Atlantic Area Chamber Announces Community Concert at Sunnyside Park

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Atlantic High School Smackdown Committee, City of Atlantic Parks & Recreation, and the Atlantic Fire Department, is pleased to announce the return of its annual outdoor concert, now known as the Community Concert, on Friday, August 14, 2026.

“This has become a fun tradition during reunion weekend, but it’s never been just for alumni,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “The new name reflects what we’ve always wanted this event to be, a concert for the whole community. Whether you’re returning to Atlantic, have lived here your entire life, or just moved to town, we invite everyone to grab a lawn chair, bring their friends and family, and enjoy a great night of live music at Sunnyside Park.”

The free community event will take place at Sunnyside Park and will feature an evening of live music, food, and family-friendly entertainment. Food will be available for purchase, and the beer garden, hosted by the Atlantic Fire Department, will be open from 5:00–10:00 p.m.

Live music will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Darla Hansen, followed by Dirt Road Divide from 7:00–10:00 p.m. The event is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of live entertainment in the park.

For additional information and event updates, follow the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or visit www.atlanticiowa.com.

Atlantic Area Chamber Ambassadors Visit Wild Wayne’s Fireworks

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited Wild Wayne’s Fireworks on Thursday, June 18th, 2026, to learn more about the locally owned business and its preparations for another busy fireworks season.

Owned and operated by the O’Brien family, Wild Wayne’s Fireworks has been serving customers since consumer fireworks became legal in Iowa in 2017. Located in a temperature-controlled indoor superstore on the south side of Rex Pharmacy in Atlantic, the business has grown into a destination for fireworks enthusiasts throughout southwest Iowa, offering a wide selection of products for celebrations of all sizes.

During the visit, staff shared that customers can preview many fireworks displays on their phones before purchasing, making it easier to find the right products for their celebration and budget. Knowledgeable staff are also available to answer questions and help customers make the most of their fireworks experience.

Wild Wayne’s proudly supports community celebrations throughout the region, including the City of Atlantic’s annual Independence Day fireworks display. In addition to its Atlantic location, the business also operates a seasonal trailer in Griswold, helping support the local girls wrestling club.

As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary in 2026, Wild Wayne’s is featuring new products, special giveaways, and prize drawings throughout the season. Community members are encouraged to stop by, explore the latest inventory, and stock up for their Independence Day celebrations.

Wild Wayne’s Fireworks is open seven days a week from June 1 through July 8. Store hours are Monday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Visit Sunnyside Pool

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited Sunnyside Pool on Tuesday, June 16th to learn about the many new amenities, events, and improvements that continue to make the facility a fun summer destination for families and visitors of all ages.

During the visit, pool staff highlighted several exciting additions made for the 2026 season. Since the Nishna Valley Family YMCA assumed management of the City-owned facility a few years ago, the YMCA and the City of Atlantic have worked together to continually enhance the pool experience through new equipment, seating, games, and facility improvements. One of the most notable additions this season is Confetti Corner, a new resort-style gathering space created with the support of a donation from the Atlantic Lions Club. The upgraded area features an eight-piece patio furniture set, high-top Adirondack chairs, a bar-height table with stools, hanging hammocks, decorative greenery, and a sunshade, transforming the pergola into a comfortable cabana-style seating area. Confetti Corner is available to rent for birthday parties, celebrations, and special gatherings for just $20 per two-hour block.

Additional improvements throughout the facility include more bean-bag chairs for poolside relaxation, new games and activities, and a new safety gate surrounding the children’s area to provide added security for younger swimmers. The kiddie area has also been expanded with water tables and interactive play features designed specifically for young children.

Visitors can also enjoy an expanded concession menu featuring new offerings such as dirty sodas, frappes, and other refreshing treats. Throughout the summer, Sunnyside Pool hosts a variety of activities and special events including Adult Coffee Club, children’s entertainment performances, story times, live mermaid appearances, and Cass Health Free Fridays from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. during the month of June.

Staff shared that Sunnyside Pool’s mission extends beyond providing a place to swim. Through the continued partnership between the City of Atlantic and the Nishna Valley Family YMCA, and with support from community organizations and donors, the pool continues to evolve with new amenities, programming, and improvements that create a welcoming place for families to make lasting summer memories.

Sunnyside Pool is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information about events, rentals, and admission, visit the Sunnyside Pool Facebook page or call 712-243-4171.

AtlanticFest Returns to Downtown Atlantic on August 8

AtlanticFest, presented by First Whitney Bank & Trust, will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026, rain or shine. The annual community celebration serves as a fundraiser for the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce and brings together families, businesses, organizations, and visitors from across the region for a full day of activities and entertainment.

“AtlanticFest continues to be one of the Chamber’s largest and most impactful events each year,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “The support from our sponsors, volunteers, and community allows us to create a fun event for all ages while also helping fund future Chamber programs, business initiatives, and community events throughout the year.”

Downtown Atlantic will once again be filled with activities for the whole family. Attendees can start the morning with a Hy-Vee pancake breakfast or participate in the Fun Run, presented by Cass Health, featuring both a 2K walk/run and 5K run. Visitors can also explore the 28th Annual Car Show, presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic, and 11th Annual Motorcycle Show. There will also be a variety of activity and craft booths to browse, food vendors to explore, and live entertainment to enjoy throughout the day.

Families can head to City Park for kids’ games, bounce houses, pedal pulls, and the annual bags tournament. With events and activities happening throughout downtown, AtlanticFest offers something for everyone.

Preregistration for the Car Show, Motorcycle Show, Fun Run, and Bags Tournament is open now, with day-of registration also available. Registration for craft and food vendors is also currently being accepted until August 3rd. To register for any activity or learn more about the event, visit https://www.atlanticiowa.com/atlanticfest/, email chamber@atlanticiowa.com, or call the Chamber office at 712-243-3017.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce thanks presenting sponsor First Whitney Bank & Trust, along with the many community partners whose support helps make AtlanticFest possible each year, including: AM Cohron & Son, Atlantic Municipal Utilities, Cass Health, Coyote Willow Wind, Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Nishna Valley Family YMCA, Armour Insurance, Salute Gymnastics, Jazzercise Atlantic, Budget Blinds, Brown’s Shoe Fit, Gregg Young of Atlantic, Atlantic Ag & Auto, Camblin Mechanical, McAtee Tire, Rolling Hills Bank & Trust, Wiota Steakhouse, and Camblin Plumbing & Heating.