
Add some cowboy flair at the Fort Madison Saddle Club open shows, wander Avenue G for the final Downtown Summer Market on July 31, or vibe with live tunes at Open Mic Night at the LULAC Club, Boozy Rae’s, Turnwater, Vinnie’s, Tena’s Tap, and Stumble In.
Need more ideas? Visit our blog for fun itineraries!    Be a Backyard Tourist! — Visit Fort Madison, Iowa
Chi Eastin is the director of the Fort Madison Tourism Board  and a regular contributor to Pen City Current.