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.
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.
Farm Camp is a week-long summer day camp that offers an opportunity to educate children about farm life while fostering friendships and cultivating a passion for farming!
Campers aged 6 – 11 years old will experience hands-on fun and have the opportunity to:
- Care for animals – feeding, training, and cleaning
- Learn about growing crops – riding hayride to fields to examine plants, soil, and weeds
- Explore the farm and the environment including creeks and ponds
- Discover the by-products of many crops—corn, soybeans, pumpkins, apples, cherries, and strawberries.
- Connect the importance of science to agriculture
- Play – enjoying our fun activities such as our Super Slides, Jumping Pillows, and more!
Farm Camp Sessions
Session 1: May 29 – May 31
Session 2: June 3 – June 7
Session 3: June 10 – June 14
Session 4: June 17 – June 21
Session 5: June 24 – June 28
Matinee performances designed to enhance school curricula are also open to the general public. All seats $4 in advance; $5 at the door. All ages and all group sizes are welcome. Scholarship admission is available for students enrolled in the federal lunch program.
Many performances sell out, so pre-registration is encouraged to ensure you’ll get a seat. But mostly, we you hope come to the show and share the arts with the young ones in your life.
Cat Kid Comic Show: The Musical – 10 am – Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Cat Kid Comic Show: The Musical – 12:30 pm – Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Youth Matinee Series: The Very Hungry Caterpillar 12:00 pm – Monday, February 12, 2024
The Very Hungry Caterpillar – 6:30 pm – Monday, February 12, 2024
Dot Dot Dot: A New Musical – 10 am – Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Dot Dot Dot: A New Musical – 12:30 pm – Tuesday, February 20, 2024
The Boy Who Cried Wolf – 10 am – Wednesday, March 20, 2024
The Boy Who Cried Wolf – 12:30 pm – Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Charlotte’s Web – 10 am – Monday, April 15, 2024
Charlotte’s Web – 12:30 pm – Monday, April 15, 2024 – 12:30 pm
Have You Filled A Bucket Today? – 10 am – Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Have You Filled A Bucket Today? – 12:30 pm – Tuesday, April 23, 2024
The Jungle Book – 10 am – Tuesday, May 7, 2024
The Jungle Book – 12:30 pm – Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Books, Bites & Boba Tuesdays, March 26th & April 23rd, 6-7pm
Boba tea, booktalks and noms! There is no assigned reading, just bring yourself and be ready to talk about a book you’ve been reading, or listen while others share, and sip on some boba tea! Registration strongly preferred. Grades 6 – 12th.
Happens on the following Dates:
Mar 26, 2024, 6:00pm to 7:00pm Timezone: CDT
Apr 23, 2024, 6:00pm to 7:00pm Timezone: CDT
Your Race. Your Pace. Your Mile.
The Grand Blue Mile was created by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Drake Relays to encourage healthy habits and celebrate personal achievement. Held annually since 2010, the Grand Blue Mile has hosted more than 45,000 participants from 47 states, six countries, and four continents.
The annual event brings friends and families together to celebrate wellness through a one-mile street run in Downtown Des Moines suited for all ages and abilities.
From competitive to recreational, there’s something for everyone at the Grand Blue Mile.
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.
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.
Farm Camp is a week-long summer day camp that offers an opportunity to educate children about farm life while fostering friendships and cultivating a passion for farming!
Campers aged 6 – 11 years old will experience hands-on fun and have the opportunity to:
- Care for animals – feeding, training, and cleaning
- Learn about growing crops – riding hayride to fields to examine plants, soil, and weeds
- Explore the farm and the environment including creeks and ponds
- Discover the by-products of many crops—corn, soybeans, pumpkins, apples, cherries, and strawberries.
- Connect the importance of science to agriculture
- Play – enjoying our fun activities such as our Super Slides, Jumping Pillows, and more!
Farm Camp Sessions
Session 1: May 29 – May 31
Session 2: June 3 – June 7
Session 3: June 10 – June 14
Session 4: June 17 – June 21
Session 5: June 24 – June 28
FIND US ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF VALLEY WEST MALL, NEAR THE PLAY AREA.
Museum hours
Admission
Bring your little one in for a story and a craft! Every week we will read a book aloud from our library and pair it with a small guided craft. One ticket covers one child and craft, parents do not need a ticket if they are not participating in the craft.
For this event to take place as scheduled, there must be at least 3 participants. If the minimum participant quota is not met by 2 days prior to the event, it will be cancelled, and all tickets will be refunded in full. Want to make sure it takes place as scheduled? Share this event with family and friends! The more, the merrier!
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
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.
Take2 sells new and gently used children’s, teen and maternity clothing and shoes. Also, toys, games, puzzles, books, accessories, children’s decorations, baby gear and much more.
April 26th & 27th are Half Price Days!
Event Schedule
April 23, 2024 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
April 24, 2024 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
April 25, 2024 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
April 26, 2024 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
April 27, 2024 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Maker Wednesdays Wednesdays, 2-3:30pm
Get creative with weekly activities for kids focused on making, building, and creativity. No registration required, just stop by anytime from 2-3:30pm. Recommended for ages 5 and up, held on Wednesdays when Norwalk Schools are in session and releasing early.
Not held on March 13th, but join us for special spring break activities!
This is a Weekly Recurring Event
Runs from Mar 6, 2024 to May 22, 2024 and happens every:
Wednesdays: 2:00pm – 3:30pm CST
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.
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.
Farm Camp is a week-long summer day camp that offers an opportunity to educate children about farm life while fostering friendships and cultivating a passion for farming!
Campers aged 6 – 11 years old will experience hands-on fun and have the opportunity to:
- Care for animals – feeding, training, and cleaning
- Learn about growing crops – riding hayride to fields to examine plants, soil, and weeds
- Explore the farm and the environment including creeks and ponds
- Discover the by-products of many crops—corn, soybeans, pumpkins, apples, cherries, and strawberries.
- Connect the importance of science to agriculture
- Play – enjoying our fun activities such as our Super Slides, Jumping Pillows, and more!
Farm Camp Sessions
Session 1: May 29 – May 31
Session 2: June 3 – June 7
Session 3: June 10 – June 14
Session 4: June 17 – June 21
Session 5: June 24 – June 28
Babytime Thursdays, 9:30am
We’ll share bounces, rhymes, songs, and stories with you and baby at this short storytime, followed by playtime. Recommended for birth to about 24 months. Older kids are welcome to attend with you and baby.
This is a Weekly Recurring Event
Runs from Jan 4, 2024 to Apr 30, 2024 and happens every:
Thursdays: 9:30am – 10:00am CST