Free Things to Do in Greater Des Moines: October Edition

October in Greater Des Moines (DSM) is bringing the cozy vibes and plenty of free ways to celebrate the season. Think fall festivals with fireworks, historic traditions that have been bringing people together for decades, music competitions that’ll have you cheering from the crowd and family fun nights with pumpkins, cookies and costumes. You can even celebrate cultural traditions that honor life and memory or catch live local music with friends. Whether you’re in the mood for crisp evenings outdoors, creative activities with the kids or a night of toe-tapping tunes, you’ll find it all this month—and it won’t cost you a thing. Keep scrolling for some of the best free events happening across the DSM region this October.

Battle of the Bands

Thursday, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2025 | Prairie Meadows, Altoona
If you love live music with a little friendly competition, Battle of the Bands at Prairie Meadows is calling your name. Every Thursday in October, two bands face off in themed rounds, covering everything from decades of hits to rock, pop, country and more. Judges pick the winners each week, with fan favorites also getting a shot at the grand finale on Oct. 30. The stakes? Cash prizes and bragging rights — plus, of course, the title of Battle of the Bands champion. The final night features five bands going all out for $10,000. Grab your friends, cheer loudly, and let the music decide!
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Windsor Heights Fall Festival

Friday, Oct. 3 – Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025 | Colby Park, Windsor Heights
Crisp air, colorful leaves and small-town charm. Yep, it’s time for the Windsor Heights Fall Festival! Head to Colby Park for two days of fun, starting with live music, food trucks and a sweet lineup of treats. Kids will love hayrides, games, crafts and pumpkin decorating, while adults can browse artisan vendors and sip on fall favorites. After dark, the bonfire and s’mores keep things cozy before a fireworks display lights up the sky. Whether you’re dancing to the music or sipping cider with friends, this beloved festival makes autumn in DSM feel a little extra magical.
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Madison County Covered Bridge Festival

Saturday, Oct. 11 – Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025 | Winterset Historic Courthouse Square, Winterset
It wouldn’t be fall in Iowa without the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival! Each October, Winterset’s Historic Courthouse Square transforms with 140+ vendors, live music, children’s activities, old-time demonstrations and more. Don’t miss the annual car show, the big Sunday parade or History on the Hill at the Madison County Historical Complex. This year’s festival marks the 30th anniversary of The Bridges of Madison County, so expect special themed fun alongside the classics. It’s a weekend that mixes nostalgia, community and plenty of small-town charm, all set against the backdrop of Iowa’s most famous bridges.
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Fall Family Festival

Friday, Oct. 17, 2025 | Backpocket Pin & Pixel, Johnston
Family fun meets fall magic at the Fall Family Festival in Johnston. From 5:30-7:30 p.m., enjoy face painting, cookie decorating, yard games and cozy fall drinks like hot apple cider. Little ones can get in on the action with a kids fun run before the adults lace up for the annual Backpocket Beer Mile at 6 p.m. Costumes are encouraged, so break out the pumpkins, witches and superheroes for a night of laughter and seasonal cheer. Whether you’re chasing the kids or just enjoying the crisp evening air, this is one community tradition you’ll want to add to your fall calendar.
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Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 | Jester Park Nature Center, Granger
Celebrate life, memory and tradition at this special Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) event at Jester Park Nature Center. Families can learn the history behind the holiday while connecting with nature through themed crafts and activities. In the weeks leading up to the program, guests are invited to bring photos of loved ones who have passed away to be placed on the Nature Center’s community ofrenda (altar). The celebration is free and open to all ages, offering a beautiful way to honor traditions while creating meaningful memories together.
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Looking for even more ways to enjoy Greater Des Moines (DSM)? Check out the online calendar of events for seasonal happenings all across the region. You can also stay in the loop on concerts with the weekly Live Music This Week in DSM blog series And don’t forget to follow @DSMpartnership on Instagram for the latest can’t-miss moments and insider finds.