Check out this list of events happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, August 1-3. 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 Photo: Mikinna Kerns
Friday, August 1
National Balloon Classic
- Today – Saturday, August 2
- Memorial Balloon Field, 1136 150th Ave, Indianola, IA 50125
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No – they’re balloons! Through 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.
Hinterland Music Festival
- Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3
- Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater, Saint Charles, IA
It’s the weekend we’ve all been waiting for. Tyler The Creator, Lana del Ray, and Kacey Musgraves are all in St. Charles this weekend for Hinterland. The weather looks absolutely dreamy to check out Hinterland’s new space. Stay cool, safe, and up to date with the latest at the link below.Â
First Friday at Mainframe Studios
- Friday, August 1, 5 – 8 p.m.
- Mainframe Studios, 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines, IA 50309
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First Friday in the Historic East Village
- Friday, August 1, 5 – 8 p.m.
- Historic East Village
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ARL Yappy Hour at Confluence Brewing
- Friday, August 1, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- Confluence Brewing, 1235 Thomas Beck Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315
Grab your pup and get ready to yap at Confluence Brewing! Wrap up the work week with pizza, live music, and good human and pet company. The Travelers will be performing live at this FREE event (RSVP requested), and Confluence will be serving drinks for the humans and bark-uterie cups for the pups. Don’t have a dog? No worries! Come for the vibes and to support a great cause.
Fourth Annual Adult Recess at Captain Roy’s
- Friday, August 1, 6 – 9 p.m.
- Captain Roy’s, 1842 Pennsylvania Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316
Who doesn’t miss the days of recess and kickball? Okay… maybe not all of us, but we sure love a fun and free event in Des Moines! This adults-only recess features endless schoolyard games, team competitions, and live music! Register now to secure your spot!
 Saturday, August 2
Downtown Farmers Market
- Saturday, August 2, 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.
Eras in the Sun: Taylor Swift Pool Party at Teachout Aquatic Center
- Saturday, August 2, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
- Teachout Aquatic Center, 2601 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
It doesn’t matter what Era you’re in, this is a pool party you don’t want to miss! Grab your friendship bracelets and put on an Era’s inspired outfit for a Taylor Swift-themed pool party for all ages. Enjoy friendship bracelet making, sunglass decorating, color pages, Zumba, and prizes! Tickets are $15 per person.
Emo Nite with KennyHoopla at Wooly’s
- Saturday, August 2, 9 p.m.
- Wooly’s, 504 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Embrace your inner and outer emo at Emo Nite with KennyHoopla! Pull together your best emo fit and get your tickets for a night full of your favorite emo hits. Tickets are $20, and doors open at 9 p.m.
Rewind Throwback Drag Brunch at The Garden
- Sunday, August 3, 11 a.m.
- The Garden, 525 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
“The Church Basement Ladies of The Garden present Rewind Throwback Drag Brunch. This is a buffet-style drag brunch with the option to add on unlimted Mimosas or Bloody Mary drinks! Don’t want unlimited drinks? No worries! We have a cash bar available selling both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.” Cast includes the talents of Muffy Rosenberg, Domita Sanchez, Madison Cavalier, Momma Jean, Juanita Voltaire, and Iva Fedish.
Hinterland Music Festival Afterpart at Val Air Ballroom
- Sunday, August 3, 10:30 p.m.
- Val Air Ballroom, 301 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265
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Want to join us at a comedy show in late August?Â
Let’s have a good laugh in Ankeny, shall we? Get your tickets 2 for 1 for a limited time.
