Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend:
Friday, May 22nd 2026 – Sunday, May 24th 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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CelebrAsian Festival
Friday, May 22nd – Sunday, May 24th, 2026
Program Times Vary
Western Gateway Park – Des Moines, IA
Celebrate Asian cultures at CelebrAsian, Iowa’s largest Asian American event. Families can enjoy authentic food, cultural exhibits, live entertainment, and hands-on activities that highlight the beauty and traditions of Asian heritage right here in Des Moines. Learn More or Register Today!
Fridays on the Farm
Friday, May 22nd, 2026
4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Middlebrook Farm – Cumming, IA
Kick off the weekend with live music by Brittany Sword, local vendors, food trucks, and a relaxed evening on the farm. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab a bite from Gringo’s Tex-Mex BBQ, Mulberry Farm & Food Truck, or Pie Mates, and let the kids burn some energy with soccer and gaga ball. Learn More or Register Today!
Touch A Truck
Friday, May 22nd, 2026
5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Colby Park – Windsor Heights, IA
Little truck lovers can get up close to big trucks, machinery, and community vehicles at this free annual event hosted by the City of Windsor Heights and the Des Moines Children’s Museum. Noise-cancelling headphones and a calming tent will be available to help make the evening more welcoming for all families. Learn More or Register Today!
SCI Star Party: Evening Planets
Friday, May 22nd, 2026
9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Science Center of Iowa -Des Moines, IA
Look up and enjoy an evening of stargazing with the Science Center of Iowa. SCI staff and volunteers will guide guests as they explore planets, colorful double stars, star clusters, and more through high-powered telescopes. Learn More or Register Today!
Uptown Ankeny Farmers Market
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Uptown Ankeny – Ankeny, IA
The Uptown Ankeny Farmers Market kicks off its 2026 season with fresh produce, locally raised meat and eggs, homemade goods, handmade crafts, and extra opening day fun. Families can enjoy a kid zone activity with Wild Things Pet Shop, music by Will Hatchet, and balloon animals from Twizted Thingz. Learn More or Register Today!
Yoga in the Park in Ankeny
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Wagner Park – Ankeny, IA
Start your Saturday with free outdoor yoga in Wagner Park. All ages and experience levels are welcome, so bring your mat and enjoy a refreshing morning focused on movement, relaxation, and community. Learn More or Register Today!
Little Leapers
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Sky Zone – Grimes, IA
Little ones can bounce, climb, and explore during this high-energy playtime designed especially for younger kids and their caregivers. It’s a fun way to practice sharing, teamwork, and confidence while getting plenty of wiggles out. Learn More or Register Today!
Spring Fling
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bentley Ridge Tree Farm – Grimes, IA
Celebrate spring at Bentley Ridge Tree Farm with a day full of greenhouse browsing, nursery finds, live demonstrations, and family-friendly fun. Guests can learn helpful gardening tips and enjoy a sweet treat from the Totally Rolled Ice Cream truck while exploring the farm. Learn More or Register Today!
Visit The Alpacas
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Rusty Stars Alpacas – Winterset, IA
Take a short drive to Winterset and meet the fluffy residents at Rusty Stars Alpacas. Families can visit the alpacas, stop by the gift shop, and take in the peaceful farm scenery in Winterset, Iowa! Learn More or Register Today!
Saturday Swim
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
12:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Valley View Aquatic Center – West Des Moines, IA
Dive into the start of summer with an afternoon swim at Valley View Aquatic Center. From open swim to seasonal passes and lessons, West Des Moines aquatic centers are a great way for families to stay cool and active. Learn More or Register Today!
Kids Empire
Sunday, May 24th, 2026
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Jordan Creek – West Des Moines, IA
Let the kids climb, slide, and play big at Kids Empire in Jordan Creek. This indoor play space offers active fun for a variety of ages, including age-appropriate areas for the tiniest explorers. Learn More or Register Today!
Memorial Day Foam Party
Sunday, May 24th, 2026
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Paws & Pints – Des Moines, IA
Kick off summer with a splash at Paws & Pints’ Memorial Day Foam Paw-ty. Pups and their people can enjoy foam-filled fun in the dog park, drink specials, and a playful holiday weekend atmosphere. Learn More or Register Today!
Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k
Sunday, May 24th, 2026
7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
River Place DMV – Des Moines, IA
Runners and walkers can start Sunday morning with the Hometown Half Marathon, 5K, or 10K. Registration includes race swag, a custom medal, chip timing, free photos, snacks at the finish line, and plenty of race-day energy. Learn More or Register Today!
