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DSM Activities & Events 11/14 – 11/20

Make sure to check out the events calendar on the right hand side of the page! Have a great weekend everyone!

1. Little Big Fest 

When: Friday at 5 pm

Where and What: This is an annual one day event located in the East Village. This is one of many events that help support the Des Moines Music Coalition. There will be 17 acts including headliner Soul Rebels. The music acts feature roots, bluegrass, jam, blues, soul music, and more! Advance tickets are $20 for a full fest pass. Tickets are $25 at the door. You can purchase individual show tickets. The bands will be playing at various places in the East Village including: House of Bricks, Wooly’s, and Beechwood Lounge. Check out the Little Big Fest website for more details!

2. Santa’s Arrival at Valley West Mall 

When: Friday 6 pm – 8 pm

Where and What: Santa is making is arrival at the Valley West Mall for the holiday season! There will be FREE train rides, animal balloons, crafts, treats and entertainment! For more information check out Valley West Mall’s event page!

3. Beaverdale Holiday Boutique 

When: Friday 6 – 8:30 pm & Saturday 8 am – 3 pm

Where and What: Get a head start on your holiday shopping at Holy Trinity School! There will be food available and lots of vendors to take a look at. Admission is $4.

4. Stam Chocolate Charity Run

When: Saturday at 9 am

Where and What: Who LOVES chocolate?!? This is a fun, yummy run and also benefits John Stoddard Cancer Center! Does not get any better then that? The 5k run/walk starts at 9 am and the Kids Fun Run will begin at 10 am. Afterwards the State Historical Society of Iowa will offer FREE tours. Check out Chocoalterie Stams website for more information!

5. Magic Workshop

When: Saturday 2 pm – 3 pm

Where and What: Magician, Jonathan May will host a magic show at the Clive Public Library. Not only will he show children magic tricks, but also teach them how to do magic tricks at home! This is a FREE event!

6. Breaking Bread Together

When: Sunday 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Where and What: This FREE event is for the whole family! Breaking Bread Together is held by the Gateway Dance Theatre. Come together with several other people to learn about dance, make fall ornaments, and sample bread. Bring some homemade bread or bread from a local bakery to share! There will also be soup and dessert available.

7. Cloth Diaper 101

When: Tuesday 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Where and What: Little Padded Seats, located in Valley West Mall offers a great class for those interested in cloth diapering. In class they go over what diapers to buy, how to care for them, how many you need, and more! This is also a great class for those who may already by cloth diapering, but just need a refresher! Check out Little Padded Seats: Cloth Diaper 101 Information page for more information.

 

 

 

DSM Activities & Events 11/7 – 11/13

 

As always make sure to check out the calendar on the right hand side of the page for more events going on in the area! Have a great weekend!

1. Science Center of Iowa

When: Friday 5 pm – 8 pm

What: TWO great events are going on at the same time!

  • Family Night: You can build a rocket, travel through outer space, eat some snacks from the cafe, and more! $5
  • LEGO Build: The Iowa LEGO Users group will discuss the process and engineering behind the SCI LEGO Build. There will also be plenty of LEGO bricks to play with! $5

 

2. Wells Fargo Arena 

When: Friday & Saturday

What: Are you wanting to get out and go to a concert this weekend? You have two opportunities! Pink will be performing Friday night at 8 pm and Keith Urban will be performing Saturday night at 7 pm. Check out Iowa Events Center to get your tickets!

3. Iowa’s Premier Beer, Wine and Food Expo 

When: Friday 4 – 10 pm & Saturday 10 am – 8 pm

Where and What: Find a sitter and make it a date night! This event is a great way to try wonderful food from various chefs in the Midwest, and to try beer and wine! Please check out the Iowa’s Premier Beer, Wine and Food Expo’s website for a list of scheduled events, vendors, and to purchase tickets!

4. Holiday Open House

When: Saturday 10 am – 1 pm

Where and What: It’s that time of year! West Glen Town Center is hosting a holiday open house. There is a chance to win a $500.00 gift card and Santa will be available for a FREE family photo! Everyone is encouraged to bring a personal hygiene product that will be donated to Children & Families of Iowa.

5. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. 

When: November 8th – December 1st

Where and What: Today is the opening night for this wonderful show at the Des Moines Playhouse! The show is for ages 5 years and older, so if you think your kiddo can sit, listen and watch a classic, this would be a great family event! Tickets are $17 for adults and seniors, and $13 for students and children. To purchase tickets and for show times check out the Des Moines Playhouse.

6. Infant & Children’s Clothing Swap 

When: Saturday 10 am – Noon

Where and What: Little Padded Seats, located in Valley West Mall is hosting a great event! Are you looking for winter clothes, for your little one or looking to get rid of some clothes? This is also a great way to make some extra cash for the holiday season too! Please check out all of the rules and guidelines whether you are looking to sell or buy here.

7. On the Wagon Ride 

When: Saturday 6 pm – 10 pm

Where and What: Do one last Fall celebration before all the Holiday activities start! Summerset Winery, in Indianola is hosting “On the Wagon”. Join them for a bon-fire, hay rack rides, hot dogs, chili, and of course wine! The cost is $25 per person and RSVP is requested. For more information check out Summerset Winery.

8. Central Iowa Wind Ensemble Children’s Concert 

When: Sunday at 2 pm

Where and What: The Central Iowa Wind Ensemble will be conducting a special children’s concert at the Temple of Performing Arts. This is a FREE event, so bring the whole family! There will be themes from the Hobbits, Peter and the Wolf, Barnum & Bailey’s Favorite, and more. It is a great educational event for everyone! For more information regarding the concert and directions please check out Central Iowa Wind Ensemble.

 

 

 

DSM Activities & Events 10/31 – 11/6

A lot of FREE events going on this weekend for your kiddos! Also, this is the last weekend for the Des Moines area Haunted Houses!

Also, do not forget we FALL BACK this weekend! Do not forget to change your clocks!

1. Wonder of Words

When: November 2nd – November 12th

What and Where: This is a unique event that connects writers, readers, and publishers in several events around the Des Moines area. There are several events scheduled within the ten days. Please check the Wonder of Words website for a complete schedule and more information about Wonder of Words!

2. Wicked 

When: Thursday, October 31st – Sunday, November 10th

What and Where: Wicked is at the Des Moines Civic Center! If you have not seen this amazing show, now is the time! Tickets may still be available for various times. Please check the Des Moines Performing Arts website for times and ticket availability.

3. Mixology Night

When: Friday 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

What and Where: A fun date night! The Science Center of Iowa is hosting another Mixology Night. There will be drinks, science, experiments, entertainment, and lots of mingling! Admission is $5 BUT if you are a Science Center of Iowa member it is FREE!

4. Fall Back Festival 

When:  Saturday, 10 am – 3 pm

What and Where: Grimes United Methodist Church is holding a Fall Festival! There will be horse rides, relay races, bounce houses, fall snacks, and much more! This whole event is FREE! So bring out the entire family and celebrate!

5. Magickal Costume Party

When: Saturday at 1 pm

What and Where: Beaverdale Books is hosting a Magickal Costume Party! Dress up in your best wizard costume! There will also be a book signing by Alan Lance Anderson and activities. Costume judging begins at 1:30 pm and you can win some awesome prizes! The is event is FREE!

6. Kanzi’s Carnival

When: Saturday 2 pm – 4 pm

What and Where: Iowa Primate Learning Sanctuary is celebrating Kanzi’s 33rd brithday! This is a great event for the whole family, especially for the little ones.  Kanzi will be having a carnival themed birthday party with popcorn, face painting, clowns, balloons, and more! All the proceeds for this event will directly benefit Kanzi and his family! Tickets are $10 per person, kids 2 and under are FREE! Reserve your tickets today at the Iowa Primate Learning Sanctuary site.

7. Halloween Hot Chocolate Run 5k and 5 Mile Race

When: Sunday at 9 am

What and Where: A fun run to help benefit Above & Beyond Cancer. This run will take place at Principal Park. $38.00 for early bird registration and for the Kids Fun Run is $5.00 registration. A great event for the whole family to get some fresh air and be active!

8. Crafty Readers

When: Tuesday at 4 pm

What and Where: The Franklin Avenue Library and Central Library are hosting a fun reading event for preschoolers to second grade. Come listen and read “The Dot” and do a fun craft to take home! Another great, FREE event for the kiddos!

 

Plan Ahead … 

Yes, the Holiday season is just around the corner and NOW is the time to start planning for some of those special events!

1. Nutcracker at Hoyt Sherman Place

When: December 12th – 15th

Where: These tickets are now on sale! Make sure to purchase soon if you are wanting to see this Holiday classic! Go to Hoyt Sherman Place for information on show times and ticket prices.

 2. Santa Express 

When: November 29th – December 14th

Where: Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is offering the Santa Express again this year! A perfect event for your little ones. You will travel to the “North Pole” while singing Christmas carols, have hot chocolate and a cookie, meet Santa and receive a silver bell! Tickets are on sale today! Make sure to reserve your ticket soon, because they will go fast. Check out the website for times and prices.

DSM Activities & Events 10/17 – 10/23

 

There are lots going on in the Des Moines area this weekend! Do not forget to check out my list for Pumpkin Patches & Orchards AND my list of Haunted Houses!

 

1. Living History Farms – Family Halloween

When: Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

What: Go out to Living History Farms for a horse drawn wagon ride, roast marshmallows, listen to stories, pumpkin bowling, and see scarecrows! Children under the age of 12 can trick or treat through town. For more information check out their website!

2. Blank Park Zoo – Night Eyes

When: Thursday & Friday 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm AND Saturday & Sunday 1 pm – 8 pm

What: Walk through Blank Park Zoo and trick or treat! The park will be decorated in various ways such as a spooky forest, pumpkin patch and a yellow brick road! Check out admission prices and more information on their website!

3. Scary Jump 

When: Friday 7 pm – 9 pm

Where and What: Go to Pump it Up and jump! $12 per child/$15 at the door. Each child will receive a treat bag and a glow necklace. The bounce houses will be decorated in halloween decor! For more information or to purchase tickets check out their website!

4. Mysteries of the Castle

When: Saturday 10 am – 4 pm

Where and What: Walk through the rooms at the Salisbury House and explore! There will be story telling, face painting, science experiments, learn about owls from the Owl Lady, arts and crafts, balloon animals, and more! Make sure to wear your costume. Gusto Pizza will also be available! $5 admission. More information on their website.

5. Octoberfest at Penoach Vineyard & Winery 

When: Saturday 12 pm – 6 pm

Where and What: Located at the Penoach Vineyard and Winery in Adel, come out for free wine tastings, free popcorn, tractor and wagon rides, live music and barbecue! Check out their website for more information!

6. Family Hayride & Bonfire

When: Saturday 3 pm – 7 pm

Where and What: Iowa Primate Learning Sanctuary is hosting a Family Hayride and Bonfire. All proceeds will go towards the bonobo ape family. Take a hay rack ride through the sanctuary and when you are finished roast marshmallows and drink hot cocoa! $10 per person (before), $12 day of the event and children 2 and under are FREE! For an additional $5 you can go in and visit the bonobo ape family. For more information check out their website.

7. Spooktacular 5k Fun Run 

When: Saturday at 6 pm

Where and What: This is a kids fun run with food and drinks afterwards! Proceeds go to the Johnston Partnership. The run will take place at Johnston High School. Register now through October 17th $20. $25 to register the day of the event. Check out here to register online!

8. Mysteries and Movies After Dark 

When: Saturday 7 pm – 10 pm

Where and What: This is a perfect date night event to get in the Halloween spirit! Located at the Salisbury House, join others for adult beverages, snacks, spooky stories, and movies. Please RSVP! Check out the website for more information and to RSVP.

9. Great Iowa Pet Expo 

When: Saturday 10 am – 6 pm AND Sunday 10 am – 4 pm

Where and What: This event is being held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Come out and learn about all sorts of animals, enjoy entertainment, education, and win prizes! There may be some animals available for adoption also! Check out their website for scheduled events and prices for admission.

10. Spirits in the Gardens 

When: Saturday and Sunday 4 pm – 7 pm

Where and What: Located at Reiman Gardens in Ames! Come dressed in your costume and enjoy different craft and activity stations. Listen to stories and see live owls and raptors! Of course there will be trick or treating! FREE for all youth under 18 years of age. Adults are $8 and $7 for seniors. For more information check out their website.

11. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Where and What:  Located at the Wells Fargo Arena, you will not want to miss taking your kiddos to “The Greatest Show on Earth” full of animals and shows! Check out the website to see times and to purchase tickets.

12. Sample Sundays

When: Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm

When and Where: This is one event I definitely want to check out sometime! Located at Picket Fence Creamery in Woodward, walk around and try samples of items from various, local places. There will be root beer floats, kids activities, live music, and much more! And it’s all FREE! Check out their website for more information and other dates they host this fun event.

 Plan Ahead …

1. Wonder of Words Festival 

When: November 2nd – November 12th

What: This is a very neat event! The Wonder of Words Festival is an event that connects readers, writers, and publishers. There are many sponsors and several scheduled events. Check out the official website for more information and how to get involved!

DSM Activities & Events 10/3 – 10/9

 

Don’t forget to check out the events calendar on the right hand side of my page! Lots of fun things going on in the Des Moines area!

1. Mixology Night 

When: Friday 5:30 – 9 pm

Where and What: Perfect date night activity! Located at the Science Center of Iowa. Come for drinks, live entertainment (The Parlours), and adult-themed presentations. Admission is $5 and FREE to Science Center members.

2. Slaughter House

When: Friday and Saturday

Where and What: This haunted house is located in Pleasant Hill. Definitely not recommended for the kiddos, but if you are a fan of terrors and haunted house, this is a definite must this Halloween season! Check out their website for times and also a $2 off coupon.

3. Soap Box Derby Association Haunted House

When: Friday and Saturday 7 – 10 pm

Where and What: This is the 29th year for the spooky haunted house! Located at Linn’s Supermarket, the tour takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The admission is $12 which also includes a free line of bowling at Plaza Lanes AND a coupon for Trophy’s. There are $4 off coupons available at Plaza Lanes and other Halloween shops around the metro area.

4. New Moms Event by Des Moines Moms Blog

When: Saturday 10 – 12 pm

Where and What: Located at the Valley Community Center in West Des Moines. There will be food, drinks, giveaways and a great chance to meet other new moms. There will also be swag bags valued at over $300! Oh yeah, and FREE massages! Do NOT miss this! $15 and reservations are required. Click here to purchase tickets. Also, check out the Des Moines Moms Blog. It is a great blog to follow!

5. DSM Sushi Roll

When: Saturday at 11:45 am

Where and What: Do you LOVE sushi? This is the perfect event for you! Make it into a date activity also. A party bus will pick you up at Appare Steakhouse and drop you off at about 4 pm at Appare Steakhouse. You will travel around the Des Moines area, traveling to different sushi restaurants including: Sakura Sushi, Wasabi Tao, Wasabi Chi, and Waterfront. $45.00 per ticket and reservations are required. Check out here for reservation information and schedule.

6. Corn Harvest: Living History Farms

When: Saturday 10 am – 3 pm

Where and What: Discover how hard it is to harvest 80 bushels of corn a day! There will be horse drawn wagon rides and demonstrations on how corn is harvest! You can also see what tools are used in person. Check out here for more information!

7. DSM Zombie Walk 

When: Saturday at 1 pm

Where and What: Event will start at 1 pm downtown in the East Village at Zombie Burger! This is something you will NOT want to miss. Starting 1 pm go get your make up done, check out the vendors, and eat some crazy burgers and drinks. There will also be a costume contest beginning at 3 pm with CASH prizes. At 4:30 pm the Zombie Walk will begin through downtown Des Moines ending at Zombie Burger. For adults, enjoy the Zombie Pub Crawl which starts at 6:00 pm. Bars that will be included are El Bait Shop and High Life Lounge. This is truly an event for the whole family! For more information check out their website.

8. Cat-N-Around Cat Club 

When: Saturday and Sunday 9 am – 4pm

Where and What: This event is for all you cat lovers! It will be held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. There will be over 200 cats and 30 different breeds being judged. There will also be lots of different vendors for food, treats, beds, toys, and other fun cat products. Admission is $10 for a family, Adulst $5, and Children $4. Children 4 and under are FREE!

9. Apple Pumpkin Fest

When: Saturday 9 am – 6 pm & Sunday 1 pm – 6 pm

Where and What: Come out to Wills Family Orchard! Lots of events, activities, and entertainment! Pick pumpkins, pick apples, go on a hay rack ride, meet some farm animals, paint gourds, and much, much more! Check out our visit from last weekend, we had so much fun!

Check out their website here for more information!

10. Star Wars Reads Day

When: Saturday at 1 – 3 pm

Where and What: For ages 3 – 1o come to the Franklin Library to celebrate Star Wars Reads Day. Dress like your favorite character, participate in games and trivia. There will also be special appearances from the galaxy far, far away! All of this is FREE! You do NOT want to miss it!

11. Oktoberfest

When: Saturday 2 – 6 pm

Where and What: Located in Windsor Heights at Colby Park. Lots of fun things to do including: inflatables, live music from a Polka band, costume contest, pumpkin carving contest, balloon animals, food & drinks, and more! Check out here for time of certain events and contests.

12. Craftoberfest 

When: Saturday 6 pm – 12 am

Where and What: Located at Keg Stand this is the first year of Craftoberfest! There will be 20 seasonal beers available with live entertainment. Advance tickets are $6 and include a commemorative mug and first beer of choice. You can also purchase tickets at the door for $10. Check out here to purchase tickets before!

13. Pumpkin Train 

When: October 5 & 12 at 10 am and October 8 & 9 at 6 pm

Where and What: Located at the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum in Boone. Seating is limited so make sure to make your reservations ASAP! Ride the train, across the Bass Point Creek High Bridge, to the pumpkin patch and have your kiddos pick out their own pumpkin for FREE. $15 for all ages 2 and up. Check out their website for reservations.

14. Nature Friends: Bats

When: Monday 6:30 – 7:30 pm

Where and What: Located at Quail Cove Park in West Des Moines, all preschoolers with an adult are welcome! Guided exploration, art activities, and snack provided. Reservations are required at it is $7 per child with adult. Check out here for reservation information.

DSM Activities & Events 9/19 – 9/25

 

There is a LOT going on this weekend! Check out all of the Fall & Halloween activities, and even a few runs! As always make sure to check my events and activities calendar on the lower right hand of the page.

1. World Food Festival

When: Friday and Saturday 11 am – 10 pm and Sunday 11 am – 5 pm

Where and What: Located in Historic East Village, this all weekend event is going to be filled with lots of food from around the world and live music. There will also be cooking demonstrations. $1.00 for tastes and all entrees are $5.00 or less. It is FREE to attend. For more information and schedules of performances and cooking demonstrations check out here.

2. Fall Festival: “Appel Pluk”

When: Thursday 5 pm – 8 pm, Friday 10 am – 4 pm, and Saturday 10 am – 2 pm

Where and What: The Pella Historical Society is hosting the Appel Pluk! Come and drink wine and beer, while eating cheese and chocolate! Doesn’t get any better then that, right? There will be live music, Vermeer Mill Tours, apple themed games, and lunch. Admission is $5 per family or $2 per person. Check out here for more information!

3. Run DMU 5k 

When: Friday at 6 pm

Where and What: Need to get some exercise Friday evening? Sign up for the Run DMU 5k! Located at Des Moines University, this run is $25 per person ($35 day of race) and $15 youth 12 and under. The funds for this race go towards educational offerings at Des Moines University. There is also a new route this year! Check out here for more information.

4. King of BBQ Competition

When: Friday 6- 10 pm

Where and What: Located in the Merle Hay Mall parking lot. Lots of BBQ sampling, beer garden, and live music! No cover charge! This would be a great date night! Check out their website for more information.

5. Harvest Moon Walk 

When: Friday and Saturday 6 – 8 pm

Where and What: Geisler Farms in Bondurant. Explore their 10 acre corn maze underneath the full moon! Make sure to bring your flash lights so you can read the map that is provided for you. The admission is $7 and afterwards there will be beverages available in the barn. For more information about this event and Geisler Farms check out their website.

6. Puppy Mill Awareness Dog Walk

When: Saturday at 10 am

Where and What: Here is an event you can bring your furry friend to! Meet at Grays Lake and walk! Registration includes the walk and a t-shirt. All dogs must be up to date with their Rabies vaccination. Register online here!

7. Fall Family Hike

When: Saturday 9 – 11 am

Where and What: Located at the Iowa Arboretum in the Cafferty Building. Take a hike with Mike Havlik and learn about nature, sing songs, and see a few animals. This is an activity for the whole family! $10 per family for members and $15 per family for nonmembers. For more information about the Iowa Arboretum check out their website.

8. Fall Festival at the Franklin Library

When: Saturday at 11 am- 3 pm

What: Come to the Franklin Library for games, prizes, live performances, and food! This is an event for all ages! Check out the Des Moines Public Library for more information on this event and other events to come.

9. Halloween Hustle Dance Party 

When: Saturday at 11 am

Where and What: Located at the Beaverdale Books Store. This is for kiddos ages 3 and up! Come dance and listen to Halloween stories. Your little ones will receive a coloring page and book mark and it’s all FREE! Check out Beaverdale Books Store for more information!

10. Apple Festival at Penoach Vineyard & Winery 

When: Saturday 11 am – 5 pm

What: Come to Penoach Vineyard & Winery in Adel. There will be lots of vendors including Picket Fence Creamery, Deer Creek Creations, Dallas County Orchards and much more! There will be live music from 1- 5 pm along with wagon rides, face painting, clowns, crafts, pumpkin and apples for purchasing and much more! It is FREE admission, but they are asking for a donation of a non-perishable food item for the pantry. For more information about Penoach Vineyard & Winery check out their website.

11. Metro Arts 5k Rock ‘n run 

When: Saturday 4 pm – 9 pm

Where and What: This is the 2nd annual Rock ‘n Run and will held at the Clive Aquatic Center. While running “rock out” to local bands and at the end enjoy a FREE concert by The Nadas! This is a family friendly event with different vendors, children activities, and cold beer! $35 to register, late registration is $40. For more information check it out here.

12. Doors to the Past-Tour of Historic Sherman Hill

When: September 21st & 22nd 10 am – 4 pm and September 28th & 29th 10 am – 4 pm

Where and What: Have you ever driven through the Sherman Hills area? It’s a gorgeous area with a lot of beautiful homes and condominiums. This is also where Gateway Market and Smokey Row are located. Purchase tickets and walk through to look inside these beautiful homes. Tickets are on sale at Gateway Market, Hoyt Sherman Place, and Dahls. For more information on ticket prices and the tour check out their official website.

13. Octagon Festival

When: Sunday 10 am – 5 pm

Where and What: Located on Main Street in Ames. Get out an enjoy the weather and check out some artwork! There will be live music, food and children art activities available also! For more information check out their website.

 

DSM Activities & Events 9/12-9/18

1. Welcome Back to Walnut Street 

When and Where: Friday 11 am – 1:30 pm, Walnut Street between 6th & 7th Street

What: This is the last Welcome Back to Walnut Street of the summer! Walk along and check out all the food vendors, and live music during your lunch break. The Des Moines Ballet will also be performing! Check out here for more information and the names of specific vendors!

2. Science Center Family Night 

When and Where: Friday 5-8 pm at the Science Center of Iowa

What: Bring the whole family to the Science Center, $5 for general admission. During this time do several activities including building a rocket, check out the I-MAX theater and much more! The Science Center cafe, The Food Chain, also has food specials available. For more information check out the Science Center of Iowa.

3. Beaverdale Fall Festival 

When: Friday 7 am – 11 pm & Saturday 7:30 am – 11 pm

What: Located in the Beaverdale area, come out for live music, a carnival, activities, food and more! Friday evening there will be fireworks and Saturday morning there will be a parade starting at 10 am. Entrance into the festival is FREE! Check out their official site for maps and more information regarding vendors here.

4. Iowa State vs. Iowa Football Game 

When and Where: Saturday @ 5 pm at Jack Trice Stadium

What: The Iowa State Cyclones (0-1) will take on the Iowa Hawkeyes (1-1) in the annual Cy-Hawk game! If you do not have tickets to watch it in Ames this year, a lot of bars in the Des Moines area will be offering specials for the game. Get dressed up, meet up with friends, and watch the game! Check out this weeks Datebook for specific Hawkeye fan bars and Cyclone fan bars!

5. Free Cheerleading Clinic 

When and Where: Saturday 10 am – 12 pm at Apex Athletics in Johnston

What: Do you have an aspiring cheerleader on your hands? This would be the perfect opportunity for your little one to learn more about cheering and tumbling. This is for kids ages 3 and up. This clinic is free! Go here to pre-register! Also, while registering check out all of the other awesome classes they offer!

6. Des Moines Renaissance Faire

When: Saturday 10 am – 6 pm & Sunday 10 am – 6 pm

Where and What: This is the FINAL weekend of the Renaissance Faire! Get out to Sleepy Hollow Sports Park where the Renaissance Fare is being held! Lots of food, entertainment, and activities. There is surely something for everyone! For more information check out their official website here.

7. Day out with Thomas the Tank Engine

When: September 14 & 15 and September 20-22

Where: Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & Museum

What: This starts this weekend! There may be some tickets still available, so if you are interested check it out! Take a ride on Thomas and meet Sir Topham Hatt! Check out the official website here for more information and to purchase tickets.

8. Art in the Barn

When and Where: Sunday 4- 7 pm at Simpson Barn in Johnston

What: Come out to Simpson Barn and enjoy wine and cheese! This event is to help raise money for the Johnston Public Library. Last year, they raised $3,500 and used it towards purchasing computers for the children’s section in the library. This year there will be even more artists displayed! You can purchase tickets at Hy-Vee or the Johnston Public Library for $20. For more information check it out here.

 

PLAN AHEAD …

1. World Food & Music Festival

When: September 20th – 22nd, Friday & Saturday 11 am -10 pm, Sunday 11 am – 5 pm

Where: Historic East Village

What: Great event for the whole family! Free to attend. $1 samples all entrees are $5 or less. Check out the live music and cooking demonstrations! For more information check out their official website here.

2. White Christmas

When: December 10th – 15th

Where: Des Moines Civic Center

What: Yes, the holiday season is just around the corner! Tickets go on sale for this classic on September 23rd at 9 am!