Raising public awareness of water quality issues in the Iowa Great Lakes and beyond.

The Okoboji Blue Water Festival supports the stewardship of clean water and other natural resources through participation, education and celebration. 

Come and share the experience that is designed for all ages. 

2023 Recap

On a postcard-perfect summer day, August 12, the Okoboji Blue Water Festival unfolded in Preservation Plaza at the Arnolds Park Amusement Park. The all-day family event continued to provide the public with a celebration of clean water while also addressing the challenges of water quality issues in the Iowa Great Lakes and beyond. 

aaaUSE FIRST!!!

2023 Music Announced

Elle King

AJ Croce

All Free, All Day

The theme of the Festival is clean water. We are committed to bringing this event free to the general public to instill the importance of water quality.

David Thoreson Images of the 
2022 Blue Water Festival

Education

David Thoreson Images of the 
2022 Blue Water Festival

Exhibits

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Entertainment

Fishing Seminar

Chase Parsons, professional walleye tournament angler and educator, is going to present the 9 a.m. fishing seminar on Saturday, August 12.

Keynote Speaker

Festival directors have contracted with Jon Bowermaster to be the keynote speaker at next summer's festival. Bowermaster has Iowa connections as a Drake University graduate and a past visitor to Okoboji.

Dr. Thomas Isenhart, professor of Natural Resource Ecology and Management
Dr. Thomas Isenhart, professor of Natural Resource Ecology and Management
Mike Hawkins, Iowa DNR Fisheries Biologist
Mike Hawkins, Iowa DNR Fisheries Biologist
Rosie Roberts, Conservation Agronomist
Rosie Roberts, Conservation Agronomist
Jennifer Terry, project manager for the Source Water Research Assessment
Jennifer Terry, project manager for the Source Water Research Assessment
Joe McGovern (moderator), President of Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation
Joe McGovern (moderator), President of Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

Clean Water Panel added to Festival agenda

A truly exciting educational clean water opportunity has been added to the festival agenda. A State/Local Clean Water Panel Discussion will run from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. under the Big Tent.”