Tribute to Heroes Nominations are OPEN!
Nominate a Community Hero!
Every day, individuals across our community demonstrate extraordinary heroism through service, courage, compassion, and perseverance. The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Tribute to Heroes Award, recognizing local heroes whose actions make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
The Tribute to Heroes Breakfast will honor five outstanding individuals selected from nominations submitted by friends, family members, and community members. Honorees may include first responders, doctors, nurses, active-duty military members, veterans, and everyday heroes who go above and beyond to serve and uplift our community.
Nominations open today, Tuesday, January 20th and will remain open through Friday, February 20th. Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals whose leadership, service, kindness, or selflessness deserves recognition.
Save the Date: June 30th 2026!
The Tribute to Heroes Breakfast will take place on Tuesday, June 30th as part of the 2026 Freedom Festival celebration. Honorees will be recognized during the breakfast ceremony and will also serve as Grand Marshals of the 2026 Freedom Festival Parade.
The Freedom Festival extends sincere thanks to the continued support of this year’s Tribute to Heroes sponsors: Eagle Point Solar, Cedar Memorial, and Atlantic Bottling Company. Their generosity helps ensure this meaningful tradition continues to honor those who serve our community in extraordinary ways.
From the Executive Director
“This is one of our favorite events each year. It gives us the opportunity to honor the incredible first responders, medical professionals, military members both active and veteran, and everyday heroes who are doing truly outstanding things for our community. We are thrilled to be bringing this event back and shining a light on the people who make Eastern Iowa such a special place to live.”
