Good morning, Des Moines.

Register photojournalist Lily Smith presents her favorite 2025 images, capturing moments from local events (including fairs, sports, and community celebrations) that showcase our vibrant city life.

DMPS marine biology students introduced a new stingray pup on Nov.

18 at Central Campus+ they shared how the lab experience enriched their learning.

Norwalk High School senior Jackson Zeigler earned the Des Moines Register Student of the Week title on Dec.

18, recognized for his leadership and community service through an internship at Norwalk Fire Department and active involvement in school events highlighting his technical skills.

Iowa Lottery players won 28,677 prizes on Wednesday, Dec.

17 when no jackpot was claimed; prizes ranged from $4 to $400 with numbers 25, 33, 53, 62, 66 plus Powerball 17. The $1.5B jackpot grows and the next drawing is set for Saturday, Dec. 20.

Des Moines fire marshal Jonathan Lund was announced as the new fire chief today — his remarks highlighted plans to boost department readiness and community safety.

State officials held a news conference at 3 p.m. Thursday to announce Iowa’s participation in America 250—the nationwide commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Lt. Gov. Cournoyer, Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, and Secretary of State Paul Pate detailed civic engagement efforts for the celebration.

Polk County health officials confirmed an unvaccinated infant was diagnosed with measles on Thursday, Dec.

16 after the child traveled to an area with a rising outbreak. There were no identified public exposures and officials are working with the family to monitor the situation.

Rapper Ludacris donated $100,000 to ChildServe on Dec.

18 at 10:25 a.m. to support the in-patient complex medical care program for children; the gift will help upgrade facilities and specialized therapies for Iowa families.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Russian Conversation Club

1-2 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Engage in light-hearted conversations while practicing or learning Russian with community members.

Drake Bulldogs Women's Basketball vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers

1-3:30 p.m. — Knapp Center — $10-$40 — Witness an exciting basketball showdown between the Drake Bulldogs and the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad

6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 per artist — Unleash your creativity with a new hands-on art activity every week for all ages and skill levels.

Disenchanted! The Hit Musical Comedy

7-9 p.m. — Temple Theater — Cost info not provided — Laugh along as Snow White and her friends redefine their story in a must-see musical comedy.

Baby Rhyme Time

9:30-10:00 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Engage in a delightful mix of rhymes, songs, and stories designed for caregivers and babies up to 18 months.

Dome for the Holidays

5-9 p.m. — Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden — Adults $17, Children (2-12) $11 — Experience a dazzling display of lights and joyful festivities in a tropical oasis.

NAMI Family Support Group

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free of cost — Connect with others in a supportive environment for loved ones of individuals with mental health conditions.

Disenchanted! The Hit Musical Comedy

7-9 p.m. — Temple Theater — Tickets required — A hilarious reimagining of classic princess tales with Snow White and her disenchanted friends setting the record straight.

Jeff Dunham Live

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Casey's Center — Tickets available — Experience a night of laughter with ventriloquist Jeff Dunham and his puppet pals in a comedic performance infused with innovative material and AI humor.

K-pop Monthly Meet-up

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Celebrate K-pop culture with trading, activities, and snacks alongside fellow fans.