End July with This Week’s 5 Must-Do DSM Experiences: July 25-31

Summer’s still going strong in Greater Des Moines (DSM), and this week is stacked with events that’ll have you outdoors, on your feet and soaking in the fun. From the sky-high spectacle of hot air balloons filling the horizon to cheering on athletes 50+ from around the nation, there’s no shortage of excitement. Want something a little more laid back? Enjoy cold brews and live music at the zoo or hunt for treasures in Historic Valley Junction. Whether you’re all about the adrenaline, the art of the deal or just a great local vibe, the last week of July is bringing the heat in the best way. Scroll on for five can’t-miss events happening July 25–31 in the Greater DSM region!

National Senior Games

Thursday, July 24 – Monday, Aug. 4, 2025 | Various Locations Across Greater Des Moines
Get ready to cheer on some serious athletes — the National Senior Games are taking over Greater DSM this week! With more than 10,000 competitors ages 50+ from all over the country, this Olympic-style event is packed with energy, inspiration and unforgettable moments. From pickleball and track to swimming and basketball, the Games celebrate strength, spirit and lifelong movement. Events run through August 4 at venues across the region, so whether you’re a fan, a volunteer or just curious, now’s your chance to be part of the largest multi-sport event for adults in the world.
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National Balloon Classic

Friday, July 25 - Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025 | Memorial Balloon Field, Indianola
There’s nothing quite like watching more than 100 hot air balloons rise into the sky over Indianola — it’s pure magic. The National Balloon Classic is back and the festivities kick off this week with all the colorful sights, roaring burners, live music, fireworks, drone shows and good vibes you can handle. Whether you snag a general admission ticket or splurge on the Sky Suite experience (think air conditioning and a prime view), it’s a summer tradition that never gets old. Pro tip: the NITE GLOW® events are a must-see, so pack a blanket, grab your people and make an evening of it.
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Live Thoroughbred & Quarter Horse Racing

Friday, July 25 – Monday, July 28, 2025 | Prairie Meadows, Altoona
Feel the thunder of the track at Prairie Meadows as live Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing takes over the weekend. The action kicks off at 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, then shifts to a 4 p.m. post time on Sunday and Monday — just in time for golden hour. Whether you’re there to cheer on your lucky number, place a friendly wager or just enjoy drinks on the patio with friends, this is your chance to experience the heart-pounding thrill of live racing. The horses are fast, the vibes are high and the photo finishes? Absolutely epic.
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Summer Sale-A-Bration

Saturday, July 26, 2025 | Historic Valley Junction, West Des Moines
Historic Valley Junction is turning into a shopper’s paradise this Saturday! The annual Summer Sale-A-Bration is your chance to snag serious deals from your favorite local shops, with clearance items and markdowns both inside and outside. But it’s more than just shopping — grab a bite at one of the many great restaurants, get crafty at a DIY studio and soak up the charming small-town vibe in the heart of West Des Moines. Come for the sales, stay for the experience. This is how you do summer shopping right!
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If you’re looking for more to do on the west side of DSM this week, don't miss the West Des Moines Community Band Concert at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater on Wednesday, July 30, 2025!

Zoo Brew

Wednesday, July 30, 2025 | Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines
What’s better than sipping local brews while strolling past giraffes, penguins and red pandas? Zoo Brew at Blank Park Zoo is the ultimate midweek pick-me-up for the 21+ crowd. This Wednesday, head to the zoo after hours for craft beer sampling, food trucks and a live performance by Jake Gill. It’s a great excuse to round up your crew and enjoy a laid-back evening while supporting a good cause — proceeds benefit the zoo’s conservation and education efforts. Just don’t wait too long… animals head in 30 minutes before sunset and you’ll want to say hello before they tuck in for the night!
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Also happening this week at Blank Park Zoo — Capital City Pride Rainbow Safari. Don’t miss this evening of walk family adventures this Thursday, July 31!

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.