The 18th annual Iowa Irish Fest kicked off in Waterloo, drawing crowds for a celebration of Irish culture that includes live music, vendors, and traditional highland games. A notable highlight was the wedding of Bryan and Kristi Pickering, held on the festival grounds and officiated by 'His Hooleyness Malarkey I', an iconic character at the event. The festival features various competitive events, including the sheaf toss, where participants aim to throw a 20-pound straw bale over a pole. Attendees can purchase a ticket for $35, valid for the entire weekend of festivities. Historically, the festival has faced challenges with weather, including heat indices soaring as high as 113 degrees and instances of heavy rainfall disrupting the event. The Iowa Irish Fest represents a community-driven effort to celebrate and promote Irish heritage in the region, organized by the Cedar Valley Irish Culture Association.