Good morning, Des Moines.

Des Moines reported a 4% rise in vehicle thefts in 2024 with over 1,000 cars stolen and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 identified as Iowa’s most stolen vehicle — local police said juveniles influenced by an online trend are fueling the increase.

Police are investigating a fatal shooting late Monday night in Des Moines’ Southwestern Hills neighborhood—officers responded to a call at 2221 Stanton Avenue near the international airport, where they found a 47-year-old man with a gunshot injury who later died at UnityPoint-Methodist Medical Center.

Des Moines Police responded to a shooting at an apartment complex on 2221 Stanton Ave. in Southwestern Hills on July 28 where a 47-year-old man was found with a gunshot wound, received CPR, and later died at UnityPoint — Methodist Medical Center — while investigators continue interviewing witnesses.

Shoppers in Des Moines should prepare for Iowa's annual sales tax holiday that will start Friday at 12:01 a.m. and run until midnight Saturday—offering clothing and footwear under $100 with no sales tax while items such as watches, jewelry, umbrellas and roller blades remain taxable—and they can check the Department of Revenue website for the complete list.

Iowa’s crops are developing well as a USDA report shows corn is one day ahead of last year with 87% rated in good to excellent condition—soybeans are setting pods five days faster and 82% are in top shape.

Overnight storms brought damaging winds up to 100 mph across northwest Iowa — toppling trees and power lines and leaving thousands without power while causing road closures.

Officials are still assessing the damage and forecasting heavy rains in affected areas, while Des Moines residents can expect a hot, sunny day with light showers later.

After heavy rain on July 29th, Des Moines officials moved water downstream and activated stormwater pump stations to prevent flooding as saturated soils sped up runoff into rivers—city leaders had invested hundreds of millions in flood control upgrades over the past 10 years and urged residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert.

The 30,000-square-foot basement of Merle Hay Mall—known as the Garden Court—has been closed since 2000 after hosting a bomb shelter and later a bowling alley, and residents recall its eerie past.

Investors are in talks with a local entertainment operator to redevelop the space as part of the mall’s arena project that will also host Drake University’s hockey team.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

Iowa State Fair

7 PM – 1 AM — Iowa State Fairgrounds — Waitlist available — Experience the excitement of Iowa's largest outdoor event with food, rides, and entertainment.