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!

Celebrate the 4th of July & America 250 in Greater Des Moines 

It’s the 250th anniversary of our country, and we can’t think of any better way to celebrate than what we Midwesterners do best. Red, white, blue, brews, and fireworks. Thankfully, our metro is home to a plethora of July 4th activities from city-wide festivals, immersive summer experiences at Living History Farms and Adventureland, and many America 250 events running from June through the month of October. Be sure to check out our 4th of July and America 250 guides so you can plan your patriotic party accordingly.

Global Music Stars Take Casey’s Center’s Stage This Month 

Casey’s Center is giving us full on whiplash between the three hit music sensations that will be heading to the Des Moines area this month. Rescheduled from April is Journey, one of the world’s most well-known classic rock bands of the century, jamming out in Des Moines one last time on July 7. For indie country fans, Tyler Childers will be performing his greatest hits on July 15. Hear songs like “Lady May” and “All Your’n” live! Then on the following day, July 16, come back to dance and groove to rap sensation, Lil’ Wayne with special guest, 2 Chainz. (Back to back to back bangers.) Check out available tickets for all the concerts here. 

Where to Get the “Viral” Soft Serve Margaritas in the Metro 

It’s taking social media by storm: soft serve margaritas. Pair two summer classics together and you get something absolutely refreshing. Whether you’re into the classic lime, or prefer a sweeter blend with strawberry, these sweet treats are popping up all over the metro. Here’s our list of current places you can stop and grab one for yourself! 

(Pairs best with a sunny, summer patio.) 

Grab Your Fork & Knife for These New Restaurant Expansions 

One of Des Best Brunch spots is opening a new location in Waukee AND has moved their flagship location in the East Village. The Breakfast Club's nostalgic retro-style, vibrant space and food offerings are expanding! Serving up their iconic stuffed French toasts, brunch cocktails, and breakfast platters, DSM locals can now visit them in Waukee or snag a table at their bigger location in the East Village. 

Beyond that, we’ve got a TON of other DSM restaurants making moves over the next month or two across the metro. Here they are and the city they’re expanding to: 

Embrace Your Inner Indie-Alt Persona at Hinterland 

We close out the month of July with the first day of Hinterland on Thursday, July 30, making the festival a total of four days for the first time ever. This festival brings visitors from all across the country to St. Charles (just 35-40 minutes from our metro) with headliners this year like Katseye, Lorde, Mumford & Sons, and Kali Uchis.  If camping is your thing, check out the tent, car, and RV camping options. Or if you prefer an air-conditioned respite after a day in the sun, our metro is full of fantastic hotels that make St. Charles an easy drive away.

Competition Gets Heated at the AAU Junior Olympic Games 

The Greater Des Moines metro is hosting the AAU Junior Olympic Games, featuring more than 15,000 athletes and their families over 13 days in 27 different sports. These events will primarily take place at our iconic Drake Stadium, MidAmerican Energy RecPlex, and Wellmark YMCA from July 27-August 8. Spectators are invited to attend the Junior Olympic Game events, and volunteering is happily encouraged!

A New Indoor Action Park is Opening in West Des Moines This Summer 

Slick City Action Park is Greater Des Moines’ newest kids' attraction! Opening in West Des Moines off University Ave., this is the world’s first indoor dry slide and air court park. With locations all across the country, we’re excited to see them make a home in the metro. This location is locally owned and is a 33,000-square-foot venue featuring 13 signature slides, interactive attractions, dedicated spaces for younger children, and a unique mezzanine designed to help parents stay connected to the action. Stay tuned for their official opening date this summer!