Good morning, Des Moines.

Shatiera DeGeest’s Bentley’s Battle Buddy Christmas toy drive collected about 2,000 items for children undergoing cancer treatment at Blank Children’s Hospital and Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Des Moines on Dec.

24. This is the fifth year the drive has honored her late son Bentley’s legacy.

The Des Moines Children's Museum is relocating to the former Des Moines Golf and Country Club property on 12th Street in West Des Moines — it remains open at its Valley West Mall location, and renovations will start with plans to fully open in spring.

Margot Burnham keeps a centuries-old German tradition alive by crafting detailed Nuremberg Christmas angels — each reflecting ethnic heritage from 16 European nations that reconnect Des Moines locals with their roots.

Gas prices are near record lows with regular fuel at $2.14 per gallon in the metro on Dec.

24, a noted drop from last year. Residents can find the cheapest gas at select stations around Des Moines when planning holiday travel.

Des Moines University got approval to be a sponsoring institution for a one-year residency program that pairs with hospitals and clinics.

The program focuses on osteopathic neuromusculoskeletal medicine and is set to launch in 2027 — DMU is seeking local partners.

Zebra mussels were found clinging to equipment at Des Moines Water Works on Dec.

24; the Iowa DNR said low numbers pose little risk since reproduction will not begin until April (the fast-flowing river discourages colonization).

Staff Sgts. Edgar Brown Torres-Tovar and William Nathaniel Howard (killed while on duty in Syria) arrived in Iowa today, military officials said.

University of Iowa researcher Jason Radley (brain sciences expert) studies how the brain rewires under chronic stress to promote active coping during the holiday season.

Using lab rats, his team will test pathways that may lower risks for stress related health issues.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

Tie Blanket Workshop

10 AM – 4 PM — Mainframe Studios — Ticket required — Create your own cozy fleece blankets and pillows in a fun, community-driven atmosphere.

Drop-In Tech Help

2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free service — Get assistance with your electronic devices at the library's drop-in tech help session.