Join us for a vibrant community celebration in honor of George Washington Carver, suitable for all ages, happening on Saturday, February 3rd, from 10:00 am to Noon at Indianola Square.

Locations, Events, Sponsors:

Cocoa for Kids & Plant a Seed—Watch It Grow

• Where: Uncommon Grounds (south side)
• Supported by: Warren County Historical Society & Museum, Warren County Historic Preservation Commission, Hy-Vee & Iowa State Extension & Outreach
• Grab a cup of cocoa and get hands-on by planting seeds to take home.

Make a Fresh Flower Pocket Posey

• Where: Mason Ouderkirk Law Office (north side)
• Supported by: Indianola Park Friends, Maddie Kampf Science Classes from Irving School
• Carver was known for wearing a flower in his jacket lapel - now you can too! Craft your own flower arrangement.

Storytime & Special Exhibit

• Where: Corner Sundry (west side)
• Supported by: Indianola Public Library
• Enjoy story sessions at 10:00, 10:45, 11:30 with musical interludes and explore a trunk exhibit from Carver National Birthplace Monument Park.

Circle ‘Round The Square Scavenger Hunt

• Where: Region Bank Hallway (east side)
• Supported by: Indianola Parks & Recreation
• Start your adventure by picking up clues and embarking on a treasure hunt around the square.

Tasty Carver Treat & Photo Display

• Where: Savor the Rise & Pageturners (southeast corner & east)
• Supported by: Indianola Independent-Advocate
• Indulge in a special treat for kids based on Carver's recipes and browse through historical photos of downtown Indianola from Carver's era. Books related to Carver will be available for purchase.

Movie & Special Exhibit

• Where: Salem Connection (west of southwest corner)
• Supported by: Indianola Independent-Advocate, Simpson College
• Watch a 20-minute film narrating Carver’s life, screening at 10:15, 11:00, 11:45. Additionally, witness artwork by Indianola & George Washington Carver School students.

Don't forget to extend your gratitude to the merchants and business owners who have generously supported this celebration. This event promises a joyous tribute to the legacy of George Washington Carver and is an opportunity for the whole community to participate and commemorate his remarkable life and contributions.

• $50 raffle ticket (only 400 available)
• Top prize of $5,000 with $3,500 in additional prize money
• Do not have to be present to win

• Prizes for best chili & best booth/presentation
• Sample chili from 15+ booths
• Click here to register your team

• Multiple games played throughout the day
• Prizes for each winner

Iowa experiences a myriad of weather extremes every year, sometimes in the same week, and in some cases during the same day! KCCI Meteorologist Trey Fulbright will explain the science behind Iowa’s weather extremes and how you can be better prepared for them.   The free program is hosted by Indianola Parks & Recreation and sponsored by Community 1^st Credit Union as part of the Afternoon Adventures Series.

Simpson is holding an open house to celebrate the completion of Dunn Library. The service will be held on Friday, Feb. 16, at 3:30 p.m. at 701 N C St, Indianola, IA 50125.

The library’s $10.5 million renovation project was finally completed as students returned from Winter Break. The project was scheduled to be completed at the beginning of the 2023 semester, but it was delayed due to shortages and supply chain issues. The renovation included a total reconstruction of the interior of the building, a new home for Education Studies, and new study spaces for students. 

After the dedication service, guests can tour the new library and see its services to students and the community.