FRY fest was created in 2009 as a collaborative effort between the Iowa City/Coralville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, City of Coralville, and University of Iowa Athletics, to bring a “Celebration of all that is Hawkeye” to the State of Iowa and fans nationwide. The event is named after one of the greatest Hawkeyes of all-time and the man who is responsible for bringing the TigerHawk to the University of Iowa…Hayden Fry. The first two years included the honoring of Coach Fry and the great Coach Forest Evashevski. The World’s Largest Hawkeye Tradeshow, a show and shine car show, autograph sessions with coaches and former athletes, a Hawkeye pep rally, outdoor concerts, and the festival’s most popular accomplishment, breaking the Guinness World Record for the Largest Hokey Pokey Dance with 7,384 participants!

The third annual FRY fest, presented by The Eastern Iowa Airport, took place on FRYday, September 2, 2011. Hawkeye Nation paid tribute to 1972 Olympic Gold Medalist and former Iowa Wrestling coach, Dan Gable. The 75th anniversary of the world renowned Scottish Highlanders was also celebrated. Other activities included a very special production of ’This Is Your Life, Dan Gable,’ a Hawkeye Tailgate Show & Shine car show, a kid zone, and multiple food vendors creating Tailgate Row, along with the return of the tradeshow, pep rally, and outdoor concert.

With numerous family-friendly activities planned throughout the day, FRY fest is a true Celebration of all that is Hawkeye. Be sure to mark your calendar for next year’s event - FRYday, September 7, 2012 when the Hawkeyes take on the Cyclones! A schedule of events for next year will be available in the spring.

This page is presented in an effort to answer all of your FRY fest questions. If you don’t find the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us through the email link or phone number listed in the top navigation bar.

Thanks again for visiting and Go Hawks!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I purchase concert tickets?

Tickets can be purchased in-person at Coralville City Hall and online here.

Where can I purchase tickets to the football game?

Tickets for the University of Iowa vs Tennessee Tech football game, or any other Hawkeye game, can be purchased by visiting www.hawkeyesports.com..

Where can I sign up to be an exhibitor at FRY fest?

Officially licensed University of Iowa vendors and/or retailers can sign up here on this website. Click here for more information.

Are dogs welcome at the concert?

Yes! Dogs are welcome at the concert, but must be on leash at all times. You are also responsible for cleaning up after your dog. If either of these rules are violated, you may be asked to leave the concert area. This is a family-friendly event and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it, including Fido!

What is Be Bold, Wear Gold?

All Hawkeye fans are encouraged to BE BOLD and WEAR GOLD for the first home game. For the past 3 years, the University of Iowa Sports Marketing division has created a Gold Bowl game and a Blackout Game. Official GOLD BOWL shirts will soon be available at retailers throughout Iowa.

Will I be able to purchase a High Porch Gift Pack at the tradeshow?

No. The Limited Edition High Porch Gift Packs are only available though one of the area hotels. Learn more about these various packages by visiting the Hotel Package section of our website.

Are children welcome at the tradeshow?

Not only are they welcomed, they are encouraged to attend. There will be plenty of activities and fun for people of all ages!

Where is the Beverage Garden?

The Beverage Garden will be located within the concert grounds of the Iowa River Landing.

Are all the activities free?

All activities are free and open to the public with the exception of the concert.

If I leave the concert area, can I get back in?

Yes. Upon admission, you will receive a wristband.

Can I bring my own food and beverages into the Concert area?

No. Food vendors and a Beverage Garden will be on-site with all proceeds to benefit the Coralville 4thFest Committee.

Will there be Hawkeye merchandise available to buy at the tradeshow?

Yes. Just about everything you have seen or heard about in the world of Hawkeye merchandise will be on display and, in most cases, available for purchase that day!

Will any trophies be on display?

Yes! Last year Hawkeye fans were able to get their picture taken with the Orange Bowl trophy. Please check back in a few months for a list of which trophies will be available to view and take pictures with this September.

Will there be more activities added to this website?

Yes. As the event date nears, more and more information and details will be added to the site. You can also keep tabs on us by following us on Facebook at ‘FRY Fest’ and Twitter at @FRYfest. See the top navigation bar of this website for more info.

Where can I go for information on the day of the event?

The tradeshow will include an Iowa City/Coralville Area CVB booth who will be able to answer all of your FRY fest and community questions.

Are concert tickets more expensive the day of the event?

Unfortunately, yes. Be sure to get them early though! Two great bands, one VERY low price!

Will there be a cab service available?

Yes, cabs will be on-site after 6:00pm.

Will the football team be there?

No, but the UI Marching Band and Spirit Squad will be, along with student athletes and coaches from just about every other UI sports team.

Will there be space to park bicycles?

Yes! And we strongly encourage traveling this way!

Where can I volunteer?

First off, THANK YOU for your interest in volunteering. There are several areas of FRY fest where we need your help. Click here to register as a FRY fest volunteer.

When do I have to book a hotel package by?

Hotel packages will be available until sold out. Keep in mind that only 500 are available and there are just over 2400 rooms available in the Iowa City/Coralville Area so book early!

Is there a concert refund policy?

No. All concert tickets sales are final.

What safety measures are in place for this event?

The FRY fest Committee takes safety very seriously and is working alongside the Coralville Police Department and other public officials in coordinating all activities.

Is the tradeshow air conditioned?

Sure is. It’s always sunny and 72 inside the Exhibition Hall of the Marriott Hotel & Conference Center.