Each month, we highlight the most buzzworthy places and events in Greater Des Moines in a feature we call Des Buzz. It's your “in the know” list of places to go!
National Balloon Classic
A classic favorite in Des Moines is back! The National Balloon Classic in Indianola returns from July 26 – August 3. This event features over 100 hot air balloons that fill the sky with gorgeous colors. Balloons fly every night at 6:30 p.m. and feature live music each night as well. You can also experience “dawn patrol,” a 5 a.m. early morning session. There are also fireworks, a drone show, an art festival, and food and beverage choices as well. With nine days to choose from, there’s something for everyone with the National Balloon Classic. Plus, check out our blog with five things you can’t miss throughout the week here!
Iowa State Fair
Nothing compares to August in Des Moines, especially because of the Iowa State Fair. Eleven days full of fried food, furry animals, and fast thrill rides. From August 8 – 18, enjoy one of the 84 new foods debuting this year like a Lobster Corn Dog and Iowa Sm‘Oak’ed Roll or stick to the classic corn dog and cheese curds. No matter what, they’re all sure to be delicious. Enjoy a concert or two, including headlining acts like Thomas Rhett and Ne-Yo, or head to the free stage to see Hairball and other acts. Baby animals, parades, and anything you can imagine on a stick. The best days ever are at the Iowa State Fair!
dsm Restaurant Week
Calling all foodies! dsm Restaurant Week is back, August 16 – 25. For ten days, you can try new dishes, dine at new restaurants you’ve been wanting to try, and save some extra cash on dinner specials. With more than 25 participating restaurants, you have options to choose from. Whether you are looking for a romantic Mediterranean meal, wood fired pizza, plant-based seasonal meal, or anything in between, you’re sure to find a mouthwatering meal. Dinner specials range from $40 – $80 and lunches range from $15 – $25. See the list of restaurants here.
World Food and Music Festival
Immerse yourself in the food and music of dozens of countries at the 20th anniversary World and Music Festival, August 23 – 25 in Western Gateway Park. Catch a program like a cooking challenge or festival adventures where you can explore exotic fruits like jackfruit. Expand your love for food and grab a bite from one of the 55 food vendors representing 30 countries. Don’t forget to check out one of the many musical acts on the stage throughout the entire weekend. The festival is free to attend, learn more here!
The Lego Store
Looking for a fun summer activity with the kids? Head out to the new LEGO Store at Jordan Creek Mall. The 2,142 square-foot store is the first LEGO store in Iowa. While you’re exploring, build a Minifigure, head to the demonstration table to learn more, and head home with your newest creation. The store is open daily, plan your visit here.
Hinterland
One of the best music festivals in Iowa returns August 2 – 4. Head 30 minutes outside Des Moines to the countryside for four days full of music. With over 30 acts, there’s something for everyone at Hinterland. Headliners include Hozier, Vampire Weekend, and Noah Kahan, along with other supporting acts like Chappell Roan, Orville Peck, Mt. Joy, and more. Spend your weekend soaking up the sun while listening to hours' worth of music. Check out ticket availability here.
The Penguin Project: Disney’s Frozen Jr.
See Disney’s Frozen come to life on stage with The Penguin Project’s performance of the modified Broadway musical. The Penguin Project is a program supporting artists ages 10 – 21 with developmental disabilities. These youth are joined on stage by a group of peer mentors, youths the same age who volunteer to work side by side with the artists. Frozen Jr will have performances from August 15 – 18. Tickets are $13, find show times here.
Ingersoll Live
Celebrate all things Ingersoll Avenue on August 24 with Ingersoll Live! This festival is celebrating 20 years with music, entertainment, art, food, local vendors, and so much more. Enjoy performances from the Isiserettes, explore stores and restaurants, and play mini golf. Head to the 2300 block of Ingersoll Ave. From 3 – 10 p.m. for a day full of free activities, learn more here.
