Calendar

dsm4kids Events Calendar

Events Calendar

Welcome to dsm4kids’ calendar of family events!

No matter where you live in the Des Moines metro, you can rely on our calendar to find nearby events and activities your kids will love!

To keep up to date on weekend events and activities be sure to sign up for our Weekend Fun Guide!

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information listed on the calendar. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location and other information before heading to an event or activity, since it may change.

Events considered for inclusion onto the dsm4kids calendar include those at local venues, including free and low-cost events, as well as special events that may require paid admission.  Events are posted to the online calendar in a timely manner throughout the month.

While all submissions are considered, inclusion is based on event relevance. Events occurring outside of Central Iowa or events primarily geared toward adults will not be listed.

If you are a business or organization and would like to submit an event listing, please click on Submit Event.

Mar
19
Tue
Bargain Tuesdays @ Fridley Theatres
Mar 19 all-day

Bargain Tuesdays

Every Tuesday, at all Fridley Theatre locations, we offer discounted admission for all tickets purchased online or at the box office. Plus, you will receive a FREE 46 oz. bag of popcorn with any beverage purchase!

Tuesday discounted admission prices:

  • Waukee:
    • Regular 2D – $6.00, 3D – $8.00;
    • XLD 2D – $6.00, 3D – $8.00
    • IMAX 2D – $11.00, 3D – $13.00
  • Muscatine, Pleasant Hill: 2D – $5.50, 3D – $7.50
  • Hastings: 2D – $6.00, 3D – $8.00
  • Algona, Carroll, Centerville, Decorah, Grinnell, Indianola, Marshalltown, Spencer, Sioux Center, Storm Lake: 2D – $5.00, 3D – $7.00
  • Cherokee, Oskaloosa, Washington: 2D – $4.00, 3D – $6.00

Discount admission not valid for premieres, opening day movies, holidays, and special engagements.

Discount Tuesdays @ Cinemark Altoona and XD
Mar 19 all-day

Tuesday is Discount Day at Cinemark Altoona and XD

Frequently Asked Questions About Discount Tuesdays

Q: How do I receive Discount Tuesdays ticket prices?
A: All Cinemark guests can receive Discount Tuesdays ticket pricing by purchasing tickets online or at the theatre box office. For additional Cinemark Movie Rewards savings: (1) scan your CMR membership ID or provide the phone number/email address associated with your CMR account while purchasing tickets at the theatre box office, or (2) sign in to your account on our website or in the app while purchasing tickets online.

Q: Are there any restrictions on which Tuesdays are eligible for Discount Tuesday pricing?
A: Discount Tuesdays pricing may not be offered on select holidays if they fall on a Tuesday.

Q: Are any movies excluded from Discount Tuesdays pricing?
A: Movies releasing on Tuesdays and special engagement films and events are excluded from Discount Tuesdays.

Q: What movie formats are eligible for Discount Tuesdays pricing?
A: All formats are eligible for Discount Tuesdays pricing. Cinemark XD, RealD 3D, DBOX, and IMAX tickets are adjusted by their corresponding upcharge.

Q: I’m not yet a member of Cinemark Movie Rewards. How can I join?
A: You can join Cinemark Movie Rewards online (Learn More) or at the theatre. You’ll have the choice of joining Movie Fan for free or upgrading to Movie Club for even more perks. Either way, you’ll enjoy extra savings when you buy tickets on Discount Tuesdays.

Q: Will I receive the additional members-only savings if I sign up at the theatre on a Tuesday?
A: Yes, on your first Discount Tuesdays visit you can provide your name and email address at the box office to begin the CMR enrollment process and enjoy CMR member savings. However, in order to continue receiving the additional CMR savings on your next visit, you must complete your CMR enrollment via the email you’ll receive at the address you provide at the box office.

Q: My theatre’s Discount Day has been on a different day than Tuesday in the past. Will that change?
A: Yes, all Cinemark theatres across the country will be moving their Discount Day to Tuesday. All guests are eligible to receive the Discount Tuesdays ticket prices. In addition, Cinemark Movie Rewards members receive extra savings on top of already incredible Discount Tuesday ticket pricing.

*Discount applies for Tuesday showtimes only and varies by location. Any percentage off messaging reflects full ticket price for weekend evening ticket price. Prices subject to change. Check your local Cinemark theatre for current pricing. Upcharge fees may apply for premium format films and tickets purchased online. One film/showtime per ticket purchased. Excludes movies releasing on Tuesday, special engagement films, Private Watch Parties, and Private Gaming Parties. Offer not valid on holidays. Additional blackout dates may apply.

Discount Tuesdays @ Century 20 Jordan Creek and XD
Mar 19 all-day

Tuesday is Discount Day at Century 20 Jordan Creek and XD

Frequently Asked Questions About Discount Tuesdays

Q: How do I receive Discount Tuesdays ticket prices?
A: All Cinemark guests can receive Discount Tuesdays ticket pricing by purchasing tickets online or at the theatre box office. For additional Cinemark Movie Rewards savings: (1) scan your CMR membership ID or provide the phone number/email address associated with your CMR account while purchasing tickets at the theatre box office, or (2) sign in to your account on our website or in the app while purchasing tickets online.

Q: Are there any restrictions on which Tuesdays are eligible for Discount Tuesday pricing?
A: Discount Tuesdays pricing may not be offered on select holidays if they fall on a Tuesday.

Q: Are any movies excluded from Discount Tuesdays pricing?
A: Movies releasing on Tuesdays and special engagement films and events are excluded from Discount Tuesdays.

Q: What movie formats are eligible for Discount Tuesdays pricing?
A: All formats are eligible for Discount Tuesdays pricing. Cinemark XD, RealD 3D, DBOX, and IMAX tickets are adjusted by their corresponding upcharge.

Q: I’m not yet a member of Cinemark Movie Rewards. How can I join?
A: You can join Cinemark Movie Rewards online (Learn More) or at the theatre. You’ll have the choice of joining Movie Fan for free or upgrading to Movie Club for even more perks. Either way, you’ll enjoy extra savings when you buy tickets on Discount Tuesdays.

Q: Will I receive the additional members-only savings if I sign up at the theatre on a Tuesday?
A: Yes, on your first Discount Tuesdays visit you can provide your name and email address at the box office to begin the CMR enrollment process and enjoy CMR member savings. However, in order to continue receiving the additional CMR savings on your next visit, you must complete your CMR enrollment via the email you’ll receive at the address you provide at the box office.

Q: My theatre’s Discount Day has been on a different day than Tuesday in the past. Will that change?
A: Yes, all Cinemark theatres across the country will be moving their Discount Day to Tuesday. All guests are eligible to receive the Discount Tuesdays ticket prices. In addition, Cinemark Movie Rewards members receive extra savings on top of already incredible Discount Tuesday ticket pricing.

*Discount applies for Tuesday showtimes only and varies by location. Any percentage off messaging reflects full ticket price for weekend evening ticket price. Prices subject to change. Check your location Cinemark theatre for current pricing. Upcharges fees may apply for premium format films and tickets purchased online. One film/showtime per ticket purchased. Excludes movies releasing on Tuesday, special engagement films, Private Watch Parties, and Private Gaming Parties. Offer not valid on holidays. Additional blackout dates may apply.

Farm Camp Registration @ Center Grove Orchard
Mar 19 all-day

Farm Camp is a week-long summer day camp that offers an opportunity to educate children about farm life while fostering friendships and cultivating a passion for farming!

Campers aged 6 – 11 years old will experience hands-on fun and have the opportunity to:

  • Care for animals – feeding, training, and cleaning
  • Learn about growing crops – riding hayride to fields to examine plants, soil, and weeds
  • Explore the farm and the environment including creeks and ponds
  • Discover the by-products of many crops—corn, soybeans, pumpkins, apples, cherries, and strawberries.
  • Connect the importance of science to agriculture
  • Play – enjoying our fun activities such as our Super Slides, Jumping Pillows, and more!

Farm Camp Sessions
Session 1: May 29 – May 31
Session 2: June 3 – June 7
Session 3: June 10 – June 14
Session 4: June 17 – June 21
Session 5: June 24 – June 28

Registration for Spring Junior Menace Soccer @ Multiple Locations in the Des Moines Metro
Mar 19 all-day

Join the fun this spring with the Menace! Junior Menace is for boys and girls, ages 3 to 9, and is a program designed for all ability levels and we encourage beginners! This is a great program to learn and practice soccer skills through engaging activities and games. We accept walk-ups the first night at each location.

2024 SPRING SCHEDULE

Monday Nights in Des Moines
Frisbie Park (6101 Muskogee Ave. Des Moines, IA)
Mondays: April 15th – May 27th *Make-up Date: June 3rd
Ages 3-4: 5:45pm – 6:15pm  |  Ages 5-9: 6:15pm – 7:15pm

Tuesday Nights in Grimes
Sunny Hill Park (513 SE 12th St, Grimes, IA)
Tuesdays: April 16th – May 28th *Make-up Date: June 4th
Ages 3-4: 5:45pm – 6:15pm  |  Ages 5-9: 6:15pm – 7:15pm

Thursday Nights in Waukee
Caspe Terrace (33158 Ute Ave. Waukee, IA)
Thursdays: April 18th – May 30th *Make-up Date: June 6th
Ages 3-4: 5:45pm – 6:15pm  |  Ages 5-9: 6:15pm – 7:15pm

Saturday Mornings in Des Moines
Sheridan Park (4000 Hull Ave. Des Moines, IA)
Saturdays: April 20th – June 1st *Make-up Date: June 8th
Ages 3-4: 9:15am – 9:45am  |  Ages 5-9: 9:45am – 10:45am

Drop in Toddler Play @ MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex
Mar 19 @ 9:00 am

Toddler time is an open gym for little ones and parents. We provide an opportunity for children to burn off some energy while parents can get out of the house in a fun, safe environment. Toddler time is geared towards kids 5 years or younger. All children will need to be accompanied and supervised by an adult. The location for Toddler Time may vary between the hardwood courts and indoor turf and is based by availability.

Monday through Friday, 9:00 to 11:00 am

Please check the Drop-In Toddler Time Schedule, as times may vary due to other activities and holidays.

Public Tour @ The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Mar 19 @ 9:00 am

THE WORLD FOOD PRIZE HALL OF LAUREATES tells a story in every room – from the building’s rich history as the Des Moines public library, to the Foundation’s celebrated agricultural and humanitarian pioneers there is something for every visitor.

Built in 1903, this century-old building has been restored into a museum that celebrates those who have dedicated their lives to fighting hunger around the world. The Hall of Laureates is a beautiful space of learning and collaboration, and we welcome you to visit.

Tuesday Open House – 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Guided tours are available at the following times:
9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:30 p.m.
Reservations required for groups 10+, not required for groups smaller than 10.

The Hall of Laureates is closed during all federal holiday weekends, including New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving week and Christmas. The Hall of Laureates is also closed during World Food Prize Week.

Open Play at Des Moines Children’s Museum @ Valley West Mall
Mar 19 @ 9:30 am

FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.

Museum hours

Sunday:Closed
Monday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission

<1 year old:free
1 – 10 years old:$6
> 10 years old:free
Member:free
Adventure Pass:free
Museums for All (present your EBT or WIC card for reduced admission):$2

 

 

Tot Town! @ Valley Community Center
Mar 19 @ 9:30 am

Tot Town is a fun and safe children’s playgroup that is open to the community. Our Community Center gym space turns into an indoor playground designed for children ages 2 to 6 years and their families. Parents have the opportunity to interact with their child in a safe environment made for play! For your child’s safety we recommend supervising your children at all times and not leaving them unattended. We hope to see you at Tot Town!

Featuring: Large Inflatable bounce house, games, ball pit, toys, puzzles, books, and more!

Tot Town Information:

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays anytime between 9:30-11:30 am

Ages: 2-6 years

.

Open Play @ Rainbow of the Heartland
Mar 19 @ 10:00 am

There are no limits to the grins and giggles at our play room. That’s because your kids are invited to jump, climb, swing, and play in our indoor showroom.

Follow us on Facebook for other special offers or changes to open play times and dates.

Groups of 6 or more must call ahead. No Open Play parties are allowed.

Of course, to keep the kiddos safe, we require adult/parent supervision at all times.* We also require shoes and socks to be worn at all times in the showroom. (Closed toe shoes only.) Tennis shoes are recommended. And finally, every attendee must have a signed waiver before playing in the showroom. (Multiple kids from the same family can be included on one waiver.) Consult our showroom rules for all the details.

Water is always available or parents may bring along their own soft drinks and snacks, store them in our refrigerator, and let the kids enjoy them in our party room. We’ll even provide plates, cups, napkins, and plastic silverware.

To ensure a fun time for all, no birthday parties are booked during Open Play.

Hours

Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

$10 for 2 hours
We also now offer punch cards – 5 Plays for $40 and 10 Plays for $75.

*Child care is not provided during open play time.

Caterpillar Club @ Reiman Gardens
Mar 19 @ 10:15 am

Join us outdoors weekly for our popular Early Childhood Development program featuring stories followed by nature exploration and activities. Best for children ages 2-5 with an adult.

SPECIAL NOTE – we will be outdoors rain or shine, except in extreme weather conditions when temperatures drop below freezing (32 degrees or below with windchill).

  • However, please dress for the weather; we will still go outside at least briefly each week.

Registration is helpful but not required. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Storytime @ Norwalk Easter Public Library
Mar 19 @ 10:30 am

Storytime Tuesdays, 10:30am

Join us for songs, stories and rhymes! We’ll have a fun, interactive 25 minute storytime followed by an optional playtime or craft. This storytime is geared towards children ages 2-4, though children of all ages and their caregivers are welcome!

This is a Weekly Recurring Event
Runs from Jan 2, 2024 to Apr 30, 2024 and happens every:
Tuesdays:       10:30am – 11:30am CST

Photos with the Bunny! @ Valley West Mall
Mar 19 @ 11:00 am

Hop on over to Valley West Mall and join us for a fun-filled Spring tradition with the Bunny.  From March 1st to March 30th, bring your family and capture egg-stremely cute pictures with the Bunny in our patch.

Don’t miss out on this egg-citing opportunity! See you there!

Walk ups are more than welcome, but reservations are highly recommended. Package prices are listed in the reservation link once you select a time slot. See reservation slots and pricing https://whereisbunny.com/mall/0148?utm_campaign=valley-west-mall&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=website-spinoso

Mar
20
Wed
Farm Camp Registration @ Center Grove Orchard
Mar 20 all-day

Farm Camp is a week-long summer day camp that offers an opportunity to educate children about farm life while fostering friendships and cultivating a passion for farming!

Campers aged 6 – 11 years old will experience hands-on fun and have the opportunity to:

  • Care for animals – feeding, training, and cleaning
  • Learn about growing crops – riding hayride to fields to examine plants, soil, and weeds
  • Explore the farm and the environment including creeks and ponds
  • Discover the by-products of many crops—corn, soybeans, pumpkins, apples, cherries, and strawberries.
  • Connect the importance of science to agriculture
  • Play – enjoying our fun activities such as our Super Slides, Jumping Pillows, and more!

Farm Camp Sessions
Session 1: May 29 – May 31
Session 2: June 3 – June 7
Session 3: June 10 – June 14
Session 4: June 17 – June 21
Session 5: June 24 – June 28

Registration for Spring Junior Menace Soccer @ Multiple Locations in the Des Moines Metro
Mar 20 all-day

Join the fun this spring with the Menace! Junior Menace is for boys and girls, ages 3 to 9, and is a program designed for all ability levels and we encourage beginners! This is a great program to learn and practice soccer skills through engaging activities and games. We accept walk-ups the first night at each location.

2024 SPRING SCHEDULE

Monday Nights in Des Moines
Frisbie Park (6101 Muskogee Ave. Des Moines, IA)
Mondays: April 15th – May 27th *Make-up Date: June 3rd
Ages 3-4: 5:45pm – 6:15pm  |  Ages 5-9: 6:15pm – 7:15pm

Tuesday Nights in Grimes
Sunny Hill Park (513 SE 12th St, Grimes, IA)
Tuesdays: April 16th – May 28th *Make-up Date: June 4th
Ages 3-4: 5:45pm – 6:15pm  |  Ages 5-9: 6:15pm – 7:15pm

Thursday Nights in Waukee
Caspe Terrace (33158 Ute Ave. Waukee, IA)
Thursdays: April 18th – May 30th *Make-up Date: June 6th
Ages 3-4: 5:45pm – 6:15pm  |  Ages 5-9: 6:15pm – 7:15pm

Saturday Mornings in Des Moines
Sheridan Park (4000 Hull Ave. Des Moines, IA)
Saturdays: April 20th – June 1st *Make-up Date: June 8th
Ages 3-4: 9:15am – 9:45am  |  Ages 5-9: 9:45am – 10:45am

Kids Zone @ Grimes Community Complex Gym
Mar 20 @ 8:30 am

The Kid Zone program is open year-round for all children 6 and under and will run Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:30 am to 11:00 am (unless otherwise noted on our online schedule) Registration is required to participate and there is a fee of $5 per family per day. Dates and times are subject to change without prior notice.

To purchase and reserve your spot you will need to create an online account. No refunds or transfers will be given. Refunds will be issued only if the Community Complex is closed due to bad weather.

This program offers fun activities like basketball, scooters, hopper balls, bowling, and more. Spots will be limited to each available day so you must register to attend.

Drop in Toddler Play @ MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex
Mar 20 @ 9:00 am

Toddler time is an open gym for little ones and parents. We provide an opportunity for children to burn off some energy while parents can get out of the house in a fun, safe environment. Toddler time is geared towards kids 5 years or younger. All children will need to be accompanied and supervised by an adult. The location for Toddler Time may vary between the hardwood courts and indoor turf and is based by availability.

Monday through Friday, 9:00 to 11:00 am

Please check the Drop-In Toddler Time Schedule, as times may vary due to other activities and holidays.

Open Play at Des Moines Children’s Museum @ Valley West Mall
Mar 20 @ 9:30 am

FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.

Museum hours

Sunday:Closed
Monday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission

<1 year old:free
1 – 10 years old:$6
> 10 years old:free
Member:free
Adventure Pass:free
Museums for All (present your EBT or WIC card for reduced admission):$2

 

 

Indoor Playground @ Valley Junction Activity Center
Mar 20 @ 10:00 am

Need to get out of the house and let that toddler run off some steam? West Des Moines Parks and Recreation have created an indoor playground that can help get the job done. Toys, slides, and riding toys will challenge your child (6 months to 4 years old) for a day of fun! Parents are required to stay and supervise their children.

Mondays and Wednesdays 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (No Indoor Playground when school is not in session.)

Little Leapers @ Sky Zone Des Moines
Mar 20 @ 10:00 am

PLAY TIME WITH A PURPOSE

Little Leapers is a fun, high-energy play adventure created for parents and little ones to enjoy together.

You’ll love watching your child bounce, climb and explore in a safe environment while interacting with similar age children and learning about sharing, teamwork, and other important social skills.

Bond, make memories and watch your Little Leaper thrive.

TICKETS: $11 – One Adult jumps FREE for each Little Leaper that jumps!

*Ages 7 & Under

Sunday, Wednesday, Friday: 10am-11am