Greater DSM Weekend Events Guide: Aug. 8-14
From classic small-town festivals and musical debuts to racing thrills and one epic celebration of all things Iowa, the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region is bursting with summer energy this week. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into fresh sweet corn, catching a show in Ankeny or watching live horse racing from the patio, there’s something for every kind of weekend warrior. Oh, and did we mention the Iowa State Fair is back? Consider this your friendly nudge to clear a few calendar spots and grab your crew. These five can’t-miss events happening Aug. 8–14 are your ticket to making the most of summer in DSM — and yes, there’s a corn dog (or two) with your name on it.
Iowa State Fair
Thursday, Aug. 7 – Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025 | Iowa State Fairgrounds
There’s summer fun — and then there’s the Iowa State Fair. Back for another unforgettable year, this iconic 10-day celebration is packed with everything you love: corn dogs, butter cows, piglet races, giant slide rides, blue-ribbon pies and live music that spans genres and generations. Whether you’re in it for the food-on-a-stick, the Grandstand concerts or people-watching galore, this fair has it all. With more than a million visitors annually, it’s no surprise the Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and oldest in the country. Come for the nostalgia, stay for the surprises. Pro tip: Check out DART’s Park & Ride to the Fair service, wear comfy shoes, come hungry and don’t miss the butter cow selfie.
Photo Credit: Iowa State Fair
Adel Sweet Corn Festival
Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025 | Historic Adel Downtown Square, Adel
Small-town charm meets big-time flavor at the 46th Annual Adel Sweet Corn Festival! It all starts with a 5K and the biggest parade in Dallas County, followed by a day full of sweet corn (free while it lasts!), tasty food vendors, family games, a classic truck show and an evening street party. Expect live music, local arts and crafts, a volleyball tourney and more — all set around Adel’s historic square. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and get ready for a full day of summer fun. It’s free to attend, and yes, the corn really is that good. Catch you in Adel!
The Perfect Rendezvous: The Musical
Friday, Aug. 8 – Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025 | I Ankeny Community Theatre
Get ready to laugh, tap your toes and maybe even shed a tear or two at The Perfect Rendezvous: The Musical. This charming show brings big heart and small-town humor to the Ankeny Community Theatre stage. What starts as one woman’s plan to introduce her new beau to her picky dad quickly spirals into mistaken identities, surprise revelations and musical numbers you’ll hum all the way home. First staged as a play in 2021, this new musical adaptation is a fresh take on a local favorite. Rated PG and full of feel-good energy, it’s a great pick for a night out with friends or family.
Drop-In Tour at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum
Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025 | Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, Johnston
Looking for something a little more meaningful this weekend? Head to the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum in Johnston for a free docent-led Drop-In Tour at 11:30 a.m. This hidden gem honors Iowa’s veterans and tells powerful stories from the Civil War to present day through uniforms, equipment, and immersive exhibits. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, it’s a great way to spend a Saturday morning and learn more about the sacrifices made by Iowans in service. Admission is always free, and no reservation is needed unless you’re bringing a group of 10+. It’s time well spent.
Heads up, aviation fans — the AirPower History Tour is landing in Des Moines this week, Aug. 6-9, with your chance to tour or ride in legendary warbirds like the B-29 “FIFI” and more!
Live Thoroughbred & Quarter Horse Racing
Friday, Aug. 8 – Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 | Prairie Meadows, Altoona
Nothing kicks off the weekend quite like the roar of the crowd and the thunder of hooves at Prairie Meadows. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just there for the vibes, live Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing brings the kind of heart-pounding excitement you won’t want to miss. Grab a mint julep, place a friendly wager and watch the action unfold right in front of you. With races every weekend, it’s the perfect way to add a little adrenaline to your summer. Bonus: No admission fee, plenty of food and drink options and unbeatable views from the rail. Post times vary, so check ahead and plan your winning weekend.
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.