Labor Day Weekend Fun for Des Moines Families

It’s hard to believe Labor Day Weekend is just right around the corner (sniff, sniff). If you, too, are feeling a bit nostalgic about another summer gone by, don’t start singing the blues just yet. There are great ways for families to celebrate the unofficial end of summer in Des Moines.

These are just a few of our top picks, be sure to check out our Event Calendar for more fun activities, and sign up for our Weekend Fun Guide, to receive great ideas, just like these, right to your inbox. Have a fun Labor Day Weekend!!!!

Check out these fun events happening this Labor Day Weekend in Des Moines:

Des Moines Area Labor Day Weekend Resources

Festivals & Events

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Friday, August 30 – Sunday, September 1, 2024

Pop the champagne! Moulin Rouge! The Musical will grace the Civic Center’s stage throughout Labor Day Weekend. Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, glitz, grandeur, and glory! Experience a place where Bohemians and aristocrats mingle and revel in electrifying enchantment. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Please note that only children age 5 and over with tickets will be allowed into the theater for this production.

Taste of the Junction Multicultural Festival

Saturday, August 31, 2024

Celebrating the flavor of the Junction, the people, culture and cuisines. Fun for the whole family with inflatables, face painting, food vendors, beer garden and live music. FREE and open to the public.

The Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow

Saturday, August 31 – Monday, September 2, 2024

You’ll go back in time to an era when royalty ruled, knights jousted, and the arts came alive! The theme for Labor Day weekend is Celtic Ceilidah. Enjoy unique entertainment, merchants, food and drink and more.

Water Works Pops

Saturday, August 31 + Sunday, September 2, 2024

Join the Des Moines Symphony for not one but two FREE family friendly outdoor concerts at the Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park. There is no reserved seating; concert attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs. Bring your picnic basket and a bottle of wine, or purchase food from a variety of food trucks at the concerts!