Good morning, Des Moines.

The Iowa State Fair daily guide offers key details on parking and vendors so visitors can plan their day at the fair—information provided by fair organizers for this year's event.

Ritual Cafe, located at 1301 Locust Street downtown and known for its art shows and open mic nights, closed yesterday after 20 years in business—its Facebook post thanked customers and invited them for one last fix while supplies lasted.

On Saturday in Des Moines, Chase Bank and the Boys and Girls Club handed out 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies — the event also featured fun activities on financial literacy and healthy eating for children.

Organizers held workshops for parents on budgeting and smart shopping to help ease concerns about school expenses as the new school year nears.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird spoke at the Barn Bash at the Dallas County Fairgrounds where she detailed her efforts on fighting crypto scams against seniors and launching an investigation into a university DEI issue.

She also outlined plans for her 2026 re-election campaign—citing tough actions on drug issues and noting she faces a challenge from a liberal candidate from eastern Iowa.

Des Moines native Matthew Whitaker, the new U.S. Ambassador to NATO, spoke live today from Brussels about U.S. arms sales supporting Ukraine's defense while easing costs for American taxpayers—his remarks came as European allies prepare to purchase these advanced weapons.

He also stressed his strong ties to Iowa and noted plans to attend Iowa State Cyclones football games this fall, though he made no announcement about a return to local politics.

Rage Against the Regime protesters gathered at the Iowa State Capitol on August 2—collecting school supplies and hygiene products for local donation in Des Moines, and participants from across the nation joined the effort.

More than 12,500 athletes have competed in 26 events at the National Senior Games in Des Moines from July 24 through tomorrow, August 4.

Sue Hlavacek, president and CEO of the National Senior Games Association, said the games show strong local sports enthusiasm — admission is free for spectators.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

VolunTEENS Library Opportunity

4-5 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Volunteer opportunity — Help out at the library while gaining community service experience.

Sara Sato's 'Notes from the Sea' Exhibit Opening

6:30-8 p.m. — Heritage Art Gallery — Free entry — Explore a unique meditation on our relationship with nature through the diverse stories of water and its enigmatic inhabitants.

Jane Monheit Performance

7 PM — Noce — Cost not listed — Experience the enchanting jazz interpretations of vocalist Jane Monheit.

RnB Brunch DSM

4-8 p.m. — 319 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA — Ticket required — Savor a delicious brunch with bottomless mimosas while enjoying soulful R&B tunes and karaoke fun.