With summer Ames having arrived, the city’s live music series have also returned. Several long-running outdoor events begin in the coming days and the performances span from rock to country and jazz to pop.

It’s officially the holiday season — the temperature has dropped, there’s snow on the ground and decorations are up. There are markets, celebrations, festive gatherings, holiday music and more in and around Ames that are sure to get you in good spirits ahead of Christmas Day.

Live music filled the air of Ames on Sunday where makers, artists, vintage sellers and food trucks made way for the Lucky Star Iowa market to make its annual return. The market, which took place at...