Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend:
Friday, January 2nd 2026 – Sunday, January 4th 2026
Every weekend there are amazing Fun Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa! We have created a list of what we think are the most fun, most interesting family events in the Des Moines area this weekend – so you can have the best time together!
The page will be updated every week so be sure to come back and see what great kids’ events we have coming up for the weekend in Des Moines. Take a look at our full FREE, extensive event calendar to plan your weeks and days in Des Moines, Iowa.
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Blank Park Zoo’s Play + Do
Friday, January 2nd 2026
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Blank Park Zoo – Des Moines, IA
Come explore Play + Do, available Friday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This creative and active space is perfect for families looking to take a break, get hands-on, and let kids burn off some energy during their zoo visit. Play + Do is included with general admission and free for members, located inside the Discovery Center Waterlab.
Learn More or Register Today!
Miracle on 86th Street
Friday, January 2nd 2026
5:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Garden – Urbandale, IA
Stroll through the Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park during this beloved winter tradition, running November 25 through January 6. The park sparkles with more than 100,000 holiday lights and features a custom-built train, oversized displays, a gingerbread house, ice skating, and festive events all season long.
Learn More or Register Today!
Special Needs Jump
Saturday, January 3rd 2026
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Get Air Trampoline Park – Urbandale, IA
Get Air offers a dedicated jump time just for kids with special needs and their families. With lower music, a calmer atmosphere, and supportive staff, this inclusive session allows kids of all abilities to jump, play, and have fun together. One parent or guardian may jump for free to assist their child.
Learn More or Register Today!
Adapted Skate
Saturday, January 3rd 2026
9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Brenton Skating Plaza – Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Parks and Recreation invites individuals with physical and developmental disabilities to enjoy a welcoming ice-skating session. For just $5, admission and skate or sled rental are included in this recreational and engaging experience.
Learn More or Register Today!
Visit the Alpacas
Saturday, January 3rd 2026
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Rusty Stars Alpacas – Winterset, IA
Head to Rusty Stars Alpaca Farm for a fun day with these wooly friends. Enjoy the scenery, snap some photos, and browse the gift shop while learning more about alpacas. It’s a relaxed and memorable outing for animal lovers of all ages.
Learn More or Register Today!
Indoor Playdate
Sunday, January 4th 2026
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
JouJou Des Moines – Des Moines, IA
It’s open play at JouJou DSM! This Montessori-inspired indoor playscape encourages kids to explore, move, and learn through play. Families can choose single play sessions or memberships, making it an easy way to beat the winter blues.
Learn More or Register Today!
Musical Storytime
Sunday, January 4th 2026
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Reading in Public Bookstore + Cafe – West Des Moines, IA
Join Reading in Public and Pied Piper Studios for a musical morning filled with stories, movement, and instrument play. Designed for young children and caregivers, this interactive storytime is a recurring favorite held on the first Sunday of every month.
Learn More or Register Today!
