Explore Top Events Happening in Greater DSM: June 6-12

It’s officially June in Greater Des Moines (DSM), and that means warm weather, community festivals and quirky local traditions are in full swing. Whether you’re ready to relive your 90s glory days, paddle your way through a cardboard boat race or road trip through small-town treasures, the region is packed with personality this week. With vintage finds, live music, family-friendly fun and even a peek into history, your summer calendar is about to get a serious upgrade. Read on for five fun, feel-good events to check out across DSM from June 6-12.

90s Throw Back Grown-Ups Night Out

Friday, June 6, 2025 | Norwalk Easter Public Library, Norwalk
Party like it’s 1999 — literally. After the Norwalk Public Library closes for the night, it reopens just for grown-ups 18+ to relive the best of the 90s. Expect retro games from The Dealt Hand, nostalgic crafts like slap bracelets and Shrinky Dinks, a cash bar with boozy and booze-free options, plus pizza and prizes for the best throwback. It’s a chill night of low-key fun with high-key nostalgia. Don’t forget to register so they’re sure to have enough slap bracelets to go around. Dig out your overalls and butterfly clips — you know the drill!
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BackRoads & ByWays Junkin’ Tour

Friday, June 6 – Saturday, June 7, 2025 | I Various Communities, Warren County
Fuel up the car and grab your junkin’ crew — this is the ultimate road trip for vintage lovers. The BackRoads & ByWays Junkin’ Tour is a self-guided treasure hunt through small towns like Indianola, Norwalk, St. Charles, New Virginia and beyond. You’ll find antiques, handmade goods, garden gems, boutique fashion and more — all while supporting mom-and-pop businesses across Warren County. Bonus: Pick up a passport and collect stamps from each stop to earn prizes. It’s the perfect excuse for a weekend of shopping, snacking and exploring Iowa’s charming backroads.
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Waukee Palooza

Saturday, June 7, 2025 | Hy-Vee, Waukee
Get ready for live music, local vibes and summer energy at Waukee Palooza! This family-friendly music fest kicks off at 4 p.m. with live performances from local bands throughout the evening. Grab food, enter to win the 50/50 raffle, bid in the silent auction and let the kids dance it out while you soak in the sunshine. Whether you’re there for the jams or just need a laid-back Saturday night hang, this Palooza’s the place to be this Saturday.
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Racoon River Palooza

Saturday, June 7, 2025 | Raccoon River Park, West Des Moines
Live music, food trucks, craft beer and cardboard boat races? Yep — Raccoon River Palooza is back and ready to bring the best of West Des Moines to the lakefront. From 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., this free, family-friendly event is packed with vendor booths, kids’ activities and plenty of space to kick back or dive into the fun. Whether you’re cheering on homemade boats or grabbing a bite between live sets, this is peak Iowa summer. Rain or shine, it’s the kind of event that makes your weekend feel like a vacation day.
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Vietnam War Living History Event

Saturday, June 7 – Sunday, June 8, 2025 | Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, Johnston
Step back in time to hear stories of the Vietnam War at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum’s annual Vietnam War Living History Event. This immersive experience features historically accurate military campsites, restored vehicles and costumed interpreters who bring the era to life. Walk through encampments, talk with historians and get a firsthand look at what life was like for U.S. service members during the war. The event runs Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is free to attend.
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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.