As always make sure to check out the calendar events on the right hand side of the page. Here are just a few happenings coming up this week!

1. FOOTBALL!

First and the most important … college football starts this weekend! GO BIG RED!!

• Nebraska vs. Wyoming in Lincoln at 7:00 p.m. on the Big Ten Network
• Iowa vs. Northern Illinois at 2:30 p.m. on the Big Ten Network
• Iowa State vs. Northern Iowa at 7:00 p.m. on Cyclones.tv/Mediacom

 

2. Hy-Vee Triathlon 

When: Friday, August 30 – Sunday, September 1st

Where and What: This annual event kicks off Friday evening with a 80’s cover band at the Simon Estes Ampitheater and packet pick up for all of the weekend events. Saturday morning is the Iron Kids U.S. Championship which starts at Gray’s Lake. Sunday is the Men’s and Women’s races, ending the day with rewards. It is encouraged for people to come line up and cheer on the athletes! For more information and scheduled events check out the official website here.

3. Taste of the Junction 

When: Friday, August 30th 5-10 pm & Saturday, August 31st 12- 6 pm

Where and What: Come to Valley Junction for a family friendly event. Walk around and see the different vendors, listen to live music, try different foods, and more. For more information regarding this event check out here.

4. Des Moines Renaissance Fare Xl

When: Saturday, August 31st – Monday, August 2nd 10 am – 6 pm ALSO September 7-8 & September 14-15

Where: Sleepy Hollow Sports Park

What: This is a very FUN family event loaded with activities, entertainment, food and so much more! Entertainment is FREE (included with entrance into the festival) and includes juggler, fire breather, dancers, jousting, etc. There is a lot of unique foods and drinks to try. Tons of games for everyone! Check out their official site for everything here. This may be something you may want to attend TWICE to enjoy everything!

5. Walnut Creek Watershed

When: Saturday, August 31st 10 am – 2 pm

Where and What: This will be held at Colby Park by the Walnut Creek Watershed Coalition. You will be cleaning up around the Walnut Creek area. This would be a great opportunity for younger aged kiddos to volunteer and help with the environment. Volunteers are still needed. Check out here for contact and more information.

6. Fall Harvest 

When: Saturday, August 31st 7:30 am – 2 pm

Where and What: It’s going to be hot this weekend, but if you are a wine lover check out the Fall Harvest at Summerset Winery! You will pick the grapes off the wine, crush them with your own feet, try the wines, and enjoy breakfast & lunch at the vineyard. Reservations are required. Check out their website here for prices and how to reserve your spot!

7. Rally to Improve Birth 

When: Monday, September 2nd 10 am – 12 pm

Where: State Capitol Grounds

What: This is an international event! The whole purpose of this rally is to bring awareness about natural birth vs. medicated birth. It is an opportunity for women to be able to make more informed decisions about their pregnancies and giving birth. For more information about this event, check out the official website here.

8. Doggie Dive

When: Monday, September 2nd 4 – 6:30 pm

Where and What: Located at the Teachout Aquatic Center on Hubbell Avenue. Every year before the aquatic shuts down their pools, they open them up for all of the four-legged creatures to come and swim! It is $4 per dog and must always be accompanied by their owners. Check out here for more information.