There’s something about summer in Des Moines that feels earned. After months of unpredictable Midwest weather, the city comes alive with packed patios, full calendars, and every excuse to stay outside just a little longer. Whether you’re planning weekends with family, date nights, or simply looking for something new to experience, here are some highlights to keep on your radar.
Downtown Farmers’ Market (May 2 – October 31)
A true Des Moines staple, the Downtown Farmers’ Market takes over Court Avenue every Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon. With vendors spanning multiple city blocks, you’ll find everything from fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods to ready-to-eat meals, local art, and seasonal plants. Whether you’re stocking up for the week or just grabbing a coffee and strolling, it’s one of the best ways to start a summer weekend.
Des Moines Arts Festival (June 26–28)
Set in and around the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and Western Gateway Park, the Des Moines Arts Festival is one of the city’s premier summer events. The festival showcases a wide range of artistic expressions:
- Visual Art
- Live Music
- Film
- Literature
It’s an ideal opportunity to explore the creative side of the city while enjoying a lively downtown atmosphere.
National Balloon Classic (July 31 – August 8 | Indianola, IA)
A quick trip down to Indianola opens the door to one of the most visually striking events of the summer. The National Balloon Classic features both morning and evening hot air balloon launches and competitions. Whether you attend at sunrise or sunset, the sight of dozens of balloons filling the sky is something worth experiencing at least once.
Iowa State Fair (August 13–23)
This is no locally kept secret—the Iowa State Fair is known across the country for its unique foods, pristine animals, grandstand acts, and large annual attendance. If it is not already an annual tradition, the 250th anniversary of America’s independence should be enough motivation to give it a try and see all that it offers. Check out their website to see which events, concerts, or foods draw your interest.
Area Concerts
It would be impossible to list all the great concerts happening in the area, but I have a better solution for you: bookmark this link to have a frequently updated list of all area concerts!
Final Thoughts
There’s a certain energy to an Iowa summer that’s hard to replicate. Maybe it’s the long days, the full calendars, or simply the appreciation that comes after winter, but it creates the perfect environment to try something new and spend more time outdoors.
In addition to the events above, consider catching a game at Principal Park, exploring local wineries and beer gardens, or simply taking advantage of the many parks and trails throughout the area. However you choose to spend it, summer in Des Moines comes and goes quickly—so it’s worth planning ahead and making the most of it while it lasts.