Good morning, Des Moines.

On July 2, hundreds attended the annual Urbandale 4th of July Celebration at Lions Park—families enjoyed carnival rides, games, and festive activities that marked the community's patriotic spirit.

Des Moines police confirmed that Percy Butler, 35, died early Wednesday morning on the 3600 block of Kennedy Drive—Tywone Morrow, 31, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder after the two men argued.

Melisa Cox, the former CEO of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, pleaded guilty to theft, unauthorized credit card use, money laundering and fraudulent practice and was sentenced on July 2 to five years probation with a suspended 35-year term—she admitted stealing over $250,000 to pay personal expenses and will pay restitution while completing a six-week victim impact awareness course.

New fireworks laws allow fireworks on private property from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. today while public property remains off limits—local business Freedom Fireworks has added registers to handle higher sales.

Des Moines Fire Department officials warn that increased sparkler use may lead to more injuries and fires, urging careful supervision and keeping water nearby.

Councilmember Chris Coleman announced on Facebook that he will not run for reelection when his term ends in 2026—he wants to devote more time to family and finish his work on community projects.

He has served Des Moines Ward 1 since a special election in 2023.

Central Iowa Water Works lifted the ban on installing sod on July 2 so turf companies can resume operations to help new home closures, but it kept the ban on lawn watering for 600,000 Des Moines customers because nitrate levels in local rivers remain above safe limits—officials made the decision after reviewing water consumption data—and they plan to ease restrictions only when levels drop.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

2025 Downtown Farmers' Market

7 AM – 12 PM — Court District — Free entry — Explore local produce, artisan goods, and seasonal flowers in the heart of Downtown Des Moines.

Summer Music Series: Riley Jane

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints during happy hour — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer.

Writers' Workshop 2025

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — No registration required — Share your writing and receive valuable feedback from fellow writers.

Jazz in July Night 1

5:30-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free entry — Experience the smooth sounds of jazz with Valley High School Jazz Combo and Mike Conrad’s Hard Bop Express.

Wiggles and Giggles

9:15-9:45 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy a lively storytime filled with movement, music, and rhymes for preschoolers.

Bad Decisions Band Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Annie's Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy a night of great live music at this local favorite pub.

Stone Circle Brass Quintet: Nothin’ but the Classics

2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Experience a lively performance by the talented Stone Circle Brass Quintet showcasing a diverse repertoire.

Iowa Reptile Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines — Tickets at the door — Connect with local breeders and explore thousands of reptiles and supplies.

3D Printer Training Class

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration required — Master the Bambu X-1 and Formlabs Form 3 3D printers in this informative workshop.

Jazz in July: Night #2

5:30-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free entry — Enjoy a summer evening of jazz featuring the CJC Youth Combo and the Christian Ertl Quartet.