Good morning, Des Moines.

Campers are filling the Iowa State Fair Campgrounds with trailers, RVs, and tents as they get ready for the fair that begins at 8 a.m. today—local families look forward to reconnecting after the summer.

On August 5, 21 neighborhoods in Des Moines held National Night Out events to honor law enforcement and build community ties.

In Fairmont Park, about 80 residents enjoyed free pizza, music from the high school band, raffles, and a police dog demonstration that paused when the dog got overwhelmed—organizers plan to brainstorm new ideas for next year.

Just Voices released Part 2 of its free online book The Peoples History: A Study of the Summer of 2020 Protests in Des Moines, which gathers local stories from activists, organizers & residents affected by the protests that followed George Floyd's murder.

The 79-page book detailed arrests, legal fights & changes in police review practices as the community sought more transparent reforms.

Des Moines police said two people were injured in a shooting Wednesday morning in the 1800 block of College Avenue, with one person self-transporting to Broadlawn Medical Center as officers confirmed there is no ongoing danger to the neighborhood.

Hundreds of floats and spectators filled downtown Des Moines during the Iowa State Fair parade on August 6—parade displays featured tractors, dirt bikes and children blowing bubbles along East Grand Avenue—as the event showcased a lively celebration.

Today at the Iowa State Fair, visitors face a hot, mostly sunny day with a high of 91° and possible showers before 7 a.m. — winds are 6 to 10 mph with a low of 74 tonight, and key events include livestock contests and performances by Forrest Frank and Lecrae at 8 p.m. while standing-room tickets are on sale at 9 a.m. at the Administration Building front porch.

The third annual Des Moines Festival of Ideas will be held on August 15th and 16th downtown as speakers and local leaders discuss trust in media, government and more.

The non-partisan event—sponsored by the Lyceum Movement—will also feature Australian pies, beer and wine to encourage friendly, face-to-face conversation.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

Summer Music Series: Jonas Magram at Exile Brewing

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints all-day — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer at this community gathering.

Franklin Cinema Club - Once Upon a Time in the West

6:30-7:45 p.m. — Franklin Avenue Library — Free entry — Explore the classic western epic Once Upon a Time in the West and engage in film discussions.