Good morning, Des Moines.

Des Moines held its annual Labor Day Parade yesterday to honor Iowa workers — the Iowa Federation of Labor organized the route from the State Capitol to the Fairgrounds while East Grand Avenue was closed from 6 a.m. through 12:30 p.m. — a Union Family Festival at Union Labor Park featured live entertainment and food until 5 p.m.

Iowa restaurants are hurting as more people use weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy that lower their appetites and change spending habits.

A recent report shows that 54% of GLP-1 users dine out less and Dunker predicts that up to 600 eateries will close later this year—adding to rising food and labor cost challenges.

Many Des Moines metro police departments already use drones in their work with police and fire units.

Ankeny is reviewing plans so that drones may reach scenes before officers arrive—making them possible first responders.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

2025 GalaxyCon - Sunday

3:30 AM — Hy-Vee Hall at Iowa Events Center — Tickets starting at $156 — Experience a day filled with exciting performances at GalaxyCon.