Is there any better place to celebrate America than smack dab in the middle of the heartland? We think not. Whether it’s live music, hitting up the pool, or watching fireworks, Greater Des Moines has a little slice of Americana for everyone. Check out these ideas that will ensure your Fourth of July holiday pops off!
Adventureland
Head out for a day of thrills and chills at Adventureland. Going to Adventureland is always a fun-filled day on its own, but the holiday weekend is full of other events as well. On Friday, July 1 their Summer’s On Concert Series continues with Vertical Horizon. There is another opportunity for live music on July 4 with Uncle Kracker. There will be an obligatory fireworks after the show as well! Plus, don’t miss the work on the 100th and final Freedom Rock of the Iowa Freedom Rock Tour. You can see his progress all weekend outside Adventureland Inn!
Prairie Meadows
Head over to Prairie Meadows for their All-American Extravaganza on July 3. This event not only features fireworks at dusk, but their full slate of horse races starting at 4 p.m. as well. Plus, enjoy an outdoor concert by Gimikk at 4:30 p.m. Who doesn’t love fireworks and some horsing around?
Iowa Cubs
What’s more American than taking in the national pastime? The Iowa Cubs have a homestand over the holiday weekend against the Columbus Clippers. Friday through Sunday catch an evening game and enjoy the fireworks to follow. Plus, during the game on Friday, July 1, experience the Iowa Cubs’ annual citizenship ceremony celebration. Spend the weekend root, root, rooting for the Cubbies.
Goodguys Car Show
It’s time for everyone’s favorite car show! Visit Iowa State fairgrounds to take in all your dream cars in one place. Featuring more than 4,000 rods, customs, classics, muscle cars, and trucks thru '97, you’re sure to see beautiful automobiles all over. Enjoy Goodguys all weekend, with a special fireworks show and twilight cruise on July 2! Tickets are anywhere from $10 – $25.
Waukee
If you are looking for an entire weekend event, you’re going to want to head over to Centennial Park in Waukee for their Celebration of Independence. Featuring a lineup of events throughout the holiday weekend. Sunday starts out with an adult sand volleyball tournament and is followed by entertainment all day including a magician and a movie in the park! Monday is a full slate as well with sand volleyball, live music, Des Moines Skydivers, and ending the exciting weekend with fireworks. Basically, if you’re looking for something to do, Waukee has you covered.
Urbandale
If you’re looking for one of the largest celebrations in the Des Moines metro, Urbandale has you covered. They are celebrating the holiday all weekend long. Spend your day at Lions Park in Urbandale where there is a carnival each day, as well as live music. Other activities: pie eating contest, a 5k, readings, and a car show. Plus, you can’t celebrate the fourth without fireworks, so close out your weekend with a fantastic show.
Yankee Doodle Pops
If you’re looking for one of the largest celebrations in the Des Moines metro, Urbandale is the suburb to be at. They are celebrating the holiday all weekend long. Spend your day at Lions Park in Urbandale where there is a carnival each day, as well as live music. Other activities: pie eating contest, a 5k, readings, and a car show. Plus, you can’t celebrate the fourth without fireworks, so close out your weekend with a fantastic show.
