Boone, Iowa · Every September

Annual Pufferbilly Days Festival

Celebrating the railroad history of Boone, Iowa — proudly produced by the Boone County Chamber since 1976

Boone’s largest event

Established in 1976, the Pufferbilly Days Festival has become a beloved tradition in Boone, IA, celebrating the town’s rich rail history and vibrant community spirit. Every September the festival fills downtown Boone across a long weekend of parades, contests, live music, food and family events.

Select a year below for that festival’s schedule, entertainment, registrations, sponsors and photos.

Choose a festival

Pufferbilly Days by Year

Upcoming festival 2026 September 18–20 50th Anniversary · “Through the Decades”. Saturday night double headliner, Grand Marshals, registrations and vendor applications. See the 2026 festival Past festival 2025 September 19–21 Eleven events across the weekend, 25 sponsors, the festival flyer and photos from the weekend. See the 2025 festival

What to expect

A Weekend in Downtown Boone

Recent festivals have included:

Parade
Live music
Car Show
Downtown Market
Art in the Park
Food trucks
5K / 10K Fun Run
Spike Driving Contest
Hand Car Races
Volleyball Tournament
Tennis Tournament
BBQ Competition
Photography Contest
Mullet, Mustache & Beard Contest

The line-up varies from year to year. Check the festival page for the year you’re interested in.

Get involved

Take Part in Pufferbilly Days

Registrations Enter a contest or book a stall Contest entries, vendor applications and food truck spaces are listed on the upcoming festival’s page. View registrations Sponsors & committee Sponsor the festival or join the committee Sponsorship packages, committee places and media enquiries are handled by the Boone County Chamber. Email the Chamber