Check out this list of events happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, August 8-10. 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.
- August 15-16
- The Shop, 901 Cherry St, Des Moines, IA 50309
We all want to know who we can trust in the media these days. Next weekend, The Lyceum Movement is hosting the third annual Des Moines Festival of Ideas, a celebration of thought and culture for the whole community. The only event of it’s kind in the Midwest, the Festival will feature speakers from The Atlantic, The Dispatch, Aspen Institute, Iowa State, and more, to explore great ideas with beer and food. Check out the full lineup at the link below. See ya there!
Friday, August 8
Iowa State Fair
- Today – Sunday, August 17
- Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 East Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50317
It’s that time of year again! Head down to the Iowa State Fairgrounds for one of the best state fairs in the country! We know it can be overwhelming, so of course we have a guide for it 🙂
Friday Concert Series at Confluence Brewing
- Friday, August 8, 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 Hot Bunch!
Mihali with Andrew Hoyt at Wooly’s
- Friday, August 8, 7 p.m.
- Wooly’s, 504 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
“For Mihali, music behaves much like a living being…. The Vermont-based singer, songwriter, guitarist, and co-founder of rock outfit Twiddle continues to evolve, using his gift as one of the strongest modern-day songwriters, guitarists and performers to bring healing vibes and unforgettable songs to the world.” Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show starts with local opener Andrew Hoyt!
August Swing Dance & Donation Drive with Heartland Swing
- Friday, August 8, 7:15 – 10 p.m.
- Dance-a-Cross,1978 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Learn to dance for a great cause! This Friday, join Heartland Swing for a beginner swing dancing class, and stay to dance the night away. Bring a donation for local schools and receive $2 off the $10 entry fee!
Free Movie in the Park at Waukee Centennial Park
- Friday, August 8, Dusk
- Waukee Centennial Park, 1255 Warrior Lane, Waukee, Iowa 50263
Don’t worry Waukee friends, we didn’t forget about you! Not feeling like taking the trip downtown? Enjoy an outdoor movie in your own backyard for the last outdoor movie of the season: The Wild Robot. Admission is free, but bring your own blanket, chairs, and snacks. Movie starts at dusk.
 Saturday, August 9
Downtown Farmers Market
- Saturday, August 9, 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.
46th Annual Adel Sweet Corn Festival
- Saturday, August 9, 9:30 a.m.
- Downtown Adel, 920 Main St, Adel, IA 50003
Skip the State Fair this Saturday and head over to Adel for a full day of sweet corn! Enjoy a parade, live music, food trucks, vendors, live entertainment, tons of activities, and (of course) so much corn! Admission is free.
Inhale, Exhale, Draw at Hoyt Sherman Place
- Saturday, August 9, 1 – 3 p.m.
- Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314
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Bit by Bit Comedy Workshop at xBk Live
- Saturday, August 9, 3 – 5 p.m.
- 1159 24th St, Des Moines, IA 50311
“Take the next step in your writing and performing! Come talk comedy and workshop your material with other women and non-binary folk in a supportive environment. You’ll have a chance to share what you’re working on, give feedback on others’ ideas, and learn from each other. No experience necessary, only enthusiasm.”
Free Patio Yoga at Big Grove
- Sunday, August 10, 10 a.m.
- Big Grove Brewery, 555 17th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Start your day at Big Grove with a free and gentle restorative yoga class! This flow is open to all ages and all skill levels, so grab your mat and a friend and start your Sunday off right!
End of Summer Doggie Dip at Nahas Aquatic Center
- Saturday, August 10, 3 – 5 p.m.
- Nahas Aquatic Center, 1101 Porter Ave, Des Moines, IA 50315
Looking to close summer out with a bang with your pup? For just $5, end the season with a bang and sign up for a pool paw-ty session at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.! Registration and adorable dogs required.
Dog-Friendly Sunday Market at “THE BANK” at The Little Book
- Sunday, August 10, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- “THE BANK” at The Little Book, 520 Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
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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.
