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 beloved Irish Christmas in America show returns in 2024, showcasing vibrant Irish music, song, dance, and seasonal stories. Produced by Sligo fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, this family-friendly performance is rich with humor and energy. Beautiful images of Ireland enhance the experience, bringing historical traditions to life. Celebrate the enchanting spirit of Christmas with Ireland’s finest artists for a festive start to the 2024 holiday season!
Performance Times: 7:00 PM Fridays; 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM Saturdays & Sundays
Last Stop on Market Street is a collaboration with Pyramid Theatre Company and City Voices.
Guided by his veritable force-of-nature Nana, CJ travels a little closer to his roots and sees that things are not always what they seem. Based on the Newbery Medal-winning book and with a spectacular, spirited score by Motown legend Lamont Dozier and his son Paris Ray Dozier, you’ll find yourself dancing in your seat as you enjoy this vibrant story about connecting to your community.
If ticket prices are keeping you away from this show, please call the ticket office at 515.277.6261, Noon-5:00 PM, Tuesday-Friday. We have supporters who want to make sure everyone gets a chance to see this production.
Playhouse children’s theatre productions are intended for ages 5 and up.
Charlotte’s Web – by Adapted by Joseph Robinette. Based on the book by E.B. White.
Directed by Naima A. Nicholson-Lovejoy
Presented: November 8th through the 24th, 2024
Seedling’s Children Theatre at Tallgrass Theatre presents The Children’s Literature Association named this “the best American children’s book of the past two hundred years,” and Joseph Robinette, working with the advice of E.B. White, has created a play that captures this work in a thrilling and utterly practical theatrical presentation. All the enchanting characters are here: This is a beautiful, knowing play about friendship that will give your audience an evening of enchantment.
We’re thrilled to announce that The Dealt Hand is teaming up with RezBlue for Sunday Game Days! Join us on the second and fourth Sundays of each month, from 2-6pm, for an unbeatable day of gaming fun, all under one roof!
With nearly 200 games to choose from, our Dealt Hand hosts are ready to recommend, teach, and provide the best board game experience for players of all ages! Got a specific game in mind? Browse our full collection (Click Here!) and let us know your request in the event comments or via email, and we’ll make sure to bring it along!
RezBlue Arena, Des Moines’ premier gaming destination, is the ultimate hub for all things digital gaming. Featuring Virtual Reality Escape Rooms and Laser Tag, as well as the Des Moines Gaming Club, they’ll have a full range of VR and digital games available, plus special offers exclusively for Sunday Game Day attendees. You can also grab a snack at their onsite snack bar between games!
RezBlue is located at 2323 Grand Ave, Suite 400, Des Moines, IA 50312. The entrance and parking is on the Ingersoll side (lower level). Just look for The Dealt Hand van at the top of the hill to know you’ve arrived!
Happens on the following Dates:
Nov 10, 2024, 2:00pm to 6:00pm Timezone: CST
Nov 24, 2024, 2:00pm to 6:00pm Timezone: CST
Dec 8, 2024, 2:00pm to 6:00pm Timezone: CST
Dec 22, 2024, 2:00pm to 6:00pm Timezone: CST
Performance Times: 7:00 PM Fridays; 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM Saturdays & Sundays
Last Stop on Market Street is a collaboration with Pyramid Theatre Company and City Voices.
Guided by his veritable force-of-nature Nana, CJ travels a little closer to his roots and sees that things are not always what they seem. Based on the Newbery Medal-winning book and with a spectacular, spirited score by Motown legend Lamont Dozier and his son Paris Ray Dozier, you’ll find yourself dancing in your seat as you enjoy this vibrant story about connecting to your community.
If ticket prices are keeping you away from this show, please call the ticket office at 515.277.6261, Noon-5:00 PM, Tuesday-Friday. We have supporters who want to make sure everyone gets a chance to see this production.
Playhouse children’s theatre productions are intended for ages 5 and up.
The beloved Irish Christmas in America show returns in 2024, showcasing vibrant Irish music, song, dance, and seasonal stories. Produced by Sligo fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, this family-friendly performance is rich with humor and energy. Beautiful images of Ireland enhance the experience, bringing historical traditions to life. Celebrate the enchanting spirit of Christmas with Ireland’s finest artists for a festive start to the 2024 holiday season!
Movie Mondays
Every Monday
Details
Join us for a movie on our big screen and free popcorn!
All ages are welcome!
The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a family-friendly holiday mash-up, blending hip hop dance with Tchaikovsky’s music for an inspiring, modern twist on the classic. Featuring a cast of 12 all-star dancers, a DJ, violinist, and hip hop legend MC Kurtis Blow, who opens the show, it brings high energy and heart. Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince embark on a magical journey, battling mice and visiting the land of sweets. Digital graffiti and visuals reimagine the story, transporting it from 19th-century Germany to vibrant modern-day New York City.
*Santa visits
*characters (princesses, super heroes, olaf, gingerbread, grinch, elves & more)
*horse and carriage rides
*mini train ride
*DJ
*food trucks (Karam’s, TakBron, Lucky Wife, & more)
*vendors
Holiday Hullabaloo is an INDOOR, all immersive, family-friendly holidays experience that will surprise and delight guests of all ages this holiday season. The event is held Nov. 29- Dec. 29 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Holiday Hullabaloo is an InnovativEvents production benefitting Dorothy’s House— a local nonprofit organization that helps survivors of human trafficking in Iowa.
With all the activities and live entertainment you are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here is just a few things to do at the Holiday Hullabaloo:
- Photos with Santa
- Santa’s Workshop
- Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen
- Toyland (Lego Build Station)
- Sock Ice Skating Rink
- Snowball Fight Arena
- Meet Jack Frost, Susie Snowflake, The Sugar Plum Fairy, and Toy Soldier and so much more!
To purchase tickets or view a complete schedule of the festivities, visit www.holidayhullabaloo.com. For those interested in children’s groups or private parties, please contact info@HolidayHullabaloo.com.
Holiday Hullabaloo is an INDOOR, all immersive, family-friendly holidays experience that will surprise and delight guests of all ages this holiday season. The event is held Nov. 29- Dec. 29 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Holiday Hullabaloo is an InnovativEvents production benefitting Dorothy’s House— a local nonprofit organization that helps survivors of human trafficking in Iowa.
With all the activities and live entertainment you are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here is just a few things to do at the Holiday Hullabaloo:
- Photos with Santa
- Santa’s Workshop
- Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen
- Toyland (Lego Build Station)
- Sock Ice Skating Rink
- Snowball Fight Arena
- Meet Jack Frost, Susie Snowflake, The Sugar Plum Fairy, and Toy Soldier and so much more!
To purchase tickets or view a complete schedule of the festivities, visit www.holidayhullabaloo.com. For those interested in children’s groups or private parties, please contact info@HolidayHullabaloo.com.
Parents can enjoy an evening out or relax at home while their children have a fun time with us. Each evening will have an exciting theme, arts and crafts, healthy activities, and a pizza party!
5-12 year olds
Every other Saturday, 5:00 to 8:00 pm.
Holiday Hullabaloo is an INDOOR, all immersive, family-friendly holidays experience that will surprise and delight guests of all ages this holiday season. The event is held Nov. 29- Dec. 29 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Holiday Hullabaloo is an InnovativEvents production benefitting Dorothy’s House— a local nonprofit organization that helps survivors of human trafficking in Iowa.
With all the activities and live entertainment you are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here is just a few things to do at the Holiday Hullabaloo:
- Photos with Santa
- Santa’s Workshop
- Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen
- Toyland (Lego Build Station)
- Sock Ice Skating Rink
- Snowball Fight Arena
- Meet Jack Frost, Susie Snowflake, The Sugar Plum Fairy, and Toy Soldier and so much more!
To purchase tickets or view a complete schedule of the festivities, visit www.holidayhullabaloo.com. For those interested in children’s groups or private parties, please contact info@HolidayHullabaloo.com.
Movie Mondays
Every Monday
Details
Join us for a movie on our big screen and free popcorn!
All ages are welcome!
Join us at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater to kick off the winter season with refreshments, festive songs, and the lighting of the Mayor’s holiday tree.
Holiday Hullabaloo is an INDOOR, all immersive, family-friendly holidays experience that will surprise and delight guests of all ages this holiday season. The event is held Nov. 29- Dec. 29 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Holiday Hullabaloo is an InnovativEvents production benefitting Dorothy’s House— a local nonprofit organization that helps survivors of human trafficking in Iowa.
With all the activities and live entertainment you are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here is just a few things to do at the Holiday Hullabaloo:
- Photos with Santa
- Santa’s Workshop
- Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen
- Toyland (Lego Build Station)
- Sock Ice Skating Rink
- Snowball Fight Arena
- Meet Jack Frost, Susie Snowflake, The Sugar Plum Fairy, and Toy Soldier and so much more!
To purchase tickets or view a complete schedule of the festivities, visit www.holidayhullabaloo.com. For those interested in children’s groups or private parties, please contact info@HolidayHullabaloo.com.
Performance Times: 7:30 PM Wednesdays through Saturdays & 2:00 PM Sundays
The Des Moines Playhouse Production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Holiday Hullabaloo is an INDOOR, all immersive, family-friendly holidays experience that will surprise and delight guests of all ages this holiday season. The event is held Nov. 29- Dec. 29 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Holiday Hullabaloo is an InnovativEvents production benefitting Dorothy’s House— a local nonprofit organization that helps survivors of human trafficking in Iowa.
With all the activities and live entertainment you are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here is just a few things to do at the Holiday Hullabaloo:
- Photos with Santa
- Santa’s Workshop
- Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen
- Toyland (Lego Build Station)
- Sock Ice Skating Rink
- Snowball Fight Arena
- Meet Jack Frost, Susie Snowflake, The Sugar Plum Fairy, and Toy Soldier and so much more!
To purchase tickets or view a complete schedule of the festivities, visit www.holidayhullabaloo.com. For those interested in children’s groups or private parties, please contact info@HolidayHullabaloo.com.
Join us for old-fashioned holiday fun!
Saturday, December 7 • Noon-3 p.m.
$9 for ages 2 and up ($8 for members; 1 and under free)
Buildings are heated. Bundle up for wagon rides!
Hear the sounds, see the sights, and smell the smells of a 19th-century Christmas.
Listen to the jingling bells as you take a horse-drawn wagon ride.*
Chime in with the carolers at the historic Flynn Mansion.
Watch demonstrations of old-fashioned letterpress printing and the Victorian “language of the fan.”
Make an orange-clove pomander and sniff to identify spices at the Drug Store.
Take a whiff of the traditional goodies in the wood-fired oven at the Tangen Home.
Make crafts and decorate cookies to take home.
Hear stories and help us trim our tree.
And don’t forget a visit with good old St. Nick!
Join us for the 2024 Movies in the Park series! The movies will start at sunset and refreshments will be served 30 minutes before we push play. Bring chairs or a blanket and enjoy a fun evening for the entire family!
If the event needs to be canceled or moved indoors due to weather, a decision will be made on the event day by 2 pm and will be announced on the City’s Facebook page.
Movie Dates
May 3 @ 7:50 pm – The Super Mario Brothers Movie
June 7 @ 8:15 pm – Elemental
August 2 @ 8:15 pm – E.T.
September 6 @ 7:15 pm – Trolls
October 4 @ 6:15 pm Hocus Pocus
December 7 @ 6:00 pm Elf (Indoors at Colby Park Community Center)