Get up close and personal on the field, meet up with friends at your favorite bar, or tune in from the comfort of your living room couch. How are you watching the game this year? Photo: Emily Kestel.
Everyone and their grandmother is preparing for Saturday’s iconic football faceoff between the Iowa State University Cyclones and the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. If you don’t already have tickets to watch in person, you can check out some last-minute resale ticket prices, or find a local tailgate party streaming the game live. Regardless of where your loyalties lie, here are some places around Iowa hosting CyHawk viewing events.
Des Moines: In the capital city, Des Moines Performing Arts is hosting its Touchdown Tailgate event from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Cowles Commons (221 Walnut St., Des Moines). Fans from both sides can watch the game live on two Jumbotron TVs and enjoy bites from local food trucks and craft beers from area bars. Other live entertainment and music will round out the pregame party.
Waterloo: The Waterloo Bucks baseball team will host a CyHawk game watch party in their Riverfront Stadium (850 Park Road, Waterloo). The game will be displayed on their 474-square-foot LED video board, and guests can bring chairs and blankets to set up in the field. The concession stands will also be open. Gates open right before kickoff at 2:30 p.m.
Pella: If you’re looking for neutral ground to gather your friends from both teams, head to Smash Park in Pella (1000 Fifield Road, Pella) for a tailgate party. There are perfect TV views from any seat, so you won’t miss a single play. Plus, enjoy $4 breakfast burritos from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., $1 tacos until 3 p.m., and yard games on the outdoor patio.
Fort Dodge: Starting bright and early at 8 a.m., Koozies (16 N. Seventh St., Fort Dodge) will host a game day party featuring a tailgate cook-off, classic yard games and prizes. The party even continues after the game with a live musical performance. Tickets cost $5.
