CONTRIBUTED PHOTO AND GRAPHICS

TIMES-REPUBLICAN

The community is invited to celebrate the highly anticipated opening of the Apgar Family Water Plaza on Saturday, June 6, marking an exciting new addition to Marshalltown’s recreational and cultural landscape.

The morning will begin with a Grand Opening Ceremony from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by the official opening of the Apgar Family Water Plaza to the public at 11:00 a.m.

“The opening of the Apgar Family Water Plaza is perfect timing. School’s out, summertime outdoor activities are all around, and it will be so exciting to see this award-winning design come to life — welcoming residents and visitors for generations to come. I am proud to be part of the Linn Creek District’s re-imagining efforts that will greatly enhance community pride and quality of life,” Tom Apgar said.

Located next to Mega 10 Park, the Apgar Family Water Plaza has been thoughtfully designed with Iowa artist, Hilde DeBruyne, as a vibrant, family-friendly destination and will serve as a central gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Inspired by the concept of “skipping stones,” the plaza reflects shared experiences across generations, with rhythmic water features that create a playful and meaningful environment unique to Marshalltown.

The grand opening event will feature cultural performances, food trucks, and activities for all ages — making it the perfect kickoff to summer.

“The Apgar Family Water Plaza is an exciting addition to our parks system and a reflection of our commitment to creating spaces where families can gather, play, and make lasting memories. This project brings together recreation, art, and community in a truly unique way, and we’re thrilled to welcome everyone to experience it,” Marshalltown Parks and Recreation Director Kelsie Stafford said.

The Apgar Family Water Plaza is part of the broader Linn Creek District transformation — spearheaded by the City of Marshalltown, Arts + Culture Alliance and the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce — an effort decades in the making that ACA Executive Director Amber Danielson said reflects the power of public-private partnerships and a shared vision for Marshalltown’s future.

“This effort would not be possible without the many supporters, donors, and champions who have believed in this vision over the years. This has truly been years in the making, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this milestone with our community,” she said.

Event Details

• What: Grand Opening of the Apgar Family Water Plaza

• When: Saturday, June 6th, 2026

o Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: 10:00 – 11:00 AM

o Public Opening: 11:00 AM (open until 9 AM)

o Food Trucks & Performances 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM

• Where: Next to Mega 10 Park, Marshalltown, IA

• Cost: Free and open to the public

The Apgar Family Water Plaza will offer free admission, ensuring accessibility for all. Handicap parking will be available at Mega-10; Event parking available underneath the viaduct near the Aquatic Center and at the 6th Street Softball Complex.