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.

Nov
24
Sun
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Nov 24 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Nov
26
Tue
Indoor Playground @ Valley Junction Activity Center
Nov 26 @ 10:00 am

Looking to get your toddler out of the house and burn off some energy? We’ve set up an indoor play area that can help with that. It’s filled with toys, slides, and riding toys that will keep your child entertained and active for a morning of enjoyment. Just remember that parents must stay and supervise their kids the whole time. *The indoor playground will not be available on WDMCS school-free days.

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

Nov
27
Wed
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Nov 27 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Nov
29
Fri
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Nov 29 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Nov
30
Sat
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Nov 30 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Dec
1
Sun
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Dec 1 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Dec
3
Tue
Indoor Playground @ Valley Junction Activity Center
Dec 3 @ 10:00 am

Looking to get your toddler out of the house and burn off some energy? We’ve set up an indoor play area that can help with that. It’s filled with toys, slides, and riding toys that will keep your child entertained and active for a morning of enjoyment. Just remember that parents must stay and supervise their kids the whole time. *The indoor playground will not be available on WDMCS school-free days.

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

Dec
4
Wed
Indoor Play Date @ Buxton Room
Dec 4 @ 10:30 am
10:30 am – 12:00 noon
It’s simple! We provide the fun (toys and equipment), you provide the child and supervision! This FREE drop-in program is a perfect opportunity for the little ones to burn off some energy while parents have an opportunity to connect. Free wifi available.

PLEASE NOTE: We will be closed on days when Indianola schools are cancelled or delayed due to inclement weather. 

Also closed:
Nov 27
Dec 25
Jan 1, 2025

To sign up for text alerts such as reminders, cancellations, or special guests, visit https://tinyurl.com/IPRTexts and select Youth – Indoor Play Date.

Children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult throughout the morning.
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Dec 4 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Dec
5
Thu
Indoor Playground @ Valley Junction Activity Center
Dec 5 @ 10:00 am

Looking to get your toddler out of the house and burn off some energy? We’ve set up an indoor play area that can help with that. It’s filled with toys, slides, and riding toys that will keep your child entertained and active for a morning of enjoyment. Just remember that parents must stay and supervise their kids the whole time. *The indoor playground will not be available on WDMCS school-free days.

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

Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Dec 5 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Dec
6
Fri
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Dec 6 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Dec
7
Sat
Candy Cane Hike @ Middleswart Lodge
Dec 7 @ 9:00 am

Tis the season to bust out your favorite ugly sweater and candy cane strips! Hike the trails near the Middleswart Lodge to find hidden candy canes. Do you have the eyes to find them all? If so, enter your guess in the candy cane box for your chance to win a candy cane-themed goodie bag. Staff will have hot chocolate, hot cider, and cookies for you to enjoy after your hike, while supplies last. Feel free to come and go as you please.

Registration required.

9:00 am to 12:00 noon

Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Dec 7 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Luminary Hike @ Grandview Park - Enclosed Shelter
Dec 7 @ 5:00 pm

Its Winter, its cold, its dark so let’s go take a hike, Why not? Everyone is inviited to follow the nature themed luminaries along the trail and then enjoy a cup of hot chocolate around the fire.

5:00 to 8:00 pm

Dec
8
Sun
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Dec 8 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.

Luminary Hike @ Grandview Park - Enclosed Shelter
Dec 8 @ 5:00 pm

Its Winter, its cold, its dark so let’s go take a hike, Why not? Everyone is inviited to follow the nature themed luminaries along the trail and then enjoy a cup of hot chocolate around the fire.

5:00 to 8:00 pm

Dec
10
Tue
Indoor Playground @ Valley Junction Activity Center
Dec 10 @ 10:00 am

Looking to get your toddler out of the house and burn off some energy? We’ve set up an indoor play area that can help with that. It’s filled with toys, slides, and riding toys that will keep your child entertained and active for a morning of enjoyment. Just remember that parents must stay and supervise their kids the whole time. *The indoor playground will not be available on WDMCS school-free days.

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

Dec
11
Wed
Indoor Play Date @ Buxton Room
Dec 11 @ 10:30 am
10:30 am – 12:00 noon
It’s simple! We provide the fun (toys and equipment), you provide the child and supervision! This FREE drop-in program is a perfect opportunity for the little ones to burn off some energy while parents have an opportunity to connect. Free wifi available.

PLEASE NOTE: We will be closed on days when Indianola schools are cancelled or delayed due to inclement weather. 

Also closed:
Nov 27
Dec 25
Jan 1, 2025

To sign up for text alerts such as reminders, cancellations, or special guests, visit https://tinyurl.com/IPRTexts and select Youth – Indoor Play Date.

Children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult throughout the morning.
Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
Dec 11 @ 5:00 pm

Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden invites you to take off your coat, unwrap your scarf, and immerse yourself in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s NEW dazzling family holiday tradition—Dome for the Holidays! Stroll through our transformed tropical oasis as you enjoy a dynamic display of thousands of twinkling lights, an incredible collection of blown glass sculptures, festive music, train display, gnome hunt, refreshments, and more. This enchanting holiday display is sure to be a sought-after, unforgettable family tradition, as it’s the perfect way to experience all the magic of the season.

Dome for the Holidays’ new evening format showcases an indoor illuminated light show throughout the tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. All ages will enjoy the wonderful and artful displays, boasting thousands of lights, from butterflies to trees, from swirling and sparkling to interactives! Incorporated throughout is a stunning collection of blown glass pieces created by Hot Glass out of the Quad Cities. Don’t miss our beloved holiday Train Display – featuring a new look and theme, and our family of holiday gnomes to find!

5:00 to 9:00 pm

*Some dates excluded: Closed on Nov 22 and on Holidays (Thanksgiving–Nov 28, Christmas Eve–Dec 24, and Christmas–Dec 25.)

*Some additional dates included: Tickets available Monday, Dec 23, Monday, Dec 30 and Tuesday, Dec 31.