Free Things to Do in Greater Des Moines: September Edition

September’s too good to miss! Free events and activities are popping up all over Greater Des Moines (DSM) this month, from car shows and cultural celebrations to family-friendly festivals and live music. With so many unique happenings, now’s the time to explore a new corner of the region, connect with your community and enjoy the last golden days of summer without spending a dime. Here’s your roundup of FREE events across Greater DSM this September — grab your calendar and start planning!

Yoga in Nature

Wednesday, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2026 | Brenton Arboretum, Dallas Center
Looking for an easy way to keep the kids entertained (and get a little fresh air yourself)? Head to the Brenton Arboretum for Family Fun Day! This free-will donation event is packed with activities that appeal to all ages — from live animal encounters and interactive music to yoga on the lawn, crafts and make-and-take projects you can enjoy together. The Arboretum’s beautiful setting makes the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of unplugged fun, exploration and memory-making. No tickets or registration are needed — just bring the family, pack your curiosity and dive into a day of play at one of DSM’s most scenic spots.
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Autumn at the Amphitheater Featuring The Carousel (Acoustic)

Sunday, Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27, 2026 | Jamie Hurd Amphitheater, West Des Moines
This free live music series takes place Sundays from mid-August through early October at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater. Sunday's event will feature an acoustic set by indie rock group The Carousel so grab some friends and listen to songs from the group's debut self-titled EP while you enjoy items from the on-site food trucks.
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Big Band Swing Dance Party

Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 | Greenbelt Landing, Clive
Put on your dancing shoes and swing into the weekend at Clive’s first-ever Big Band Swing Dance Party! The Des Moines Big Band will fill Greenbelt Landing with classic big band sounds while Heartland Swing gets the crowd moving with basic swing dance lessons. Join in on the dancing or bring a chair and kick back while enjoying the music along the Clive Greenbelt. This free Friday night event is an easy way to start the weekend on a high note.
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Iowa Outdoor Expo

Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 | The Des Moines Izaak Walton League, Des Moines
Get the whole family outside for a day of hands-on adventure at the Iowa Outdoor Expo for Kids and Families! Head to the Des Moines Izaak Walton League to cast a line, shoot a bow, test your aim with virtual skeet shooting, try the slingshot and BB gun ranges and cheer on the minnow races. Kids can also enjoy crafts and animal presentations, while exhibits from area conservation organizations offer plenty of opportunities to learn about Iowa’s great outdoors. Admission and parking are free.
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Don't miss PorchFest DSM at Union Park on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. This lively neighborhood celebration is packed with music, food and community spirit.

Greater DSM Car Show Round-Up

If shiny chrome, revving engines and classic rides make your heart race, September is the month for you. The best part? Every one of these car shows is free to attend—so you can stroll, admire and snap photos without spending a dime. From small-town gatherings to polished showcases, here’s where you can find them:

Altoona American Legion Post 682 6th Annual Car Show – Monday, Sept. 7, 2026
Des Moines Concours d’Elegance - Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026
Carlisle Annual Car Show – Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026
West Des Moines Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Car Show – Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026
Ankeny Hot Rods for Heroes Car Show – Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026
Prairie City Fire Department Car Show – Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026

Enjoy free family fun and plenty of cars to drool over all month long!

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