Good morning, Des Moines.

The 2025 Iowa State Fair will run from Aug 7 to Aug 17 at the fairgrounds in Des Moines—visitors can buy tickets online or at the gate, with parking available in lots, taxis, and DART bus stops.

The fair opens daily from 8 a.m. to midnight and will offer new food items along with classic treats.

Des Moines police and fire responded Sunday morning to reports that a 49-year-old man fell from the Prospect Park boat ramp and deployed boats, sonar, and a drone to search the Des Moines River — the search was suspended due to rapid conditions and dangerous debris with plans to resume later.

Des Moines officials approved their first housing strategy as a new report found that minimum wage workers earning $7.25 must work 89 hours a week for a one-bedroom and 110 hours for a two-bedroom rental.

The report shows that while Iowa ranks as one of the more affordable states—only North Dakota and South Dakota require lower wages—local wages in areas like Polk County still fall short of keeping rent affordable.

Basketball star Caitlin Clark opened a new multi-use court at McCombs Middle School yesterday in Des Moines — her foundation also gave free back-to-school supplies to 500 students.

Storms rolled through Des Moines overnight, knocking down power lines and trees and leaving 23,961 customers without power as of 6:25 a.m.—police warn drivers to be cautious as traffic signals are affected by the outage.

Gardening expert Aaron Steil of Iowa State Extension says July’s high heat slows tomato ripening and changes flavors in cucumbers, melons and carrots.

He recommends deep watering once a week and adding mulch to cool soil — and if fruit shows blossom end rot, to remove it so the plant can set new flowers — to keep gardens healthy.

Three Iowans competed last Monday in the American Ninja Warrior semifinals on Channel 13 at 7:00 p.m. where they faced a 10-obstacle course and only the fastest advanced to the national finals—local heroes Ben and Jason Behrends and Spencer Johnson took part, with Spencer also joining News at Noon to share his ninja experiences, his gym Emerge Academy, and his charity Change Course.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

The SpongeBob Musical

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Des Moines Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Dive into the vibrant underwater world where SpongeBob and friends unite to save Bikini Bottom from disaster.

Wiggles and Giggles Storytime

9:15-9:45 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy movement, music, and rhyming with fun watermelon games and crafts.

The Hors D’oeuvres Live at Annie’s Irish Pub

8-11 p.m. — Annie's Irish Pub — Cost TBD — Enjoy an evening filled with live music from The Hors D’oeuvres.

City Voices Summer Recital

1:30 – 3:00 PM — Noce — Free — Enjoy captivating performances from talented students in Contemporary, Musical Theatre, and Classical music styles.

Summer Music Series with Casey Peasley

5:00-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer in the heart of summer.

Galactic Empire Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Wooly's — $47 to $157 — Experience a unique concert by Galactic Empire that combines Star Wars themes with live music.

Drop-In Tech Help

2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free — Get assistance with your electronic devices from knowledgeable library staff.

Iowa Cubs Summer Blood Drive

7:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. — Principal Park — Free entry — Donate blood, save lives, and get a chance to win prizes with the Iowa Cubs.

2025 Downtown Farmers' Market

7 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Historic Court District — Free entry — Explore local produce, artisan foods, and more at this vibrant community market.

Double Date Speed Dating at Secret Admirer

2-5 p.m. — Secret Admirer — Ticket for 2 people — Enjoy a fun and interactive double date speed dating experience for singles aged 25-38.