Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend:
Friday, September 19th 2025 – Sunday, September 21st 2025
Every weekend there are amazing Fun Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa! We have created a list of what we think are the most fun, most interesting family events in the Des Moines area this weekend – so you can have the best time together!
The page will be updated every week so be sure to come back and see what great kids’ events we have coming up for the weekend in Des Moines. Take a look at our full FREE, extensive event calendar to plan your weeks and days in Des Moines, Iowa.
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Oktoberfest at Des Moines Biergarten
Friday, September 19th, 2025 & Sunday, September 21st 2025
11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Des Moines Biergarten – Des Moines, IA
This weekend the Des Moines Biergarten transforms into a lively Oktoberfest celebration, welcoming everyone to enjoy three days of live music, expanded food and beverage options, and classic games and competitions. Guests can look forward to events like the Golden Keg Bicycle Ride, the Tapping of the Golden Keg with Mayor Connie Boesen, and a full lineup of traditional festivities. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with a special ‘Kinder Zone’, yard games, and a variety of local vendors. Admission is free, and all are invited to raise a stein and join the fun at Water Works Park! Learn More or Register Today!
Pickle Ball Play (18+)
Friday, September 19th, 2025
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Valley Community Center – West Des Moines, IA
Calling all adults 18 and older! Drop in for an afternoon of pickleball at Valley Community Center! Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the game, participants can enjoy friendly matches, meet new people, and make use of available paddles. The event is open to all skill levels for just $2! Learn More or Register Today!
Movie in the Park: The Mighty Ducks with Iowa Wild
Friday, September 19th, 2025
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Walnut Creek Regional Park – Urbandale, IA
Families and friends are invited to Walnut Creek Regional Park for an evening of outdoor fun with Iowa Wild Hockey! The fun starts with street hockey followed by a screening of the classic film “The Mighty Ducks.” Attendees – be ready to enjoy food trucks, free-play street hockey with your friends and Iowa Wild, and enjoy a classic kids film under the stars! Learn More or Register Today!
Vintage & Made Fair
Saturday, September 20th, 2025
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Dallas County Fairgrounds – Adel, IA
This weekend Vintage & Made Fair gathers Midwest’s best makers and vintage collectors for a unique shopping experience. Browse antiques, handcrafted goods, jewelry, home décor, and more. The event features delicious local eats, stunning seasonal flora, and plenty of complimentary parking! Parents, admission for children 12 and under is free, so you don’t have to break your bank for this family fun event! Learn More or Register Today!
Beaverdale Fall Festival: Dog Parade
Saturday, September 20th, 2025
9:15 AM – 10:15 AM
Beaverdale, IA
Dog lovers are encouraged to dress up their furry friends and join the Beaverdale Fall Festival Dog Parade, happening this Saturday. Participants can compete for prizes in categories like Best Overall, Best Dog & Owner Duo, and People’s Choice. The parade route winds through Beaverdale, and all proceeds support local vendors. Rain or shine, this event promises fun for the whole family! Learn More or Register Today!
Pumpkinville’s 30th Anniversary
Saturday, September 20th, 2025
10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Pumpkinville – Mitchellville, IA
Pumpkinville is celebrating its 30th anniversary! Join the celebration with a day-long party featuring live music, food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly activities! Families get to explore the festive grounds, enjoy delicious treats, and take part in the fun as the community marks this special milestone. Learn More or Register Today!
Illumifest
Saturday, September 20th, 2025
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
West Des Moines City Hall – West Des Moines, IA
Illumifest offers an evening of family fun, including tethered hot air balloon rides, inflatables, circus arts, face painting, balloon artists, and much more! Are you ready to enjoy live music, food trucks, and a community expo? The event is open to all and provides a vibrant atmosphere for making memories in West Des Moines! Learn More or Register Today!
What do Insects do After Dark?
Saturday, September 20th, 2025
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Jester Park Wetland Shelter – Granger, IA
Curious minds of all ages are invited to join a Polk County Conservation naturalist for a night hike at Jester Park. Are you ready to discover the secret lives of insects after dark? This free event offers a unique opportunity to learn about nocturnal insects in Iowa and explore the park in an exciting new way. Learn More or Register Today!
KPOP Skate
Saturday, September 20th, 2025
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Skateland – Des Moines, IA
K-pop is taking over at Skateland’s upcoming Skate Night! Fans, you are invited to skate to your favorite K-pop hits under the disco ball and neon lights. The event promises energetic music, a lively atmosphere, and a chance to show off dance moves with your besties. Skateland is open all afternoon, with K-pop music featured from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Learn More or Register Today!
Apple Picking
Sunday, September 21st, 2025
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Iowa Orchard – Granger, IA
It’s that time of the year again – Apple picking at Iowa Orchard of course! Did you know the orchard offers a dog-friendly environment, plenty of parking, and apples priced per bag. Admission is $5 per person, with children 2 and under free. Be sure to check out their website for full regulations to make the most out of your visit! Learn More or Register Today!
5k Beer Run
Sunday, September 21st, 2025
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Reclaimed Rails Brewing Co. – Bondurant, IA
Runners, walkers, and beer lovers are invited to join the Iowa Brewery Running Series for a 5K-ish fun run at Reclaimed Rails Brewing Co. Participants can enjoy a scenic course, a complimentary craft beverage, live music, food trucks, and games. The event supports local nonprofits and welcomes all ages and fitness levels. Learn More or Register Today!
Free Trial Guitar Lesson
Sunday, September 21st, 2025
5:30 PM – 6:00 PMArrow Academy of Music – Urbandale, IA
Arrow Academy of Music welcomes prospective students to a free trial group guitar lesson. Attendees can experience the academy’s unique teaching style, with materials provided and the option to bring their own guitar. This event is a great opportunity to explore music education in a supportive environment. Learn More or Register Today!