A Walk in the Park (Rolling Hills Music Festival)

Actually, life IS a walk in the park — at least for one night! Rolling Hills Music Festival kicks off with a free immersive outdoor concert to be enjoyed at your own pace. Make your way through McFarland Park to the sounds of live classical music played by local and regional musicians: * Ames native Caleb Hans Polashek will dazzle with original solo violin music inspired by Iowa's natural landscape and moments of everyday life. * Hailing from eastern Iowa, guitarist Abigail Rae will present a mix of historical works and her own compositions. * Des Moines-based Erica Leake McKnight and Steven Kennedy join forces for the flute-guitar set you never knew you needed. * Four Ames string talents form a one-night-only string quartet playing heartwarming tunes: violinists Dekel Luban and Gretchen Theesfield, violist Nathalie Cruden, and cellist Yeil Park. Grab something to sit on and join us for an evening of music that feels exactly like summer is meant to. NOTE: In case of inclement weather, the event's rain date is Sunday, August 9, 6:30-8 p.m. Stay tuned to Rolling Hills Music Festival's Facebook and Instagram (@rollinghillsmusic.ia) for updates. -- Rolling Hills Music Festival is a celebration of homegrown classical music in the heart of Iowa. The inaugural season takes place August 6-9, 2026, with five events at five different venues across Ames. Each event features top local/regional professionals and incorporates compositions with an Iowa connection.