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.
The Drake Relays is a Des Moines springtime tradition and is regarded as one of the top track and field events in the United States.
Find the full schedule on the Drake Relay’s website: https://godrakebulldogs.com/sports/dr.
Junk Jubilee brings a unique vintage shopping experience to Des Moines! Vendors show off their wares in creative displays of vintage used in the home. From vintage clothing to architectural salvage to unique pieces for your garden, you’ll find a piece of history to add to your life!!!
Friday, April 26th: Early Bird Sale from 8:00-10:00AM, Admission is $25
General Admission: $10, Children 14 and under are free
For more information or to be a vendor, please contact Miccia Humphrey at 660-582-0894
Visit the Junk Jubilee website!!!
Event Schedule:
April 26 – 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
April 27 – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
April 28 – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.
Museum hours
Admission
Parents can enjoy a Saturday night out on the town or a relaxing evening in while your kids have a blast with us from 5-8pm. Each Parents’ Night Out will have a fun theme, arts and crafts, healthy activities, and a pizza party for only $20 per child.
5-12 year olds
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
Friday and Saturday – 7 PM to 10 PM
Price – $15 for 2 Hours, $20 for 3 Hours
Join us every Friday and Saturday for a night of dance music, fun with your friends, and JUMPING on trampolines!
Light up your weekend with Club Air! Join us every Friday and Saturday for a night of dance music, fun with friends, and JUMPING on trampolines! This time is best for Big Air jumpers (over 46”) and over 9 years old. Jumpers under 9 years old will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Jumpers under the age of 18 will need a signed waiver from their parent or guardian, fill out your waiver at the park or online.
Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival presented by MidAmerican Energy Company will feature 50 handcrafted, larger-than-life, illuminated animal shaped Asian lanterns. This year’s festival features underwater wildlife, giant insects, mythical creatures and endangered animals. Immerse your family in a magical night of light and culture in this visually stunning festival.
April 5-May 27 (nightly, Wednesday – Sunday plus Memorial Day)
Time: 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. (last admission at 9:30 p.m.)
The best times to walk the path and see the lights begin at sunset. Allow 60-90 minutes for the best viewing experience. Admission begins at 7:30 p.m., but you may enter the festival anytime until 9:30 p.m.
Tickets: Peak Ticket: $25, $21/member; Non-Peak Ticket: $23, $19/member
Group Tickets: For groups of 40 or more, call 515-285-4722 for more information
Age one (1) and under are free. Tickets are limited for each evening, please purchase tickets in advance.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
We’re different after dark. Lasers, music and blacklight transform the whole park into a crazy jumping dance club. Waivers are required for all persons entering the park during Glow.
FRIDAY & SATURDAY 8PM-10PM
ALL participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult for their entire visit after 7:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Saturday public nights at Ashton Observatory are every Saturday evening, April through October. Except for first Saturdays of each month, most evenings begin with a classroom program at 8:00 pm. Free admission! All ages welcome. Find a 2024 schedule here.
The Observatory is open but there will be no classroom programs during July.
Junk Jubilee brings a unique vintage shopping experience to Des Moines! Vendors show off their wares in creative displays of vintage used in the home. From vintage clothing to architectural salvage to unique pieces for your garden, you’ll find a piece of history to add to your life!!!
Friday, April 26th: Early Bird Sale from 8:00-10:00AM, Admission is $25
General Admission: $10, Children 14 and under are free
For more information or to be a vendor, please contact Miccia Humphrey at 660-582-0894
Visit the Junk Jubilee website!!!
Event Schedule:
April 26 – 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
April 27 – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
April 28 – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
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
WE ARE OPEN EVERY SUNDAY FROM 1 TO 4 PM.
Family and Friends fun day!!
Celebrate your next birthday with us at Skate South.
Learn More on our website at skatesouth.com/hours
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
Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival presented by MidAmerican Energy Company will feature 50 handcrafted, larger-than-life, illuminated animal shaped Asian lanterns. This year’s festival features underwater wildlife, giant insects, mythical creatures and endangered animals. Immerse your family in a magical night of light and culture in this visually stunning festival.
April 5-May 27 (nightly, Wednesday – Sunday plus Memorial Day)
Time: 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. (last admission at 9:30 p.m.)
The best times to walk the path and see the lights begin at sunset. Allow 60-90 minutes for the best viewing experience. Admission begins at 7:30 p.m., but you may enter the festival anytime until 9:30 p.m.
Tickets: Peak Ticket: $25, $21/member; Non-Peak Ticket: $23, $19/member
Group Tickets: For groups of 40 or more, call 515-285-4722 for more information
Age one (1) and under are free. Tickets are limited for each evening, please purchase tickets in advance.
FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.
Museum hours
Admission
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.
Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival presented by MidAmerican Energy Company will feature 50 handcrafted, larger-than-life, illuminated animal shaped Asian lanterns. This year’s festival features underwater wildlife, giant insects, mythical creatures and endangered animals. Immerse your family in a magical night of light and culture in this visually stunning festival.
April 5-May 27 (nightly, Wednesday – Sunday plus Memorial Day)
Time: 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. (last admission at 9:30 p.m.)
The best times to walk the path and see the lights begin at sunset. Allow 60-90 minutes for the best viewing experience. Admission begins at 7:30 p.m., but you may enter the festival anytime until 9:30 p.m.
Tickets: Peak Ticket: $25, $21/member; Non-Peak Ticket: $23, $19/member
Group Tickets: For groups of 40 or more, call 515-285-4722 for more information
Age one (1) and under are free. Tickets are limited for each evening, please purchase tickets in advance.
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.