Daily
Des Moines
Friday, May 1st, 2026
Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 1st of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Reichardt Community Recreation Center is under construction and Des Moines Parks and Recreation Director Ben Page said work continues to improve community recreation options + support local events. The Des Moines Register
- ➤ The new Reichardt Community Recreation Center (with a modern swimming pool) opened on April 29 in Des Moines during a ribbon cutting attended by local officials and community members. It now offers a fresh venue for recreational activities & events. The Des Moines Register
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ This weekend, the non-profit Des Moines Science Fiction & Fantasy Society launches the 37th Annual DemiCon at the Holiday Inn and Suites; featured guest Mur Lafferty (a celebrated sci-fi author and podcast host) will judge the Masquerade and support emerging writers amid workshops, contests, art shows, and gaming events. Radio Iowa
- ➤ DSM House of Design, a renovated 1901 home on Jackson Avenue, now offers a creative space for custom designs, sewing classes + glamour photoshoots and rentals for special events. Owner Chelsea Faye invites Des Moines residents to embrace self-expression and host lively gatherings. KCCI
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Gas prices in Iowa have jumped 20 cents in one day as Des Moines now tops rates at $3.98 per gallon— the highest seen in nearly four years, and AAA advises motorists to watch prices closely with summer travel approaching. Radio Iowa
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ According to the latest US Drought Monitor map released on April 30, Iowa's drought improved from 17% to 13% with Des Moines receiving 6.76 inches of rain in April & forecasts expect more easing in May. The Des Moines Register
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Waukee police propose new e-bike rules to improve safety after multiple complaints and a few crashes. The ordinance sets a limit of 20 mph and a power limit of 750 watts (with a $25 fine for violations) and awaits two more readings to take effect. 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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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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Clue: High School Edition
7-9 p.m. — Stoner Theater — Check the details for ticket prices — A madcap comedy where iconic characters race to solve a murder mystery at a dinner party.
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Clue: High School Edition
7-9 p.m. — Stoner Theater — Admission fee required — A comedic whodunit unfolds as guests race to find a murderer in Boddy Manor.
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Summer Concert Series Performance
11 AM – 12 PM — Heritage Carousel of Des Moines — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful summer concert in a charming carousel setting.
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Spring Music Series: Forrest McCurren
5-7 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy great live music while sipping on discounted beers during the Spring Music Series.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.
~ Andrew Carnegie
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