Travel Jones County!
Get ready to make memories when attending one of many local events. The Great Jones County Fair, held Mid-July in Monticello, is the oldest and one of the largest fairs in the state. Each year, the fair rocks to some of the best concerts, has tractor and truck pulls, harness racing and one of the largest 4-H and livestock shows of any fair in Iowa. A parade kicks off the Wyoming Fair, which includes many activities for those who attend the 3-day event. Enjoy a crisp fall day at the Ryan Norlin Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off & Anamosa Pumpkinfest where record-breaking GIANT pumpkins are brought in, and Main Street is packed with an assortment of unique vendors. Check out the calendar where awesome local events are always happening.
Starlighters II is dedicated to bringing the best of live theatre to Eastern Iowa. It is a nonprofit theatre organization that produces a wide spectrum of entertainment. During each 12-month season, Starlighters II presents four mainstage productions consisting of dramas, comedies, musicals, and has included revues, variety shows, and children’s theatre. The theatre offers classes on acting and directing, which are aimed at helping those interested in learning those elements of theatre and preparing them to work in Starlighters II productions.
Starlighters II was founded in 1974 in Monticello, Iowa, when Ron Ketelsen, a Monticello high school student, saw a need for more opportunities for individuals to participate in live theatre in the Monticello area. He enlisted the support of Bob Furino, a student teacher at the elementary school where he was participating in a job shadowing project. The two teamed up, enlisted a third educator, Emil Prull, with a passion for the theatre, and Starlighters II Theatre was born. Their first production hit the boards in 1975. In February of 1978, the Anamosa Community Theatre joined Starlighters II, and since that time the theatre has become more regional. Today its active membership covers a six-county area.