Good morning, Des Moines.

Facing a year of loss and hard choices, Tara Meek & Brandon Mueller received crucial holiday support through Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program at the Toy Shop in Valley West Mall, where over 800 families shop for free toys and now are linked to ongoing community services.

Archived photos show Des Moines Christmas trees from as early as 1937, displaying how local holiday traditions evolved through decades.

The collection highlights festive moments that have shaped seasonal celebrations in the city.

The new Iowa Pride Ensembles held their first winter concert on Dec.

21 at Roosevelt High School Auditorium in Des Moines. The band (75 to 100 members) plans to expand next year with a jazz band and a marching band.

The Iowa Department of Education reported on Oct.

1 that about 35 percent of public schools saw 100 or more students choose open enrollment & over 41,000 students attended private schools. The numbers help set funding for the next fiscal year.

Two Iowa tickets nearly hit a $1.2B Powerball jackpot and one ticket won $1M while another scored $150K as the prize climbs to $1.6B for today's drawing (tickets sold in Vinton and Johnston); players must purchase by 8:59 p.m.

Retiring fire chief John TeKippe ends his 16-year leadership of the Des Moines Fire Department after a 30-year career in public service.

He reflected on his work protecting the community and credited his team for their support.

The Iowa DOT will close eastbound I-80 between Grand Prairie Parkway and Jordan Creek Parkway tonight from 8:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. (on Monday and Tuesday) for construction work.

Drivers will use a marked detour via exit 118 with University Avenue and Jordan Creek Parkway.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

New Year's Eve Pops

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Des Moines Civic Center — $40 - $90 — Experience a dazzling performance by Cirque artists paired with beloved orchestral masterpieces for an unforgettable New Year's celebration.

Sweez Live Performance with Dangus

9 PM – 3 AM — Locals Bar & Stage — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live music with Sweez and special guest Dangus.

19th Annual Land Investment Expo

8 AM — Iowa Events Center — Registration details available online — Explore land investment opportunities with industry experts at this must-attend event.