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.
Friday, April 26th, 6:30pm Caddy Stacks for Adults $25 per person OR $40 per couple
Saturday, April 27th, 10am-4pm Caddy Stacks for Families, free admissionJoin the Norwalk Easter Public Library Foundation as they tee off their mini-golf fundraiser, Caddystacks! With the help of local sponsors, the library stacks will be transformed into a mini-golf course. Festivities will tee off with a fundraiser event for adults on Friday night. Admission covers access to the mini-golf course, participation in contests, and tournament play for prizes. Beer and wine will be available for purchase at the cash bar, and there will be appetizers and other beverages at no additional cost. Join in the fun at our silent auction and come dressed in your wackiest golf attire for a special prize.
Families are invited to play through on Saturday, April 27, between 10:00 am-4:00 pm, compliments of the NEPL Foundation. Free popcorn and selfie booth available, as well as a special appearance from Scribbles, the library mascot.
FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.
Museum hours
Admission
Build simple kites as we explore the science of flight. We will discuss the remarkable adaptations birds have developed in order to take flight. We will assemble and decorate a small kite and send them aloft for a fun ending. Each registered individual will receive a kite.
REGISTRATION: Required for those making kites
DEADLINE: April 19
COST: $10
AGES: 5+
Marvel comes to life with our productions of Squirrel Girl Goes To College and Hammered: A Thor & Loki Play running in rep April 26 – May 5.
Doreen Green secretly possesses the powers of a squirrel… and the powers of a girl! You know her as the Unbeatable Squirrel Girl! Doreen arrives at Empire State University to make new friends – and protect them from super villains – by keeping her super hero identity a secret. But when a beloved computer science professor suddenly disappears, can Doreen trust her friends with her inner squirrel so she can save the day?
As Thor struggles with the stress of final exams, his brother Loki finds himself under a different sort of pressure. Neither are beneath pranks in the endless competition for their parents’ favor. But underneath all the thunder and mischief, these two Princes of Asgard discover a bond that will last millennia.
Based on the classic Shakespearean comedy, Peter Anastos’ A Midsummer Night’s Dream takes audiences on a whimsical journey full of love, trickery, and magic. Set to the music of Felix Mendelssohn, this joyous production features a robust cast of professional and youth dancers from the greater Des Moines area.
Friday, April 26, 7PM
Saturday, April 27, 7PM
Sunday, April 28, 2PM
Marvel comes to life with our productions of Squirrel Girl Goes To College and Hammered: A Thor & Loki Play running in rep April 26 – May 5.
Doreen Green secretly possesses the powers of a squirrel… and the powers of a girl! You know her as the Unbeatable Squirrel Girl! Doreen arrives at Empire State University to make new friends – and protect them from super villains – by keeping her super hero identity a secret. But when a beloved computer science professor suddenly disappears, can Doreen trust her friends with her inner squirrel so she can save the day?
As Thor struggles with the stress of final exams, his brother Loki finds himself under a different sort of pressure. Neither are beneath pranks in the endless competition for their parents’ favor. But underneath all the thunder and mischief, these two Princes of Asgard discover a bond that will last millennia.
Based on the classic Shakespearean comedy, Peter Anastos’ A Midsummer Night’s Dream takes audiences on a whimsical journey full of love, trickery, and magic. Set to the music of Felix Mendelssohn, this joyous production features a robust cast of professional and youth dancers from the greater Des Moines area.
Friday, April 26, 7PM
Saturday, April 27, 7PM
Sunday, April 28, 2PM
Marvel comes to life with our productions of Squirrel Girl Goes To College and Hammered: A Thor & Loki Play running in rep April 26 – May 5.
Doreen Green secretly possesses the powers of a squirrel… and the powers of a girl! You know her as the Unbeatable Squirrel Girl! Doreen arrives at Empire State University to make new friends – and protect them from super villains – by keeping her super hero identity a secret. But when a beloved computer science professor suddenly disappears, can Doreen trust her friends with her inner squirrel so she can save the day?
As Thor struggles with the stress of final exams, his brother Loki finds himself under a different sort of pressure. Neither are beneath pranks in the endless competition for their parents’ favor. But underneath all the thunder and mischief, these two Princes of Asgard discover a bond that will last millennia.
Finding your child tapping their toes and clapping on beat? At Arrow Academy of Music, we’ll inspire and support them as they pursue their musical talent!
Join us for a free trial of our in-person group piano lessons! We’ll show you how learning music can be FUN, and the many benefits it can provide.
Movie Mondays
Every Monday
Details
Join us for a movie on our big screen and free popcorn!
All ages are welcome!
FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.
Museum hours
Admission
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.
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.
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.
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.
FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.
Museum hours
Admission
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
He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Des Moines as MJ, the multi Tony Award®-winning new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own. Created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. MJ is startin’ somethin’ as it makes its Iowa premiere at the Civic Center this spring.
FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.
Museum hours
Admission
Bring your little one in for a story and a craft! Every week we will read a book aloud from our library and pair it with a small guided craft. One ticket covers one child and craft, parents do not need a ticket if they are not participating in the craft.
For this event to take place as scheduled, there must be at least 3 participants. If the minimum participant quota is not met by 2 days prior to the event, it will be cancelled, and all tickets will be refunded in full. Want to make sure it takes place as scheduled? Share this event with family and friends! The more, the merrier!