Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend:
Friday, November 21st 2025 – Sunday, November 23rd 2025
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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Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market
Friday, November 21st, 2025
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Iowa Events Center – Des Moines, IA
The Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market kicks off the season with local produce, festive gifts, handmade art, and delicious eats from Iowa vendors. Enjoy live entertainment and discover unique holiday finds while supporting small businesses.
Learn More or Register Today!
Musical Storytime: How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Friday, November 21st, 2025
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
With Storyhouse Bookpub at Daisy Chain – Des Moines, IA
Families are invited to meet The Grinch during this festive storytime event. Enjoy a reading of the beloved holiday classic, crafts, games, hot chocolate, and a full Whoville-themed experience.
Learn More or Register Today!
Holiday Promenade
Friday, November 21st, 2025
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Historic East Village – Des Moines, IA
The Holiday Promenade returns with extended shop hours, trolley rides, festive treats, live music, and twinkling lights throughout the East Village. A perfect evening for families and date nights alike.
Learn More or Register Today!
Friday Afterwork (Adults Only Open Studio)
Friday, November 21st, 2025
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Studio #211 – Mainframe Studios – Des Moines, IA
Adults 18+ are invited to wind down the week with a creative open studio session. Choose your canvas, paint at your own pace, and enjoy a relaxed BYOB atmosphere with guidance from a local artist. Pre-registration is required.
Learn More or Register Today!
Opening Night
Friday, November 21st, 2025
5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Brenton Skating Plaza – Des Moines, IA
Celebrate Opening Night at Brenton Skating Plaza with a Christmas tree lighting, festive music, discounted skating, and an early visit from Santa. A magical way to kick off the season, weather permitting.
Learn More or Register Today!
Santa’s Arrival, Holiday Tree Lighting & Fireworks!
Friday, November 21st, 2025
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Jordan Creek Town Center – West Des Moines, IA
Join Jordan Creek for Santa’s grand arrival, live music from Gimikk, a magical tree lighting, and fireworks over the lake. A festive family favorite marking the start of the holiday season.
Learn More or Register Today!
Holiday Sip & Shop
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Middlebrook – Cumming, IA
Explore local vendors, festive drinks, and seasonal treats during this cozy holiday shopping event across multiple Cumming locations. A great way to support local and kick off your holiday list.
Learn More or Register Today!
Little Women Tea Party
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Harbach Center – Clive, IA
Readers ages 9+ can enjoy tea, themed activities, and a warm book chat celebrating Louisa May Alcott’s beloved classic Little Women. Registration required.
Learn More or Register Today!
Winter Storytime with the Grinch
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Central Library – Des Moines, IA
Meet The Grinch and enjoy a lively reading of How the Grinch Stole Christmas along with a fun holiday activity. Attendees can also enter to win tickets to the live musical at the Civic Center.
Learn More or Register Today!
Paw-liday Market
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Paws & Pints – Des Moines, IA
This festive sip-and-shop market features over two dozen local vendors offering goods for humans and pups. Enjoy holiday treats, shopping, and a cozy atmosphere. Free day passes for dogs!
Learn More or Register Today!
Parents’ Night Out
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
RecPlex – West Des Moines, IA
Drop the kids off for supervised activities while you enjoy a relaxing evening out. Always a popular choice for parents looking for an easy and fun weekend option.
Learn More or Register Today!
Tinseltown Tree Lighting
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Water Works Park – Des Moines, IA
Celebrate the magic of the season with the Tinseltown tree lighting, live music, carriage rides, holiday vendors, and festive entertainment throughout Water Works Park.
Learn More or Register Today!
Turkey Trails
Sunday, November 23rd, 2025
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Gray’s Lake Park – Des Moines, IA
Start the day with a festive 5K/10K featuring great swag, chip timing, treats, fun for families, and a special kid’s dash. Virtual options are also available.
Learn More or Register Today!
Fall Makers Market
Sunday, November 23rd, 2025
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Jester Park Nature Center – Granger, IA
Shop from over 60 local makers across three beautiful Jester Park locations. Enjoy handcrafted goods, food trucks, and a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
Learn More or Register Today!
Strength – Scottish Highlands & Eroica
Sunday, November 23rd, 2025
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Des Moines Civic Center – Des Moines, IAEnjoy an inspiring Masterworks performance featuring Scottish folk rhythms, Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy, and Beethoven’s triumphant Eroica Symphony. Coat & Care donations are welcomed.
Learn More or Register Today!
