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!
