Good morning, Des Moines.

Des Moines launched the Park—N—Play program to bring park fun to neighborhoods with limited access using a van full of games and crafts for two-hour sessions.

The free program started in March and will run spring sessions until May 17 and summer events from June 9 to August 23.

The River Center venue in Des Moines downsized its operations after a jury on April 2 awarded landlord Rich Eychaner more than $634,000 in back rent—leading the venue to end its lease on the northern part while continuing in the south under a lease through 2028.

Owner Michael LaValle argued that COVID-19 shutdowns excused the missed payments but his claims were rejected and his attorneys have filed a motion while the case remains pending.

A beloved biannual book sale will return under the leadership of the Young Women's Resource Center and Iowa's Biggest Book Sale after a break when the city used eminent domain to take its storage facility.

The event will run Nov. 6-9 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds—Nov. 6 as a ticketed preview and Nov. 7-9 free—and will raise funds for programs that support young women.

Wilson’s Orchard and Farm in Cumming held its annual Tulip Festival this past weekend with visitors exploring colorful tulip fields and a new Bouquet Bar — the farm also reopened its Play Barn rebuilt from reused materials, which offers a three-story playground for kids.

The festival lasts about three days and allows guests to purchase flower bouquets at varying prices.

East High School held its 2025 prom at the Scottish Rite Consistory in Des Moines on April 26th — students danced, took photos, and celebrated a fairy tale theme in a night of fun and community spirit.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!

Open Mic Night

6-9 p.m. — Fireside Grille — 2-for-1 Pasta Night with Happy Hour — Showcase your talent with comedy, music, and more at a vibrant venue.

After School Adventures - May Baskets

3:45-4:30 p.m. — West Des Moines Public Library — Registration required — Create festive paper May baskets to celebrate spring fun.

The Fail Forward Event Spring 2025

4:30-7:30 p.m. — Bash Events & Catering — Snacks and first drink included — Celebrate learning from mistakes with inspiring speakers and engaging discussions.

Blooming with K-pop!

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month with K-pop activities and fun prizes.

Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show

6-9 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown — $67.95 + taxes & fees — Enjoy a night of interactive comedy as you solve a hilarious murder mystery while dining.

The Nocturnal Affair Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Wooly's — Tickets available — Experience the haunting sounds of Las Vegas dark rockers The Nocturnal Affair.

Future Islands Concert

7-9 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticket prices from $32 — Catch Future Islands live in an intimate venue setting with great acoustics.

Postpartum Support Group for New Parents

9:30-11 a.m. — Downtown Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Gather with fellow new parents and find community support during your baby's first year.

Des Moines Big Band Swing Night

7-9 p.m. — Noce — Check venue for details — Enjoy an evening of swing dancing and live music with the Des Moines Big Band and Heartland Swing.

Pop Evil Concert

8-11 p.m. — Wooly's — $43+ — Experience the electrifying performance of Pop Evil in Des Moines.