5 Things Happening in Greater DSM You’ll Want on Your Calendar: Sept. 5-11
Summer may be winding down, but Greater Des Moines (DSM) isn’t slowing the fun. The week of Sept. 5-11 is stacked with events that bring together food, music, family fun and community vibes across the region. Kick off your weekend with live music and food trucks on a working farm, hunt for treasures at a local swap meet or enjoy an outdoor movie night under the stars. Families will love a brand-new day dedicated to hands-on activities with kids, while local farmers’ markets continue to offer fresh flavors and hometown charm. Whether you’re planning a day trip, a family outing or just looking for something new, this week is full of experiences that showcase the unique spirit of DSM. Here are five events you won’t want to miss.
Fridays at the Farm
Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 | Middlebrook Farm, Cumming
There’s no better way to roll into the weekend than with Fridays at the Farm in Middlebrook. From 4:30-7:30 p.m., enjoy live music on the Farmhouse porch with The Matt Terronez Band while browsing fresh produce and local vendor booths. Food trucks like Fair Food Fridays, Karam’s Mediterranean Grill, Pie Mates, Thumbs Up and Benny’s Beans will be serving up delicious bites, plus the Wine Wagen will be pouring the perfect drink to go with it all. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and settle in for an evening of community, music and wide-open skies. It’s free, family-friendly and always a good time.
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Movie in the Park: Wicked
Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 | Colby Park, Windsor Heights
Outdoor movie nights always hit different, and this one is pure magic. Grab your blanket or lawn chair and head to Colby Park in Windsor Heights for a screening of Wicked. This beloved Broadway musical tells the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda, giving new depth to the land of Oz with themes of friendship, identity and destiny. It’s family-friendly, free to attend and the perfect way to spend a Friday night under the stars. Come early to snag a good spot, then sit back and let the story (and the music) sweep you away.
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Greenfield Swap Meet
Friday, Sept. 5 - Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 | Adair County Fairgrounds, Greenfield
If you love treasure hunting, the Greenfield Swap Meet is your kind of weekend. For three days straight, the Adair County Fairgrounds transform into a shopper’s paradise filled with unique finds, antiques, parts, crafts and plenty of surprises. Gates open at 8 a.m. each day, and food and drink vendors are on site to keep you fueled while you wander. Whether you’re on the hunt for something specific or just like to browse, the atmosphere is lively and welcoming. Pro tip: go early to snag the best deals.
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Family Fun Day
Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025 | Brenton Arboretum, Dallas Center
If you’re looking for the ultimate family outing, Brenton Arboretum’s Family Fun Day has it all. Kids and parents alike can get hands-on with crafts, interactive activities and even yoga on the lawn. Expect live animals, music and opportunities to explore the Arboretum’s beautiful grounds while making memories together. This brand-new event is designed to encourage outdoor play and connection with nature. Happening this Saturday from 1-3 p.m., no registration is required, but a freewill donation is encouraged at the gate. Pack your water bottles, bring your sense of adventure and enjoy an afternoon of family-friendly fun.
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Farmers’ Markets
Various Dates & Locations in Greater DSM
Farmers’ markets are one of the best ways to soak up local flavor, and Greater DSM has no shortage of them this week. Shop just-picked produce, fresh flowers, homemade baked goods and unique crafts while enjoying the unbeatable community atmosphere these markets bring. Markets happening this week include:
Whether you’re sticking with your neighborhood favorite or road-tripping to explore a new one, these markets are a perfect way to celebrate the season. Stock up on fresh finds and enjoy a slice of small-town charm across the region.
Looking for more? Take a peep through our list of five can’t-miss FREE things to do around the region throughout the month of September.
For additional events and seasonal festivities coming up in Greater Des Moines (DSM), visit the calendar of events. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series. Plus, follow @DSMpartnership on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around DSM.
Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 6,700 Regional Business Members, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.