Check out this list of events happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, July 25-27. We’ve curated the ones that we found most interesting and listed them here for you.
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change or sell out. Please contact the businesses directly to confirm availability via the links below.
Featured Event
FEATURED EVENT: National Balloon Classic
- Friday, July 25 – Saturday, August 2
- Memorial Balloon Field, 1136 150th Ave, Indianola, IA 50125
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No – they’re balloons! This weekend until August 2, head down to Indianola for the annual National Balloon Classic. It’s a very weather-dependent event if the balloons can fly, but it’s gorgeous if they do. Check out the full schedule of events, activities, and opportunities, which include balloon rides, balloon watching, live music, and so much more! We’ll be there checking it out too.
Friday, July 25
Summer Stir in the Historic East Village
- Friday, July 25, 5 – 9 p.m.
- Historic East Village
Drink your way through the East Village! For just $25 in advance ($35 at the door), sample up to 10 different drinks from some of our local favorites. Start at AJ’s on East Court for check in and use the drink map to hit all participating locations!
Friday Concert Series at Confluence Brewing
- Friday, July 25, 6 – 9 p.m.
- Confluence Brewing, 1235 Thomas Beck Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315
Ready for good beer and to take advantage of the good weather? This summer, Confluence Brewing is offering a FREE concert series featuring some of our favorite local artists. Enjoy drinks and food from Peggy O’s food trunk while listening to the musical talents of a local musician!
 Saturday, July 26
Downtown Farmers’ Market
- Saturday, July 26, 7 a.m. – Noon
- Des Moines’ Historic Court District
The Market is an open-air street market located in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). Vendors will be set up outdoors on Court Avenue and adjacent side streets. It’s one of the best in the country! Don’t miss it this summer to see some of our absolute favorite small business owners from around the metro.
Summer Sale-A-Bration in the Historic Valley Junction
- Saturday, July 25, 9 a.m.
- Historic Valley Junction
Find some great items at great prices at the Historic Valley Junction’s Summer Sale-A-Bration! Participating merchants will have discounted and clearance items on sale all day long. Make a day of shopping, eating, and drinking your way through the Historic Valley Junction!
Wesley Woods Foraging Walk and Make a Wild Dish
- Saturday, July 26, 2 p.m.
- Wesley Woods Camp and Retreat Center, 10896 Nixon St, Indianola, IA 50125
“Join local herbalist and forager, Lindsey Coyne, for a foraging walk to collect wild edibles that are available at the beautiful Wesley Woods, just south of Indianola. We will discuss harvesting safely and sustainably as we identify and gather edible plants and mushrooms. Then we will head to the kitchen where we will collaborate on a delicious dish for everyone to try.”
Taylor Fest at Wooly’s
- Saturday, July 26, 9 p.m.
- Wooly’s, 504 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Having Taylor withdrawals without any new Taylor’s Versions? Look no further than Wooly’s to get your fix! Unite with fellow Des Moines Swifties for Taylor Fest at Wooly’s. Tickets are $20 for the 9 p.m. event. Doors open at 8 p.m.
Des Moines Tea Festival at the Des Moines Heritage Center
- Sunday, July 27, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Des Moines Heritage Center, 120 E 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
“Expand your tea knowledge with our engaging educational sessions, designed for everyone from casual sippers to seasoned connoisseurs. These half-hour to hour-long programs will deepen your appreciation for tea’s rich history, culture, and craft.” Entry is $5.
Make Art with Your Pet at Big Grove Brewery
- Sunday, July 27, 11 a.m.
- Big Grove Brewery, 555 17th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Walk away from Big Grove with a little beer buzz and an amazing one-of-a-kind piece of artwork made by your furry friend! They supply the paint, canvas, and treats, and your pup provides the talent! Tickets are $10.
Summer Needle Felting Workshop at Hoyt Sherman
- Sunday, July 27, 2 – 4:30 p.m.
- Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309
“Learn the art of needle felting! Create beautiful felted wool art as you learn techniques step-by-step in this beginner-friendly workshop. Follow along to create a summer prairie landscape filled with your favorite flowers, or create freely with fluffy, colorful wool! All tools and supplies will be provided for use during the workshop, including a 4” hoop for framing your work. Led by artist Megan Hammer.”
