Friday, April 24th, 2026
Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 24th of April.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn unveiled Fjord Ferryman (a 22-foot wooden troll) by Danish artist Thomas Dambo to honor migration and sustainability; the half-million-dollar project was completed in six weeks and invites visitors to seek the hidden sculpture for a fun adventure. KCCI
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A new study from the Common Sense Institute shows birth rates have fallen and migration is slowing in Iowa, which could reduce the workforce and affect economic strength. The study warns of a potential demographic turning point that may shape the state's future. The Des Moines Register
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Board of Regents approved a 3% tuition and fee increase for state undergraduate students today after receiving input from student representatives, which will raise tuition by $287 at the University of Iowa, $286 at Iowa State University and $262 at the University of Northern Iowa. Radio Iowa
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A bill set for debate in the Iowa Senate would grant nuclear power facilities a sales tax rebate and require companies to donate 15% of that benefit to fund a nuclear engineering program at a state university (a measure to grow a local nuclear workforce), said Senator Dan Dawson. Radio Iowa
- ➤ The U.S. Ag Department announced it will create a National Food Safety Center by relocating to existing USDA space in Urbandale. The new office will become Food Safety’s largest, housing about 200 workers as part of efforts to modernize operations and support ag production systems. Radio Iowa
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Families in Des Moines can get free kids meals when they purchase an adult entree at eight local restaurants including Beaver Tap and Mullets Uptown on Monday, Giordano’s and Zombie Burger on Tuesday, Scorno’s on Wednesday, Chuck’s and Cozy Café Johnston on Thursday, and Flame Cantina on Sunday. Iowa Starting Line
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Drake Relays updated its schedule yesterday after severe weather pressures in central Iowa forced changes; the 4x800 relay began at (2 p.m.) and the hammer throw at (3 p.m.), high school boys discus moved to Saturday morning while invitational 10K races stayed as planned. KCCI
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New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness
This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!
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NAMI Family Support Group
10:30 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Connect with others facing the challenges of supporting loved ones with mental health conditions.
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Clue - High School Edition
2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling high school rendition of the classic mystery game.
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Clue - High School Edition
2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a high school rendition of the classic mystery game.
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City Voices Spring Recital
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free admission — Enjoy a showcase of talented students performing a variety of songs from Classical, Contemporary, and Music Theater repertoires.
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Jimmy Failla Live
7-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticket prices starting at $73 — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Jimmy Failla at a premier venue.
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Wiggles and Giggles Storytime
3:15-3:45 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy a lively storytime filled with movement, music, and rhyming fun for little ones.
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Iowa Horse Fair
3:30 PM - 5 PM (May 8-10) — Iowa State Fairgrounds — Varies — A celebration of equestrian culture featuring competitions, vendors, and entertainment for all ages.
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Iowa Hope Run (5K)
8:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Des Moines Water Works Park — Registration required — Participate in a community race honoring local teens affected by brain tumors.
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Mother's Day Brunch at Big Grove
9 AM - 2 PM — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Special brunch menu with prices ranging from $12 to $18.75 — Celebrate mom with delicious food and a free Mom-mosa.
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Emo Nite at Wooly's
10 PM – 1 AM — Wooly's — Tickets from $64 — Experience an unforgettable night filled with emo music and nostalgia.
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