Good morning, Des Moines.

Focuss—a nonprofit organization—hosted a skating event at Skate South last Sunday to help youth transition from summer to fall and ease mental health challenges by covering admission, skate rental, and food and drinks.

The organization said it will hold more events like this to provide young people with a welcome escape.

The Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow is in full swing on its opening weekend, marking its 20th anniversary with jousting, music, and lively shows at Sleepy Hollow Park.

Festival Director Amy Coble said the event features performances by the Pirate King and Queen and twin bands — the Harp Twins and the Volfgang Twins.

Minneapolis band Night Moves will perform at xBk Live in Des Moines at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept.

9, where frontman John Pelant will play songs from their album Double Life that reflect his struggles with loss & illness. The album mixes retro and modern sounds and marks the group’s first album since 2019.

Today a Labor Day rally is happening at the Iowa Capitol as part of a nationwide 'Workers Over Billionaires' event, where Joshua Brown—president of the state teachers union—will speak about changes in public education and concerns over proposals that tie teacher pay to test scores.

Crow Tow is keeping auction proceeds from unclaimed impounded vehicles after the Des Moines police contract changed, raising worries about fairness and transparency.

City officials will review the contract in November to address citizen complaints—this step may help improve protections for vehicle owners.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Monthly Writing Night

7-9 p.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Engage in a relaxed evening of creativity with fellow writers and prompts to spark new ideas.

Des Moines Women's Club Opening Day

1-3 p.m. — Des Moines Women's Club — Free entry — Celebrate the kick-off of the club's 140th year with a musical cabaret performance featuring Jackie Schmillen.

Graphic Design Bootcamp

2-8 p.m. — Bank of America Building — Course fees apply — Gain hands-on experience with essential graphic design tools and techniques.

Awakening Events: Christian Music Concert

6-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of uplifting Christian music in downtown Des Moines.

Touchdown Tailgate

11 AM – 4 PM — Cowles Commons — Free admission — Celebrate the Cyhawk takeover with a fun-filled day at Cowles Commons.

Harry Potter Night at Iowa Cubs

1:08-2:38 PM — Principal Park — $13+ — Experience the magic of Harry Potter with themed entertainment and a kids' run around the bases.

Writers' Workshop 2025

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

VolunTEENS Work Time

3-4 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free opportunity — Engage in a fun and rewarding volunteer activity at the library.

GalaxyCon Des Moines

Sep 12-14 — Iowa Events Center — Tickets from $178 — Experience an unforgettable celebration of fandom with GalaxyCon in Des Moines.

Big Used Book Sale 2025

10 AM - 5 PM — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Benefits library programs — Shop for a variety of used books and more while supporting your local library.