Good morning, Des Moines.

Des Moines Area Community College President Rob Denson expressed concerns over a proposal that would have Iowa’s 15 community colleges offer four-year degrees after a Higher Education Committee study was released this fall+ He said that keeping strong partnerships with universities and private colleges is crucial to prevent drops in enrollment and noted that the legislative agenda does not include bachelor’s degrees.

In Boone, Iowa, some maple trees still show bright red and purple hues even after peak color ended.

Campers at Ledges State Park and visitors at the Iowa Arboretum enjoy the fall display — a sign that shorter days are changing the season.

The Iowa DOT will close I-80 eastbound near the southwest mixmaster tonight at 8:30 p.m. until 5 a.m. Tuesday— with a second closure planned from Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. until 5 a.m. Wednesday, so drivers must follow marked detours to reach I-35 and I-235.

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 — A casual evening for writers to create and share inspiration over coffee.

RC Coffee Networking Event

9-10 a.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Connect with local remodelers over coffee and networking opportunities.

Holiday Social 2025

5-9 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $30 per person — Enjoy a casual evening of appetizers and drinks while mingling with fellow locals.

Elevated Dining Experience at Judges

5:45-7:45 p.m. — Judges — Cost varies — Enjoy shareable starters and inventive cocktails in a modern comfort food setting.

The Fitch Building Open Studio

6-9 p.m. — Fitch Studios LLC — Free entry — Explore a vibrant array of local artists showcasing their creative works in an interactive studio environment.

Des Moines Holiday Boutique

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — EMC Expo Center — $12 online, $14 at the door — Discover unique gifts from over 130 small businesses this holiday season.

Novel November Write In

4-7 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Keep your writing momentum going with fellow novelists during this collaborative write-in session.

Free Holiday Portraits at Exile Brewing

5-7 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free — Capture festive memories with free holiday portraits for your family or friends during your visit.

VolunTEENS Work Opportunity

4-5 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — A fun and rewarding volunteer chance for teens aged 12-18 at the library.

Les Miserables

1:00 – 2:30 pm — Des Moines Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the epic tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption in this acclaimed musical masterpiece.