Maifest in Amana, Iowa: A Colorful Celebration of Spring
Spring arrives in style in the Amana Colonies with Maifest, a lively festival that blends German tradition, small-town charm, and plenty of reasons to wander. Held each year in early May, Maifest is one of the best times to experience Amana as flowers bloom, patios reopen, and the villages come alive after winter.
Whether you’re drawn by the music, the food, or the traditions, Maifest is a perfect kickoff to festival season in Iowa.
When and Where
Maifest for 2026: May 2nd and 3rd
Maifest is typically held during the first full weekend in May, with events taking place throughout Amana, Iowa. Activities are centered around the village streets, local shops, and popular gathering spots like the Festhalle Barn.
Because events are spread across the village, Maifest naturally encourages visitors to explore — one of the things that makes it such a great fit for an Iowa road trip.
A Festival Rooted in German Tradition
Maifest is a traditional German celebration of spring, and there’s no better place in Iowa to experience it than the Amana Colonies. Founded by German immigrants in the 19th century, Amana has preserved its cultural heritage through food, music, architecture, and festivals like this one. Maifest honors that heritage while welcoming everyone to join in the fun.
Maifest Highlights
The Maifest Parade
The weekend often begins with a Saturday morning parade through Amana. Featuring a yearly theme, decorated floats, and a Grand Marshal, the parade sets the tone for the festivities to follow and draws crowds of locals and visitors alike.
Maipole Dancing
One of Maifest’s most iconic traditions is Maipole dancing. Performers weave colorful ribbons around the pole in a choreographed display that symbolizes the arrival of spring. These dances take place at multiple locations throughout the village and are a must-see for first-time visitors.
Food, Beer, and Live Music
Maifest is a great excuse to indulge in everything Amana does best:
- Traditional German fare and festival favorites
- Local beer, wine, and spirits
- Live music and performances throughout the weekend
One popular highlight is the World on Wheels Food Truck Fair, which adds international flavors to the celebration.
Wine & Beer Walk
On Sunday, Maifest often wraps up with a Wine & Beer Walk, where participants sample drinks at various locations throughout the village. Many years include a commemorative Maifest glass, making it a fun and walkable way to experience Amana’s breweries and wineries.
Family-Friendly Fun
Maifest is designed for all ages. In addition to music and food, families can enjoy:
- Face painting and balloon art
- Kids’ crafts and activities
- Hands-on experiences like geode cracking and treasure mining
It’s easy to spend a full day wandering, snacking, and letting kids explore along the way.
Shop, Explore, and Celebrate
Local shops and businesses often offer special sales, demonstrations, and extended hours during Maifest. From handcrafted goods to specialty foods, the festival is a great excuse to browse Amana’s unique stores while soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Why Maifest Belongs on Your Iowa Road Trip
Maifest captures everything people love about the Amana Colonies: tradition, hospitality, great food, and a relaxed pace that invites you to stay awhile. It’s festive without being overwhelming and rooted in history while still feeling fresh each year.
If you’re looking for a joyful way to welcome spring in Iowa, Maifest in Amana is hard to beat.
